Batman: Dark Victory

Customer Reviews:

Good follow up!.......2007-09-27

This was a great follow up, and quite possibly the 2nd best read for all batman readers

Graphic SF Reader.......2007-09-03

More post Year One Batman, as the Dark Knight and Commissioner Gordon struggle to solve the mystery of another bout of Holiday killings, this time of police personnel that used to be associated with Harvey Dent.

These killings spark off a battle between the supervillains of Gotham and the mob bosses, with Batman, the police, and a bent District Attorney in the middle.

When Batman takes in a young orphan boy, his skills start to help with the case, and the mystery that Loeb has skillfully created begins to be uncovered.

Glorious!.......2007-08-03

Like THE LONG HALLOWEEN before it, DARK VICTORY is a thoroughly enjoyable tale about the Dark Knight. A kind of "Year Two" story, Batman dives into the remnants of the Falcone crime organization and into the criminal activities of Harvey Dent, now the disfigured Two-Face. This has it all...great character development, lots of action, mystery, and beautiful art. Loeb is a master storyteller. If you like Batman, you'll love this book.

If you don't got it...Get it!!.......2007-06-12

This is definately a must have for any bat-fan bar none. This one has it all. Rich storyline, great art, and most of all a great Batman. This novel continues the epic stories of "Batman:Year One" and the follow-up "Batman:The Long Halloween." If you Haven't read Long Halloween, you should read that first or else you won't get the same excitement plus you'll be a little confused as to what in the world is going on. Anyway, here's my critique for some of the main characters.
Batman: Great. He is definately all the Dark Knight you want him to be. Skilled, Emotional yet Disciplined, while throwing some nasty punches. Gordon couldn't make it without him.
Robin: His story is told perfectly here. But I warn any robin fans (which are probably few) don't expect to see him in costume till near the very end.
Jim Gordon: Keeps the fantastic story of the Commissioners life in Gotham City that was started in Batman Year one. He knows that to get anything done, he's gonna need some help.
Harvey Dent/Two-Face: His story, also started in year one and mainly in Long Halloween, is excellent. It's the story of a District Attorney's fall from grace, and the roller-coaster-ride of an impact it has had between the relationships of Harvey, Gordon, and Batman. A valued friend has now become a dangerous and deadly enemy.
Catwoman: She plays a major role in this. Her relationship with Bruce/Batman is shaky for both of them in and out of costume. I love the surprise finding at the end where you finally see why she's been hanging around the Falcone family since Year One.
Overall, this is one great story and like I said in the title, If you don't got it...Get It!!!

Great Story for any Bat Fan.......2007-05-17

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale have done it again. "Dark Victory" begins where "The Long Halloween" ended and creates a new intriguing murder mystery where once again, the obvious answers are the most unlikely and no one can be trusted. It continues to pay homage to the late 30's/early 40's noir style and madness that lurks on (and beneath) the streets of Gotham City.

The Gotham police force is slowly being annihilated by a killer known as "The Hangman" while the mafia families have united in a war against the crazed rogues of Arkham. Unfortunately, they've all escaped and established Two Face as their leader to control the city. Commissioner Gordon's security efforts are strained by the new no-nonsense district attorney, Janice Porter. Despite her prim and firm manners, her intentions are just as vague as the other "Dark Victory" characters.

Batman toils to discover the Hangman's identity but the memory of Harvey's demise still haunts him. Blaming himself for his friend's tragedy, Batman distances himself from close allies and gradually loses his identity as a human being. His relationship with Selina Kyle and Catwoman is a strained romance while his work life becomes a heavy toll worn on by Gordon's frustrations. "The only problem with being alone, Master Bruce, is being alone," Alfred notes.

As the Hangman's noose tightens around Gotham's finest, as the criminal war continues to devour sane and insane men alike, as both Bruce Wayne and Batman slip down the void of despair, he finds himself akin to a feisty but extraordinary person: Dick Grayson. A tiny but determined boy with piercing blue eyes and an adorable pout, Dick is tragically orphaned and finds his destiny interwtined with the Dark Knight. The origins of Robin make this story enticing for any big Bat-fan.

This story isn't about the transition from darkness to light as much as it is about finding inner strength and comfort by finding (and trusting) a friend. There are terrible loses and sacrifices for both Batman and Commissioner Gordon but they find respect for one another. Gordon is reunited with his family just as Batman constructs a surrogate family, a comfort to ease his troubled mind. The Hangman's reign terror cannot stop Dick from his want of justice and opportunity to become a better person. When he chooses to ally himself with Batman, both orphans emerge from the darkness wiser, determined, and no longer alone.

Blood Price: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)

Average customer rating:

Super Reader
A must read for Vampire fans
Prince Charming meets Lady P.I., macabre style
Even Vampires Need Friends
For lovers of Jim Butcher and/or Laurel K. Hamilton

Blood Price: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)
Tanya Huff
Manufacturer: DAW
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Blood Trail (BLOOD SERIES)
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The Blood Books, Vol. 3 (Blood Debt / Blood Bank)

ASIN: 0886774713

Customer Reviews:

Super Reader.......2007-08-26

This is a really solid novel. Not even that much of a romance, I suppose it could be thrown in as a ghost buster.

An ex-cop who quit when she couldn't be the star detective anymore because of her eyesight is now a PI, and when a serial killer keeps working, she, her old lover and colleague, and the vampire she runs into have a demon to stop.

I'd happily read more. People that like your standard mystery books, the Night Stalker, things like that would probably find this ok too I think.

A must read for Vampire fans.......2007-06-11

I first heard about this book when the series was about to premiere on Lifetime and decided I simply had to read the wonderful books the show was based on.

Ms. Huff creates engaging characters and a first class plot making this title a unique take on the vampire genre. I was hooked within the first few pages and couldn't put the book down until I'd finished it. Now having read all of the books in this series and the three titles in the spin off series I can say without qualification that this is one of the best series of books in the vampire genre today. I highly recommend it.

