Simon Scarrow

Advantages: Good battles that are fast and furious, character depth beyond anything ive read before.
Disadvantages: onto the 8th book now, might be getting slightly same-y

...I have read all 8 of Simon Scarrows Roman Legion books and i would say this is definetly in the top 3! We have come to love Cato and Macro on their struggle through Gaul, Britain and Syria. For me the first two books were the best, its where we got to learn about Cato and Macro and their backgrounds, but now we see that Cato is no longer the scared boy he used to be, in many ways he is older than his veteran friend Macro. Macro simply see's a battle as a brawl, but relies on Cato to be the brains of the operation. In this book we see the pair in a struggle agaisnt the Parthians, defending the city Palmyras, a key stronghold in a political struggle, and already in revolt. Macro and Cato mustdefend the city from both itself and the parthians. I have read many Roman historical books and i find the way Scarrow distinguishes between... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Informative and well-written
Disadvantages: May only appeal to Simon and Garfunkel fans

...As a couple they wowed the world, separately they still managed to forge successful careers. "Simon and Garfunkel: The Definitive Biography" by Victoria Kingston is an in-depth look at the partnership which began as a childhood friendship in the 40s and developed into a musical collaboration which reached its apex in the late 60s. Through interviews with the two men themselves and many of their friends a unique portrait is drawn of their personal lives including their failed marriages, relationship to each other and their approach to music. It was fascinating to read of the stories behind the composing of some of their most famous songs such as Mrs Robinson, Sounds of Silence etc. In fact there is in-depth analysis of each album, which may perhaps limit the book's appeal to fans of Simon and Garfunkel. An absorbing read.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: You learn alot about the world
Disadvantages: Will leave you wanting more

...I first came across Ted Simon when watching the Long Way Round, and after finishing watching that i craved more, and was very far from disappointed when i gave this a try, especially since this was the book that sparked the whole idea. From page one i could put it down without feeling that i was missing out on a fantastic adventure. Ted Simon is an extremely generous author, and holds nothing back as he describes his epic 4 year experience. You'll finish this book craving more and with an amazing sense of pleasure of the world we live in as it paints picture that would have failed without the kindness and generosity of people from the all over the entire world. If you liked the long way round, you are guaranteed to love this.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful