The Joiner King (Star Wars: Dark Nest, Book 1)

Book Description

After triumphing in Star Wars: The Unifying Force, the heroes of the New Jedi Order return in a dazzling new adventure!

Luke Skywalker is worried: A handful of Jedi Knights, including his nephew and niece, Jaina and Jacen Solo, have disappeared into the Unknown Regions in response to a strange cry for help that only they could hear. Now the alien Chiss have angrily lodged a formal complaint, accusing the missing Jedi of meddling in a border dispute between the Chiss and an unidentified aggressor.

Luke has no choice but to head to the Unknown Regions for serious damage control. Han and Leia follow, intent on protecting their children from what could be grave danger. But none of them are prepared for what they find when they reach their destination.

A colony of mysterious aliens is expanding toward the edge of Chiss space. The leader of the alien nest is resolute. Adept in the Force, he is drawing old friends to his side, compelling them to join the colony and meld their Force-abilities with his, even if it leads to all-out war. . . .

Customer Reviews:

so-so Novel with Hints of greatness.......2007-06-22

I really liked the overall plot of the book. I felt that the menace was new and not a rehashing of previous SW Novel villains. The whole hidden Nest thing was pretty interesting to me.

What brought this down in my eyes was the lackluster editing on the part of Lucasbooks. There were several moments that brought me completely out of the narrative.

1) Star Trek-ish Technobabble - Since when does the Millenium Falcon have nacelles? And the whole Reverse the polarity of the falcon's tractor beam thing was just too Trekky.

2) Continuity Errors - If this book was written before Episode 1 was released it would not be that big of a deal, but one of the characters talks about R2 units being created for use by the Imperial Military. Artoo existed well before the Empire was created.

3) Where did Artoo get this footage of Obi-Wan and Padme? From the movies it seems that Artoo stayed with Anakin and Threepio with Padme. This is a minor nitpick though not a biggie.

4) Plot points that seem like a computer game. I had no idea that Troy Denning was a Game designer until I read the part about Luke having to go on a quest to find a journal for the guy that supposedly invented something in Artoo. That part read just like a "go fetch" quest in a computer game that I flipped to the Author Information page to see if he did design games. This was too contrived for my tastes.

Again, basic plot and characterization was well-done, but these moments had me scratching my head and taking me out of the flow of the book.

One word, lackluster.......2007-05-04

So we just come off the greatness of the New Jedi Order, the Yuuzhan Vong are defeated and Ben Skywalker has been born. What does Lucas books give us? A trilogy that in concept could be absolutely huge! But due to poor writing in many places and an overall abundance of characters that are either unimaginative or frankly unacceptable to the universe (an ill-tempered ewok? That doesn't make any sense!) this trilogy falls into a three star category. The only saving grace is the character development. Jacen starts to seriously walk the double edged path to the dark side in this trilogy and begins to estrange himself from his sister. Read it if you're interested in the Legacy of the Force series otherwise stay away.

A So-So New Beginning.......2007-02-12

Troy Denning's The Joiner King is, at best, a so-so new beggining for the Star Wars universe. I will start with the positives. Denning is a reasonably good writer, and his chapters flow well, one to another. Further, I enjoyed the fact that Denning did not feel the need to add a scene for every major occurence. Some important events occured between chapters, and were only referenced after they happened. It allowed Denning to keep the page limit down a little and still keep a comprehensive story. Also, its nice to see the Yuuzhan Vong pushed to the background and see the story focus more on the after-effects of the war. The Planetary Reclamation Act was an interesting way to provide some minor political intrigue, and give Han and Leia something meaningful to do before getting involved with the whole Nest crisis. It is also nice to see focus shifting somewhat away from the original characters to the newer generation. I wont say its an even split, but about 40% of the book at least is devoted to the younger Jedi. Finally, Jacen's development is coming along well.

Unfortunately, that is where the positives end. The story is weird, and seems really stupid and unimportant compared to the terrible consequences of the Galactic Civil War. Also, very little actually happened in the novel. I understand that, since five years have passed (story-line wise) since the previous novel, Denning had to spend some time catching up. But as I said, the extent of the events was very minimal. The novel could easily have been half the length and contained at least as much story as it did. Aside from Jacen Solo's development, the character development of the other young Jedi, particularly Jaina was astonishingly poor. Jaina went from being a strong-minded and capable Jedi (if occasionally filling the damsel-in-distress role) to a weak, easily manipulated fool (who still played the damsel-in-distress half the time). The characters of Zekk, Lowbacca, Tahiri, etc. werent advanced at all. Denning may actually have taken a step back with Lowbacca and Zekk. Next, the plot line was, unfortunately, very predictable. The reader can guess who the leader of the Killik nest is within the first twenty pages of the book, which is then followed by about a hundred or so pages of discovering the leaders' identity.

There is potential in the Joiner King. If Denning can return Jaina to her previous role as the Sword of the Jedi and not some mindless little kid, the remaining two books in the series could work out well. But I see no reason to expect great things from the series. Those who enjoyed the New Jedi Order series may want to skip over the Dark Nest series and jump right into the Legacy of the Force series at this point. However it is important to note that the Dark Nest, more than anything, serves as background for the Legacy of the Force, so not having read the Dark Nest may lead to a good deal of confusion with future novels.

