Product Description
Only Lawrence Sanders could have created this saga of a family that breaks all the rules--both God's and man's. Moving from the seventies to the nineties, Guilty Pleasures invites readers into the affluent arena of shocking acts and stunning revelations that is the South Florida world of the Folsby clan.Emmet Richard Folsby: Founder of a mighty publishing empire, a patriarch to be admired--with one unspeakable exceptionConstance Louise Folsby: Emmet's wife and cofounder of the empire, now an invalid dying by degrees--resolutely blind to the moral missteps of those she cares forBarbara Ann Folsby: The wildcat daughter--a fiercely ambitious businesswoman--inexorably lured to love at its most forbiddenBrett Sherwood Folsby: The dashing playboy son, his sister's most bitter antagonist--and a man with sexual secrets of his ownThrough two decades, the Folsbys embrace their checkered destinies as Barbara and Brett battle for future control of the empire--never guessing that a trusted family friend with a hidden agenda is quietly manipulating them all.Lawrence Sanders's Guilty Pleasures flawlessly blends suspense and scandal to create a unique reading experience that jolts even as it fascinates. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Disjointed, pointless and pointlessly sordid
I think the title of my review says it all.I came across this book at a beach house where we were staying.Doesn't even qualify as a good "beach read."I derived no pleasure from this novel, guilty or otherwise.The only reason I kept reading was to see how many chapters it would take for a plot to develop.It never did. Stay away!Time is a too valuable a gift to waste.

Total waste of time
I voted one star only because thats as low as it goes. I listened to this book on audiotape so I guess that is better than reading this garbage.It was stupid to say the least. Never again!

PROBABLY THE WORSE BIT OF FICTION I EVER READ.I mean this one is beyond horrible.
Seldom do I find a book which is absolutely devoid of any redeeming features.I can normally find something to like in just about anything I read.Well folks, this one fell right into the "seldom" section of my reading agenda.I was unable to find one reason to recommend this work to any individual I know.

Now do not take me wrong.I am no stranger to bad writing, sex, violence, poor plots, and general other disgusting material, but I have to admit I met my match here. I can also assure you that I am no prude..no, no, no..far from it, butI cannot even be sure if I could describe the story line the author attempts.

I think this is about a rather decadent family of rich people who are in the publishing industry and the wife of our protagonist is dying.The couple's children are very, very sick little puppies and the book is so disjointed and out of sync that even if I wanted to throw in a few spoilers, I would have difficulty doing so.

I suppose (trying to be Polly Anna here) that if you are into gratuitous incest, gratuitous bisexual acts, gratuitous interracial rutting...yes folks, I said rutting, which is a lot different that a nicely done sex scene.I could not show you one example in this book were any of the many sexual acts had anything at tall to do with the story...unless of course this author meant this to be one of those anthologies that were so popular back in the 70s which offered one strange bit of sexual activity after another with absolutely no cohesiveness attempted what so ever.At least with those old books you knew what you were getting when you bought them.I would quote some of the sex scenes here but I am pretty sure they would not get by the Amazon censors and I am also afraid that they are so poorly done that you would start giggling and not be able to finish this review.

I absolutely despise the term "character development" and seldom if ever use it in my reviews as I feel that it is a catchall term and much in this area lies in the eye of the beholder; or reader, if you will.But in this case I am forced to use it simply because it is absolutely and completely absent in this work and I know of no other way to say it.This entire work seems to be a series of cardboard figures onto which the author has hung a bunch of silly and downright disgusting sexual acts on and has done so to shock and make a few bucks. I must say that the dialong in this one is horrid too. It read like a Jr. High student was trying to sound adultish.

Now I understand that this work was published after the author's death.I strongly suspect that a bunch of greedy relatives or publishers took a few notes from the deceased author's desk and said "hey, let's try to squeeze a few more bucks out of this money sponge." How sad.WereI this author I would be quite displeased to have my name on the thing; even if I were dead.

If you have someone you really, really dislike I would suggest this work for their next present.Although you will have to use some other copy than the one I have here as mine now resides under a very wet clay pot full of geraniums to help save my wife's shelf top.I fear the book is no longer readable...which is probably best.I am truly embarrassed for the author.

Don Blankenship
The Ozarks

Very disapointing
Not much of a story line.Just a group of people that were involved in 'controversial activities' such as incest, inter-racial coupling, convienence marriages, etc.Did not enjoy.

A waste of time
This book is a waste of time, trite, predictable and sorid. Shame on the author for throwing many of life's ugly aspects into one book. You can't help but think he had a contract for a book and simply looked for the easiest way to compile titilating issues; homosexuality, aids, incest, biracial relationships, infidelity, illness, back stabbing greed, etc. Nothing redeems this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Planning out a multimillion-dollar jewel heist as material for a new novel, which she hopes will restore her flagging career, mystery writer Jannie Shean is horrified when her perfect crime is enacted right in front of her. Reissue. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Best Lawrence Sanders book by far
This is one of my favorite books in the world. I first read it as a teenager in the late 80's and then again in the late 90's.And, much to my amazement, for a novel that was written in 1980, I was pleasantly surprised to find, when I re-read it this past weekend (in 2009) that it holds up remarkably well, given its age.This book is not like any of the other Lawrence Sanders novels, nor is it really like anything else in its supposed "genre".My only complaint is that a happy ending would have made this book perfect.Also, when I saw the movie "From Dusk Till Dawn" several years ago (which has nothing whatsoever to do with CAPER) I couldn't help but wonder if Quentin Tarantino got the idea for the sudden plot twist in the middle of that movie, from the equally (totally) unexpected plot twist that occurs about a third of the way through CAPER.This book is a great read that will stay with you long after you've finished the last page.

