Product Description
Just before dawn on June 9, 1863, Union soldiers materialized from a thick fog near the banks of Virginia's Rappahannock River to ambush sleeping Confederates. The ensuing struggle, which lasted throughout the day, was to be known as the Battle of Brandy Station the largest cavalry battle ever fought on North American soil. Meticulously captured by historian Eric J. Wittenberg, these events marked a major turning point in the Civil War: the waning era of Confederate cavalry dominance in the East gave way to a confident and powerful Union mounted arm. This fascinating volume features a GPS guided tour of the battlefield with illustrations and maps by master cartographer Steven Stanley. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A survey of an important, overlooked battle
This book is a brief survey of the Battle of Brandy Station, one of the more important overlooked battles of the Civil War. The fighting here was savage, and the battle had important implications for the rest of the war. One famous quote from a Confederate, that Brandy Station "made the Union cavalry", is repeated approvingly in this book and other places. As a result, this short survey of the battle is useful, because it gives a brief account of the fighting and how it progressed, and why things came out the way they did.

The battle was fought when the Union cavalry scouted the Confederate positions, trying to figure out where the Confederate army was going, in the late spring of 1863. Of course within a few days the Confederates would be marching north on the road that eventually led to Gettysburg. The Confederates of course didn't want to let the Yankees know this, so they fought the cavalry probe rather vigorously, but the Union forces were handled very aggressively and pushed the Confederates very hard for much of the day. The Yankees finally withdrew, which led the Confederates to claim victory; more perceptive observers noted that the Confederates had been surprised, that many of the Confederate troopers were tired from several days of parades and reviews, and that the Confederate forces, some of them anyway, were timidly handed and rather easily pushed around by the Union forces. Earlier in the war the Union cavalry wouldn't have been this much of a challenge to the Confederates; as the quote cited above notes, after this they became much more of a problem for the Confederates.

I have two major objections to this book. One is that there's no index. With computer programs and the like there's no excuse for not including one at this point, and so I see it as a shortcoming. The other objection I have is the maps. While the book includes 10 maps, none of them are an overview of the whole battlefield, showing all of the places that are included on the detail maps. This is a serious shortcoming, because the text doesn't do that good a job of telling you where the various encounters took place in relation to one another. I finally went online and found two maps: [...] . The first one appears to be a compilation of the maps used in the text of the book, so why it wasn't included with this book is a mystery to me.

Outside of these two shortcomings, this is a useful account of a little-known episode of the Civil War. It includes some pretty interesting anecdotes, from the death of "Grimes" Davis to the saber duel between Wesley Merritt and Rooney Lee. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Civil War.

A Waste of Good Paper
The more I see The History Press' Civil War Sesquicentennial Series the less I'm impressed. So far the series offers short narratives, poor maps, and in this case NO index. Wittenberg seems to have cobbled this together in a hurry. The narrative is choppy and sometimes filled with gaps while reusing quotes more than once. See pages 170 and 172 for his use of the same quote from a Massachusetts cavalryman. He seems not to have proofread his narrative, something that many of his books share. This text does not take us beyond previous Brandy Station books. Wittenberg says in his Introduction: "This book is not intended to be the definitive work on the subject of the Battle of Brandy Station." In that he succeeds. For a battle study that he says he intended to be used in the field, the maps are small and there is no map of the entire Brandy Station area to tie the geography together. Save your money for Bud Hall's study. Caveat emptor.

The Best Brandy Station Book
Books on Brandy Station are limited, both in scope & number. This is quite surprising, since the battle kicked off the Gettysburg Campaign, the most documented campaign in U. S. military history. Brandy Station was the opening act of a brutal drama and critics have, for the most part, ignored its importance. In Gettysburg's massive bibliography, there are but a few titles devoted exclusively to Brandy Station.

The first Brandy Station book, written by Fairfax Downey in 1959, was "Clash of Cavalry: The Battle of Brandy Station, June 9, 1863." It is outdated & lacks the first person accounts now demanded by Civil War students & scholars.

2002 gave us "Brandy Station: A Battle Like None Other," a Willow Bend book written by Richard Crouch. An online reviewer calls this an "awful book," criticizing the maps, the editing & the author. The reviewer concludes, "This is a book by an amateur published by amateurs: there are no modern maps to help the narrative, there are typos and words run together. The overall effect is poor. Save your money."

In 2006, McFarland Press released "Brandy Station, Virginia, June 9, 1863: The Largest Cavalry Battle of the Civil War," by Joseph McKinney. Like all McFarland titles, it is quite pricey -- $55 for just 340 pages. (Are you kidding me? And they say the oil companies "price gouge.") The maps are poor. However, the research is first rate & McKinney knows the terrain.

In 2008, as part of its "Campaign" series, Osprey Publishing released "Brandy Station 1863: First Step Towards Gettysburg," written by Dan Beattie & illustrated by Adam Hook. It is well written, well researched & has been well received by readers. But Brandy Station needs more than 96 pages to tell its story.

Fear not! The History Press, as part of its Civil War Sesquicentennial Series, has given us "The Battle of Brandy Station: North America's Largest Cavalry Battle," by Eric J. Wittenberg. What is missing from previous titles can be found in Wittenberg's 16th book.

The maps are plentiful & superb, done by Civil War Preservation Trust cartographer Steve Stanley. It is fairly priced at $25. Primary accounts abound in the bibliography, with 3 full pages devoted to manuscript collections and period newspapers. And Mr. Wittenberg knows the terrain as well as anyone. I do find fault with the publishers for not including an index. But this seems to be their custom, especially as it pertains to this series.

The author calls his latest work an "overview." He's being a little modest here. Until Clark "Bud" Hall's Brandy Station manuscript is released, Wittenberg's book will be the definitive work. Wittenberg, a self-proclaimed disciple of renowned Brandy Station expert Hall, is proud to be in such company. "The Battle of Brandy Station: North America's Largest Cavalry Battle," justifies the comparison.

A much-needed study of an overlooked battle.
Eric Wittenberg writing on the largest cavalry battle of the Civil War, the only improvement would be to make the book very affordable.Being a Civil War Sesquicentennial book, it carries the wished for low price.The Battle of Brandy Station is the newest entry from The History Press in what is a very impressive series.A well-illustrated book with excellent maps by Steven Stanley, period and contemporary pictures, a full Order of Battle with a tour of the field adds real value.A full index, bibliography and complete endnote make this a serious history from a publisher that did not sacrifice quality to lower the price.
The heart of the book is Wittenberg's history and analysis of the battle.The first fifty pages are background and a look at the commanders.He provides a series of word portraits coupled with an understanding of the politics in the mounted arm.The next 110 pages is a detailed account of the battle.A fifteen-page analysis, places the battle in the overall history of the war while identifying winners and losers.An Epilogue covers a human-interest story that is associated with the participants illustrating the direction the war took after the summer of 1863.
This is a well-written account of the fighting using the words of the participants and the author's knowledge to good effect.The battle is a huge swirling mass of men and horses, obscured by gun smoke and dust.The author brings a logical order out of this chaos keeping both the swirling mass and the tactical situation together.The result is a readable, understandable account that keeps the reader involved and the narration moving.This produces both an understanding of mounted combat coupled with an appreciation of the reality of fighting from horseback.
An excellent addition to my library, this book will be a reference on the battle for many years.Highly recommended, this is a much-needed study of an overlooked battle.