I can't decide..........2006-12-14

I can't decide if I should rate this book 5 or 1. So I averaged them and took 3. I think the "5" aspects of this book are: The Killiks are a great enemy not just some Vong-do-over. But I think the Killiks should be our ENEMY not our "nestmates". I also like how Denning portrayed the original trilogy characters. Another thing is Jacen. In the NJO series he was such an idiot. Now he seems to be filling his full potential (YAY!). Now for the bad points. And I mean the BAD ones. As in I-want-to-skip-this-chapter bad points. Jaina. What the h*** is she doing sharing minds with a bunch of bugs and a pathetic "Jedi" who is STILL pathetically in love with her. And what's with the "not working out" between Jaina and Jag? I'm sorry to say that I seemed to have missed the part when they "drifted apart" or couldn't "reconnect" after the war. It did not seem to me that they couldn't "reconnect" at the end of The Unified Force. Now Jaina is clicking and rubbing forearms (gross) with everyone she meets and it's going to be almost immpossible to have a relationship with anyone with that loser Zekk following her everywhere and finishing her sentences. Personaly, I don't think the younger Jedi Knights got enough attention and when they did, it sucked. Overall, the plot was really good but the factor that brought this book from a 5 to a 3 three was the whole Zekk-Jaina-Jag thing. I really hope the next books are better and Jaina can get her own mind back and maybe get back with Jag if Denning hasn't killed them off or turned them into insects yet.
P.s. did i happen to mention that I have the same feelings toward bugs as Han?
-Murl

dark nest i : the joiner king.......2006-08-11

the galaxy is picking up the pieces now that the yuuzhan vong have been subdued and that horrific war over. the new jedi order travel from conflict to conflict, serving as diplomat-police. at least, until they receive a strange call from the unknown regions. most answer, causing luke, mara, han and leia to follow them and discover a strange threat to the new peace.
the feel of the star wars galaxy seems to have shifted somewhat after the 'new jedi order' series. which is in no way a complaint. the characters have a sense of humour now, and (at least with those from the original trilogy) are becoming more relaxed in their old age. the new duo (jae the procedure-bound captain and tarfang the uppity ewok smuggler) provide laugh-out-loud antics without ever seeming ridiculous or totally out-of-place. the mystery of the nests is well expressed, especially in the apparently-never-happened blue bug attacks. yet, the novel ended in a way that made it seem to work just as well as a stand-alone adventure. the knowledge that there is a book ii is in the reader's mind, but there is no real impetus to look forward to that book.

Titan, Book Two: The Red King (Star Trek, the Next Generation)

Average customer rating:

Decent Star Trek Fiction, But......
too many nongay characters
I really want to like this series.
Improving Series
The Red King Through The Looking Glass

Titan, Book Two: The Red King (Star Trek, the Next Generation)
Michael A. Martin , and Andy Mangels
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0743496280

Book Description

Investigating the disappearance of a secret Romulan fleet, the U.S.S. Titan, commanded by Captain William Riker, is unexpectedly propelled more than 200,000 light-years into the Small Magellanic Cloud. One of the Milky Way's satellite galaxies, the Cloud is also home to the Neyel, the long-sundered offshoots of Terran humanity, with whom the Federation has had no contact in over eighty years.

Nearby, Riker's uncertain ally, Commander Donatra of the Romulan Warbird Valdore, rescues a young Neyel, the survivor of a mysterious cosmic upheaval that seems at times to be both unraveling and reweaving the very fabric of space...the fulfillment of an apocalyptic vision that has already claimed millions of lives. Titan's science team soon finds evidence that the ravaging of Neyel space is the work of a vast and powerful intelligence: the stirrings of a dormant consciousness that is maintaining the existence of the Small Magellanic Cloud -- and all life within it -- from one moment to the next. And if it should awaken, the consequences are unimaginable.

As Riker considers his options, his new crew struggles with the scientific and philosophical implications of what they've discovered...while the young Neyel in their midst forges a bond with the captain, conjuring old ghosts Riker has yet to lay to rest.

Customer Reviews:

Decent Star Trek Fiction, But.............2007-07-02

"Titan, Book Two: The Red King (Star Trek, the Next Generation)" has a most intriguing premise; the crew of the USS Titan, under the command of Captain William T. Riker, rescue altered humans, the Neyel, and other sapient species from one of the Magellanic Clouds, thanks to some timely, if reluctant, intervention by Romulan Commander Donatra and a fleet of Romulan warbirds. But is this great "Star Trek" literature of the kind I've come to expect from Diane Duane at her best? The short answer is unfortunately no, though this "Star Trek" novel has more fleshed-out characters than one I had read recently about the crew of Jonathan Archer's Enterprise, which was also written by these two authors. However, I suspect that diehard fans of "Star Trek" will find this a credible sequel to the film "Star Trek: Nemesis"; for this reason alone it deserves a marginal recommendation from me.

too many nongay characters.......2007-05-31

Why do Troi and Riker have to be so obviously straight? I'm sick of having heterosexuality rammed down my throat. And those knowing looks they give each other.....

I really want to like this series........2007-02-07

Riker, Troi and Tuvok on The Titan. I'm sold. I love the idea. Riker and Troi were always my favorite on The Next Generation. I always thought Riker would make and intense, cowboy-like captain. Throw in a little Voyager by adding Tuvok. I think it's great. Now, on to the title of this review... I really want to like this series. I wasn't that impressed with the debut novel, Taking Wing, but I figured given some time this could prove to be a good series. I think The Red King is a step in the right direction. My main problem with this series is the focus on the authors' original characters and the ridiculous amount of diversity within the crew. Now before I'm sued, let me just say that I'm all for diversity. This book just takes it to an almost comical level. To name a few examples, we have the dude who can seperate his body and make each segment act individually. The doctor recently escaped from Jurassic Park, and don't even get me started on the lady who can only breath water... I mean she wears a special water suit on the bridge! A water suit. It's too much. I'm fine with the Klingons, Ferengi, Cardassians, Bajorans, etc. I just think Dino Doctor, Water Lady and their wacky friends are a bit over the top. The vast majority of the people who read these books are doing it for Riker, Troi and Tuvok. Some of the original characters are very intersting, but most are very forgettable yet have equal page time with the heavy hitters. It's unbalanced and a little disappointing. All in all, I'd say this book is worth a read. Still, I am anxious to read book three; it is written by a different writer and I look forward to getting a new perspective on this promising series.