Just different
I have read this book 4 ou 5 times now, and I guess I will read it again.
This is not what you could objectively call a good book, well written, with a solid plot and really believable and thick characters.
However this book has something, something different from standard crime novels. Maybe it's the plot construction, beginning with the game-like crime exploration made by a upper-class female novelist, followed by a twist plot at mid-book, and ending with a sad and bloody road movie.
Maybe this comes from the characters too, which have some refreshing lightness even if you can't believe them as true.
But this is an enjoyable book and you end up involved in the story and with Jannie Shean, Dick Flemming and Jack Donohue.

Back Cover Description
Lawrence Sanders, presents a spellbinding masterpiece, featuring 'the perfect crime.'A mystery writer turns thief and plans a multi-million dollar heist.A fortune in jewels.A lifetime of leisure.A make beleive caper that turns horribly and murderously real...

Suspends belief
Jannie Shean is a moderately successful writer of thrillers, using at least 6 pen names to churn out "penny dreadfuls" as fast as the public will buy them. When the sales of her books begin to dry up, her publisher suggests that she gets out into the real world to gain some life experience, instead of slavishly copying the writing styles of writers of previous generations like Mickey Spillane. Jannie and her friend Dick Fleming plan a jewellery theft and getaway plan, exactly as if it were actually going to happen, even to the point of contacting a group of men of dubious character, to be their gang. Needless to say, it all gets out of hand and the adventurous, amateur crooks find themselves involved in real crime and the marks for mob heavies. It was all quite exciting, with Jannie dressing and acting like a floosie and sleeping with two men at the same time, but so highly improbable that it suspends belief.

In the same grand style as the "Deadly Sins" series....
It has been quite a while since I became captivated by a particular author, but Lawrence Sanders has a style and way with words that help me to visualize the words on the page into a film that plays in my mind.Caper is the 7th Lawrence Sanders work I have read, and I am happy to report that this work is on par with the excellent work of his "Deadly Sins" series.The writing is crisp, the ideas well thought out, and the characters interesting and creative.The McNally Series of books by Sanders are awfully simplistic and tiresome to read, but Caper and the Deadly Sins works are a pure joy.

The story revolves around a writer who finds she needs to insert "realism" into her work as a detective novelist.How does she do this?By attempting to live the life of a criminal.... planning a big heist.... but backing out at the last moment.... or will she?

Fun and enjoyable, this work has allowed me to find what I really enjoy about Sanders work again after the dull and insipid McNally works. ... Read more

Product Description
The negotiator for a large petroleum exploration project in Africa becomes embroiled in a hotbed of international intrigue and violence when he finds himself caught up in a political coup d'etat. Reissue." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Solid Read
Odd that these Tangent books of Sander's have dropped into the memory hole. They are still easy to find in chain book stores like Borders and B&N, but you wont see a fan site or much of a wikipedia entry.

The plot is more grounded in reality than the better known McNalley books of the '90's and is more satisfying. Saunder still has the light touch to his writing that draws the reader through chapter to chapter before they know it.

In this case the setting is post-Colonial Africa and Peter Tangent is an amoral oil company exec who uses his slush funds and make things a little better for the inhabitants while turning a profit in sewing up oil contracts for his company. He flys in and out from London private clubs to down trodden African villages tipping over a dictator with a whisper campaign, a little political posturing and some direct action in the form of arms smuggling.

A good read, and probably some post colonial character you havent seen before. Its dated, but in some way that increases its charm. ... Read more

Product Description
While investigating a wealthy widow's possible purchase of an Imperial Faberge+a7 egg, the strange behavior of family advisors, her children, and an aged antiques dealer plunges Archy McNally into a mess of greed, passion, and murder. 200,000 first printing. $200,000 ad/promo.Amazon.com Review
Archy McNally, the hero of Lawrence Sander's latest whodunitMcNally's Gamble is a throwback to an earlier, more graciousage. He lives well, dresses well, and keeps hours that DashiellHammet's "Thin Man," Nick Charles, would approve of. Whennot wining, dining, or driving his fire-engine red Miata around PalmBeach, Archy keeps discreet tabs on the wealthy clients of hisfather's law firm.Then one day, Edythe Westmore, a well-to-do widow,considers buying a Fabergé Imperial Egg and all hell breaksloose. Her children are displeased, her lawyer (Archy's father) isconcerned, and Archy is up to his neck in intrigue.

Sanders writes a serviceable mystery, but the real pleasure inMcNally's Gamble is Archy. Imagine Bertie Wooster as adetective, or Lord Peter Wimsey a Floridian, and you'll have some ideaof Archy. Though he describes himself as "a frivolousscatterbrain," he has enough discipline to solve the case and, bythe end, land the girl, as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Silver Ghost Rolls In Faberge Egg. Roll The Dice
This one opened with a fast-moving, jazzy rescue of a kidnaped child, capturing me with Archy's warmth to the victim's father, and the hint of a crime to come which was billed to be more heinous than a child kidnaping.