Prince Charming meets Lady P.I., macabre style.......2007-04-04

Since there is a synopsis of the book provided in previous reviews, I'll forego including my own. Blood Price is one step above a guilty pleasure...it's more like an empty pleasure, kind of like empty calories. It's pure amusement. The banter between the principle characters is sassy and entertaining. Vicki Nelson is a short-tempered person, sometimes bewilderingly irritable. But of course, since she is trying to cope with a progressive, incurable eye disease; wounded pride comes with the territory. As for Mike Celluci, her ex-partner and the third player in the love triangle, he has not been given enough time in this first book of the series. He's hardly more than a plot device, spitting out pertinent information about both the case and Vicki's history so the reader will have more than one thing to piece together while waiting for Vicki's next encounter with Henry. And while Henry is supernatural, mysterious, and captivating, he is not invincible. This only adds to his charm. However, his history is explained far too often with flashbacks. They appear suddenly and require some disorientation before the information can be processed.

Together, this trio solves the caper, narrowing in on a rather one-dimensional bad guy who himself seems to serve no greater purpose than moving the plot along rather than be a character in his own right. Then again, the story isn't really about the antagonist. It's how a hard-boiled ex-cop who has a servicable physical relationship with her previous colleague begins to take on a new physical relationship that is even more servicable to her new partner. It keep him alive.

Blood Price is definatley more action driven than character driven, but it's a decent read. Something for lunch breaks and mental health days. It was a book I could put down, but I always came back to it when I left it by my chair.

Even Vampires Need Friends.......2007-02-15

Blood Price (1991) is the first fantasy novel in the Blood series. Victoria Nelson -- Vicki -- is a former Toronto homicide detective who had resigned for medical reasons. She had been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and experienced various visual disorders, including night blindness, tunnel vision and myopia. Now she worked as a private detective on cases that don't overtask her senses.

In this novel, eight months after leaving the force, Vicki witnesses the death of a young man attacked by something that tore out his throat. Her former partner -- Mike Celluci -- responds to the call. As usual, she and Mike fight over everything, but even Mike confesses that he had missed fighting with her.

Now she can't seem to let go of the case, particularly when similar deaths occur. The media start speculating about the murders being vampire slayings. She keeps calling her friends in the coroner's office and the Criminal Investigation Division to find out more information. She even goes to the scenes to look for clues missed by the police.

One night, she catches up with the killer just as he is disappearing. She also finds a vampire on the scene, but he punches her out and takes her to his apartment. Henry Fitzroy, the vampire, has a choice: kill her or trust her with his story. He takes the second course, although he can always remedy any mistake by killing her later.

Henry is the illegitimate son of King Henry VIII of England. He is now four hundred and fifty years old and has been a vampire for most of that time. He was made a vampire by Christina, who also rescued him from his deep grave after his apparent death at the age of seventeen.

Henry explains to Vicki that the killer is a lesser demon, who is working on a scheme to open this world to Hellish havoc. Since they can't trust the police with this information, Henry and Vicki need to nullify the scheme. Vicki is charged with finding the master and Henry will try to take out the lesser demon.

Then Coreen, girlfriend of the first victim, hires Vicki to find the alleged vampire. Even if the police don't believe in vampires (or demons), Vicki has an acceptable reason to search for clues. Besides, the client will pay for her time and expenses.

In this story, Vicki finds Tony to find out the mood on the streets. After a night nurse is killed by would-be vampire hunters, Mike asks her to pass on the details to another contact -- a media columnist -- to reduce the panic. Henry is also glad to have a little less hysteria about vampires.

Greg, the night security guard in Henry's apartment building, is beginning to suspect that he is a vampire. Henry fails to control his expression upon first seeing the vampire stalker headline and really frightens Greg. Then the day guard points out Henry's vampire-like lifestyle. After the murder of another resident, Greg actually comes to Henry's apartment with a croquet stake just in case; Vicki heads off that attempt, but forgets to tell Henry.

This story is another vampire tale with a twist. The vampire is one of the good guys and fights to save his mortal friend. The bad guys are demons, to whom few readers would object as villains. Although there is one mortal villain, Norman Birdwell, a computer geek with delusions of persecution; somehow he seems to deserve his eventual fate.

Some of the reviewers seem to have trouble understanding the character motivations in this tale. Vicki and Mike [...] heads because they are competing in the macho police culture. Staff-Sergeant Gowan hates Vicki because she was much better at police work than he will ever be. Vicki avoids her mother because Mom always forces her into the role of a young child. Henry is afraid of terrified Toronto residents running amuck while searching for vampires, but he is also scandalized by the thought of a vampire "child" being abandoned by his "parent". Norman is very angry at others who laugh at him; he also lacks a sense of empathy and blames everyone else for his own mistakes (classic psychopathic personality).

For someone who avoids horror flics and vampire movies, I seem to have become heavily involved in a certain type of vampire novel. Beginning with Hambly's Those Who Hunt the Night, I began to read vampire stories with classical fantasy motifs, such as quests. Then I discovered vampire mysteries. Now I read vampire related stories by Hamilton, Harris, Harrison, Huff and others.

Highly recommended for Huff fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of supernatural ploys, preternatural concerns and confused lovers.

-Arthur W. Jordin

For lovers of Jim Butcher and/or Laurel K. Hamilton.......2005-09-13

Another great series that has vampires, werewolves, mummies and more! The love interest in right up Laurel K. Hamilton's lane. Strong female and male characters. I highly recommend this series.

Blood Trail: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)

Average customer rating:

great ideas but not so great execution
Grows on you
This Entire Series is Excellent! Highly Recommended
The storyline thickens
Not in the same class with others of the ilk

Blood Trail: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)
Tanya Huff
Manufacturer: DAW
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Blood Lines (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Price (BLOOD SERIES)
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Blood Debt (BLOOD SERIES)
Smoke and Mirrors (The Smoke Trilogy, Book 2)

ASIN: 0886775027

Customer Reviews:

great ideas but not so great execution.......2006-05-01

I really *wanted* to like Tanya Huff. And I like the storyline a lot - Vicki's handicap, Henry's ancestry, and a mystery surrounding a family of werewolves. It sounds great, tons of potential.