Improving Series.......2007-02-06

Titan The Red King by Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin is an improvement over the first book in the series, but it still has a ways to go. This book is the continuing story of Captain Riker's ship, the Titan. He spends a lot of time in this book, as in the last, trying to determine exactly what his role is as captain and how to mold his crew into a cohesive group. I find the Riker character as written to be very tentative and unsure of himself, which is a far cry from the Commander Riker from the television series who was always self assured and always knew exactly what he was doing. The authors still have not figured out what to do with Counselor Troi-- she is supposed to be the Diplomatic Officer, but Riker does most of the diplomatic stuff and Deanna's contribution continues, once again, to be her continued exclamations of "Pain! I feel pain!" shades of the first season of Next Generation! They also don't seem to know what to do with First Officer Christine Vale--she just seems to be there but does not seem to have a real reason for being.

There are so many directions for this series to go-- its premise of exploration brings back the original flavor of Classic Trek, and its multi-species crew is similar to the New Frontier series, although the authors continue to pat themselves on the back about it. Hey! We're diverse! We've got lots of different species and we all get along! The message is constantly thrown at us until it gets tiresome.

Still, there is potential here, and I hope that once this series gets over its self congratulatory newness, it will become a solid series in its own right. The characters and situation are there-- they just need to improve the execution-- and for goodness sake, figure out a use for both Commander Troi and First Officer Christine Vale.

The Red King Through The Looking Glass.......2006-11-11

I enjoyed this installment of the new Tital series very much, even with having to deal with the whole gay influence being an underlying theme of the story that could have easily been done without.

Now, the main story itself, I really enjoyed. I thought it was just as good as the first book, if not just a little better. I am excited to see where this series will evolve to and what will happen in the 3rd installment that I am reading now, or the 4th one, slated to be released some time in 2007.

Average customer rating:

Average
An Epic tale that will surely please
Beautiful Series
Elliot is a mesmerizing writer
Hard to explain!

King's Dragon (Crown of Stars, Vol. 1)
Kate Elliott
Manufacturer: DAW
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0886777712

Customer Reviews:

Average.......2007-06-21

I picked this book up due to the online line reviews and I was somewhat disappointed. The main characters were good but I think the action was very slow due to the fact that the author had some many volumes in mind for the series. Overall I didn't dislike the book but I would not really suggest it to a friend and it didn't interest me enough to buy any of the sequels.

An Epic tale that will surely please.......2007-04-01

I haven't finished the series yet but so far I have loved all the books up to book four. That is where I left off and have just ordered the remainder of the seven book series. King's Dragon is a rich tale with great characters. I would recommend this series highly. I have read and reread the first four books and they never fail to please.

Beautiful Series.......2007-02-19

Kate Elliott creates a complex world filled with strange creatures, forbidden love, politics, corruption, and everything needed to make a strong science fiction novel. The storyline is complex, and each book needs to be read right after the preceding one, but it is well worth all 7 books. By far one of the best series I have ever read in my life, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves tales with dragons and strange creatures. Bravo Kate, these books in the Crown of Stars are intelligent and amazing.

Elliot is a mesmerizing writer.......2006-11-17

Even when I was gnashing my teeth in frustration at the slow development of the plot, I kept reading because the characters are so finely drawn that it was impossible not to keep reading. I was familiar with Elliott's writing from her previous series BOOKS OF THE JARAN, and knew that no matter if it seemed like a digression, there would be a reason for the sidebars. It is entirely possible that much of the plot will not come together until volume five of the saga. In the meantime, I was fascinated by Alain, Liath, & Sanglant(I think they are the major main protagonists, but there could be more); even the Eika and Sabella with her tame sorceress, Biscop Antonia were fascinating. (I'm sure Frater Hugh, now Abbot Hugh, will turn up again in the pantheon of villians).I have PRINCE OF DOGS (vol 2) and am ready to see what the next step will be.

Hard to explain!.......2006-08-13

Where to start.....I have a hard time describing this book, It is so involved and I can't even say if I love it or hate it, but I couldn't put it down either! I think I kept reading it because I wanted so much for something good to happen to the main characters. I kept thinking "she has to get out of this situation!" Finally after three fourths of the book it does. Then I start waiting for her to get some courage and stop acting like a beat down puppy. But instead of getting frustrated with the book and giving up on it I keep reading! Why? Iam not sure! I must like something about it because I couldn't put it down I'm just not sure what that something is yet!

Sondok: Princess of the Moon and Stars, Korea, A.D. 595 (The Royal Diaries)

Average customer rating:

Sondok: Princess of the Moon and Stars, Korea, A.D. 595 (The Royal Diaries)
Sheri Holman
Manufacturer: Scholastic Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0439165865

Book Description

During the seventh-century, the land which is now Korea was fraught with political and religious intrigue. The country was split into Three Kingdoms, each fighting for supremacy: Silla, Koguryo, and Paekche. Besides the warring kingdoms, there are three religions in conflict: Shamanism, the ancient female-dominated faith wherein Shamanist priestesses wield great power at court, foretelling the future, performing important national rituals, and healing sickness; Buddhism, the contemplative State religion; and Confucianism, a recent import from powerful China.