Following quickly on the heals of the rescue, I settled into the main plot, riding along with Archy's loving machinations in prep for his father's birthday dinner, after which the family cocktail hour sported the pater's introduction to Archy of his new assignment.The mater was invited into the act by a request from her husband to describe how her friend and contemporary, Edythe Westmore, a client of the McNally law firm, seemed to have been taken in by a flimflam financial advisor with egg on his agenda, which would eventually be on his face, if justice prevailed and Archy's Discrete Investigations got a clue.

No unsettling, Gothic castle with Adams family cast offs in this one.Whereas McNally's CAPER (see my previous review on that devious delight) captured like a dark, luxuriously rich ale, GAMBLE captured with quality champagne easing the pain of a soured budget diminishing in a cash flop (executed by the financial wizard fop).

Archy fizzed nicely through this plot with just the right amount of bubble and bounce, keeping the light hearted intrigue moving until the enigma-of-the-egg enhanced entertainment to arrive at an all time high in this series.

Sanders easily cajoled me into feeling quite a bit of empathy for Walter, who stood the most to lose if his mother, Edythe-of-the-egg-contemplations, continued translating her T-Bills into the devious dead ends devised by, was it Felix Katz or Frederick Clemens who was actually running the condo-based show of the cash con.Walter was established as a thwarted genius in uncovering bipedal beginnings of hominoid critters, through dirt-churning in Africa.He had lost his bases of funding for the necessary continuation of African adventures, and had turned to Mommie Dearest for replenishment and extension of his research there.But Edythe was more impressed with her slick investment-aid-and-abettor's egg, than her son's upturning more dirt around the origins of knuckles lifting up into "sandwiches" instead of dredging, hit-and-miss among rotted leaves on the ground floors of primitive jungles.

Based on the syntax and word choice of my previous sentence, I've sentenced myself by the crime of having indulged in too long of a tour of Archy's series.Be warned:The way Archy talks rubs off.In any case, isn't Palm Beach just another version of Africa, same ole with The Pelican Club and clusters of mansions steaming up the causes of civilization?Of course when comparing Palm Beach to Africa, we all rise a few levels from nests of vipers to first-class cons and prettier palms.Or was that rise a Dante descent in disguise?(Don't get me wrong, here; Sanders has cured me into a Palm Beach fan.)

One of Archy's enduring and endearing characters, the old, moldy, Antique shop owner, Sydney Smythe warmed his way into my heart in this one, worming in through a few choice words from Sanders describing Mr. Smythe's actions and reactions to Archy's interjections.It's amazing how much empathy for a character Sanders develops with light, limited touches of syntax, especially in contrast to the heavyweight, plethora of mouth-fulls he pours through Archy's mug.

Given the entertaining way Archie dances his way through this plot labyrinth and its resolution, if GAMBLE becomes a movie, it may have to be billed as a complexly delightful musical, no con intended.

I particularly enjoyed the tongue-in-cheek interjection of the klutz criminals from Boston (Larry, Moe, and Curly, reduced, cloned and given aliases).Was this an all-in-fun, missing-cross-link reference to Boston based Spenser's gang?

Spenser and Archy couldn't have more divergent styles, yet I enjoy both (see my reviews on Parker's Spenser, too).As their fans know, what these characters' authors have in common is an uncommon skill with syntax; they make words fly and dance with the rhythm of sun.Unadulterated or shrouded in clouds, the sun keeps pace with the effervescence of life, captured by authors at one with their craft.

In the Spirit-of-Fun, may we forever linger in Archy's finesse and enigmas,

Linda G. Shelnutt

Amusing fluff
Archie Mcnally, consumate dandy and endearing modern day Berie Wooster, is up to his usual tricks in this tale of murder, con-tricks and extortion. Set in Palm Beach, Florida, Archie is employed by his fathers' law firm to investigate the troubles suffered by the firms' clients in a completely discreet fashion, and to find a way around those troubles without scandal or the need to call in the police. Mrs. Edythe Westmore is a wealthy but rather stupid client of the McNally law firm who is being gulled into the purchase of a Faberge Imperial egg, at the cost of half a million dollars, by a couple of smooth crooks. Her son and daughter are furious at what they consider to be the wasting of their inheritances and beg Archie to help them to expose the financial advisors who are urging their mother to invest with them. For all his foppish ways, Archie isn't quite as wet as everyone believes, and does a creditable job in foiling con men and thugs alike. To me, he seems like a cross between the Scarlet Pimpernel and Dashiell Hammetts' "Thin Man". It's light, amusing fluff with mouth watering descriptions of food, expensive cars and Archies' eclectic taste in dashing clothes...a good, light, fun read.

McNally eggstracts con artist
Was this book a fun read?Eggxactly.Archy is employed to discover if a rich woman's proposed Faberge egg investment is on the up and up.Is it?Of course not, and we all know who the good guys and bad guys are all along, but the book is fun nevertheless.The rich woman's kids have motives of their own, which add to the interest.And the crooks are very entertaining, and Archy spends a lot of time dancing with them as he tries to con them as well.

I particularly enjoy McNally books that have less Binky, like this one.