I think I'd read about half the book before I realized that I didn't like it. I thought the writing was rather awkward - not bad, just not smooth or particularly evocative - and little things kept bothering me; the thoughts of the villain were over-the-top foreboding and gloomy, the fact that the culprit is revealed to the reader so early in the book killed the momentum, the really abrupt shifts in Vicki and Henry's relationship just confused and disappointed me.

Grows on you.......2006-01-09

I'm quite liking this book. Unpretentious storytelling is a rare thing, and that's what Huff does quite well. The story takes you along at a nice pace, with just enough of everything to make it satisfying; nice, heroine, description, and plot. Good dialogue. All in all, I'm impressed enough to read more.

This Entire Series is Excellent! Highly Recommended.......2004-03-10

This is Tanya Huff's second novel in the "Blood Series." If you have not read Ms. Huff's entire series, be sure to obtain all five books. They are excellent and you will not be disappointed! (Blood Price; Blood Trial; Blood Lines; Blood Pact; Blood Debt).

In her first novel, Blood Price, you met ex-cop Vickie Nelson turned private investigator, who had to leave the police force due to a dibilitating eye condition which leaves her literally blind at night. Quite by accident while working on a case, Vickie met romance writer/400 year old vampire Henry. Henry helped Vickie with her first case by being her eyes at night. Vickie and Henry are not only friends but there is an attraction beginning to blossom between them. Also in the mix is Vickie's ex working partner, Mike Celluli, who she still sees as a friend and romantic interest. This second book continues here.

Vickie receives a telephone call from her friend Henry. He has a new case for her if she decides to accept. Vickie goes to Henry's apartment to meet her new clients, who turn out to be none other than werewolves. It seems that someone has discovered the werewolves' secret (that they are indeed half human, half animal), and has been shooting and killing various family members. The various killings have all taken place at night while the weres are at their home (they own a farm in the London countryside). As you can guess, the weres cannot go to the police in fear of their secret being discovered. Vickie and Henry will have to go to the weres' farm and work together to help the weres discover the killer before any further family members are killed. That's the basic premise of the story.

I have noticed that many vampire fans of early Laurell Hamilton's Anita Blake series have always recommended Tanya Huff's series as another excellent vampire series. I have to agree. I collect all types of vampire novels, and next to the early Anita Blake's work, this series is just as good. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommend.

The storyline thickens.......2003-12-13

The love duel between the vampire and the policeman over the former police detective is about 2/3 of the plot. The mystery of who's killing the werewolves seems almost secondary. I found it a little more entertaining than the first in the series, but it still didn't keep me up at night.

Not in the same class with others of the ilk.......2003-06-17

I've read the first three books in this series, and I can't say I particularly cared for this one. The werewolves are pretty silly, and not nearly as fleshed out as other authors' portrayal of the same. Plus, I just don't really care for Vicki. She is nowhere near in the same class as Anita Blake as far as being a well-rounded character. You'd think someone would have a little bit of soul-searching if they are involved sexually/romatically with two men simultaneously. It is possible to be a "tough girl" and still have emotions.

Blood Lines: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)

Average customer rating:

5+ Stars - Excellent Book and Excellent Series
Finally getting some meat in the story
Could have been better
Easy Read
Another Great Read in an Enthralling Series!

Blood Lines: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)
Tanya Huff
Manufacturer: DAW
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

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

Look Inside Horror Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Science Fiction & Fantasy Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Blood Trail (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Pact (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Debt (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Price (BLOOD SERIES)
Smoke and Mirrors (The Smoke Trilogy, Book 2)

ASIN: 0886775302

Customer Reviews:

5+ Stars - Excellent Book and Excellent Series.......2004-03-13

Excellent Series - This is the third novel in Tanya Huff's excellent vampire series. This book and the entire series gets 5+ stars. It's excellent! (If you have not read the entire series, you must read it, you will not be disappointed. The series order: Blood Price, Blood Trail, Blood Lines, Blood Pact and Blood Debt).

This third book continues with Vicki, an ex cop turned private investigator, who had to leave the police force because she is losing her night vision. From previous novels you met Henry, a 400 year old vampire who is also a romantic writer, and Vicki's friend and lover. Also, you met Mike, Vicki's ex-partner, who is also involved with Vicki.

This third novel begans with Henry. Once Henry became a vampire he stopped having dreams. Suddenly Henry is dreaming again, and the dreams are slowly driving him mad. He is dreaming of the sun, and very afraid. He does not know if he is losing his mind, or if this is signaling his upcoming death. He calls Vicki for help.

At the same time Mike is working on a weird case involving two deaths at a museum both involving heart failure. This seems strange to Mike. As he contnues the investigation, he realizes something not quite human may be causing these deaths. Mike asks Vicki for help, and soon it will take Mike, Henry and Vicki working together to keep more people from dying. Also there are complications with all three of them working together because the two men are becoming jealous of each other as their attraction to Vicki grows.

Excellent excellent book!

Finally getting some meat in the story.......2003-12-13

Unlike the first two, this book holds your interest well. The sniping of the love triangle is minimized and the characters finally develop. The sex is part of the story, but it isnt THE story.

Could have been better.......2003-08-30

I was really getting into this "Blood" series, but this book really slowed me down. It lacked the action the others in this series had. Most of all, the hero is really getting on my nerve. She is way to angry and selfish.

Easy Read.......2003-04-23

Quick pace, easy to read book. It keeps you entertained and interested from beginning to end. Recommend for people who like vampires but not the give you nightmares type of horror some writers insist on.