Average customer rating:

The Saga Continues...
Not quite there....
Good, but missing something...
spellbinding romantic fantasy

The Dawn Star (Misted Cliffs, Book 3)
Catherine Asaro
Manufacturer: Luna
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Final Key: Part Two of Triad (Saga of the Skolian Empire)

ASIN: 0373802382

Book Description

High in the Misted Cliffs lives a magic unlike any other.

With no teacher to guide her, no mentor to discourage her from the impossible, Mel Dawnfield pushed her magic to its limits -- and surpassed them. Only to find that her powers aren't enough to halt burgeoning rebellion within her husband's fledgling realm -- or a plot devised to strike at the very heart of Mel's family.

Mel's mage strength has become greater than any power ever known, but dare she forge her spells into weapons to protect her people, her husband? For her magic might transform the brutality of war into the birth pangs of a peaceful empire . . . unless it proves the death blow to her world.

Customer Reviews:

The Saga Continues..........2006-09-02

Asaro delved a little deeper into Mel and Cobalt's story in the 2nd addition and a better sense of story-telling comes out -- but I like the first one better.

I stated in a previous review on The Misted Cliffs that Asaro hadn't found her voice - and she still hasn't. She's simply continuing the tale of the fantastical settled lands as she had before. The writing lacks luster that I've seen more of in teen novels than here. And the stories of the Dark King and his oh-so-benevolent and perfect wife could have been told better if more thought had gone into the actual *writing* and character development. Mel takes a back seat and has suddenly doesn't add up to who she was in the first novel.

Ultimately, the final conclusion drawn up for Cobalt and Mel were satisfying in an elementary way. I liked the story and Cobalt's character admittedly appealed to me because he seemed the most realistic of them all. But the secondary characters and the romantic inclinations of the Taka Mal queen were obvious plot devices to make the book seem like a deeper read. But the covers of these novels speak for themselves: they're simply light reads that don't take much effort to breeze through on a boring week night.

But on a lighter and kinder note, I would recommend it to everyone who read The Misted Cliffs because you find out what ultimately becomes of Cobalt's desires to be emperor and Mel's modest desires for home and hearth. The books are light and appropriate for teen readers 14 and up. A 3.5 stars for a moderately satisfying read.

Not quite there...........2006-08-06

After the lead up from the previous novel, I was looking for a culmination of the previous stories in this one. Although she did a great job in exposing the emotions felt by Cobalt and Mel, I feel like she fell short in completing these events - unless she has another novel planned. We never really hear about Mel's parents again and the other members of her family, except for a new look at Drummer, who hadn't been mentioned since the first novel. I can understand that this novel is mainly centered around the journey that Mel has to undergo, but it would have been interesting if the other mages that we had come to love through these stories made a final appearance in this novel. I enjoyed this story, but it just seemed anti-climatic in its ending.

Good, but missing something..........2006-07-14

Mel and Cobalt are back at their finest. Cobalt still has problems containing his anger and yearns to get along with his grandfather and his growth in this novel is pretty amazing. Two more characters, Drummer and Jade enter the picture and their story is relatively interesting.

Asaro never seems to write a bad book, but in this book I was looking for something more. I started the series with Charmed Destinies and I was just waiting for Jarid to make an appearance. However he has no significant role in this book. Drummer was probably the biggest disappointment, however. His character seemed really shallow to me.

But Asaro pulls out with four stars due to Cobalt's role in the novel, the amazingly amusing war conference, and the believeability of the majority of the characters (well, as believeable as a fantasy story can be, anyway).

spellbinding romantic fantasy .......2006-07-05

Cobalt the Dark married Mel Dawnfield so that Harsdown would eventually return to Cobalt's heirs because it is part of his wife's dowry. What began as a marriage of state quickly became a love match. He conquered Sharize and Blue Shire and is heir to the Misted Cliffs, ruled by his abusive grandfather Stonebreaker who made his and his mother's life miserable as a child.

Cobalt would love to add the countries of Jazid and Taka Mal to his empire but Mel doesn't want her husband to become the dictator of the world. The country of Taka Mal, fearing Cobalt's expansionist ideas, kidnap the queen of Aronsdale's brother Drummer, Mel's uncle and a minstrel with a voice that could make grown men weep for joy. The ruling queen Jade quickly falls under Drummer's spell and wants to marry him because Cobalt would never invade a country that is tied to his wife's family. Before that plan could be put into motion, Mel is kidnapped and it is made to look like Taka Mal performed the deed. Cobalt marches towards Taka Mal intending to level it unless Mel can escape her prison and explain the truth to her beloved.

Nebula award winner Catherine Asaro writes a spellbinding romantic fantasy as well as she does hard science fiction. Fans of her Skollan empire series will find THE DAWN STAR a softer, more people driven tale with characters well suited for this sword and sorcery tale. Although there are plenty of action scenes, the plot is more about political chicanery and the political intrigue scenes are fascinating.