Wonderful narrative
My friend and fellow cavalry afficianado has struck gold again with this wonderful narrative of the June 9, 1863 battle at Brandy Station.Since the 1950s we haven't had a good full history of the battle.Eric brings his knowledge of the players, their history, and an impeccable understanding of the terrain (we both together and separately have crawled over every available inch of the ground) to bring to the public an enjoyable, highly readable, and most accurate account of the battle to date.The icing on the cake is that the book has the first driving/walking tour of all the sites - including GPS coordinates, a feature Eric and I, with Mike Nugent, introduced in one of our joint books a few years ago (One Continuous Fight).Prefaced with an imprimatur by Civil War Preservation Trust President Jim Lighthizer, and illustrated with the unbeatable maps of master cartographer Steve Stanley, this book is now the standard for Brandy.Take this book for a walk and enjoy. ... Read more

Product Description
This common-sense guide will tell you how to make the most of water used in your home landscape. You'll have a greener, more productive yard, fewer failures, and overall much less water use. Organic gardening principles are described and recommended to protect ground water quality. An important, must-have guide for every gardener and homeowner in this thirsty state!Revised plant charts feature more native trees, shrubs, vines and groundcovers! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

good book
Good for a new perspective on your yard.Guides you in planning how to make your yard sustainable by more natural means.

xeriscaping for florida homes
This book is an absolute must for all florida gardeners. The year 2000 has brought a 100 year drought and water rationing. The resulting plant mortality will necessitate replanting in many yards. Ms Brandies' readablebook provides all the motivation and information one needs. Her areaspecific information on plant choices is absent from many books, but heroverall information is pertinent for all water sensitive areas. It's asuprisingly good and useful read. ... Read more

Product Description
Bread, Salt & Plum Brandy is an insightful and eye-opening account of Lisa Fisher Cazacu's odyssey as a Peace Corps volunteer in post-communist Romania. With humor and pathos, Lisa shares her experiences, and her relationship with a charming young lawyer from Bucharest, who experienced first-hand the horrors of Nicolae Ceausescu's reign of terror. Often humorous, sometimes heart-breaking, this collection of observations and experiences offers a unique insight into the journey of a Peace Corps volunteer, and the indomitable spirit of the Romanian people. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Unadulterated ROMANIA - a Texan Viewpoint
I bought this book after finishing William Blacker's Along the Enchanted Way- the two accounts of Romania (roughly contemporaneous) could not be more different from each other, like chalk and cheese and reading it came as a shock! Please do not get me wrong, one does needshock therapy in order to take a harder look at ourselves and see how one could improve one's own lot: according to Lisa Fisher Cazacu there is still a lot to be done about it and I believe her.

This is as straight as you could get it - an unadulterated uncosmetisized account on Real Romania, ten years after the fall of Communism. Its title, Bread, Salt & Plum Brandy alludes to the tradition of hospitality in offering a symbolic piece of bread with a pinch of salt as a welcoming gesture to a visiting stranger. As for the plum-brandy bit this is the national liquor which accompanies merry-making and the author had an ample taste of both. But who is this young gutsy lady who threw herself in the turmoil of working as aAmerican Peace Corps volunteer, on an assignment to this God-forsakenport on the Lower Danube? This is the nearest to the Balkans as you can get!Well, she is a buoyant, enthusiastic Texan whois ready to fore go her TexMex food, her Pizza Margaritas and her Starbuck coffees (oh how she misses all these, but then she made a stick to beat herself with) in order to do good and improve the lot of poor Romanian youth. Nothing wrong with this, quite the contrary: this is very commendable, except that Romanians are not used to altruism and suspect poor Lisa of some ulterior motives -

May be she is an American spy, trying to steal Romanian secrets?

What secrets? these the reader will soon be cognizant of,by reading this candid account which often dissolves into hilarious scenes of the Theatre of the Absurd. But I am not going to spoil the potential readers pleasure of discovering for themselves the funny side ofthis clash of cultures. And clash thereis and plenty of it, but Lisa is not going to be easily defeated: better still, in the process she gains TWO `pluses', not one:

FIRSTLY she comes to realizethe true blessing of being born in a country wherepublic services function properly and are taken for granted:

what, no bus service to take children to school? What, no compulsion by Romtelecom the national telephone company to fix the fault on Lisa's line at a weekend?

Who needs a phone, anyway?

The list of Ubuesque mishaps is endless and a great eye-opener both for the reader who could not imagine it and for the natives who got used to and put up with it for far too long!

But, thankfully, not all natives - for Romania is experiencing a brain drain of unprecedented scale and not just brains but muscles too - Romanians emigrate in droves to get away from the quagmire of corrupt officialdom - in the last two decades more than two millions mostly young able-bodied people have voted with their feet and left their country , not in good cheer, but in despair ...

One of the statistics is Lisa's Romanian husband and this is the SECOND `plus' I had in mind as a benefit of Lisa's Romanian experience: for this rumbustious and unflappable young lady would not allow her unpleasant experiences tarnish her romance with a dashing Mr. Cazacu. They get married and beat the bureaucracy at its game (o yes, even the American bureaucracy because we learn that there is some...) to live "happy ever after" in Texas!

Who needs a better happy-ending than this? in fact, on reflection there are bits in this account to please each and all readers. I for one, after overcomingthe initial shock, I enjoyed this brave story in spite of its stark comments, or perhaps because of it. Thank you Lisa!

GIURGIU, the Danube port where Lisa Fisher Cazacu was posted.

For a "feel" of other travelers accounts of the river Danube (1800-1940) see our other article:

Romantic Travels on the Lower Danube (1800 - 1940)

[...]

Testament to can-do American optimism
This memoir tells how a Texas gal, Lisa Fisher, went off to far-away Romania in 2002 as a Peace Corps volunteer. She returned two years later, completely changed by her experience and married to a Romanian.

The author's cheery can-do attitude shines through on every page of this book. But she is never less than realistic in describing Romania as it struggled to emerge from decades of Communist dictatorship that all but crushed the spirit of its people and left many of them morally wounded.

I too spent a year in Romania so I am very familiar with the country. But even I learned a lot from Lisa Fisher, whose experience in a small town was very different from my own in the capital. Lisa went where few foreigners have gone before, into the very heart of Romanian society. She has a tremendous ability to make friends with people and to see their potential, even though she is also realistic about the many faults in Romanian society. Lisa takes us into family life, celebrates Christmas and Easter, attends a funeral, conducts sex education classes, tackles bureaucrats, pays bribes where needed, eats their food, drinks their drinks -- and gets her reward in a wonderful love affair, touchingly described.

In the end, this book is as much a testament to American optimism as it is to Romania. It made me proud to be an American to know we have people like Lisa ready to open their hearts and devote their talents to helping others around the world.

Two thumbs up!!

Love in a foreign land
This book is a first hand account of modern Romania, good and bad from the perspective of a modern day American woman.The reader is taken on a journey thru the Peace Corp application process and gets a feel for what it's like to join , or be accepted , into the corps.The author's description of Romania and it's efforts to recover from communism make any reader appreciate the freedoms and prosperity of America.I highly recommend this book

Bread Salt & Plum Brandy
This Memoir will keep you reading until the end and wanting more.
Heartfelt, sad, funny, informative; perhaps, urging the reader to visit Romania to continue some of Cazacu's work.

Beautifully written!

Great story about Pease Corps, Romania and love...
What a great story!I received this book late at night and decided to peak inside before bed just to see what it was like. I couldn't put the book down.It is a great adventure in humility, love, and the human spirit, all in a foreign land. Who got more out of the Peace Corps - the individuals touched by Lisa or Lisa herself? Whether you are looking for a book about the Peace Corps, visiting Romania or just an inspiring read, this is the book for you.The writers should be proud of the story they have brought to the reader. ... Read more

Product Description
The road to Gettysburg began at Brandy Station on June 9, 1863. However, the cavalry clash in Culpeper County, Virginia, counts for more than just the opening round of Lee's second invasion of the North. The battle showed both sides that the Federal cavalry had now come of age, that Blue and Gray horsemen were now equal in ability. Early in the morning on June 9, Pleasanton launched his men, split into two divisions, across the Rappahannock at Beverley's Ford to the north of Brandy Station and Kelly's Ford to the south. Stuart was caught completely unaware by these maneuvers and his lines and headquarters were nearly overrun until reinforcements helped to stabilize the situation. Following 12 hours of bitter fighting the Union forces withdrew back across the river, having matched the Confederate cavalry in skill and determination for the first time in the War between the States in what was the largest and most hotly contested clash of sabers in this long and bloody war.

This book describes the battle with a step-by-step analysis of the proceedings, illustrated with detailed maps, birds-eye-views and full color battlescene artwork. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Concise History of Major Civil War Battle
This book contained a concise history of the largest caverly battle of the civil war.The material is presented in an unbaised manner and gave me the background information needed to do some relic hunting at the battle site.