Another Great Read in an Enthralling Series!.......2002-11-20

"Blood Lines" by Tanya Huff is the third instalment in her wonderful "Blood" series, and it is another great read. It contains a thrilling and suspenseful plot perfectly blended with the tantalizing love triangle between Private Investigator Vicki Nelson, 450 year-old vampire romance writer Henry Fitzroy, and homicide detective Mike Celluci. "Blood Lines" is an excellent addition to the series and is sure to be widely enjoyed.

The story begins with the arrival of an Egyptian sarcophagus at the Royal Ontario Museum. The staff is excited about what and who it may contain, but they don't know the half of it. For the mummy lying inside is an ancient Egyptian wizard who challenged the gods at the height of his power and was subsequently entombed alive. For thousands of years he has lain in darkness, unable to escape his living death, until now.

Strange and frightening things begin happening at the museum after the sarcophagus is opened and the mummy uncovered. Two men die sudden and inexplicable deaths and then the entire museum staff selectively forgets that there ever was a mummy. Because the ancient wizard, now awake and planning his overthrow of the city and the reinstatement of his dark god's reign, has been growing stronger by feeding on the lives of those around him. Armed with knowledge of the 20th century stolen from his victims, the mummy takes the name Anwar Tawfik and goes out into the city. And so this ancient evil is loosed upon an unsuspecting Toronto.

Mike Celluci, Vicki Nelson's ex-partner on the force and sometime lover, can see that something is not right. He finds clues at the museum that deny the statements given by the museum staff, and after the things he's seen in the recent past, Mike's willing to believe in a supernatural explanation. Henry Fitzroy, Vicki's other lover and the bastard son of Henry VIII, no less, is haunted by dreams of a blazing desert sun. And being a vampire, this is pretty terrifying for Henry, who believes that his recurring dream signifies some hidden desire to commit suicide. So Henry enlists Vicki's help to watch over him and keep him from frying himself, and Mike recruits her to help him find out what is going on.

As Tawfik becomes more and more powerful, he gains control of some people in high places, leaving Vicki, Mike, and Henry to fight him all alone. And it's not long before the clues, Henry's instincts, and some blind luck add up to give these three a fairly accurate picture of what's going on. Tawfik is so power hungry that he is prepared to do whatever it takes to get what he wants, and his plans include a ceremony that will make him almost unstoppable.

So it's up to Vicki, Mike, and Henry to find a way to stop Tawfik and save Toronto. The suspense builds very effectively, and Huff takes her readers on a thrilling adventure. "Blood Lines" is intriguing, tightly plotted, and exciting. Not to mention the fabulous romance between Henry and Vicki (my favourite couple) and Mike and Vicki, which provides some intense sexual tension along with some highly amusing moments that balance the horror and suspense perfectly.

Customer Reviews:

Very very bland..........2006-04-22

(Spoiler warnings)
Although I enjoyed the past 4 books in this series, this book really grated on me. In the past, Victory's fights with Henry and the others were amusing and bordered at times on annoying. This time, however, they were exremely annoying.

Secondly, Henry sounded more like an annoying [...] than the charming, delightful prince I'd come to love and admire.

Thirdly, that a seasoned homicide policeman like Celluci would know less about forensics than an ex-policewoman was just dumb.

Last, why do I have the feeling that the twist in the previous book(that is, the ending) was written so there'd be a second spin-off series? If so, clever marketing but what a horrible thing. It'd have been much better to leave Victory and Henry together, than drive them apart!

At this point, I'm reading halfway through the book. I'm not even sure if I can finish it. And, I don't even know if I can finish the book without ripping the pages apart.

Okay end to the Series.......2004-04-03

Excellent Series - This is the fifth novel in Tanya Huff's vampire series. Although this book is my least favorite, it is still an excellent series overall. This is the final chapter involving Vicki, an ex-cop, Mike, a detective who is Vicki's lover, and Henry, a vampire, romance writer who is Vicki's ex-love. (If you have not read the entire series, you must read it, you will not be disappointed. The series order: Blood Price, Blood Trail, Blood Lines, Blood Pact and Blood Debt).

This fifth book begins with Vicki and Mike as a couple. if you have read the series, you know that Vicki and Henry were in love but Vicki was badly hurt and Henry made her into a vampire. There are rules that vampires must follow, and one is that they can't hunt in the same territory. Vicki had one year with Henry while he taught her everything she needed to know to survive as a vampire. She left Henry, and returned to Mike, her first boyfriend.

What makes this fifth book so irritating at times, is Henry and Vicki's new personalities which come out in the fifth book. Before Vicki became a vampire, she was already a little irritating. She was an overbearing loud mouth woman cop, who had temper tamtrums, banged things when she got angry and had yelling matches with her boyfriend Mike to the point they woke the neighbors. This behavior is already a little over the top, now throw in the fact that Vicki is a vampire, and even more aggressive, and she at times can be a downright irritating character. Also my favorite character of all was Henry, a vampire, and romance writer, who with his wealth of years, always seemed calm and in control. Not in this fifth book.

Henry keeps seeing ghosts. The ghosts will ask him a question, and then an innocent person dies. When Henry cannot figure this out on his own, he has to call Vicki to help him. As soon as Vicki arrives, none of the old romance is there, instead, they spend the entire novel snarling at each other like animals (which is so unlike Henry's character in any of the other novels). It's very disappointing. Throw in Mike with his yelling and Italian cop testostrone and the most likeable character in book number 5 is Tony, Henry's roommate.

Basically Henry and Vicki will have to stop fighting long enough to solve the crime. I'm glad there was a fifth book, but I am also glad the series ended here. Otherwise, I could see myself becoming disappointed. Vicki as a vampire is annoying.

Still good series - definitely worth reading.

ho hum.......2003-09-15

Okay, the first few books were interesting. I've disliked Vicki, the main character through all of them, but have kept reading the series for the simple reason that the plot and vampire were entertaining. This one has been horrible. Now Vicki is a vampire herself. If you thought she was an egotistical pain before, she is ten times that now. I am going to have to think hard before reading another from this series.