The Chronicles of Soone - Heir to the King

Average customer rating:

Somers' Soone Debut!
from Wayne Thomas Batson, Author of The Door Within Trilogy and Isle of Swords
An action packed read with spiritual overtones
You Must Get This Book!
Exciting and fast paced, great story line

The Chronicles of Soone - Heir to the King
James Somers
Manufacturer: Breakneck Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0978655125

Book Description

SPIRITUAL DARKNESS A devastating interplanetary war has been raging for decades. The fallen ones have instigated mankind's downfall, waging a sinister campaign leading towards a singular goal, universal domination. A WARRIOR RACE Long the ordained guardians of peace, the Barudii, have been reduced to a scattered remnant struggling to survive. All but wiped out by the Vorn clan, they have little hope of stopping the genocide that threatens mankind's survival. THE LAST HEIR Young Tiet soone, the only remaining heir to the Barudii throne, returns from exile to avenge his fallen people. He is the final hope for restoration, and the only one that can mediate a peace between the warring clans before its too late...before the dark forces opposing his every effort succeed in enslaving humanity. To claim victory he will do what Barudii warriors do best-fight-to the death if need be.

Customer Reviews:

Somers' Soone Debut!.......2007-09-20

New author James Soone debuts his first novel in a seemingly new series that comes off reading like a mix of Star Wars vs Terminator.

Both genres of both film and novels here are quickly apparent in the prose. Well, that can be good...and also bad.

We felt that James Somers holds great potential, but overall after reading the first 1/3 of the novel, we got a feeling of lack of quality in terms of much-needed descriptions and characterization. Unfortunately, those came as run-of-the-mill.

On a more postive note, Somers never lets up in pure high-octane action/adventure. But after reading Best-Selling authors for many years, action/adventure is not enough. It is just a couple of important elements, yes, but cannot hold up the whole novel idea as a whole.

There was also the major problem of editing. Numerous mistakes here made this reading experience a headache at times. But James Somers CAN write. And we would look at a 2nd novel of Soone.

And hope for a more well-rounded novel.

from Wayne Thomas Batson, Author of The Door Within Trilogy and Isle of Swords.......2007-03-17

The Promising First Step in an Ultra Cool Space Epic!--that's what I'd call James Somers' Chronicles of Soone, Heir to the King. Being an author myself, I read a little differently than most people. I read like a scientist, analyzing every inch of the story: the craft, suspense technique, character development, general hook, etc. After all the analysis, I'm impressed.

Please realize this is Mr. Somers' first book. Of course it has rough edges and some editing foibles, but whose first book doesn't? If the story's cool, most readers {except perhaps, for book snobs, lol} can forgive a few errors in the written craft. Rather than technical precision, what readers should look for in a first novel are the following: an intriguing hook, sparks of creative genius, and a story worth hearing. CoSM has all of that.

An Intriguing Hook: CoSM begins with a mysterious, but utterly black betrayal...the underpinnings of centuries frought with genocide. An enemy, who while not exactly sympathetic, has motives we can understand. The hook comes when you realize the rabbit hole is A LOT deeper than you first thought. WOW, I couldn't believe how the story just seemed to balloon with each new revelation.

Sparks of Creative Genius: Somers' strength is plotting. No bog down scenes here. It just keeps amping. Wait until you meet the cyborg assasin Vale. He alone adds a rogue suspense mechanism worth the price of admission. The Vorn, the Barudii, the transdimensional rift--all very cool elements.

A Story Worth Hearing: CoSM has definite spiritual themes. There's truth in this book, but it is not preachy in any way, shape, or form. Somers somehow tells a thrilling story that simultaneously makes you think about yourself and the world in a pure light.

Order a copy of Chronicles of Soone now, and like me, look forward to the release of Rise of Lucin, CoSM2!

An action packed read with spiritual overtones.......2007-02-06

Everything an action sci-fi fan could ask for: Full of battle scenes packed with blazing swords and "ray" guns. From the opening scene I was captivated. Woven into the action are moral dilemmas and tragedy, coupled with a unique perspective on the battle between good and evil. An excellent read.

You Must Get This Book!.......2007-02-03

THE CHRONICLES OF SOONE: HEIR TO THE KING, by Rev. James Somers is a no-stop roller-coaster ride of adventure, terror, love and hate. The plot starts out pretty straight-forward, but then does an odd, but enjoyable twist. Soon the reader becomes caught up in a maze of adventure, battles, wisdom, love, hate and sorrow that is hard to find elsewhere. For his first novel this is a most remarkable story. It is in some ways simple and straight-forward, yet in others it is almost unbearably complex. As a mystery writer I like the fact that I couldn't quite get a handle on the story. I mean, I could never predict what was coming next. With the introduction of new terms, that make their way into your vocabulary as if you'd know them all your life, the clan of Barudii warriors and the races of Castaillan, Vorn and Baruk all seem to make sense. I would love to say more, but if I did I'm afraid I would start giving away pieces of the story that would take away from your uncovering them for yourself. Treat this story like a gold mine in which you have found a vein of gold. As you follow that vein and mine it just as it seems to thin out and threaten to disappear altogether it breaks open into a new and larger vein. And this Somers is able to keep up throughout this epic novel. You just know the next one is going to be just as fantastic. - David Brollier; author of THE 3RD COVENANT

(You're wondering why I didn't give it a 5? That's because of some mechanical problems with the writing that the editors failed to pick up on or imposed on his otherwise great story. Otherwise it would definitely have been a 5)

Exciting and fast paced, great story line.......2007-01-26

The action never stops in this story of futuristic war pitting races of humans with various super powers and mass produced war clones. I became wrapped up in the families involved in their struggle of survival in this centuries old war. James tells a story as only the best authors can. You will not be disappointed when you read this book.

