Product Description
On a Mac, the sky's the limit for creating professional video. With all the tools available though, it can be a daunting task to decide which ones offer the best solutions for combined efficiency and high-level results. How can you effectively communicate your vision to clients and crew? How should you calibrate your camera for multi-camera and green screen shoots? Is it better to do your keying in After Effects, Motion, or Final Cut? How should you set up your edit suite for efficiency and accuracy? How do you manage large amounts of media and a multitude of formats for multiple software applications? In Video Made on a Mac, you'll learn the answers and much more. Chock-full of practical advice and step-by-step instructions, each chapter provides insight on the critical components of production and postproduction that can make all the difference when you're up against a tight budget and schedule. The accompanying DVD supplies you with project files and high-definition footage so you can follow along with the examples, as well as 50 training videos. Whether you're an advanced Mac user or just beginning to incorporate Adobe Creative Suite into your Final Cut Studio workflow, you'll learn to apply best-practice techniques to all your video projects.


... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Not a useful book for experienced editors.
I've been video editing on Final Cut Pro for about ten years now and I'm always looking for more information on ways to improve my work which is why I purchased this book. While this book may be very interesting to readers who are still new to editing and Final Cut specifically, I flipped through this book and couldn't find one specific tutorial that I wasn't already familiar with. I was looking for a guide of clever tips and shortcuts to improve my skills and work flow but ended up with a refresher guide to Final Cut editing. While the quality of this book is good, I don't see this being useful for experienced editors.

Video Made on a Mac
Video Made on a Mac
Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite


Richard Harrington
Robbie Carman
ISBN-13: 978-0-321-60472-9

This is a fantastic resource for those already well-versed in the fields of video production and image editing. You won't learn the actual software mentioned (After Effects and Final Cut Studio), but rather gain an overall perspective and useful tips while following along with the projects presented.

I found the production planning, budget, and project organization chapters especially useful in an otherwise technical resource guide. There were lots of useful tips on the sides of the pages as well. A lot of work goes into a production, and I learned about the various roles and expectations during the process. I also found the terminology useful for getting up to speed with real-world scenarios.

There's a DVD included that covers extra training as well as files that correspond with the lessons in the book. The appendix includes an excellent section on Working with DSLR Video.

The book's two authors not only teach the software but have gone on to speak at conferences, write books, and contribute regularly online.

look no further
I love love love this book. Read it cover to cover twice already. Been in this field for 30 years and still learned much from these two guys. The training videos alone are worth the price of the book.As is the chapter on how to organize a project more efficiently. As is the real-world-logical suggestions about how to use type in Motion.As is-- oh, stop reading this and buy the book!

Stephen Tyler
[...]

A Must Have for Pros and Hobbyists
I love this book. It is a daily reference. As a producer editor who has been working in tv for a long time, I'm not easy to impress. But by page 6 of this book Rich Harrington and Robbie Carman were teaching me things I didn't know. I wish I had this type of resource when I was starting out. It covers so much about how to actually make a video. Even PC users can benefit from the templates and information contained in this book. A clear winner - Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite

Essential reading
This book isn't just good... it's essential reading for all editor's and digital content creators.

What Harrington and Carman manage to do in fewer than 400 pages is help you sharpen your skills while providing tips and tricks on everything from Greenscreen solutions to crucial steps you must take for organization, archiving, review and approval.

A quick and easy (yet incredibly informative) read, you'll find yourself keeping a copy in your office as well as wanting one for your Kindle so they're guidance will always be close at hand.These guys are tops in their field for a reason.Whether you're working with Apple Final Cut Studio or Adobe Creative Suite... this book (and companion DVD with over 5 hours of training videos) will help you master the dark arts of "good" video creation and post-production.