Good book although illustrations could be better
I was not familiar with this battle before reading this book by Dan Beattie and I must say that it was a very pleasant voyage of discovery. This book is written in a pleasant and interesting manner, the lecture is easy and the events are well and logicaly explained - and in the same time it is clear that author is quite erudit on this topic.
The interest of Brandy Station battle lays not only in the fact that it was the biggest cavalry clash during American Civil War, but also in the fatal flaws displayed on both sides. Author explains very well that before summer 1863 Union cavalry acquired a significant inferiority complex, when the Confederate cavalry went to consider itself invincible. That had consequences for both sides during this battle. First, an overconfident J.E.B. Stuart was caught "with his pants down" by Union general Alfred Pleasonton and his forces were surprised when dispersed and vulnerable. But then the excessive caution displayed during the battle by Union commanders made them waste this golden opportunity and allowed Stuart to recover. Ultimately the battle ended with a Southern victory, although this was a victory dearly paid - and both Stuart and Pleasonton profoundly "edited" the truth about what really happened at Brandy Station this 9 June 1863...
The book is quite rich in white and black photos and maps are also very well done. There are three colour plates by Adam Hook, and they are quite honest, but surprisingly only the first shows any actual fighting (and also a display of Confederate military underwear, as the Southerners were surprised at dawn...). The only fighting illustrations are small reproductions of gorgeous plates by Don Troiani. I confess being surprised, that Adam Hook didn't seize this occasion to make a picture of great cavalry fight on Fleetwood Hill (the most intense moment of the battle) or of another dramatic moment (and there were many to choose). Small reproductions of Don Troiani pictures are of course better than nothing, but it is recycling, not creating. Are things going so bad for Osprey that they have to do this?
That doesn't change however the fact, that I liked this book very much and I recommend it to all those interested in military history - even if artwork could be better.

A Well Put Together Narrative
Although the Battle of Brandy Station on 9 July 1863 is but little-known today, Civil War historian Dan Beattie points out in Osprey's Campaign No. 201 on this action, that it was not only the largest cavalry battle of the American Civil War, but the first step on Lee's march toward Gettysburg. Having been involved in preservation efforts on the battlefield today, including writing the historical markers there, Dan Beattie was the perfect choice to write this volume and his love for and knowledge of the subject breath a great deal of life into this narrative. This volume is far better researched than many other contemporary Civil War volumes and offers a valuable look both at the strengths and weaknesses of Union and Confederate cavalry at this crucial mid-point of the war, as well as providing insight into how cavalry reconnaissance (or lack of) shaped the coming Gettysburg Campaign. Overall, a very good, well-written volume in the Campaign series.

In the introduction, the author points out that the much-maligned (for his defeat at Chancellorsville) Major General Joseph Hooker actually accomplished two important reforms in the Union Army of the Potomac that would contribute to its eventual victory: he concentrated his heretofore diverse cavalry brigades into a powerful cavalry corps that could match the Confederate cavalry under Jeb Stuart and he formed an intelligence section (the BMI) that could collate and analyze information brought in from multiple sources. In contrast, he points out that the Confederate cavalry - which had held a decisive edge over Union cavalry since the beginning of the war - were more "numerous, confident and prepared" than ever before, but the Confederacy was becoming less and less able to replace losses.The opposing plans section is particularly good, detailing how Hooker ordered the cavalry corps (under Brigadier Alfred Pleasonton) to cross the Rappahannock River on the morning of 9 June 1863 and "disperse and destroy" Stuart's cavalry around Brandy Station. Amazingly, Stuart had also been ordered to cross the same fords over the Rappahannock to initiate Lee's advance toward the north. The sections on opposing commanders provides a thumb-nail bio on all the division and brigade commanders involved at Brandy Station, as well as a 2 ½ page order of battle. The 6-page section on opposing armies outlines the strengths and weaknesses of both opponents in this fight, although readers expecting real detail should consult the two Warrior-series volumes on Civil War cavalry.

The author's battle narrative is crisp and well-organized, beginning with the Union crossing of the Rappahannock early on the morning of 9 June; Pleasonton split his corps into two wings, one under Buford and one under Gregg, to cross two fords that were about 11 miles apart. In essence, this was a pincer attack that aimed at converging on the suspected Confederate force around Brandy Station and crushing it with a simultaneous attack from two directions. Pleasonton was also given several brigades of infantry to reinforce his attack. However, this book is a good example about friction in war and how a good plan can be ruined by faulty execution. As the author points out, Buford's column got across the river on time and quickly ran into the bulk of Stuart's cavalry and artillery, which blocked any further advance. Unfortunately, Gregg's column was three hours late getting across the river and split itself into three groups that were mutually unsupporting. Nevertheless, Gregg managed to appear at Brandy Station with two brigades undetected until the last moment and nearly caught Stuart in a vise. It was only through quick thinking that the Confederates were able to shift some units to block this attack. Repulsed and unable to disperse or destroy Stuart's cavalry, Pleasonton decided to withdraw back across the Rappahannock, ending the battle. The last section covers the activities of each sides' cavalry in the weeks between Brandy Station and Gettysburg.

Graphically, this is a very attractive volume, with both color and B/W photos and a considerable amount of artwork. The volume has four 2-D Maps (the theater of war in north-central Virginia, June 1863; dispositions at Brandy Station, 8 June 1863; Buford attempts to link-up with Gregg; Routes taken by the cavalry divisions of Duffie and Gregg) and two 3-D BEV maps (attack and defense at St. James Church; the fight for Fleetwood Hill). The number of maps is less than usual in most Osprey campaign series volumes but given that it was a fairly small action that was fought on a single day, they are adequate.There are also three battle scenes by Adam Hook (Beckham's artillery buys time on the Beverly Ford road; Buford on Cunningham's Ridge; Major McClellan saves the day on Fleetwood Hill), but frankly they pale in comparison with the six paintings by Don Troiani, Keith Rocco and Don Stivers that are included in the volume. The author also includes a bibliography and notes on the battlefield today.

One of Osprey's very best efforts! Concise, authoritative.
Osprey volume #201 of the Campaign Series is entitled Brandy Station 1863: First step towards Gettysburg. The author is Dr. Daniel Beattie, long considered one of the experts in this fight, and the man who wrote the text for many of the wayside markers around the battlefield. Lavishly illustrated with color photographs of the modern battlefield taken by Dan and his wife, as well as Adam Hook's usual excellent drawings and sketches, this is one of the best treatises on Brandy Station you will find. At 96 pages, it cannot possibly fulfill the needs of researchers or readers wanting very detailed accounts of the fight and the events leading up to it, but Beattie draws upon his years of study to develop a thorough overview that lacks nothing in terms of giving the reader a solid understanding of what transpired and why. This should become the first book you recommend to friends who want an overview of the largest cavalry battle of the Civil War.


Chapter 1 covers the Opposing Plans -- a brief look at why the summer operations became an invasion and what Lee was trying to accomplish. Likewise, Beattie introduces the Federal War Department's goals and objectives. The next chapter examines the Opposing Commanders, particularly J.E.B. Stuart and Al Pleasonton, as well as their superiors - Lee and Hooker. Beattie is objective, fair, and accurate in his assessment of the officers, paying attention to the conditions that led to the critical decisions of the Gettysburg Campaign. In Chapter 3, Beattie dives into the Battle of Brandy Station and gives a very concise, but well written and highly readable account of the multiple actions and manuevers that comprised the day-long fight.

Beattie does not leave the reader hanging with the conclusion of the fight at Brandy Station. The fourth chapter gives a nice overview of the context of Brandy Station within the larger summer campaign, including Stuart's successes in screening the mountain passes from Pleasonton's force as it advanced westward across the Loudoun Valley. Finally, the author gives a brief tour of The Battlefield Today, with a summation of recent preservation efforts . The book is rounded out with suggested readings and a comprehensive index.

This may be the best Civil War book within the Campaign series. The photos, the exceptional text, the graphics and illustrations, the nice maps -- all combine to make this book one to pick up if you have an interest in the Gettysburg Campaign. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is about the power and potential of ontologies to enhance the electronic search process. The book compares search strategies and results in the current search environment and demonstrates their potential transformation using ontologies and concept searching. Simple descriptions, visual representations, and examples of ontologies bring a full understanding of how these concept maps are constructed to enhance retrieval through natural language queries. Readers will gain a sense of how ontologies are currently being used and how they could be applied in the future, and will be encouraged to think about how their own work and how their users search experiences could be enhanced by the creation of a customized ontology. ... Read more

Product Description
The history books tell us that Piers Gaveston was many things: arrogant, ambitious, avaricious, flamboyant, extravagant, reckless, brave, and daring, indiscreet, handsome, witty, vivacious, vain, and peacock-proud, a soldier and champion jouster, the son of a condemned witch, who used witchcraft, his own wicked wiles, and forbidden sex to entice and enslave King Edward II, alienate him from his nobles and advisors, and keep him from the bed of his beautiful bride Isabelle. Edward’s infatuation with Gaveston, and the deluge of riches he showered on him, nearly plunged England into civil war.