A B-List Jeeves
The late Mr. Sanders owes a great deal to P.G. Wodehouse whose Jeeves stories are the style source for Archie McNally, Palm Beach playboy and scion in a stuffy law office. Sanders enjoys the same deft wordplay and skewed insights that make Jeeves and Bertie such a pleasure to follow. This novel has a colorful set of characters ranging from louche to larcenous and a nimble plot. It even has a Pelicans (read: Drones) Club where, as expected, the staff is brighter than the membership. A fast read and diverting.

A bit pedestrian but still ok.
The trick here is not to emulate Travis McGee who is far too free-wheeling with his sex drives. There is still hope for McNally. Except for his petty weaknesses McNally did ok in this novel. The trick is taking him with a grain of salt. If you can't do that read some other sleuth. ... Read more

Product Description
A beautiful cop goes undercover--and under the sheets--to catch one of the biggest con artists in Florida in a sexy, steamy bestseller from the master of the erotic thriller.

"Fascinating."-- Wall Street Journal

"Perhaps the best such one since Silence of the Lambs."--Mystery Scene

From the New York Times #1 bestselling author of McNally's Dilemma and McNally's Risk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Sullivan's Sting: A Biting Romance
Rita Sullivan, a cop hired to set up a sting on a petty thief, gets to do her job the old-fashioned way, in bed. But she winds up falling in love with the ne'er-do-well and before you know it, the lovelorn nerdy guy down at police headquarters, who also has a thing for Rita, is jealous. The aim of the cops is to nab the mastermind and his ring of thieves, but since Rita stops cooperating with her cop boss once she falls in love, it takes a little longer. Meanwhile, her criminal boyfriend's crimes get worse and you can guess he ain't gonna get married and settle down anytime soon. I enjoyed the book, although it lacked a certain animation.The author's series featuring Archy McNally are more entertaining.
However, Lawrence Sander's clever, zippy style is fun as always.

Great Cons, Great Read!
I was surprised by the negative reviews of Sullivan's Sting - it was a terrific read, and I highly recommend it.The plot is basically about a group of people, including members of the police, who are all doing scams on each other in one form or another.I thought the characters were complex and entertaining.Other reviewers didn't care for the ending because Mr. Sanders doesn't take the readers to the final action between the antagonists and protagonists.However, I thought it worked because it is obvious what happens to the characters, and there is a plot point he ties up neatly.His writing reminds of Elmore Leonard and to a lesser extent Carl Hiassen.I had obviously heard of Lawrence Sanders before, but for some reason his books never interested me enough to pick up.I plan to immediately go out and purchase as many of them as I can.

Sander's Sting
Loved the book for the first 338 pages but the last 10 basically destroyed it.Sanders books are usually well-plotted with interesting, if slightly dishevled, characters and situations.This one followed the same basic format but self-destructed in the end.He built characters who took turns scamming each other but at the finish, only the reader was scammed. Not a good effort from a writer who usually produces.

"The Sting" this book ain't
I picked up a copy of this book for $2 on a discount rack and I wasted my money. Character development was virtually non-existant with a storylinealmost impossible to believe. Everyone jumping into bed with everyone elseand everyone scamming from each other...including the cops scamming fromeach other. And practically no ending at all. After reading KING CON byStephen J. Cannell, I was hoping for something similar but no such luck.

Wanting more about Rita and David :)
WOW..I just got done reading Sullivan's Sting...what an amazing book, I could not put it down and when I finally did I jumped online to find if there was a follow up to it anywhere..I'd love to know? Amazing piece ofwork Mr Sanders Congrats :-) ... Read more

Product Description
A brilliant and renowned actor is forced to undertake the most demanding role in his career when he must play out his own death scene, in a story of sex, suspense, revenge, and desire. Reissue. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great Book - Great Writer - Buy This Book.
Its Lawrence Sanders so your sure to be entertained. I read this book 25 years ago and just reordered and enjoyed for a second time. its set on the actors stage but I never like to share much info when reviewing novels.

Let me just say the book will tickle your eye's and expand your imagination.

Toby Marlow is an extremely memorable character. Great Book, enjoy.

John Halloran San Juan, PR
Certified Gold Exchange, Inc

Excellent
I'm not sure why this one isn't more well-known since it is a rather old book.The tale is always relevant and I enjoyed Sanders' style.

The overview of the plot given on the review page is quite accurate but I think you'll find the ending to be quite powerful.Definitely there is a good build-up of emotion as the tale proceeds.Get a nice hot pot of tea and a comfortable chair for this one! ... Read more

Product Description
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author--ashocking thriller about one man's erotic obsession...and the deadlyprice of pleasure.

"Totally engrossing."-- Kansas CityStar"Sanders is one of our great ones."-- PittsburghPress"A master of suspenses."-- The WashingtonPost

"Classic Sanders."-- Dallas Morning News ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Where's the movie??
This book was given to me by a girl friend because my name happens to be ... Peter S.! Well, you can guess the rest. I was seduced by this book. It contains everything: a good story, the rise & fall of, funny characters and a lot of action. You can read this one over and over again without getting bored. Except when it comes to the description of food & beverages, where Sanders shows off his being a Man of the World a bit too much. Unless of course you prefer an exquisite lunch before sex every time.
The Seduction is not an absolute masterpiece - the ending is way too predictable and the dialogues are contrived at times - but where is the movie? If I were a film director I would have adopted this story long ago. Certfified gold.

Excellent like Swift, Bruce J. Friedman, Chandler, and Vonnegut
You might consider not paying attention to the reviews that pan this gem. Gem's tend to be little so who with a sense of humor who is reasonably well read and reasonably well-experienced in life will carp about the second half of the book being "predictable" ?Rhetorical questions aside, I admit I am not of the attention-deficit nation--I don't need three announcers and live-phone interviews while i'm watching a football game. As a pedestrian non-know it all and imperfect English teacher, I can let the cat out of the bag and for my penny suggest that plot is often over-rated. On the other hand: characterization, a genuine warm hebraic sense of humor (as opposed to the modern irony where everyone is stupid except oneself and his/her circle of the knowing and the mean-spirited) ability with the English language,and implied author-- a.k.a. the personality and writing ability of the author are often under appreciated. This is a witty fine book. Sanders when he wants to can write funny, true and well.

A Super-Seductive, Thoroughly Entertaining Read!!
Late one afternoon Peter Scuro, a thirty-six year-old out of work actor, hits his favorite Manhattan bar, aptly named the "Loser's Place," after being told by yet another casting director that they're looking for a "younger type." Peter is on his second martini when a woman, covered in mink, wearing dark glasses, hands him fifty dollars and asks him, "your place?" Outside, waiting for a cab, he asks, "Why me?" She answers, "You look reasonably clean." She turns out to be Martha Twombly, late forties, dependent on make-up, hairdresser, and aerobics for her passing looks. Confident, she cruises when "in the mood." Martha and Peter get to know each other a little better, if that is possible, and come up with an outrageous business plan.

They decide to provide a service for bright, successful, wealthy and/or lonely women who are looking for a male company, but not emotional attachments - women who will pay for what they want. Peter and Martha open an exclusive establishment where moneyed women can buy their fantasy, for an hour or so. The idea takes-off and the business becomes successful and expands. Problems arise, including those unique to the business of prostitution.

This is as much a character study as a thriller or mystery. Martha describes Peter perfectly when she tells him, "You are in the flesh game because you like easy money, you enjoy sex, you like women, you like to be on, you like to live by your wits, you can't stand the thought of a regular nine-to-five job - you've got a million motives for doing what you're doing." Yet Peter also seeks intimacy and never expects to come into contact with violence. He strives to become part of the "overworld," of wealth and power - one of the movers and shakers - but doesn't realize how much violence can be involved in achieving his vision of success.

Lawrence Sanders has written a different kind of book with "The Seduction Of Peter S." It is edgey, but is also filled with humor. Some of the vignettes of the male prostitutes and their female tricks are very funny, as are many of the characters and their foibles. One of Sander's premises is that women have achieved equality with men in many areas, so why not in the world's oldest profession - with a role reversal? I found the novel to be extraordinarily entertaining, well written, and one of Sanders' best.
JANA

The Seduction of Jeff R
My name is Jeff Richmond.I'm the kind of guy who goes through libraries asking, "Is this all there is?"

Finding Lawrence Sander's "The Seduction of Peter S" was like picking up the perfect girl in the most average place--a bar, a supermarket, or a library for that matter.Perfect not because of any great or lasting beauty, or any real depth of character, but because I didn't have to pretend to be anyone but who I really am--an average reader who craves an above-average read.

And an above-average read is exactly what this book is.Not Shakespeare, Dostoevsky, or even Hemingway.But a quick-moving, captivating story of one sorry actor's thankless performance to his most devoted audience--himself.

Peter Scuro may not be Broadway's finest, nor its most in-demand actor.But he's "always on," as they say, and with at least enough skill to fool himself, along with a good number of fellow out-of-work actors, into thinking he can turn woman's oldest profession into a new form of theater, reaping not only money and booty, but aesthetic satisfaction as well.The result is mostly comic--but as in all good comedies a certain seriousness grounds the narrative, otherwise as light as an episode of "Frasier."

The prose not only clips along.With sentences chopped up.Into their respective grammatical elements.Providing a certain theatrical effect.(Much better than this.)But also the sentences flow along naturally, wonderfully, from descriptions as sparse yet effective as stage directions to thoughts on life rendered as precise theatrical images and analogies.There are even moments of Joycean epiphany--a certain poetry, I mean--though, granted, "epiphany (very) light."

"Think of God as a clown," Peter says on the first page of the book. "A bridge collapses?Slapstick.A thousand people drown when a boat sinks?A great schtick."Not an exact quote, but you get the gist.Peter's spiritual and ontological views justify his actions; they also are justified through them.In the end, God, or at least poetic justice, has the last laugh.

I could go on and on.And I have.I've read this book twice, that's twice as many times as I ever read this sort of novel--I'm an average reader, yes.OF Shakespeare, Dostoevsky, Hemingway and company.The book is no Classic, but it's a classic, for what it is.A five-star above-average average read.

"The Seduction of Peter S" stood my test of time, however; the encore read was well rewarded and I know I'll read it again.Probably the next time I'm relaxing on a beach somewhere in the mood for the literary equivalent of a summer affair.

I highly recommend this book to any and all readers.The only disappointment is that it made me want to read other books by the author, but it was the ONLY one of Sander's novels I've been able to finish (ie. get past page 3).

I guess I'm looking for a younger type.

I did not enjoy this book.
This book was recommended through the Amazon "Book Finder" based on my interest in intrigue/spy, etc. titles. I bought it, but wish I hadn't.I never really understood what the author was trying to tell us about Peter or his situation.Although it's a quick read, I actually forgot to finish it and found it several days later in my study, face down, with about 5 pages left to read. I won't try this author again. ... Read more

Product Description
Richie, Ed, Don, and other kids share a series of adventures while preparing for the annual coaster car race in their small Arkansas town during World War II. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

fantastic member
Seller delivers fantastic same day service.Book arrives exactly as described.Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
In this New York Times bestseller, Lawrence Sanders rips the lid off the private life--and public scandal--of a Hollywood superstar. A story as wicked and wild as the tabloid headlines...as only Sanders could tell it.

*Lawrence Sanders is a #1 New York Times bestselling author

*Stolen Blessings was a New York Times bestseller

"A master of suspense!"--Washington Post ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

a lot sillier than you might think
This book features a madcap adventure of stolen human eggs, with multiple gangsters, actors, deranged fans, a philosophical priest, and CIA agents across the globe.The adventure is funny, but the romance between the spoiled actress and the police officer is too difficult to believe.

Lawrence Sanders at his best
Lawrence Sanders has written one of his best books. The story involves a Hollywood movie actress (Marilyn Taylor) who agrees to a laparoscopy of her eggs so she can provide in vitro fertilization for her best friend. Theeggs get stolen and that is when the fun starts. The eggs are stolen byhalf a dozen people -- a crazy fan, the LA and Chicago Mafia, a sleezymovie producer, a professional thief and his Asian "friend" and awashed-up movie actor. The NYPD assign an officer to handle the case onlyto become romantically entwined with Marilyn Taylor. Sanders creates agreat story with lots of twists and turns and plenty of excitement. Thisbook was funny and enjoyable to read. ... Read more

Product Description
The story of two men divided by greed and honor-but united by the one woman who loves them both. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The best
The Tangent Factor is one of my favorite books, that is in my personal room. I would refer this book to as many people as I can. This was the best book that I have laid my hands on. that as been a lot of books before and after i read it. PHC @Hiram High School ... Read more

Product Description
The #1 master of suspense...Case closed!

In the sun-and-rum-drenched inner circles of Florida's Gold Coast, evil disguises itself as a precocious eight-year-old with unnatural desires---and murderous intentions...

One of Sanders' most provocative bestsellers!

"A master of suspense!"--Washington Post ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

a cold and shallow book
This is a ludicrous cardboard account of psychiatric practice and of people who need psychiatric help.It seems as though the author gathered elsewhere a few short threads of fact, took them home and twisted them into personal pretzel shapes of mild soft porn.Definitely, a little learning is a dangerous thing and the archaic postulation of "penis envy" made me hoot.The narcissic adults were as unconvincing as paper dolls.Some of the material involving children actually seemed uncomfortably like the author's indulgence in private fantasy you hope he doesn't take beyond the printed page. It was hard to reconcile the author's self important tone with this immature and improbable story.Or maybe not. I was stuck in a place with absolutely nothing else to read.Zero stars.

Zero stars is too many
This book is about a young girl who is not sexually normal.Her psychiatrist doesn't even seem normal.Her whole family seems abnormal.I think this book is sick.I do not recommend it.

A Classic!!
If you're only going to read one book from Lawrence Sanders, read this one!It is absolutely shocking but so well written and so cleverly plotted that you will never quite realize what you just read!!It's scandalous but all-wrapped up in a neat and unique style.Sanders could be unpredictable and wasn't always on the mark but this one is an all-time classic.

Disturbing, but NOT soft-core porn
Just have to defend this book, which I have read many times and still think achieves a lot in terms of characterization and plot for a trashy mass market novel. It does indeed involve a variety of disturbing subject matter, and some involves children (though Sanders clearly does not condone it).But it is not soft-core porn, for goodness' sake. It uses sex to keep your attention...what an unusual concept!! ...Also I love all the discussion of their business deals and speculation about the looming "home video" market. Lots going on here, something for everyone.

To Remember...
I first read this book about 10 years ago and, to this very day, when I am asked what book I would recommend as a suspenseful and dramatic read, The Case of Lucy Bending is the first thought to materialize on my lips. In my opinion, along with Lawrence Sanders' "The Third Deadly Sin", it is one of the most thrilling and captivating books I've ever read - and I've read many! It touches on situations that society would like to ignore or brush under a rug - even in this day - but are undeniably happening.