I've been editing corporate videos, concerts, and indie features for over 15 years, and I still don't know it all... but these guys help me look as if I do. Again, if you make your living working in post-production, this is an absolutely indispensable tool for your arsenal. ... Read more

Product Description
A complete training package for Apple's new operating system

Mac OS X is used around the world, and users are eager to get started with Apple's newest operating system: Mac OS X Snow Leopard. Packed with step-by-step instructions, this full-color, all-inclusive training package serves as an invaluable learning tool for Mac users of all levels of experience.

Lesson files and video training is like having your own personal instructor guiding through each lesson, while you work at your own pace. The book-and-DVD combo delivers essential topics on Snow Leopard's new features and capabilities. Each tutorial is approximately five minutes long and demonstrates tasks such as customizing settings, working with the Finder, connecting peripherals, listening to music and podcasts, and troubleshooting common problems.

• Combines a full-color, step-by-step instructional book with lesson files and video training on a companion DVD
• Included 13 self-paced lessons that allow you to discover essential skills and explore the new features and capabilities of Apple's newest operating system, Snow Leopard
• Each tutorial is approximately five minutes long and demonstrates and explains the concepts and features covered in the lesson
• Coverage includes information on what's new in Snow Leopard, getting the most from the new features, customizing settings and working with the Finder, connecting peripherals and listening to music and podcasts, and maintaining and troubleshooting issues
• Jam-packed with information, this training package takes you from the basics through intermediate-level topics

Jam-packed with helpful information, this training package shows you how to get the most out of all that Mac OS X Snow Leopard has to offer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Got what I ordered. Great value! Just took too long to receive.
The book I ordered was just what I wanted.Great value for the book, however, the shipping took two weeks.

Alaska Apple User Group Review
Pro:Excellent tool for exploring the operating system Snow Leopard for purchase.Outstanding reference from install & getting started to troubleshooting.It is light, easy to handle, read, and look things up.Information is outlined for use page by page from overview of the critical path to deep drill down as needed.The author writes from an experiencedhands on approach.I can open any chapter in this book and work back or forward without getting lost.It is a gem.The accompanying DVD is an added bonus.It is great for working through difficult learning curves, as needed for those times when I need IT hand holding!It's the cat's meow.

Cons:I really can't think of one.Maybe that it dampens my interest in exploring other reference tools for this operating system.Maybe that it is not out in a Kindle version yet.Hair splitting.

For newbies only
I was about to switch over from PC to Mac after nearly 20 years and a high degree of familiarity (and frustration) with Windows. I wanted a visual guide of where to find things and how to do them; because obviously the Mac operating system is organized differently from what I had been using. The book, with nice pictures and step by step instructions, succeeds in providing the bare essentials for a someone new to computer; but is woefully incomplete.There are simply many subjects not touched on (there's for instance, no mention of the fact that Macs are not designed to Defrag, and a few that could have been omitted (does someone starting out really want to tackle Terminal(from what I can discern the Mac equivalent of a DOS window), when first starting out?The CD provided with the book provides little more than some files to push around.I had a ton of those from my previous computer.
I found that, perhaps because Snow Leopard is so stable and logical, I could stumble around the system, opening menus and windows and teaching myself how to do virtually everything I can do on a PC.If one is not intimidated by a new machine, and has some prior experience on computers, there surely are better books out there.

A must have for all levels of OSX Snow Leopard users
I am a seasoned OSX user and have been working on Macs for years. The content in this book has been enlightening and is on-the-money for any level of user. Whether your just making the switch to Macintosh or a veteran, this book is filled with detailed information. Every thing from navigating the finder to setting up your own home network, Chad has covered it all. This book is a must have, ready to grab at any moment of trouble for me. I even figured out how to get that old printer to work with Snow Leopard with the CUPS information in this book. The instructional DVD that is included has all the files needed for the step-by-step tutorials in the book as well as the bonus video training too. I have already recommend this book to friends that have not had a lot of experience with Mac OSX till now and they love it. Thank you to the author for all the hard work! No detail has been left out.