Now the object of that scandalous and legendary obsession tells his side of the story in The Confession of Piers Gaveston:

“Mayhap even now, when I have only just begun, it is already too late to set the story straight. My infamy, I fear, is too well entrenched. Whenever they tell the story of Edward’s reign I will always be the villain and Edward, the poor, weak-willed, pliant king who fell under my spell, the golden victim of a dark enchantment. There are two sides to every coin; but when the bards and chroniclers, the men who write the histories, tell this story, will anyone remember that?”

Customer Reviews (10)

Good read, but...
I thought I was buying a biography so the fault is entirely mine. Clearly it's NOT. If the author's intent was to give the reader empathy towards her subject, she missed entirely. I didn't like him and I'm a gay man myself. But the Piers here is basically an over indulged whore. How much is fiction and how much is reality? I'm yet to find out. But I don't like Piers at all even though he proclaims undying love for Edward, King of England. It's a good entertaining read, but I'd rather have read a biography based on fact. Was he really so bitchy, defensive and self-indulgent? Hopefully not..perhaps this fictional Piers is based more upon the Authors gay friends than the real man. I'll endeavour to find out.

Eh... yep, "eh" pretty much says it...
The book was... ok. It was a little indulgent I thought. I mean, Piers Gaveston is our narrator and he seems to have no faults. I think the author intended for him to appear beautiful and witty and faultless, but he really kind of came over as vain, superfluous, and kind of dumb. Oh, and a really big slut. It wasn't horrible, really, sort of amusing and distracting for a short read, but definitely not a history textbook or even a truly gripping historical fiction.

[MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS] Good first novel
It seems - if the reviews on both her novels are a guide - that Brandy Purdy's work tends to provoke strong reactions; readers either really like or hate them, there are few who are indifferent.I'm on the whole in the first camp.When I first read this novel, I was so completely immersed in it that had I reviewed it immediately upon finishing, I would have given it five stars.However, on reflection, there were a number of issues with it that nagged at me, and which prevent me from giving it that extra star.

Purdy's Gaveston writes an account of his life, at a time when everything has turned to complete disaster.It is an interesting exercise - it is a consciously self-serving point of view, and I read the character's perspective on past events as being coloured by more recent ones.The way it is written certainly forced me to think: do I trust this character's account, or is there more to it?

What I liked:
Purdy is very good at vivid descriptions and there were passages I reread several times out of sheer enjoyment of her prose.Scenes that have stuck with me include the depiction of the teenage Prince and companion as they slowly fall for each other, and the love scene after Edward's disastrous coronation.Equally refreshing is the depiction of Gaveston showing genuine affection and kindness to his young wife, Margaret de Clare, and his two daughters. There are some flashes of the snarky wit for which the real Gaveston was famous (though I'd have liked to have seen more of it). There is also an extraordinarily powerful passage where Gaveston describes his desperation to be loved for the man he is, not for his looks or other superficial reasons, and how he feels trapped into playing a role of his own making.

Although I have some reservations about it, I found the portrayal of Gaveston as a victim of childhood abuse (and how that influences his behaviour as a man) in the main quite poignant, and his perspective and narration frequently engaging. It is a seductive read, and one which I found difficult to put down.The inevitable denouement is incredibly moving.Purdy certainly doesn't hold back in detailing the more sordid or unpalatable aspects of human behaviour - while I wouldn't describe the novel as overly graphic, there are certainly incidents that some readers might find confronting.

What bothered me:
While I don't pretend to exhaustive knowledge on this period, and I accept that not as much is known about Gaveston as later historical figures, the notion of Rent Boy!Gaveston did not sit all that well; I certainly felt his over-the-top promiscuity was emphasised to a repetitive extreme (at one stage I found myself thinking, "He sleeps around.I GET IT!") and the suggestion that his promiscuity and/or bisexuality was `caused' by his childhood abuse seemed a bit troubling.

If I recall correctly, Gaveston's family was of the Gascon nobility, so the likelihood of him having to endure a poverty-stricken, itinerant childhood (including at one point being dumped with an unscrupulous innkeeper uncle who is the first to sell him into prostitution) seems remote at best.While this premise kind of worked in the context of the story, some effort was required in suspending disbelief.I would have liked to have seen much more about his prowess as a jouster and soldier, something for which the real Gaveston is remembered - we are told about this, but never really shown it.

There is also an element of cliché in the portrayals particularly of the adult Edward II as well as Gaveston - they come across as rather too camp at times (Gaveston "simpers" at Isabella, or flirts outrageously with his male enemies, for example), and the characterisations are often unsubtle. Edward was an ineffectual king, yes, but I would have liked to see more depth to him than the shallow, possessive, spoilt brat ruled by his you-know-what depicted here.He does not emerge as a very sympathetic character, which is fine, provided he is given some complexity, and that unfortunately is not really the case here.Their relationship most of the time appears, to use a modern buzz-word, incredibly dysfunctional, with the long-suffering Piers enduring rather than welcoming Edward's advances, and at time borders on abusive. Perhaps that is a deliberate choice, to show how Gaveston's perspective has become jaundiced now that he is facing ruin and probable death.On the other hand, and perhaps I'm just a closet romantic, I would have preferred an account where Edward and Gaveston are portrayed as two men of their time who just happen to love each other.(Also - Edward inviting Piers to call him "Nedikins"?Seriously? Perhaps he really did; nonetheless, it didn't ring true.)

I also felt the depiction of Gaveston as a Goddess-worshipping pagan was unnecessary (as well as having no foundation in fact) and added little if anything to the plot.I also didn't find the fictional character of his loyal old nurse Agnes all that engaging - she reminded me of Juliet's Nurse, another character of which I am not particularly fond! - and Dragon was just, well, _there_.They really didn't add a great deal to the narrative.

As with Purdy's Jane Rochford novel, I would have appreciated an Author's Note at the end, setting out why she chose to write Gaveston and Edward this way, any liberties taken, and what sources she used for her research. For example, the burning of his mother Claramonde is a complete myth, and while it was important to the storyline, this sort of thing should be drawn to the reader's attention.Further, I'm always interested in the rationale behind an author's writing choices and suggestions for further reading.Also, maps would have been really useful, to get a mental picture of where the protagonists were at particular times.

Notwithstanding its flaws, this is a great effort from a first time author.For a novel dealing with some extraordinary events and people, it is remarkably short - only 181 pages - and I felt that some more detail, and more work on characterisation would have made it even better.It won't appeal to everyone, and for that reason I'd recommend borrowing it from the library at first instance, but it's worth giving it a try.It got me tracking down other novels and non-fiction about Edward II, so that can only be a good thing! (On a superficial note - I'm glad to see it finally has a decent cover, too.)

Pretty Darn Good!
This was a good quick read.If you know anything about the time period and the principal characters, this may be of more interest to you.I found Piers to be witty and funny.I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

A King's Love
I nearly did not buy this book after being offput by its ridiculous, cheap-looking cover. I'm glad that my curiousity abut this piece of history won out. Purdy's novel is engrossing from the first page. Even readers familiar with the tale of Edward II and Piers Gaveston will find this book to be compelling. A satisfying, thought-provoting look at one of history's lesser known figures and love story.



