by Peter Kingsley (1995)
Empedocles played a crucial role in the development of western culture; yet little is known or understood about this man, who lived in Sicily in the fifth century BC. That is mainly because his teaching has been reconstructed by modern scholars first and foremost on the basis of Aristotle's hostile reports producing a picture which is disconnected and lacking in depth. Using material never exploited before, this is the first full-scale study of Empedocles to situate his fragmentary writings in their original context of philosophy as a way of life, of mystery religion and magic, and of the struggle to realize one's own divinity. Apart from providing a firm basis for understanding Empedocles' own teaching, the book presents fresh evidence which proves he was not an isolated figure and reveals new links between his work and ancient Pythagoreanism. The process of establishing these links now makes it possible to demonstrate, in detail, the Pythagorean origin of Plato's myths: a point of major importance for our appreciation not just of Plato himself, but also of the subsequent history of Neoplatonism. The second half of the book re-examines problems regarding the connections between ancient magic, science, and religion. More specifically, it traces for the first time a line of transmission from Empedocles and the early Pythagoreans down to southern Egypt, and from there into the world of Islam. This neglected process of transmission is of profound significance for our understanding not only of Presocratic philosophy but also of key themes in Greco-Egyptian magic and alchemy, and of the background to Sufism and medieval mysticism.
Rosa Montero
When editor Sofia Zarzamala receives a threatening telephone call she realizes that the past that she thought had been forgotten has caught up with her, and she flees for her life while trying to come to terms with her relationships with her father and her brother.
Caroline B. Cooney
Janie's two families appear to have made peace. Life seems almost normal. Janie has even decided to speak to her former boyfriend, Reeve, again. But then Janie's Connecticut father suffers a sudden stroke, and this tragedy leaves her mother reeling. Janie must step in to manage family finances and to support her mother emotionally. While handling her father's business matters, Janie discovers the one undeniable fact that could destroy both of her beloved families. And she alone must decide what to do.From the Hardcover edition.
John Grisham
Framed is a celebrated work by John Grisham (Harper Lee Prize), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.
J.M. Redmann
New Orleans private detective Micky Knight has been hired to provide security for an exclusive party on the bucolic side of Lake Ponchartrain--the ideal job. But murder crashes this perfect party when the body of a young woman is found in the surrounding woods. Back in the city, Micky's former lover, Dr. Cordelia James discovers another body at her clinic.