The Rain Maiden: A Novel

Customer Reviews:

Good, but............2007-08-28

there was A LOT of sex, incest, sexual abuse of a child and bisexuality that I was not prepared for. I don't even know that I would call it a "romance" novel - among all the sex acts, not many of them seemed to be happening between people who really cared about about each other.

Real historical fiction dressed up as a romance novel.......2005-06-16

I picked this up used because I liked the pretty cover (semi-nude woman draped in a sort of green mist) and thought it might be a pleasant romance novel to pass the time. I was happily surprised when I realized that this was more than the average romance novel. Underneath the uber-girly cover and the critics' blurbs extolling its sex scenes, this is a real historical novel that looks honestly at all the horror beneath the pageantry of medieval times.

The protagonist is Isabel of Hainault, a young heiress who is pushed into a marriage with the young crown prince of France, later King Philippe-Auguste. Isabel is only ten years old at her marriage, but seems much older to all around her--she is mentally sharp, physically developed--and also sexually precocious, due to having been molested by her father and uncle. She and Philippe share a tumultuous, passionate marriage amid the politics of the day. Ten years later Isabel dies in childbirth at the age of twenty. That's not a spoiler; it's in the prologue and in the cover blurb. During Isabel's short life, she is integrally involved in the betrayal, adultery, incest, and political maneuvering that were rampant in her time. The author brings the nasty underbelly of the Middle Ages to life through the eyes of a interesting heroine, who is emotionally still a child at times, but forced to be an adult at an early age.

My only quibble with this book is that I didn't find it half as interesting after Isabel's death. It just sort of seemed to me that it dragged on past its natural climax. I can see why the author did it. The final storyline involving Philippe's crusade with Richard of England does resolve the tension between the two men and show how little Philippe gained by breaking his wife's heart in her last days, but I don't really like either of the men and wasn't into the story at that point. Also, Sibylla's behavior after Isabel's death stretched credibility pretty far. Her sudden change of heart made no sense to me.

this romance novel contains no fluffy, sweet sex.......1999-11-16

A thousand kudos to Jill Phillips. She did an outstanding job of letting a romance novel reader know that there really is good historical fiction out there. She has inspired me to delve deeper into the romance of the era. This book contains no happy ending, but Ms. Phillips took away all the fluff and sweet sex of usual romance novels and replaced it with the reality of life in medievil times. I always thought it would be cool to live in those times, have my knight in shining armor there to save me from the despicable people portrayed in this book. True to the times, everyone used each other, to their fullest ability. How frightening to be a young child in those times. Isabel, who I plan on researching her for factual information, was a classic victim, and I am sure all women were in those times. Chattel. I wish more authors were as conscientious about writing of history, the true lives, making every effort to be as accurate as history allows. This book is for anyone who needs a lift. Despite its depressing contents, you close the book with a sigh, thankful for all you have in this life.

A Haunting Novel.......1998-10-16

I found myself haunted by this book for weeks after and I had to find out if it were true. All I could find was that Isabelle of Hainault was married to King Philippe when she was 10, gave birth to his heir at 16 and died before she was 20. This is tragic by any standards but the way the book depicts her is even more tragic. She was used by so many men - her father and uncle mostly who (if the book is accurate) were sick. But the book does not depict them that way - incest is seen as common in those days. It is hard to understand her having so many relationships as she was so young. To start at 10, have over 10 pregnancies and then die in childbirth is unbelievably sad. She was a queen but in reality nothing but a victim. Lets hope this book really is purely fictional and the real Isabelle had a much happier life.

Beautiful, Tragic, Very Detailed.......1998-07-12

Five stars, only because I can't give it ten. This is the best book I've ever read. Although there is a lot of detailed sex, etc., It is still a great book. I had to force myself to put it down. It's long, but well worth it. A very good look at the lifestyles of royals in medival times & the lives of many medival women. Excellent historical detail.

The Legend of Bouvines: War, Religion, and Culture in the Middle Ages

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How men thought
Vive le Roi
Legends and the Truth Behind Them

The Legend of Bouvines: War, Religion, and Culture in the Middle Ages
Georges Duby
Manufacturer: Univ of California Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Europe | History | Subjects | Books

Customer Reviews:

How men thought.......2005-01-11

Duby's has said he does not write history, but how men thought. In that sense this book is more than a single battle, but insight in to how people thought in the Middle Ages. For example, the idea of actually getting killed in battle was, for a knight, unspeakable. Only 2 knights were killed at the battle: the first by accident, the second by his own side when he unwisely yelled "death to the french!". It was the peasants who did the dieing, and for the knights went honour and glory and spoils. Battle was in short just an extension of the sport of Tournament and hunting, but one with serious consequence. Bovines set the stage for Magna Carta and events in Europe for 100s of years to come.