... Read more

Product Description
"The Practical Distiller," first published in 1809 when spirit distillation legal in the United States, describes the methods for making whiskey and other forms of liquor from the 1600's onward. "The Practical Distiller" has some unique stories about some of the old distilleries, and explains many things that were no doubt helpful to the brewers of that day. Section one discussed yeast, how to know when it is good or bad, how to renew it when it is sour, and the best yeast for daily use. A second section deals with hogsheads and how to sweeten them by scalding or burning. The third section covers how to mash and distill rye or corn, how to know when grain is scalded enough, and how to prevent hogsheads from "working over." Section four covers choosing the best rye and malt, how to grind Indian corn, hops, and building a malt kiln. Section five talks about singling, stalement, and distilling of different crops including buckwheat, potatoes, pumpions, peaches, turnips, and apples. Section six addresses the best methods of setting stills and preventing cracking, doubling stills, and heating more than one still with one fire or furnace. Section seven covers how to clarify whiskey and making Rye Whiskey, Apple Brandy, a Jamaica Spirit, Holland Gin, and country gin. It also discusses fining and coloring liquors, as well as a way to correct the taste of singed whiskey and gave an aged flavor to whiskey. The succeeding sections of "The Practical Distiller"discuss weather, ways to prevent a fire in the distillery, duties of hired distillers, and profitability for the owner. The book ends with a number of general "recipes" on how to make honey wine, elderberry wine, "and excellent American wine.". While "The Practical Distiller" is primarily a historical book, it is fascinating to hear how things used to be done, and also tempting to wish that potatoes could still be bought for thirty-three cents a bushel as they could when this book was published! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Historical infomation
This is an information book outlining distillation from a histroical standpoint and not really a how to book.It's got some good info, but not a lot of instruction.

A Fascinating Bit of Americana
Any buyer who read the description of this book would have known it was first published in 1809 and today is primarily a piece of history. That being said, if you are a home-brewer it is a fascinating bit of Americana, written at a time when home brewing was considered a necessity as well as a god given right. These were not "moonshine" or "hillbilly" stills for making rotgut corn whiskey. They were carefully made devices important for the economny of the times. The words are archaic to our minds, but it shows the literacy of language of that era. Those who could read had a high vocabulary for the time. (Sadly this is not particularly true today.)
Don't expect to learn any secrets of brewing here. Rather, sit yourself down, and imagine yourself as a farmer reading this from the light of a whale oil lamp.
What a found interesting was the amount of safety taken to insure against a fire (or for that matter and explosion).
If you have the time buy this book and read it. It's in my primitive skills library right now.

Of historic interest only
This is a public domain book. You can download it for free.

Regardless of whether you pay someone for it, or download it, it's a reprint of an 1809 book on very small scale distillation in the U.S. It was legal at that time, and some of the techniques certainly carry on to the present day, but there are plenty of current books on distillation if that's your interest. This is best for historical interest.

89 pagesof1807
Book was bad.Hard to read as it was writtten in 1807.Hardly relavent today.

The Practical Distiller
Intertaining-tells about the making of whiskey from the 1600's until modern days and how the distillation and ingredients were processed.It had soem unique stories about some of the distilleries. ... Read more

Product Description
Ramoric's dark brows drew into an arrogant scowl. “We of the warrior class have ways of dealing with temperamental women. She will learn to obey me or she won't like what happens.”It was King Xanther's turn to frown. “I don't want you to hurt my daughter. I trust you are not implying that?”“I have no intention of hurting her. I may hurt her pride immensely and her buttocks will be sore, but she will learn to obey me."“I'm afraid I don't understand.”“You've never heard of spanking?” Asked Ramoric, a wry grin twisting his lips. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Paperback fiction
The express delivery came just in time to deliver this book as a gift, and the recipient liked it.
Howver, I was disappointed at the price for a paperback of this comparatively thin size. For $20 plus the shipping costs, I had expected a hardcover. Am I being unrealistic ? ... Read more

Product Description
Anyone can practice magic to improve their everyday lives. Practical Magic for Beginners is a straightforward introduction to magical practice for Christians, Pagans, Jews, atheists, and people of all religious traditions.

This comprehensive training course presents the foundations of spellcraft and ritual magic through short, simple exercises. Readers explore their energy and senses, and then move on to developing skills in extrasensory perception, divination, and introspection. Magical timing, magical processes, ritual space and tools, journaling, and dreamwork are explained and discussed in depth. This nondenominational guidebook also includes twenty rituals related to friendship, love, prosperity, health, and other common concerns.  
... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

One of the Best out there
Brandy Williams does a fantastic job of allowing a seeker to both experience and understand Magic.She doesn't spend a lot of time on the theories - and as is noted by other reviewers and Brandy herself, the only way to understand magic is to actually practice it.

Her techniques are easy to learn, not at all complex, and will provide both the beginner as well as the experienced practitioner a good foundation.

The book itself is well balanced, with some elements of theory - particularly around elemental and planetary forces.However, the theories are not beaten to death, but gently explained so that there is some level of understanding of the correspondences.

I certainly feel that Brandy's methods are both simple and powerful, and you will be practicing with proper intention and a focused will in no time at all.A great gateway book.

For your own sake, START HERE!
Since you are already seeking books on magic(k), psychic abilities, and the like, then I don't feel the least bit strange about telling you this.

I was in a relationship not too long ago.The thing we both had deeply in common was a loveof the occult and magic(k)al studies.We were at a book store shopping for her first ceremonial/Wicca text, andthis one (no joke) fell off the bookshelf at our feet.She endedupbuying it that day, and I ended up sneaking off with it when I could topractice some of the exercises toenhance my Ceremonial Magic techniques.

This book bridges the gap between Llwelyn's dime-a-dozen Wicca books and the great work (Magnum Opus) ofFranz Bardon.In his "Initiation into Hermetics", he spends the first half of the book getting his readers toundergo (more or less) all of the things that Brandy Williams will have you do in this book.The difference is that in Brandy's work, you don't need to have 5-6 hours a day to devote to magical study and mental mastery.

Introspection, meditation, energy, sense mastery and enhancement (individually and collectively), journal keeping, and forming better habits in general are the order of theday for all True Magi.These arethe proper stones upon which you build your own temple.If you want to know more about yourself andyour role in this world (and others, potentially), you owe it to yourself to buy this book!
Good Luck, and Blessed Be!
:)

absolutely THE BEST book for beginner
It does not go into wide discussions on origins of wicca, it does not go on and on about wicca/witchcraft as religious system and its incorporability into your own religious belief (if different).
It goes on to explain about the way of the witch, giving plenty of exercises and sound advice on posture, meditation, grounding and centering, feeling your centre, energy work, directing energy, seeing the aura, finding your magical voice, magic circle, moon-phases, chakras etc, on to the ritual itself.
No mumbo-jumbo, no religious overtones, no silly songs praising this or that goddess (if i want a book on that, I'm sure there are many available) just sound practical advice for beginners on how to enhance your capabilities and how to use your own skill in making things manifest for you.
The author draws from many sources, from wicca and ceremonial magic, to buddhism and martial arts - actually from most systems which acknowlledge the Energy the witch uses to manifest.
The book is very well organized, goes from basics on to more complicated stuff and does not skip a step.
I wish I had known of this book years ago!
Not a word in this book is wasted.

Williams Jumps Right Into
exercises to prime you for magickal work. I've been involved with this tpe of work for a very long time and I must say the book doesn't waste time.

Highly Recommended!
Highly Recommended! This is a great book for the beginner and experienced magician, alike.It’s packed full of very useful skills and easy to follow rituals. ... Read more

Product Description
Shy, plain Lady Jane Parker feels out of place in Henry VIII's courtly world of glamour and intrigue--until she meets the handsome George Boleyn. Overjoyed when their fathers arrange a match, her dreams of a loving union are waylaid when she meets George's sister, Anne. For George is completely devoted to his sister, and cold and indifferent to his bride. As Anne acquires a wide circle of admirers, including King Henry, Jane's resentment grows. But if becoming Henry's queen makes Anne the most powerful woman in England, it also makes her highly vulnerable. And as Henry, desperate for a male heir, begins to tire of his mercurial wife, the stage is set for the ultimate betrayal...

Encompassing the reigns of four of Henry's wives, from the doomed Anne to the reckless Katherine Howard, The Boleyn Wife is an unforgettable story of ambition, lust, and jealousy, of the power of love to change the course of history, and of the terrible price of revenge. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

A different perspective
I'm an avid reader of tudor historical novels but have not come across many from Jane Boleyn's perspective. (Though there are some paragraphs in Jean Plaidy's Murder Most Royal: The Story of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard from her POV)There are times when she is shown as being erratic and unreasonable but I did kind of feel bad for her.George and his friends were jerks to her.SPOILER ALERT..........There is a scene when they were at a picnic with the Dowager Duchess of Norfolk and they all just started picking on her.This is where she meets a very young Katherine Howard.I could have done without all the hiding and watching people have sex.

Also having the whole novel in the first person was a bit of a stretch, how could Jane have been witness to every single event in the novel...it's a little too convenient

SPOILER ALERT!!!!!!!!!!!!