The Case of Lucy Bending is not for the faint of heart. It is a brazen tale of a little girl who is dealing with issues no young person should be exposed to. It is not a 'dark' read by any means; there are many comical moments throughout the book and heartfelt ones as well. It will leave a definite impression with you. One you will never forget. ... Read more

Product Description
The classic acoustics reference! This widely-used book offers a clear treatment of the fundamental principles underlying the generation, transmission, and reception of acoustic waves and their application to numerous fields. The authors analyze the various types of vibration of solid bodies and the propagation of sound waves through fluid media. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Good book on the mathematics of acoustics for engineers
This book is aimed squarely at engineering students who want to learn the mathematics of acoustics. There is very little in the realm of standing back and asking "So what does this all mean?". From the very first chapter the author dives into deriving equations that use calculus, Laplace transforms, the Fourier series and transform, circuit analysis, digital filters, and the Z- transform as well as some differential equations. There are few examples in the book, but there are problem sets that expect you to understand the theory and math well enough to apply it numerically with more intuitive knowledge than is presented. It can be done, but you'll have to read carefully when doing the exercises to figure out how to get from A to B. If you are interested in acoustics this is probably an essential reference pertaining to the mathematical aspects of the science, but you'll need other books to get the big picture. I'd recommend the old Schaum's Outline of Acoustics by Seto as a companion to this book since it has lots of examples. Unfortunately, it is out of print and you'll probably have to hunt for it.

An excellent textbook
This is a classic engineering text on acoustics for upper division college students.It first appeared in 1950.And now it is back fifty years later in a fourth edition.In the meantime, the original two authors have passed away.However, Coppens and Sanders have done a fine job in keeping the book up-to-date.

Plenty of exercises have been added, and answers to many odd-numbered problems are in the back of the book.I think it is an excellent introduction to the field (yes, I expect you to have studied calculus and differential equations as an underclassman).It's my favorite of the classic engineering acoustics textbooks.

Two new chapters have been added in this edition, one on nonlinear acoustics and the other on shock waves.That's a very good idea.If I were teaching an acoustics class with an earlier edition of the book, I'd refer students to Landau Volume 6 (Fluid Mechanics) to get some of this missing information.

Actually, I wish the authors had added a couple more chapters, one on ultrasonics and another on instruments of music.That still would not cover all of acoustics, but I feel these topics are fairly important.

Anyway, I really like the book, and I'd be happy to teach a class using it.

Not an introductory text
This text in not an introductory work, it is geared toward upper division college or graduate level engineering work.By this I am referring to the math level in the book.If you are not willing to work with partial differential equations, integrals, dot products, cross products and dell operators stay away from this book, it is intended for engineering students and not for audio, broadcast, or film students looking for a greater understanding of sound/acoustics.

Here is a list of the chapters:
Fundamentals of vibration; Transverse motion - the vibrating string; Vibrations of bars; The two-dimensional wave equation: vibrations of memberanes and plates; The acoustic wave equation and simple solutions; Transmission phenomena; Absorption and attenuation of sound waves in fluids; Radiation and reception of acoustic waves; Pipes, cavities, and waveguides; resonators, ducts, and filters; Noise, signal, detection, hearing, and speech; Environmental acoustics; Architectural acoustics; Transduction; Underwater acoustics.

OK, but better texts available
Personally, I was disappointed by the fourth edition of this venerable text, for it has become increasingly mathematical and problem oriented.If you like sitting down and whiling away your afternoon with a problem set -- this is the text for you.But if instead you wish to study acoustics through a pedagogical method that is more verbal and graphical in nature -- better texts are available.

Indeed, in my opinion, prior editions (1950, 1962, 1981) of this same text are superior, particularly the second edition.Although these too have their share of integral calculus and complex algebra, the quantity is more appropriate for a discipline that is mostly science and engineering but with aspects of art to it as well.

Bear in mind that aside from a few specialized areas -- like ultrasonics and its use in non-destructive testing, or the use of digital processing in sound generation and analysis-- little new has come about in the field of acoustics since World War II. Thus unlike with most fields of science, there is no necessity to have the most modern texts to gather a wholly modern understanding of the field.

Indeed, I recently examined almost every text relating to acoustics contained in the circumferential stacks of the Barker Engineering Library under the Great Dome of M.I.T. (and sadly, there aren't as many texts as one might hope).I was surprised both at the age of most volumes in the collection -- and the fact that most had not been checked out of the library in years.

Indeed, from the "Date Due" slips in the back, you could see the field was very popular in the 1960's and 1970's, but popularity seemed to wain in the early 1980's -- approximately contemporaneously, curiously, with the introduction of the digital CD format of audio recording.

By the mid-1990's, at M.I.T., at least, interest in acoustics among faculty and students seem to have declined precipitiously, if the popularity of library texts and the quantity of student theses published in the field is any indication.

Of all the general texts on acoustics that I examined -- to me, one clearly stood out above the others.It was published in 1957 by the lead acoustical scientist at the RCA Research Laboratories in Princeton, New Jersey, Harry F. Olsen, Ph.D. It is entitled, "Acoustical Engineering", although it contains all the fundamental science as well.This text was reprinted in 1991 and is currently available.

Olsen's work is surely a magnum opus, comprising 736 pages and 567 illustrations. It has its fair share of math, but the concepts are often additionally explained through well-crafted line drawings, showing, for example, wave forms drawn in progressive fashion in serial graphs, some of which are designed so that one can even mentally rotate the graphics to gather a three-dimensional perspective.Furthermore, the graphs are often supplemented by equivalent mechanical and electrical analogs, to further assist in understanding.

Best of all, Olsen explains virtually everything acoustical you would ever want to know, from theories of acoustical wave propagation, to an enormous variety of loudspeaker designs, to the mathematical reasoning behind Johann Sebastian Bach's tempered tuning of musical instruments, an artistic practice that is almost universal today.