Overall the book is short, but the language is dense and I found at times difficult to read, and at others, poetically brilliant (I attribute this perhaps to translation and thus 4-stars). This is not a glorification of war, indeed very little is spent on the actual combat the rest dealing with various layers of medieval life. The book was originally called in French "Sunday in Bouvines" which is significant as much of the book revolves around the theme the battle was fought on a Sunday, violation of the Peace of God, thus giving the French a certain legitimacy as rightful victors (since the Allies initiated the fight on a day of peace). This book is not for beginners of medieval history so the more background you have the better, Dubys assumes a certain level of understanding. In the parlance of ski-slopes, despite the short length and mostly readable prose, this is a solid blue square conceptually.

Vive le Roi.......2002-11-10

Mr. Duby gives an excellent account of the Battle of Bouvines. A little known battle in history books, but one of important ramifications. A well loved King ( Phillip II Augustus) of France defeats two conspiring enemies Otto of Germany and his uncle John Lackland of England. The book not only gives accurate descriptions of the battle, culture and politics of medieval Europe,it also includes the role of the Church. In addition, certain events such as King John's signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 forever limiting a King's authority in England are described as after effects of this Battle. A great read.

Legends and the Truth Behind Them.......2000-10-05

In 1214 King Philip of France met and defeated the Emperor Otto of Flanders in the battle of Bouvines. In The Legend of Bouvines Georges Duby writes about this battle, and the legends which sprang from it, from a clear, unbiased perspective.

After describing the background to the battle, he presents an edited version of a contemporary account (that of William the Breton). This is followed by a general commentary on the ideology of peace, war, and battle in the twelfth century. Duby then analyses the evolution of the legends that sprang from Bouvines - in the centuries following the battle and, after its 18th century revival, in modern French historiography. Some of the sources for the battle are included as an appendix.

Customer Reviews:

Worth reading.......2000-05-03

Are You interested in medieval history? Aren't You a hisorian? Would You like to read about a great French monarch? Haven't got enough time to read a lot about this topic? That's a fascinating survey of the era. A well-balanced book without any biases. It's really worth reading!

It is about time Philip gets his day to shine!.......2000-01-03

While it is Richard the Lionheart of England who captures the imagination, it is Philip who is the true great king of the late 12th century and a biography of him is long overdue. Bradbury does an exemplary job, providing enough detail to keep us fickle historians happy while keeping it readable for the general public.

Average customer rating:

Philippe Auguste
Gerard Sivery
Manufacturer: Plon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

French | Foreign Language Nonfiction | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

History | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books

Nonfiction | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books

All French Books | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
ASIN: 2259026990

Philippe Auguste: Le Conquerant (Les Rois qui ont fait la France. Les Capetiens)

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Philippe Auguste: Le Conquerant (Les Rois qui ont fait la France. Les Capetiens)
Georges Bordonove
Manufacturer: G. Watelet
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

French | Foreign Language Nonfiction | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

History | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books

Nonfiction | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books

All French Books | French | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
ASIN: 2857041527

Philip Augustus: King of France, 1180-1223.(Review) (book review): An article from: Canadian Journal of History

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Philip Augustus: King of France, 1180-1223.(Review) (book review): An article from: Canadian Journal of History
Sean McGlynn
Manufacturer: University of Saskatchewan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

Book Description

This digital document is an article from Canadian Journal of History, published by University of Saskatchewan on December 1, 2000. The length of the article is 920 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Philip Augustus: King of France, 1180-1223.(Review) (book review)
Author: Sean McGlynn
Publication: Canadian Journal of History (Refereed)
Date: December 1, 2000
Publisher: University of Saskatchewan
Volume: 35 Issue: 3 Page: 527

Article Type: Book Review

Distributed by Thomson Gale

Average customer rating:

Overall Great

Lombardi: his life and times,
Robert W Wells
Manufacturer: Wisconsin House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B0006CKLNS

Customer Reviews:

Overall Great.......2004-10-22

As a whole i thought this book was very good. Im not a big reader but i enjoy reading on sports history, and who better than the most famous coach in the NFL. It does a very good good on keeping you entertained. In the start of the book it kind of talks about his life when he was in highschool. It shows that he was very intrested in sports at a young age. His highschool was on the the best highschools around in football. Then it tells some great stories about when he was in college and then of course, tells about some of his best NFL games when he coached for the Packers. I really thought this was well written and it really kept me intrested through out the entire book. Then also another nest thing is in the back of the book it shows a bunch or stats that are just cool to look at. If you are a sports fan of any type, or just intresed in Vince Lombardi, then i really recommend this book.