I didn't get the need for the girl on girl scene with Katherine Howard and Anne of Cleves.Historically Anne of Cleves was shown to be kind of clueless about sex

Loved this book!
I eat up these historical fiction books and I loved The Other Boleyn Girl, but I was bored with that author's other books. This one is as juicy and fun as The Other Boleyn Girl. I couldn't put it down!

A Rollicking Read!
I've read a lot of books on the Tudors, mainly fiction.What sets this one apart from the others is that it's told from the point of view of Jane Boleyn, George's wife.I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, and it didn't disappoint. Jane tells her story from the time of Catherine of Aragon through the rein of Katherine Howard.There is a heavy dose of Ann Boleyn, butin my mind she is the most interesting of Henry VIII's wives, and the one to whom Jane had the strongest relationship.I could almost feel the venom pouring from Jane's mouth as she described scenes between Anne Boleyn and her beloved brother George.There really isn't much written about Catherine of Aragon,Jane Seymour or Anne of Cleves, though Anne makes a VERY surprising reentry into the story during Katherine Howard's turn as Queen.

Though I knew what the inevitable ending was for Jane, it didn't make the reading of this book any less enjoyable.The book was well written, a quick, easy, fun read.The descriptions of the outfits of both the men and women of the time was brought very vividly to life; I truly could picture them in my mind.Lots of great descriptions that brought the court of Henry VIII to life.

I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about the Tudor time period;a great fictionalized account of Jane Parker Boleyn's life at the court of King Henry VIII.

Disconcerting
I have to agree with another reviewer who called the sex scenes depicted in this book 'pornography'.Personally, I don't have a problem with pornography and I don't judge those who do.The problem for me is that the graphic nature of the sex scenes is so at odds with the subject matter.If you want to write a pornographic novel that's fine.If you want to set it in Tudor times that's fine too.

SPOILER ALERT



Trouble starts when you use actual historical characters--such as Anne of Cleves and Kathryn Howard to play out a lesbian encounter.Bizarre barely describes my reaction to reading the first few sentences of that scene.After that I skimmed to the end.

The entire novel is strange to me.I can't call it badly written in terms of language--there are actually some good descriptive moments (not involving sex), but the main character is so unappealing (I'm thinking intentionally so) that I found myself wondering why the author didn't just write another book about Anne since she came off the most sympathetic of all the characters.Jane Parker was just so over the top nasty I couldn't believe even Tudor society wouldn't have noticed and locked her up in the Bedlam Hospital for the Insane on page one.

This is another book that was originally published under a different title with a different cover.I understand publishers are looking for anything to feed the hunger for more Tudor/historical novels, but I think they could have spared us this a second time.

The Soap Opera of Tudor Court: A Different Re-telling of the Story
"And so it began, the chase, the hunt, that would consume the better part of seven years, shattering and destroying lives, and shaking and tearing the world like a rat in a terrier's mouth."Thus does Lady Jane Rochford, wife of George Boleyn describe Henry Tudor's pursuit of Anne Boleyn.And of course, England's history is changed forevermore by the passion of the king for the woman who would not give in.The story is much like a soap opera, although it has the compelling allure of truth.History has recorded the facts; it is left to authors to fill in the personalities behind them.

In the Boleyn Wife, Brandy Purdy is brave enough to take a non-standard approach to this task of filling in the personalities of history. Purdy supposes that Anne Boleyn's love for Harry Percy, the man Henry prevented her from marrying, was deep and genuine.Forcibly separated from her true love match, Anne avenges herself by flagrantly provoking and spurning the King, and inadvertently fueling his obsession. Only when his pursuit of her reaches extraordinary bounds does Anne see the potential for her own advancement.George Boleyn is entirely devoted to Anne with a depth of tender feeling that would have been incredibly romantic - if she hadn't been his sister.

Minor characters shine as well, such as the Duke of Norfolk, who practically wrestles Lady Jane for the privilege of telling bad news to the Queen and provoking a miscarriage, and Anne of Cleves, who was more clever than anyone suspected.And of course, there is Lady Jane herself, our narrator, a grasping, avaricious shrew if ever there was one. Jane's obsession with George seems unaccountable - they had nothing in common and George never shows anything but disinterest in her. Nevertheless, she desires him in a most obsessive way and resents everyone he truly cared for - most of all, his sister Anne.

Like her earlier novel, The Confessions of Piers Gaveston, Brandy Purdy's newest book provides us with a fresh look at English history - and the confessions of a historic villain(ess) on the eve of execution. ... Read more

Product Description
Shy, plain Lady Jane Parker feels out of place in Henry VIII's courtly world of glamour and intrigue--until she meets the handsome George Boleyn. Overjoyed when their fathers arrange a match, her dreams of a loving union are waylaid when she meets George's sister, Anne. For George is completely devoted to his sister, and cold and indifferent to his bride. As Anne acquires a wide circle of admirers, including King Henry, Jane's resentment grows. But if becoming Henry's queen makes Anne the most powerful woman in England, it also makes her highly vulnerable. And as Henry, desperate for a male heir, begins to tire of his mercurial wife, the stage is set for the ultimate betrayal...

Encompassing the reigns of four of Henry's wives, from the doomed Anne to the reckless Katherine Howard, The Boleyn Wife is an unforgettable story of ambition, lust, and jealousy, of the power of love to change the course of history, and of the terrible price of revenge. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

A different perspective
I'm an avid reader of tudor historical novels but have not come across many from Jane Boleyn's perspective. (Though there are some paragraphs in Jean Plaidy's Murder Most Royal: The Story of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard from her POV)There are times when she is shown as being erratic and unreasonable but I did kind of feel bad for her.George and his friends were jerks to her.SPOILER ALERT..........There is a scene when they were at a picnic with the Dowager Duchess of Norfolk and they all just started picking on her.This is where she meets a very young Katherine Howard.I could have done without all the hiding and watching people have sex.

Also having the whole novel in the first person was a bit of a stretch, how could Jane have been witness to every single event in the novel...it's a little too convenient

SPOILER ALERT!!!!!!!!!!!!


I didn't get the need for the girl on girl scene with Katherine Howard and Anne of Cleves.Historically Anne of Cleves was shown to be kind of clueless about sex

Loved this book!
I eat up these historical fiction books and I loved The Other Boleyn Girl, but I was bored with that author's other books. This one is as juicy and fun as The Other Boleyn Girl. I couldn't put it down!

A Rollicking Read!
I've read a lot of books on the Tudors, mainly fiction.What sets this one apart from the others is that it's told from the point of view of Jane Boleyn, George's wife.I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, and it didn't disappoint. Jane tells her story from the time of Catherine of Aragon through the rein of Katherine Howard.There is a heavy dose of Ann Boleyn, butin my mind she is the most interesting of Henry VIII's wives, and the one to whom Jane had the strongest relationship.I could almost feel the venom pouring from Jane's mouth as she described scenes between Anne Boleyn and her beloved brother George.There really isn't much written about Catherine of Aragon,Jane Seymour or Anne of Cleves, though Anne makes a VERY surprising reentry into the story during Katherine Howard's turn as Queen.

Though I knew what the inevitable ending was for Jane, it didn't make the reading of this book any less enjoyable.The book was well written, a quick, easy, fun read.The descriptions of the outfits of both the men and women of the time was brought very vividly to life; I truly could picture them in my mind.Lots of great descriptions that brought the court of Henry VIII to life.

I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about the Tudor time period;a great fictionalized account of Jane Parker Boleyn's life at the court of King Henry VIII.

Disconcerting
I have to agree with another reviewer who called the sex scenes depicted in this book 'pornography'.Personally, I don't have a problem with pornography and I don't judge those who do.The problem for me is that the graphic nature of the sex scenes is so at odds with the subject matter.If you want to write a pornographic novel that's fine.If you want to set it in Tudor times that's fine too.

SPOILER ALERT



Trouble starts when you use actual historical characters--such as Anne of Cleves and Kathryn Howard to play out a lesbian encounter.Bizarre barely describes my reaction to reading the first few sentences of that scene.After that I skimmed to the end.

The entire novel is strange to me.I can't call it badly written in terms of language--there are actually some good descriptive moments (not involving sex), but the main character is so unappealing (I'm thinking intentionally so) that I found myself wondering why the author didn't just write another book about Anne since she came off the most sympathetic of all the characters.Jane Parker was just so over the top nasty I couldn't believe even Tudor society wouldn't have noticed and locked her up in the Bedlam Hospital for the Insane on page one.