A Satisfying End to a Fantastic Series!.......2002-12-16

"Blood Debt" by Tanya Huff is the fifth and final instalment in her fabulous "Blood" series. Though "Blood Debt" is my least favourite of the five books, due largely to the drastic change in the relationship between Henry and Vicki, I still loved it, and will greatly miss Vicki, Henry, and Mike now that the series has come to an end. Filled with vivid and fascinating characters, a top-notch mystery, romance, and tons of danger and suspense, "Blood Debt" will appeal to a wide range of readers.

The book revolves around three main characters, Vicki Nelson, a Private Investigator and ex-cop, her lover, homicide detective Mike Celluci, and her ex-lover Henry Fitzroy, 450-year-old vampire, romance writer, and bastard son of Henry VIII. Henry has been living in Vancouver for a year now, while Vicki and Mike have remained in Toronto. Vicki and Henry have not seen each other at all during that year, but when a handless ghost begins haunting Henry, demanding vengeance against those who murdered him, Henry knows he needs Vicki's help to solve the mystery. Especially when the ghost begins playing a deadly game. Each night when Henry awakes he may ask the ghost one question. If the answers is yes, the ghost will leave, but if the answer is no, an innocent victim will die. At his wits' end, Henry breaks the rule he has lived by for nearly five centuries and asks Vicki to come to Vancouver.

When Vicki arrives with Mike, she and Henry have a hard time just being in the same room together, but as time passes, a strange thing happens. The more time they spend together, the easier it becomes for Henry and Vicki to get along, though their relationship is rather violent. So Vicki, Henry, and Mike work together to discover who killed Henry's ghost and why, and end up right in the middle of a perilous and volatile situation. Huff provides her readers with an intriguing and exciting mystery to solve, set amidst the ever-changing and always interesting love triangle of Vicki, Henry, and Mike.

I can't reveal too much of this book because it would ruin the ending of the fourth in this series, "Blood Pact", for those who have not yet read it. "Blood Debt" is a wonderful read that mixes horror, mystery, and fantasy seamlessly, while exploring the fascinating new dynamics of the relationship between Vicki and the two men in her life. I wished for a happier ending for Henry and Vicki (the couple I was rooting for through all five books), but Huff at least leaves her readers with the impression that things will work themselves out in the years to come. Tanya Huff is a very talented writer with a vibrant imagination and I cannot recommend this series enough. "Blood Debt" is a satisfying finale for this series and is a guaranteed page-turner. So buy it today and enjoy!

Ghosts!.......2002-03-09

This is the fifth and final book in a series by Tanya Huff.In this one, Henry, is being harassed by some ghosts, and he enlists, Vicki--who he's been separated from for a year for a very good reason, and Mike to help him find the answers of why these ghosts are harassing him.This is the end of a great,and wonderful series. ::sniff::

Blood Pact: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)

Average customer rating:

Surprise Ending
4th Book in the Series
Creepier and an unexpected ending
interesting
Creepy with a capital creep...

Blood Pact: Victory Nelson Private Investigator: Otherworldly Crimes a Specialty (Victory Nelson)
Tanya Huff
Manufacturer: DAW
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

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

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Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

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Similar Items:

Blood Debt (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Lines (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Trail (BLOOD SERIES)
Blood Price (BLOOD SERIES)
Smoke and Mirrors (The Smoke Trilogy, Book 2)

ASIN: 0886775825

Customer Reviews:

Surprise Ending.......2004-07-30

Just finished this book. I liked the first three, and this fourth one, I liked as well... but maybe not as much. In Blood Trail and Blood Lines, I thought the mystery was a little too simple and too easily solved, although I did enjoy them. This book was definitely not a simple and easy read. The whole story was complicated, and the continuing triangle with Vicki, Henry and Mike added even more complications. The ending was definitely a surprise. I didn't see it coming at all, and for some reason I'm disappointed in what happened. Partly because I wanted to see the whole love triangle resolved in another way, but more so because it just changes too much. But I am looking forward to the fifth and final book of the series to see what happens next.

4th Book in the Series.......2004-04-02

Excellent Series - This is the fourth novel in Tanya Huff's excellent vampire series. This book and the entire series gets 5+ stars. Although I must admit I liked the first three books more, this still is an excellent continuation of the story involving Vicki, Mike and Henry. (If you have not read the entire series, you must read it, you will not be disappointed. The series order: Blood Price, Blood Trail, Blood Lines, Blood Pact and Blood Debt).

This fourth book continues with Vicki, an ex cop turned private investigator, who had to leave the police force because she is losing her night vision. From previous novels you met Henry, a 400 year old vampire who is also a romantic writer, and Vicki's friend and lover. Also, you met Mike, Vicki's ex-partner, who is also involved with Vicki.

As the fourth book begins Vicki receives the telephone call that no one wants to receive. Her mother has died unexpectedly. Vicki has to come to grips with her mother's death, and at the same time if you have been reading the earlier books of the series, also has to finally deal with her relationship between Mike and Henry who both love her.

This book has some surprise twists, namely the fact that even though her mother is supposed to be dead, While Vicki is staying at her mother's house, she sees her in a window. Is she dead, or isn't she?

This fourth book had some surprise twists, and I must say I felt a little saddened for Henry in this series, who for so many centuries has been alone. But I won't give away more, you will have to read it to find out. A very excellent book if you are into the Tanya Huff series. I recommend.

Creepier and an unexpected ending.......2003-12-13

The characters get into full form and the plot is inticing. I'd never have seen the finale coming.

interesting.......2003-09-15

I've been facinated with this series. The characters are definitely interesting, although, I care very little for the the main character, Vicki. Vicki has a horrible temper and I can't imagine why two attractive men would be so taken with her. The story plot is good even if the main character is so unlikable.

Creepy with a capital creep..........2003-07-21

I thought the first three books in this series were great and this fourth was excellent! The relationships between Vicki, Henry, and Celluci have developed nicely and some parts of the book actually had me holding onto my seat, I was so tense waiting to see what would happen next. I can't read wait to read book #5, but unfortunately that will mean the series end. Guess I'll have to read the other Tanya Huff books, hey, good idea.