The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark

Average customer rating:

Fairy Tale "history"
Now what exactly is the road to hell paved with again?
History Grad. student
Beautiful Book
The Jewish Star

The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark
Carmen Agra Deedy
Manufacturer: Peachtree Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Terrible Things: An Allegory of the Holocaust
Erika's Story
Star of Fear, Star of Hope
The Butterfly
The Number on My Grandfather's Arm

ASIN: 1561452084

Book Description

Without the yellow star to point them out, the Jews looked like any other Danes. FOR CENTURIES, the Star of David was a symbol of Jewish pride. But during World War II, Nazis used the star to segregate and terrorize the Jewish people. Except in Denmark. When Nazi soldiers occupied his country, King Christian X of Denmark committed himself to keeping all Danes safe from harm. The bravery of the Danes and their king during that dangerous time has inspired many legends. The most enduring is the legend of the yellow star, which symbolizes the loyalty and fearless spirit of the king and his people. Award-winning author and storyteller Carmen Deedy has poignantly recreated this legend which is accompanied by Danish illustrator Henri Sorensen's arresting full-color portraits. The result is a powerful and dignified story of heroic justice, a story for all people and all times.

Customer Reviews:

Fairy Tale "history".......2006-02-25

I am really appalled that so much fiction cloaked in cover endorsement gets into our libraries, especially books for children. According to a Danish website on Denmark in WWII, "In fact, Danish Jews never wore the yellow badge either, nor did German officials ever issue an order requiring Danish Jews to display it."

Even some Danes served in the Nazi S.S. There is always complications with military occupation. But My God, get your history right! It is criminal to palm off these distortions that read more like fairy tales when there is so much REAL history that is even more amazing. Why didn't this author just write a book about the REAL event of Georg Duckwitz and the Danish fishermen who saved Jews? His story is truly compelling.

History is no longer taught in public schools. Kids must now rely on books and TV to get some exposure. They do not have the savvy to tell if they are being fed a pack of lies. Authors who spread "wish it had happened" history instead of the truth are doing a great disservice. Shame on the pubisher for not looking out for our kids and for not really debating whether this book should be published.

Stick to the truth if you're gonna publish a "history" book.

Now what exactly is the road to hell paved with again?.......2004-07-27

If you were unaware of the history behind "The Yellow Star", you might find the idea of a negative review of this book distasteful. After all, what kind of cold-hearted lizard would be so cruel as to give a poor rating to a book that speaks about a king's love of his countrymen? What sort of sad sack of garbage would put down a story in which all persons, regardless of religion, are treated as human beings by their benevolent king? I mean, for a person to do such a thing they'd have to have a very very good reason. They'd have to feel, for example, that the book was a travesty against the very people it's attempting to praise. Such a reviewer am I. And such a terrible book is "The Yellow Star".

Allow me to sum it up. As stated in the title, this tale is the legend of King Christian X of Denmark. A noble man, his subjects loved him dearly and he always made wise decisions. One day, however, the Nazis came. Though Christian was able to stave off their insistence that the Nazi flag fly high, he was powerless against an edict that would force all Jews to wear the yellow star. After much soul searching and pondering, King Christian came up with a brilliant solution. The next day, while riding his horse amongst the people as usual, the king sported a yellow star of his own. And in time all the Danish people did the same.

Ah, you say. What an inspiring story. What a swell testament to such a strong man and his convictions. What a... WHAT? You're telling me it isn't true? Nope. As it happens you may have missed the word "legend" in the subtitle. Now there was a King Christian of Denmark, yes. And he was a good king. Why, a simple reading of the excellent "Number the Stars" (a book that the author of this tale mentions in her Author's Note, none to my surprise) will prove that much. And sadly, "Number the Stars", though a fiction, is far more truthful than this particular creation. Now don't get me wrong. The author freely admits in the Author's Note that this story isn't true. I wonder how many parents regularly read such notes to their kids after reading this story... hm. I wonder how many adults would even bother with an Author's Note themselves? Author Deedy writes that this book is supposed to be a "what if?" story. She then lists the actions the Danes actually took against the oppressive Nazis. It's as if their actual efforts weren't enough. Who cares if they smuggled 7,000 Jews to Sweden? Who cares that of the 500 deported only 51 died? Let's write a fairy tale instead where ALL the Jews were perfectly safe because their big hearted king saved them, the end. What kind of person looks at human suffering and the heroics that went into saving a group from destruction and then says, "It wasn't enough. I need to make a story where the king did even more"? Not only is this insulting to the very people you're trying to commemorate, but you've just treated their accomplishments as paltry. This book is a slap in the face to every Dane that actually saved a Jewish life. It says to them, "Ah yes, you were fine, but what if you'd done THIS?". It makes me sick. And when Deedy lists the Danes accomplishments in her Author's Note, how do you know what she writes is true? She never quotes a single source or backs up any of her facts with reliable resources. She could be making up every word in this book (rather than every other word) and we'd never be the wiser.

For a fun time, check out some of the professional reviews of this picture book. If you look on the back cover of "Yellow Star" you may see a quote from School Library Journal that says, "Deed's language is simple and rhythmic... This is an interesting and thought-provoking piece of work". Here's the rest of that review that you didn't see. "Readers are sure to be disappointed to find out that it is legend, and not verified history.-Martha Link, Louisville Free Public Library, KY". Truthfully, when a book decides that it's going to tell a "what if" story about something as black and horrific as the Holocaust, it makes that event small and easy to ignore. A note on the back of the book says that this story, "will involve elementary age children in this legend while exposing them to harsh truths". No it won't. Give your children Roberto Innocenti's, "Rose Blanche". Give them the exquisite and far preferable "Number the Stars". Heck, give them Dr. Seuss's "Yertle the Turtle". Every one of these books is a better written and far more respectful treatment of injustice at the hands of the powerful and none of them pretend to be non-fiction. "The Yellow Star" insults the memory of those remarkable Danish people that risked it all to save their friends and neighbors. Honor them by not purchasing this book.