Thus if it is a text for a problem-oriented course in acoustics that one seeks -- the fourth edition of the "Fundamentals of Acoustics" is a fine text.However, if one wishes to have a ready reference that is extraordinarily comprehensive, or a pedagogical work that doesn't focus on mathematical derivations, better choices can surely be made.

OK, but better texts available
Personally, I was disappointed by the fourth edition of this venerable text, for it has become increasingly mathematical and problem oriented. If you like sitting down and whiling away your afternoon with a problem set -- this is the text for you. But if instead you wish to study acoustics through a pedagogical method that is more verbal and graphical in nature -- better texts are available.

Indeed, in my opinion, prior editions (1950, 1962, 1981) of this same text are superior, particularly the second edition. Although these too have their share of integral calculus and complex algebra, the quantity is more appropriate for a discipline that is mostly science and engineering but with aspects of art to it as well.

Bear in mind that aside from a few specialized areas -- like ultrasonics and its use in medical imaging and non-destructive testing, or the use of digital processing in sound generation and vibration analysis -- little new has come about in the field of acoustics since World War II. Thus unlike with most fields of science, there is no necessity to have the most modern texts to gather a wholly modern understanding of the field (with a few minor exceptions).

Indeed, I recently examined almost every text relating to acoustics contained in the circumferential stacks of the Barker Engineering Library under the Great Dome of M.I.T. (and sadly, there aren't as many texts as one might hope). I was surprised both at the age of most volumes in the collection -- and the fact that most had not been checked out of the library in years.

Indeed, from the "Date Due" slips in the back, you could see the field was very popular in the 1960's and 1970's, but popularity seemed to wane in the early 1980's -- approximately contemporaneously, curiously, with the introduction of the digital CD format of audio recording.

By the mid-1990's, at M.I.T., at least, interest in acoustics among faculty and students seem to have declined precipitiously, if the popularity of library texts and the quantity of student theses published in the field is any indication.

Of all the general texts on acoustics that I examined -- to me, one clearly stood out above the others. It was published in 1957 by Harry F. Olsen, Ph.D., the lead acoustical scientist at the RCA Research Laboratories in Princeton, New Jersey. It is entitled, "Acoustical Engineering", although the text contains all the fundamental science as well. This volume was reprinted in 1991 and is currently available.

Olsen's work is surely a magnum opus, comprising 736 pages and 567 illustrations. It has its fair share of math, but the concepts are often additionally explained through well-crafted line drawings, showing, for example, wave forms drawn in progressive fashion in serial graphs, some of which are designed so that one can even mentally rotate the graphics to gather a three-dimensional perspective. Furthermore, the graphs are often supplemented by art showing equivalent mechanical and electrical analogs, to further assist in understanding.

Best of all, Olsen explains virtually everything acoustical you would ever want to know, from theories of acoustical wave propagation, to an enormous variety of loudspeaker designs, to the mathematical reasoning behind Johann Sebastian Bach's tempered tuning of musical instruments, an artistic practice that is almost universal today.

Thus if it is a text for a problem-oriented course in acoustics that one seeks -- the fourth edition of the "Fundamentals of Acoustics" is a fine text. However, if one wishes to have a ready reference that is extraordinarily comprehensive, or a pedagogical work that doesn't focus on mathematical derivations, better choices can surely be made. ... Read more

Product Description
This suspenseful novel represents the first appearance of Lawrence Sanders' most famous character, Edward X. Delaney, and the masterpiece of murder and suspense that launched Sanders' career. Reissue. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A very different book, very entertaining
I read this book a few days ago and it is very interesting. It was a completly new style at the time it was written, and continues to be outstanding. The whole story is conveyed through tapes, so recorder knowingly while others from bugs and survailence devices. I would recommend it.

An interesting approach
I recently finished reading, "The Anderson Tapes", A book I purchased from Amazon.com. This was Lawrence Sanders first book. I found the unique method he used in writing the book - chapters done in reportstyle - entertaining. The book had a good blend of characteriaztion,suspense and dialogue. What I liked the most about the book was, eventhough most of the chapters were done in a report format, the characterscame to life on the page. A tribute to Mr. Sanders ability as a writer. Forthoses Lawrence Sanders fans, I recommend you give it a read.

Supposedly groundbreaking at the time ; run-of-the-mill now.
I found this book in a second-hand shop and, having seen the Sean Connery film, thought it would be worth a read. The plot itself is relativelysimple (a bunch of mafia-funded crooks heist a well-to-do apartmentbuilding), but the main raison d'etre is that all the plot and dialogue isrelayed via a series of witness statements or wiretaps. Whilst it is veryunlikely that all the wiretaps detailed in the book would all have been putin place by different federal units, it is even more unlikely that all thekey events in the build up to the heist would have been held in theprescence of these wire taps. Still, as a dramatic device, the noveltyvalue of this approach makes the book interesting. However, by writing thebook in this relatively fragmented fashion, the pace of the book does lagin the buildup to the heist; also, I found it hard to get into the minds ofany of the characters as most of the plot concerns what people say or dorather than what they think. This approach was supposedly groundbreaking atthe time the book was written (late 60's), but the book is prettyrun-of-the-mill now. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A superb book!
This is one of the best books I has reading this year (though it released almost 20 years ago...). The writting of sanders is great, intelligent and enjoyable. A book with a great openning, exallent ending and superior story! ... Read more