Spiritual Warfare: Victory over the Powers of this Dark World

Average customer rating:

Spiritual Warfare: Victory over the Powers of this Dark World
Timothy M. Warner
Manufacturer: Crossway Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Inspirational | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Angels | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

The Beginner's Guide to Spiritual Warfare (Beginner's Guides (Servant))
The Handbook for Spiritual Warfare: Revised & Updated
Victory over the Darkness
The Adversary: The Christian Versus Demon Activity
Reclaiming Surrendered Ground: Protecting Your Family from Spiritual Attacks

ASIN: 0891076077

Book Description

The author shows from the Scriptures that God's people can defeat the enemy because of the character of God, the certainity of His promises, our authority as His people, and, most of all, the victory Christ has already won.

Average customer rating:

Part V of the Kirk Saga. Twists and turns are an understatement.
Contrived and pedestrian
Good but Agreed, this is just a filler
Entertaining - But Essentially A Filler
If I know my Spocks...

Dark Victory (Star Trek)
William Shatner , Judith Reeves-Stevens , and Garfield Reeves-Stevens
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Preserver (Star Trek)
Spectre (Star Trek)
The Ashes of Eden (Star Trek)
Avenger (Star Trek)
Captain's Peril (Star Trek)

ASIN: 0671008846

Book Description

The Mirror Universe is a dark and twisted reflection of our own, where all that is noble and compassionate is instead cruel and barbaric. Now our universe has been invaded by that other reality's most feared tyrant: the dreaded Emperor Tiberius, the Mirror Universe counterpart of James T. Kirk. Just as Kirk survived his own era to live into the 24th century, so has Tiberius returned from the past to menace a new generation of Starfleet heroes.

And only Kirk can stop him.

With Spock, McCoy, and Spotty at his side, and teamed Jean-Luc Picard and the valiant crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise™ NCC-1701-E, Kirk is propelled into his most personal and dangerous mission yet as he fights to uncover the secret of Tiberius' return and learn the terrible truth behind the madman's nightmarish plans for the Federation.

But how can he defeat an enemy who knows Kirk's mind as well as he knows his own?

Download Description

For three full decades, on television and in film, actor William Shatner has portrayed one of the legendary heroes of science fiction: James Tiberius Kirk, captain of the Starship Enterprise¿. Although Kirk was believed to have perished at the conclusion of Star Trek® Generations¿, his amazing literary resurrection led to an acclaimed trilogy of national bestsellers, The Ashes of Eden, The Return, and Avenger. Now William Shatner again brings his unique blend of talents as actor, writer, director, and producer to continue the thrilling new trilogy that began in Spectre, as Jim Kirk must confront the most dangerous enemy of his career -- himself. The Mirror Universe is a dark and twisted reflection of our own, where humans and Vulcans live as slaves to a brutal alliance of Klingons and Cardassians -- an alliance long believed to be the creation of one man: the feared and hated Emperor Tiberius, the Mirror Universe counterpart of James T. Kirk. But just as Kirk survived his own age to live in the era of a new generation of heroes, so Tiberius now returns to fulfill his mad dreams of total domination -- not just of his universe, but of Kirk's as well. The story begins moments after the dramatic rescue of the Enterprise-E from a team of Mirror Universe infiltrators, when Kirk finds himself locked in a deadly battle with Tiberius -- an enemy who knows Kirk's mind as well as he knows his own. From the nightmarish landscape of the Mirror Universe Earth to the joys of impending parenthood and marriage to the woman he loves, the incomparable Teilani of Chal, Kirk is propelled into his most personal and dangerous mission yet as he fights to uncover the secret of Tiberius' return, and learn the terrible truth behind the madman's real plans for the Federation.

Customer Reviews:

Part V of the Kirk Saga. Twists and turns are an understatement........2006-10-13

Up to this point William Shatner has thrilled us with new adventures of Captain James T. Kirk that we have all thirsted for for so long. Dark Victory continues that with exactly what the title says...A darker and grittier Star Trek story.

The Evil Tiberious' plan begins to take great shape in this the second novel of the mirror universe trilogy, and as you read along it looks as if he might even win.

William Shatner does an excellent job making Tiberious (Kirk's mirror self from the mirror universe) everything Kirk is not. He is clearly his polar opposite and down right evil to the core.

One of the highlights of the story is how Tiberious steels the Enterprise NCC-1701-E and plans to rule the mirror universe with it. Exciting! Again, a must read for all Star Trek fans and a definite must read for Kirk Saga fans. The ending is gribbing and pulse pounding. I recommend purchasing this book and Preserver (the third and concluding chapter to the mirror saga) because if you don't you'll be making a second trip back to the book store to pick it up. It's that good! 10/10

Contrived and pedestrian.......2006-05-10

Clearly the middle book in a series, this book seemed more than a little contrived on many levels. Is it really necessary to combine characters from four different Star Trek series (the original, TNG, DS9, and Voyager)? Kate Janeway, especially, seems to be present merely to lend her name to the book. Her presence doesn't seem to impact the story in any way, and it her role really isn't well defined. Its almost like she's included merely to tie Voyager into the mixture. Maybe some of this disjointedness results from the location in the series, as the book really doesn't stand well on its own.

The writing is pedestrian, and the characters feel a bit flat and predictable. While some of the dialog does recall the amusing banter of the original crew, that really is about the only highlight in an otherwise mediocre work. This certainly hasn't inspire me to go out an find the other books in the series.

Good but Agreed, this is just a filler.......2005-08-17

Eh. This book in itself is good, but a little less exciting than the previous "Spectre". It's pretty much a continuation in the trilogy but only serves to connect the first and last in this trilogy. So it's ok, not as good as Spectre, but in my opinion a lot better than "Preserver".

I would still recommend reading this book, Shatner's Mirror Universe trilogy is a very great story and a must read. It just seems that all of the good stuff in this trilogy was put into the first book.