History Grad. student.......2003-05-17

Authors should be more responsible in writing historical fiction, by sticking to the truth and not by distorting history. They ought to write their chara. around the history, not the other way!

Beautiful Book.......2002-12-08

The Yellow Star is a beautifully told and illustrated story.

The story is only a legend. Author Carmen Deedy writes about which portions of the story are in fact true in a small section at the end of the book.

The language of the book and the illustrations are beautiful. Even though the story is based on a legend and not actual events, it is a beautiful tale of standing by each other and not allowing our differences to separate us.

The Jewish Star.......2002-04-25

The jewish star is about a king who tries to solve some problems that Denmark has. One of them is that he tries putting stars on just the jewish people but then he said that you just can't put stars on just the jews why not put them on all. Then he put it on all the people, so they didn't take all the jews,and they would take everyone.So they took all of Denmark to the concentration camps.

The Demon Princes, Vol. 1: The Star King * The Killing Machine * The Palace of Love (Demon Princes)

Average customer rating:

Not Free SF Reader
Classic Vance
Demon Princes by Jack Vance
Classic Vance
I am a monomaniac

The Demon Princes, Vol. 1: The Star King * The Killing Machine * The Palace of Love (Demon Princes)
Jack Vance
Manufacturer: Orb Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

The Demon Princes, Vol. 2: The Face * The Book of Dreams (Demon Princes)
Tales of the Dying Earth
Planet of Adventure
Alastor
Lurulu (The Sequel to Ports of Call)

ASIN: 0312853025

Amazon.com

Jack Vance excels at writing a series of shorter works that together comprise a grand, interstellar adventure. Such is the The Demon Princes, a series of five tales that chronicle Kirth Gersen's quest for vengeance against the five demon princes. The princes led the Mount Pleasant Massacre, a raid that destroyed Gersen's family and his world. But now Kirth is on their trail, and no matter how many galaxies there are to search, he will find them one by one and exact his revenge. This first volume collects three of the five Demon Prince stories, while the second volume will carry the remaining two.

Book Description

Kirth Gersen carries in his pocket a slip of paper with a list of five names written on it. Theses are the names of the five Demon Princes who led the historic Mount Pleasant Massacre, which destroyed not only Kirth's family but his entrire world as well. He roams the universe, searching the endless galaxies of space, hunting down the Demon Princes and exacting his revenge. Three princes will fall before Kirth's work is done, and two more await their doom....

Customer Reviews:

Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03

The Demon Princes series is a very serious revenge story, or series
even. Think Red Sonja, or The Executioner, or The Punisher. Each of
these is basically novella length.

A boy's family gets killed by some very, very bad men. His
grandfather trains him to be a killer to gain revenge. His grandfather
dies, off he goes to kill some people that aren't that easy to kill.

Classic Vance.......2007-06-19

Classic Vance which is to say excellent.

I am over the age of 13.(but just barely)

Demon Princes by Jack Vance.......2006-11-05

Vance is my favorite fantasy author. The Demon Princes is a fine example of Vance's story telling ability, in the vein of classics such as The Faceless Man. Extraordinary imagination, fabulous imagery, and a smooth style are the standard Vance trademarks.

Classic Vance.......2006-02-06

Star King is the first and, I think, best of the Demon Princes novels. In essence they are well told detective stories with Keith Gersen seeking to find and eliminate those responsible for the slave raid on his village, with he and his grandfather among a handfull of survivors. What sets Vance's stories apart are the backgrounds. He paints the exotic flora, fauna, societies, planets and places so vividly that you could believe he actually spent a night at the inn on Smade's planet and is writing from first hand experience.

Another thing I like about Vance's writing is that he never talks down to the reader as Arthur Clark sometimes does. Space boats are powered by the Jarnell Intersplit, period! He assumes the reader is smart enough to understand that it operates on physics beyond the normal three dimensions plus time. No need to quote quantum theory so we appreciate how smart he is.

Some people find his stories hard to read. I believe this comes in large part from the unusual names he gives to people, places and things. Keith Gersen is the most normal name in the book. You'll find characters named Sivij Suthiro, Pallis Atwrode, Hildemar Dasce and the like, never a Joe Smith. Persevere and the names add to the exotic flavor of his books.

He does have some rather sub-par books in print but Star King/Demon Princes series are some of his best and at his best he is one of the most outstanding Sci-Fi writers to come along.

I am a monomaniac.......2005-09-11

'The Demon Princes' was once published as five separate books, but in 1997 was reissued into only two volumes, the first volume covering the first three princes and the second volume covering the forth and fifth.

Kirth Gerson is just a boy when his village and planet are ransacked in a joint venture by the five most evil, most powerful criminals ever. They called themselves The Demon Princes. Kirth survives, along with his grandfather, who then raises the boy to become the ultimate revenge maker on the ruthless princes. After the death of his grandfather, Kirth finishes his training and is ready to take on the first of the five demon princes.

The Star King, first of the five books, (or long chapters, if you will) is the story of Kirth's hunt for Malagate The Woe. In a neutral, off-world tavern called Smade's, Gersen meets Lugo Teehalt, who tells him a fantastical story about a beautiful planet he has discovered. Gersen learns that Attel Malagate is after Teehalt's monitor in order to find this world, so Gersen uses the monitor's filament as bait to lure Malagate out. Shaking off assassins and bargaining with influential Institutes, Gersen brings about his encounter with Malagate, culminating on Teehalt's fantastical world.