Average customer rating:

Vince Lombardi His Life and Times
Robert W. Wells
Manufacturer: WIsconsin House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000O581OS

Average customer rating:

Lombardi: His Life and Times
Vince] Wells, Robert W. [Lombardi
Manufacturer: Wisconsin House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000LNUAQU

Product Description

Designed to help students understand communication processes in relationships and develop specific skills needed to create and maintain healthy ones, the eleventh edition retains the features that have made this book so successful: a theory driven skills-based focus, an accessible tone and presentation, and numerous useful pedagogical tools. Cynthia Berryman-Fink, a new coauthor, brings fresh insights to this edition, which has a contemporary feel that will resonate with today's students and professors. Well-written and lively, Inter-Act features numerous activities that enable students to relate their everyday experiences to their studies in communication. The text illustrates how cultural, racial, and gender differences as well as electronically mediated messages alter what we should do to communicate effectively. It also emphasizes the importance of ethics in communication and encourages students to develop their analytical abilities as they think critically about the concepts presented in the text. NEW OR REVISED IN THE ELEVENTH EDITION * New: Information on relational dialectics and turning points, coordinated management of meaning, the language of cyberspace, intergenerational family communication, and communicating in a diverse workplace. * New boxed features: "The Gray Zone" offers alternative viewpoints on aspects of interpersonal communication, while "Learn About Yourself" boxes provide students with short surveys to help them understand their own communication styles. * New: More than 50% of the "Diverse Voices" selections, "Inter-Act with Technology" boxes, and "What Would You Do? A Question of Ethics" boxes are new to this edition. * Expanded: The in-text CD now features a complete student workbook with chapter outlines, key terms lists, self-tests, quizzes, and numerous activities designed to help students master the material presented in each chapter. *

Now Playing: Learning Communication Through Film

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Now Playing: Learning Communication Through Film
T. J. Jenkins Russell Proctor
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press, USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OKT0HU

Book Description

Mehndi, the ancient art of painting on the skin with henna, beautifies the body, rejuvenates the spirit, and celebrates the joys of creativity and self-expression. More than just a temporary tattoo, mehndi offers us a way to participate in a centuries-old tradition still practiced in India, Africa, and the Middle East.In this stunning and authoritative book, Loretta Roome traces the origins and meanings of traditional designs, demonstrates how to create them on the skin, and reveals the recipes, tools, and techniques needed to paint designs that range from simple to complex. The result of years of research and the author's experience as one of the nation's foremost mehndi artists, Roome's book offers practical information, creative inspiration, and many suggestions for enhancing the playful, intimate, sensual, erotic, and spiritual aspects of the ancient and amazing art of mehndi.

Customer Reviews:

More than just decoration.......2007-01-19

This book is the most comprehensive henna book I've come across! I loved learning about the historical and cultural significance of mehndi. The pictures are gorgeous!

So much more then a how to book..........2006-06-16

This book is just right for anyone, like me, who is just starting out on their journey with the art of mehndi (or henna.) The instructions are straight-forward with everythingfrom mixing your own henna to basic and complex designs and an excellent resource guide in the back. The images throughout are beautiful and somehow inspirational. Not only all that, but the book gives history on henna as well as the a look into the spiritual nature of the craft. I love how Loretta Roome dives into the symbolism found in mehndi from many countries. It is just such a wonderful book, I love it.

Glorious Art of Henna.......2006-03-16

As a teacher I appreciate this book as a wonderful tool for beginners as well as the advanced. It gives amazing pictures to study, recipes to follow, and also vast facts and deep educational bytes to take away from this craft. Henna is so old of an art form people don't really realize. Henna has been a part of many faiths. Jewish, Egyptian, Hindi, and many more. With it's various meanings and religious symbolism. Very rich material for everyone to learn from. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am thrilled that my children have found it fascinating too. They are 10 and 11 years old too! We love and adore Henna!! Great book. Thank you.

Balanced and Beautiful.......2004-03-05

"Mehndi: The Timeless Art of Henna Painting" is a balance between sumptous picture book and inspirational, well-informed text. I find Roome's book to be one that I frequently pick up for inspiration, ideas or quiet reflection. "Mehndi: The Timeless Art of Henna Painting" is a worth while book to purchase whether or not you want a mehndi tattoo because of the beauty, magic and mystery contained within its pages.

great book.......2002-09-30

"Mehndi" is a great beginners book. It's not quite what we were looking for though. It does have some really nice designs, but I think it has more text than we were hoping for. It's informative for those looking to learn about the art and tradition. This book gives advice about mixing your own henna paste. I give it 5 stars because all in all it's a wonderful book, informative, and the pictures are clear.

Mehndi: The Timeless Art of Henna Painting

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Mehndi: The Timeless Art of Henna Painting
Loretta ROOME
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OPFZSS

Customer Reviews:

Not worthy of time.......2007-01-04

Nothing earth shattering here. Maybe my expectations were too high as soo many folks recommended this book. Unless you've never read ANY career advice book, I'd suggest another.

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