Entertaining - But Essentially A Filler.......2004-09-27

This story, the second of the "Mirror Universe Trilogy", continues right where "Spectre" (the first book in the series) left off. The story takes place in 2374 initially and then jumps forward about eight months later into 2375, placing it at least after the events of the movie "Star Trek: Insurrection".

Here we have Kirk, Spock, Scotty, Picard (and his crew), and the "Mirror Universe" counterparts setting off to save the day. And this highlights some of my issues with this book: there are a lot of characters and a lot going on. You have secretive Starfleet organizations in this universe and two fighting factions in the "Mirror Universe" plus various members of both the Original Series and the Next Generation showing up (not to mention a few Deep Space Nine and Voyager personnel) and I just get this feeling of not really caring about the plot, per se - just letting the story carry me forward.

And that brings up another point for me which is that a lot is happening here from a human angle. Dealing with counterparts from another universe; the possible death of loved ones; the loss of limbs and abilities; the chain of command and when it should and should not be followed; different command styles for different time periods; being out of place in a new time period; bitter regret at apparent betrayal after services rendered in the line of duty. All these things are alluded to, in passing, but none are really explored. They are subsumed under the general plot. Whole areas where human angst would come into play are usually glossed over in a page or even just a paragraph. I know that in-depth exploration of these issues is not the point of the story: but then the brief focusing on each of them is, to me, more distracting than engaging.

"Spectre", in my opinion, was saved from avoiding many of these same kinds of issues by the pace of the action *and* by the continuity of the action. To be sure the same sense of pace is in "Dark Victory" and that pace is just as fast in some ways, but, for me, not as continuous. Too much of the action struck me as episodic to the point of being a bit too fragmented. Certain events just seemed to happen without a lot of context behind them, the idea being just to keep the pace going. Characters would just turn up or say things or know things and, again, sometimes a context seemed to be lacking. What saved the book for me is that it is the second of a series. So if you are reading it you are (presumably) already curious about how the story continues and thus a little more forgiving than you might be with a stand-alone story. Overall, "Dark Victory" was a moderately interesting story for me in the Star Trek mythos but I really only found myself plodding through it to make sure I would have a context for the third in the series ("Preserver"). I would prefer a story that is not trying so hard to interweave so much Star Trek history and instead explores the characters in a given setting that allows us to come to understand them and their motivations better.

I gave this three stars because it kept me reading - but only by rote. It was not a boring read by any means but a lot of characterization was subsumed under the plot as the mysteries and secrets kept piling on leading to the inevitable cliff-hanger that would take us to the final book of the series.

If I know my Spocks..........2003-06-29

Arguably the best of the 6 ST books. Taken from the original Star trek TV series episode MIRROR MIRROR, Kirk's double - twin has not been defeated by spock as we hoped. "Spock is logical and the mirror universe is illogical. If I know my Spocks, he'll..." well he didn't. The Kirk Twin is now Emperor Tiberius (ET) and he has enslaved humans and Vulcan alike.

ET has left home and found a way to our universe and has bad things planned for the federation. Only kirk can stop him. But kirk has a lot of friends to help. Shatner has two Spocks, McCoy and Scotty, and Picard & crew to help. But how do we know which Picard is a mirror or not?

This is the second book of the second trilogy (5th of the double trilogy) written by Shatner and friends for the star trek galaxy. I had long been disappointed in ST books, because they often read as if throw together. Shatner's ST is clearly the best that ST has to offer. If started with ASHES OF EDEN which turned into a trilogy, with the second book being THE RETURN. So, you want to kill off James T. Kirk huh? If you haven't read at least SPECTRE, you will want to because it starts this story arch. The story doesn't end with this book, and continues with PRESERVER. This is great sci-fi and great ST stuff.
Some have called DV the weakest of the trilogy which can happen to the middle book for a series, because things end "up in the air". But for shear entertainment this was a lot of fun to read. You have to read PRESERVER for the ending. Do it. Shatner is a great story teller.

Customer Reviews:

Behind the Scenes in Hollywood.......2006-05-31

Dark Victory: Ronald Reagan, MCA, and the Mob

Dan. E. Moldea has specialized in investigating organized crime, and has written for many publications. This book is about Ronald Reagan and his relationship to MCA, the powerful entertainment conglomerate. Show business, Hollywood and TV, play an important role in adjusting the thinking, wants, and buying habits of the public. They have more effect on people's lives than many churches. There are questions and allegations about Reagan and MCA. Are there links to organized crime (p.2)? MCA owns the largest motion picture and television production companies in the United States, and other businesses (p.3). In the 1940s Hollywood shifted its attention away from organized crime to the Communist menace (p.5). President Kennedy's term saw an investigation of anti-trust violations; it was settled out of court (p.6). MCA's executives made Reagan a multi-millionaire overnight, before he was made Governor. Reagan appointed "known associates of organized crime" to his campaign staff and later to positions in the Reagan administration. [This book must have been written before the drug smuggling and money laundering operations known as "Contragate" became public knowledge.]

Chapter 1 has the history of MCA and how it developed with the spread of radio and records, entertainment for the masses. Chapter 2 tells how organized crime developed in Chicago, moved into legal businesses and bought political protection. [No mention of strike-breaking or business rivalries.] They then moved into Hollywood and its cash-rich businesses. Will Hays hired gangsters to break unions (p.26). Payoffs to the union officers saved many millions in wages and benefits (p.27). Chapter 4 tells how the studios used union bosses to keep wages low and control their workers (p.37). The next chapters tell of anti-trust suits against MCA, and its business with competitors. It tells how big business and the Federal government acted for mob-controlled unions. The anti-trust ruling in the Paramount case allowed banks and others to finance motion pictures (p.80). The removal of Communists from Hollywood was followed by the increased involvement of organized crime (Chapter 11). The Kefauver Committee investigated organized crime (Chapter 12). They did not call Korshak (p.91). The Mafia was too powerful for Kefauver (p.92). Chapter 15 tells of Senator Barry Goldwater's friends (pp.118-119).