The second part, The Killing Machine, is about Gersen's hunt for Kokor Hekkus, better known as The Killing Machine. From filthy out-worlds to the renowned institution called Interchange, Gerson is off on another chase. Located far out on a desert planet, Interchange exists for the expedient and safe exchange of kidnaps, acting as liaison for hostage and monetary demands. Freeing two innocent children and a contractor for Hekkus, Gersen finds more than he was looking for when he himself is kidnapped and held for ransom at Interchange. Guessing at a connection between Hekkus and a beautiful woman held for a phenomenal amount of money, Gersen finds himself on the mystical planet of Tamber and smack in the middle of a confrontation with The Killing Machine.

In the third part, Gerson takes on demon prince Viole Falushe at Falushe's Palace Of Love. Getting to the Palace isn't easy. Gersen begins with a visit to the planet Sarkovy, a dismal place famous for its many poisons. Then he flies to earth, to take up with a crotchety old poet named Navarth and his young daughter Zan-Zu. When Navarth discovers that Gersen intends to exact revenge on Viole Falushe, the man who ruined Navarth's young lover, the old poet joins the assassin on a trip to Falushe's Palace Of Love, where Gersen must first identify Falushe before he can eliminate him.

While all three tales contain a bit of mystery over who the real identity of the villain is, the majority of their intrigue and charm come from Vance's imaginative worlds; worlds complete with custom, foods, dress, environment, law (or lack of), flora and fauna, even planetary statistics. There are twenty-six planets in the 'Concourse' around the sun Rigel, and many more in the 'Beyond'. Vance creates a galaxy of rich and interesting places, peoples, and things.

Truly a delight for the SciFi fan, with enough adventure for some tight situations and narrow escapes, plus a bit of detective intrigue (though our 'detective' is an assassin), 'The Demon Princes' is a science fiction romp that should satisfy most palates. Don't forget to pick up volume two at the same time, or you will be left adrift between Gersen's meticulous pursuit of the five men who destroyed his world long ago. Enjoy!

Star Wars Dark Nest (Dark Swarm Trilogy 3 in 1, 1, 2, & 3)

Average customer rating:

Star Wars Dark Nest (Dark Swarm Trilogy 3 in 1, 1, 2, & 3)

Manufacturer: Science Fiction Book Club
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Similar Items:

Exile (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 4)
Tempest (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 3)
Sacrifice (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 5)
Tempest (Star Wars, Legacy Of The Force)
Betrayal (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 1)

ASIN: 0739463306

Product Description

This is all 3 volumes of the Dark Swarm Trilogy in one BCE Harback. Please note this is the only release of these titles in hardback, as the mass market release for all three title was done in PB only. Includes - The Joiner King, The Unseen Queen, and The Swarm War

Healing the Fisher King: Spiritual Lessons with Parzival, Gump, the Grail, Tao, and Star Wars

Average customer rating:

A fascinating read
Brilliant
A life journey worth striving for

Healing the Fisher King: Spiritual Lessons with Parzival, Gump, the Grail, Tao, and Star Wars
Shelly Durrell
Manufacturer: Art Tao Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0971076804

Book Description

This is no ordinary self-help book. The magic of movies, novels, art, mythology, history, philosophy, and literature are brought together in the exploration of the legend of Parzival. It is the blueprint of the heros life-the one we were all meant to strive for. Includes Parzival summaries, journal exercises, bibliography, filmography/synopses, and index.

Customer Reviews:

A fascinating read.......2003-03-23

If I had to use one word to describe this book it would have to be "brilliant". Shelly Durrell deftly takes the reader on a highly informative journey through the story of Parzival and the Grail complete with a detailed psychological analysis. At the same time she explores how the theme is used consistently throughout some of the most successful films of our time including Star Wars, Forest Gump, The Natural, and others. This is a strong and detailed exegesis of the Arthurian tale of Parzival, the search for the Grail, and the Fisher King. By understanding Parzival and the Fisher King we come to understand how to heal our own emotional wounds.

A story of hurt, growth, and healing, "Healing the Fisher King" is a wonderful read as Shelly Durrell provides a thoroughly illuminating examination of all aspects of the tale. It is a highly recommended read for people dealing with an emotional hurt that will not heal, an interest in fine literature, or anyone else that just enjoys a well written book that shows the common bonds that we all must experience and work through in our lives. Bravo, Shelly Durrell.

Brilliant.......2002-10-02

Shelly Durrell writes elequently, and is still comprehensible for any reader. She relates the stories and tales of Parzival to the movies we watch everyday -as well as the experiences in life we live through daily. Along with the symbolism and lessons, you are given a chance to reflect, write, and meditate while reading the book. This all results in a beautiful awakening of the spirit. Highly recommended!!!!

A life journey worth striving for.......2002-09-14

Healing The Fisher King: Spiritual Lessons With Parzival, Gump, The Grail, Tao, And Star Wars by Shelly Durrell is a metaphysical self-actualization book that traces beloved modern movies back to their roots to the Arthurian legend of "Parzival," written by Wolfram von Eschenbach in the twelfth century. Durrell summarizing "Parzival" for those who have not read it, presenting the Hero's Life as a life journey worth striving for, offering meditations and psychological exercises, drawing extensive connections to film and proffering numerous full-color photographs of movies, classical artwork, and more. Healing The Fisher King is an literate, complex, and personally rewarding metaphysical journey that readers of all familiarity levels with metaphysics and popular culture references will enjoy paging through from beginning to end.

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