This is another book that was originally published under a different title with a different cover.I understand publishers are looking for anything to feed the hunger for more Tudor/historical novels, but I think they could have spared us this a second time.

The Soap Opera of Tudor Court: A Different Re-telling of the Story
"And so it began, the chase, the hunt, that would consume the better part of seven years, shattering and destroying lives, and shaking and tearing the world like a rat in a terrier's mouth."Thus does Lady Jane Rochford, wife of George Boleyn describe Henry Tudor's pursuit of Anne Boleyn.And of course, England's history is changed forevermore by the passion of the king for the woman who would not give in.The story is much like a soap opera, although it has the compelling allure of truth.History has recorded the facts; it is left to authors to fill in the personalities behind them.

In the Boleyn Wife, Brandy Purdy is brave enough to take a non-standard approach to this task of filling in the personalities of history. Purdy supposes that Anne Boleyn's love for Harry Percy, the man Henry prevented her from marrying, was deep and genuine.Forcibly separated from her true love match, Anne avenges herself by flagrantly provoking and spurning the King, and inadvertently fueling his obsession. Only when his pursuit of her reaches extraordinary bounds does Anne see the potential for her own advancement.George Boleyn is entirely devoted to Anne with a depth of tender feeling that would have been incredibly romantic - if she hadn't been his sister.

Minor characters shine as well, such as the Duke of Norfolk, who practically wrestles Lady Jane for the privilege of telling bad news to the Queen and provoking a miscarriage, and Anne of Cleves, who was more clever than anyone suspected.And of course, there is Lady Jane herself, our narrator, a grasping, avaricious shrew if ever there was one. Jane's obsession with George seems unaccountable - they had nothing in common and George never shows anything but disinterest in her. Nevertheless, she desires him in a most obsessive way and resents everyone he truly cared for - most of all, his sister Anne.

Like her earlier novel, The Confessions of Piers Gaveston, Brandy Purdy's newest book provides us with a fresh look at English history - and the confessions of a historic villain(ess) on the eve of execution. ... Read more

Product Description
Overseeing the renovation of the local Worrell mansion into an art colony, Jessica Fletcher finds her suspicions roused when two struggling artists mysteriously die and must stop the killer before she becomes the next target.TV tie-in. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Attention to detail?
I have read several in this series and own several more.This one was entertaining but I have to wonder did Donald Bain ever watch the series?In this book, Jessica is to teach a seminar at the retreat and talks about her nervousness, fears etc.But Jessica was an English teacher before she became a writer!I was disappointed at this glaring error but will continue to read the series.Check your facts Mr. Bain, please!

A Cabot Cove mystery
I like when Jessica takes a breather from her travels and stays home. But I don't know when she finds the time to write her books. The idea is far-fetched because I don't know any writer who can travel as much as Jessica does and still find time to write a mystery and promote it. But she does. And we love her. This is one of the cozy mysteries in the series. Despite the negative reviews, I enjoyed this outing. This is one of my favorite stories set in Jessica's hometown. To those readers who are leery about reading the book, give it a try. Form your own opinion and do not allow such scathing reviews (though reviews are subjective), to deter you from reading the book.

Other series I recommend: Mary Daheim's "The Alpine series" featuring editor and publisher, Emma Lord. Gillian Roberts' "Amanda Pepper" series is another winner.

fun read
I have only recently discovered the "Murder She Wrote" books last year (I don't know where I've been either) and "Brandy and Bullets" is an enjoyable read. Its plot, although slow at times, is interesting. I enjoyed how Donald Bain created a cozy, but treacherous world in Cabot Cove for this outing. The characters seem one-dimensional, but I'm always happy to see Ms. Jessica poking around, hunting for clues. I am somewhat surprised at how readers reacted to this book. But I guess to each their own. Keep up the great work, Mr. Bain. I am looking forward to THREE STRIKES AND YOU'RE DEAD in October. I like baseball, too.

Just as enjoyable as the others!
From the other reviews, this was not a favorite book (for some people). However, I liked it just as much as the other books I have read. I have read 8 so far and plan to read the entire series. I'm not sure which one is my favorite.

I thought the book was suspensful and quick moving. I especially liked the part with the hypnosis. The retreat reminded me of a cult. I read it over Christmas break and the two blizzards and ice storm made me feel extra cozy.

I don't think most fans of Bains' books would find this book dissapointing. It just makes me all the more eager to read the next one one on my list--Murder on the QE2.

By the way, my mom and sister LOVE these books as much as me. There is something nice about starting a book you know you will finish and enjoy.

This Was Awful!
As a long time fan of Murder She Wrote there is only one word to describe this novel, awful!It would seem that this book was written by someone who had never read the rest of the series.The plot consisted of hypnotism and a bizarre government mind-control conspiracy, I kept waiting for the logical solution but it never came!The recurring characters didn't ring true and some were missing altogether (like the Sheriffs wife Maureen).All in all, not only don't I recommend reading this book, I strongly recommend not reading this book!
On a Happier Note, if you read and were disapointed in this book don't let it disillusion you try:Gin and Daggers or Murder on the QE2! ... Read more

Product Description
So . . . we all know Brandy's a fine girl, and what a good wife she would be, but who says (with a little luck, of course, and some lovely Irish charm) she couldn't steal the sailor from the sea? Surely there's more to the story than what we've been told. The locket is nice, as is the braided silver chain, but come on! There must be more to Brandy's life than serving whiskey and wine to drunken sailors while she impatiently waits for the man she loves to return to her port. Travel back in time with me as we explore Brandy's life. Who was she, really? Why did she continue to hold onto the hope of finding happiness with a man who has obviously rejected her? Why do any of us hold onto such hope when the odds are so clearly stacked against us? Is it because there's always that slight chance that our dreams may come true in the end, and the heartache will have been worth it? I believe that is precisely the reason! If you agree, let's explore Brandy's story more closely to discover what we might find. Take my hand . . . Do you hear the rushing water as it crashes into the shore? Do you feel the warm California sun as it softly kisses your face, and the light breeze as it tousles your hair? If so, you're on the right track and our journey has begun. ... Read more

Product Description
These stylish, expert guides to the world's classic drinks sport handy bar-top formats and a lavish array of color photos and illustrations. Superbly written by leading authorities, they are excellent practical reference books and an ideal gift for connoisseurs. ... Read more

Product Description
Brocton Chronicles is a series of delightful stories about Maddie Danvers, the wife of a preacher in Brocton, Kentucky, and her friends. Set in the turn of the twentieth century, the escapades that headstrong Maddie gets up to may well cause a few gasps of laughter and even sympathy when Heath, her husband, is forced to curb her antics. Sam Decker, the mercantile owner of Brocton, introduces Heath to the advantages of taking his young wife over his knee when she gets into trouble. Heath becomes an avid learner! Maddie rebels, but soon finds that all of her new-found friends are in the same boat that she's now in, much to her chagrin. Sparks fly in these homespun and delightful tales of a Kentucky town where the men firmly believe that a good spanking is the best way to deal with their headstrong and stubborn women!

Mature subject matter for adults only. 43,665 words ... Read more

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When Kelo O'Holloran's stepfather puts handsome and bossy Nick Gorman in her coveted spot as a cliff diver instructor, the young girl sees red. Famous for her volatile temper, will Kelo learn to control it when Nick decides to take her in hand? What secrets does her mind have behind lock and key that contribute to her loss of control and will a trip over his knee really change her? A man used to being in control, Nick Gorman falls instantly in love with the tiny dark-haired diver and decides he must have her for his own, but will a dangerous shadow from the past take her away from him before their love is ever fulfilled? This exciting and fast paced love story is bound to become a favorite that readers will return to again and again, taking Kelo and Nick into their very heart and soul.