Chapter 21 explains MCA's monopoly: a "blanket waiver". The Anti-Trust Division said this was a conspiracy between MCA and SAG (p.166). Chapter 23 has Ronald Reagan's grand jury testimony from Feb. 1962. His memory was "hazy on a great many things" (p.183). Reagan didn't want to over-expose himself, and would not do commercials (p.188)! One of Reagan's concerns was a pension plan for himself (p.194). Moldea explains 11-22-1963 on page 234. Reagan made a commercial for Goldwater (p.235). After this he was picked for governor (p.238). Was the sale of Reagan's ranch too good to be true (pp.240-241)? The remaining chapters cover the later career of Ronald Reagan, the business of MCA, and their symbiotic relationship. Reagan's link to MCA brought him wealth and fame. The 'Epilogue' tells how Ronald Reagan tried to give away the publicly owned airwaves; "no antitrust problems" (p.307). Should the tried and proven anti-trust laws be junked because of "new economic realities" (p.313)? Should failure be rewarded? MCA's conflict with James Garner is on page 314. This section also tells about Lew Wasserman and Sidney Korshak. President Reagan cutback on the FBI's crime fighting and on other Federal investigations (p.319). Next he reduced funds to state and local authorities (p.320). Was Reagan a "fraud" (p.321)? The quiet scandals are listed here (p.324).
This book is very informative but sort of drags in parts due to its length.

Reagan's Move up Success Ladder.......2004-01-26

At the time Ronald Reagan assumed the presidency of the Screen Actors Guild he was a Warner Brothers contact player known as "the Errol Flynn of B's," in short, a lower echelon leading man who performed in feature roles for certain Warners A products. His rise up the success ladder is interesting to observe from this key juncture, and Dan Moldea is there with the roadmap explaining much about Reagan's professional and political behavior.

In Reagan's early days as SAG president the bitterly divisive House Un-American Activities Committee investigations into the motion picture industry began. Reagan appeared as a friendly witness, blaming the industry's labor strifes strictly on the American Communist Party.

Moldea's compelling account fills in important blanks. For instance, the motion picture industry began with heavy influence and control generated by the Chicago Mafia. He reveals that the conflict Reagan and other corporate spokespersons laid at the doorstep of Communists was not as simple as described, and that mob influence surrounded much of what was happening. A blacklist was launched to ostensibly destroy Communist influence in the industry while that of the Mafia was not even a subject for discussion. All strikes were blamed on unpatriotic hotheads parroting the Moscow line.

Later,in 1954, when Reagan's career was in worse shape than in the late forties, and when he struggled amid a shrinking bank account to make ends meet, he was in a position to assist the powerful Music Corporation of America, a powerful agency seeking to launch into film production. Reagan as SAG president led the fight to provide MCA with an exemption that others in the industry were denied. Lo and behold, the MCA agency which represented him as an actor was able to secure a lucrative contract for him as a host and actor for the new television program, General Electric Theater. Reagan's career as an actor meaningfully advanced with MCA in the driver's seat.

Later MCA moved into the studio business, purchasing Universal. Reagan was once more on the scene playing a pivotal role. He became so popular in the hearts and minds of corporate interests in Hollywood and throughout California that before long he was running and winning the governorship of what was then the nation's second most populous state.

Moldea's book reveals how beneficial it was for Ronald Reagan to have friends in high places whose interests he could help advance. The progress definitely worked in both directions. Those who regard the confluence of events between Reagan, MCA and other corporate interests and the sudden comeback his acting career and later political successes as purely coincidental would be rejecting common sense and the basic nature of human experience.

Dark Nexus.......2001-06-05

Anyone looking for the smoking gun on Ronald Reagan and organized crime will be disappointed. The future president emerges from these pages as the affably forgetful frontman for big business that the knowledgable public has long known him to be. Moldea traces the actor's well-known forgetfulness back to 1952 and investigations into sweetheart deals between Reagan's Screen Actor's Guild and Jules Stein's sinister conglomerate, MCA. What emerges from this is an apprenticeship period in which the future president hones his frontman skills and practices selective memory, while big business comes to appreciate certain show business talents. Not exactly news bulletin material.

On a more newsworthy note, Moldea documents a series of protracted associations between such mob frontmen as Sidney Korshak, Hollywood tycoons like Lew Wasserman, union leaders of many stripes, and political insiders such as Reagan's William French Smith and Paul Laxalt, the Democrat's Paul Ziffren, and even the political left's Jerry Brown who seems peculiarly proud of Korshak's friendship and support. This is not a pretty picture, and while no criminal disclosures are made, there appears no doubt that such high echelon representatives of big business, the mob, and politics intersect at critical junctures far from public knowledge and scrutiny. This is not conspiracy theory, as some apologists would have it. Rather, it's a picture of high-level business conducting itself as business, and only a hopeless naif would believe that no mutual benefit from these associations is involved, as when master fixer Korshak steps in to protect hotel owners from a potntially damaging food-handlers strike. After all, Korshak's juice in these matters certainly doesn't come from a law school diploma, even an Ivy League one.

Book Description

This updated edition of a stirring account of the Australian government's handling of the Children Overboard affair and the Pacific Solution is a remarkable piece of investigative journalism. New information about the ways the Howard government manipulated the situation for its own gain is included.

Customer Reviews:

Compelling and frightening.......2007-07-12

I read this book a year ago and found it such a compelling but chilling read. If it were not so painstakingly researched and the history it reports were not so recent and about a time I remember well, it would be possible to read it as a dramatic nail biting political thriller. The characters that as Australians we know so well are depicted so vividly, their actions so self serving and callous. Given the current political climate in Australia and around the world this book should be compulsory reading for all those who wish to not live through another term of the radical right wing conservatives. Frighteningly history is repeating itself with another election soon, the same campaign tactics exploiting the politics of fear and greed are being played out in the Australian media, fueled by now well seasoned politicians and business interests.

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