Mature subject matter for adults only. 58,584 words ... Read more

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Rapids!! Camping!! Thrills and chills!! And one big golden retriever named Brandy! In a rubber raft? Yep! That's what happens when Derek, her master, takes Brandy on her first white water rafting trip on the Arkansas River! Along with Jay, Joe, Jackson an ... Read more

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Danni Oaks had been brought up in luxury to be a sweetener in her father's business deals. When her childish illusions of marrying for love had been stripped away at an early age, her respect for men hit rock bottom. Then she met Sanders Linson, the handsome new owner of her father's ski lodge, and her interest blossomed. The blond giant had the audacity to spank her, and for Danni, it was a new experience--a man that seemed to care more for her personally than about her beauty and money! However, Sanders seemed to have an agenda all his own, which left Danni wondering if she could trust him not to be in cahoots with her conniving father. And could she trust him with the haunting secret from her past, or would it be the final straw that split them up? Only time would tell!

Mature subject matter for adults only. 65,838 words ... Read more

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When Toni Devay sees an ad on the Internet for a sure-fire plan to lose weight, she investigates it. Startled to find that it involves corporal discipline, she nevertheless decides that it's just what she needs to accomplish her goals. There's only one problem; she can't tell her husband or he might say no! Will she trim down, get spanked, lie to her husband, or all of the above? This book includes a short story, "I'll Start Tomorrow," in which college student Heather deprives her roommate, Hank, of his snacks--although he agreed to diet with her, he hadn't counted on her destructive whining! Will Hank put up with this behavior, or put her over his knee? Read "The Dangers of Dieting" and find out! A romantic spanking novella.

Mature subject matter for adults only. 20,683 words ... Read more

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Grow marvelous flowers for bouquets in your Florida home landscape. Treat yourself or a friend to this new edition (the third) of "A Cutting Garden for Florida." It tells how to grow the best cut flowers for Florida, and how to harvest, condition, and arrange them, fresh or dry. The month-by-month calendar for the distinctive northern, central, and southern regions of Florida is a valuable feature. The book has in-depth information on many annuals, biennials, bulbs, shrubs, and trees, including plant-by-plant growing and conditioning details. The index, illustrations, bibliography, resource list, website list, and public garden directory add to its thorough treatment of growing flowers and filler for delightful bouquets. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Say It With Flowers
Sandy soil and lots of insects are two barriers that Florida residents face.High humidity that causes numerous fungal problems is another. But all is not lost because the secret to growing flowers in Florida is choosing the right time of the year to plant and this book is one to add to your keeper shelf.

Whereas many flower enthusiasts like to browse through catalogs during winter I choose the hot summers when it can be unbearable to go outside unless you are in a pool.I pull my favorite books for ideas and, because I am very visual, I love books with colorful concise pictures.This book is lacking; hence, four stars.Also, when I read about southern gardening I would like the author(s) to recommend cultivars and very few are listed here.Even though it can be time consuming Latin names are given so you can cross-reference with the internet.

On the upside A CUTTING GARDEN FOR FLORIDA reminds flower gardeners things we tend to forget.The proper way of cutting and condition matters.Living arrangements of container plants are an alternative, not everything need to be direct seeded in the ground.Beneficial insects are used for a healthier environment and more.Can I recommend this book to you?Yes, no matter how long you have lived here you will find something to learn.

"Well that just dills my pickle." - Southern saying

Great Book, But No Real Pictures
This is a great book.I've found it very helpful in planning my cuttting garden.The only point that surprised me a bit was the lack of photos.There are hand drawings which are nice, but really don't convey what the flowers look like.I'd love to see a new addition with a directory of photos that corresponds to the text.Regardless, I do recommend the book.

Good Florida Gardening Resource
Very good resource for learning about fall/winter gardening in Florida. There is a lot of information in it on how to cut & preserve the different flowers for arrangements. And it lists and describes which flowering plants will survive in Florida (so many won't), using the authors' firsthand experience. This book was very helpful in that way. Too bad I found out my soil is too alkaline. Hopefully, it can be improved.

essential for anyone trying to grow a floriferous garden in Central Florida's challenging climate...
A practical, precise, and unique book, essential for anyone trying to grow a floriferous garden in Central Florida's challenging climate... If you're not interested in cut flowers per se, don't be put off -- the book is an excellent reference for growing any flowers in Central Florida.

Though the title says it's for Florida, in fact the authors are pretty upfront with their geographical focus: North Florida can use any gardening book published for the Deep South, so this book concentrates on gardening in Central and, to a lesser degree, South Florida.

A Cutting Garden is not the work of horticultural experts in the narrow sense, since neither of the authors is a professional landscaper or botanist. That's by no means a criticism: Sometimes you need the wise words of experienced lovers of green things. Add that to a pretty good ear for good gardening prose and enough exactitude to please without overwhelming, and Brandies and Mackey's book fills a real niche.

The level of specificity is this book's best attribute: To a degree I've never before encountered in a gardening book for Florida, "Cutting Garden" offers exact advice on when, where and what to plant in your garden to produce plenty of blooms. They begin the book with an excellent and efficient discussion of Florida's climactic and soil conditions before offering the the whys and hows of establishing a cutting garden, intelligently treating the installation of garden beds, mulching, frost insurance, pest control. Readers will find the best seasonal guide to planting I've found for Florida (with the exception of MacCubbin's Month-by-month Gardening In Florida) and a fine section on starting plants from seeds and cutting.

Florida's humidity, heat and sun make growing Foxglove, Snapdragons, Delphinum, Stock, and many other traditional cutting flowers difficult. Mackey and Brandies advise planting many of these perennials as biennials, taking advantage of Central Florida's nearly frost-free climate to plant seedlings in November for blooms in February through June. Of course, since most of these plants aren't available in the nurseries around here, you'll have to start them as seeds. The book offers advice on specific cultivars and species, and even seed distributors.

A long chapter, the best of its kind for Florida, is devoted to bulbs that work in Central Florida's sandy, hot and nematode-prone soils. Many of these are hard-to-find or "old-fashioned" bulbs that have fallen out of favor: Sparaxis, Freesia, Camassia, Babiana, Watsonia and Tritonia. (They can be purchased through easytogrowbulbs.com, which specializes in hot-climate bulbs.) Some bulbs are practically care-free: Spraxis and Watsonia, for instance, are essentially Gladiolus, bulbs that perform well here 10 months of the year. Some of the bulbs they recommend Ranunculus and (maybe) Oxalis will have to be dug out and stored. Frankly, many of these bulbs cost less than a dollar apiece when bought in quantity -- I plan to treat them like annuals and, if they come back next year, so much the better.

Especially strong is their concentration on atypical bulbs, perennials and annuals -- plants like Candytuft, Bells of Ireland, Sweet William Catchfly, Toadflax, Laurentia, Pot Marigolds, Shoo-fly Plants, and Love in a Mist. I haven't had a chance to try any of these, but I've bought the seeds at Thompson & Morgan and Parks Seeds and already started many of them.

Since this is a book devoted to cutting gardens, every flower entry has directions on how to cut and best preserve the flowers for long vase life. The last part of the book is devoted to a discussion of flower arranging -- not my thing, personally, but the advice is good.

Some minor gripes, and then I'll have to bring this review to a close: There's practically no discussion of the garden rose -- the best flower, for cutting or otherwise, here in Central Florida. The authors admit that roses should find their way into every garden, but offer little in the way of substantive advice on choice and cultivation. For that, you'll have to turn to Barbara Oehlbeck's quirky but excellent For the Love of Roses in Florida and Elsewhere. Mackey and Brandies give short shrift to orchids, too, though they are fairly easy to grow here in Florida and make excellent cut flowers.

Finally, I haven't seen the latest edition of the book, but the second edition lacks photographs, illustrations amounting to a few sketches that aren't terribly useful. For pictures to go with the excellent text descriptions, you'll have to look on the web (Dave's Garden is a great place to start) or in other books (Florida Gardener's Guide by Georgia Tasker and Tom MacCubbin has the best, most useful illustrations for Florida flora that I've found).

Great advice for the Florida cutting garden
Living in Florida I can vouch for the difficulties of growing just about anything in the sandy, nutrient poor, water deficient soil.Starting from that less than perfect base Betty Barr Mackey and Monica Moran Brandies walk the reader through the various things they need to know in order to grow a beautiful cutting garden.From finding the right place, to properly preparing the soil, to picking the appropriate flowers for soil, sun, and moisture conditions "A Cutting Garden for Florida" covers everything you need to know to have a successful garden.It even covers germination times, when a particular flower blooms, how long it blooms, and other information so you can make sure that when one flower goes out of season another is coming in.This is a highly recommended book for anyone dealing with the daunting task of getting flowers to grow in Florida. ... Read more