An Exceptional Snow Leopard Resource
Wether you are a novice to Mac and its operating systems or a seasoned veteran, then Snow Leopard - Digital Classroom is the perfect resource book to keep close at hand. With well written and easy to follow chapters, multitudes of illustrated reference points, and an added bonus of an informative training DVD, for us visual learners, this is an exceptional guide for learning OS X Snow Leopard and its applications. I highly recommend this manual to anyone looking to further their knowledge of Mac OS X or to those who have jumped ship and given themselves to the "Mac Side". Thanks AGI Training Team for another essential guide from the Digital Classroom. ... Read more

Product Description
Welcome to the wonderful world of the Mac! Whether you’ve just decided to switch from Windows or you’ve been using a Mac for awhile and want to take advantage of all its bells and whistles, Macs All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies is the perfect guidebook to Mac land.

You probably already know that Macs were made for media. There’s iPhoto for organizing, editing, and sharing your digital photos; iMovie to let you become a moviemaker; iDVD for preserving that movie and playing your favorites; and of course, iTunes for managing your music. But your Mac is just as happy creating documents, browsing the Internet, putting together cool presentations, or even crunching numbers. This guide shows you how to use all those applications and more. Seven minibooks cover Mac basics; working with photos, movies, and music; using the Internet; working with iLife and iWork applications; various other Mac programs; time-saving tips; and networking. You’ll discover how to

• Set up and customize a new Mac
• Get online, choose a browser, configure an e-mail account, and instant-message with iChat
• Handle Mac security and troubleshoot problems
• Create a Web site with iWeb and get it online
• Back up your files, sync your stuff, and manage your life with your Mac
• Network your Mac with other computers, even PCs, and share files, printers, and more

Even if you’re a seasoned Mac veteran, we bet you’ll find some things here you didn’t know! And you’ll refer to this book again and again. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Macs for Dummies
I purchased this book to keep as a reference after I purchased my new Mac. I have very pleased with this book. I find that it is easy to read and explains in step by step directions many different procedures. Since receiving this book, I have gotten more out of my Mac & hope to discover more in the future.

Not Just for Dummies!
PRO: quick referencing at your fingertips, tangible, no electricity required! thorough table of contents and index.

CON: it's heavy, the title is embarrassing,

Despite the title of this book, the `Dummies' part, it is an extremely useful reference book for long-term users of Apple computers as well as the newbie and / or PC converts. This reverence book takes the reader through the Mac basics it a very friendly, readable way.I've been working with Macs for 20 years, since the early 80s when they were first made available and I thought I knew my Apple product.But we must remember that the geniuses as Apple continue to tinker with and improve upon the software of the product as well as the hardware.Therefore, there are always new things to learn, new short cuts, new tips, etc.The world of Apple computing is as organic as an organization and it's products can get.

Apple niche is the ease at which these computers handle the media world. So one big advantage this reference book has over others; ie, Using Mac OS X Leopard.doc, is that it also covers the use of the basic applications that come as standard with every Apple computer. The publishers actually claim that there are 7 mini-books within this one reference that cover Mac basics; working with photos, movies, and music; using the Internet; working with iLife and iWork applications; various other Mac programs; time-saving tips; and networking.

Oh my gosh, if you have the time and the inclination, the detail in which this book goes into telling the reader the pros and cons of one of these basic applications, just when, where and the how of using them as well is a breath of fresh air.I have learned more tidbits just thumbing through the pages.It's not only amazing, it's fun; it's refreshing; and it is addictive. Actually knowing the ins, outs and short cuts is what turns an interested buyer of an Apple computer into an enthusiastic fanatics.And believe me, Mac addicts are known for their devotion to the machine.It's the programmers who keep us hooked!

To be able to take advantage of all the bells and whistles for which Apple computers have become known, you need to know them.This reference book also works as a guide for these, offering useful "Tip" on just about every page. You will find this book is not only well written but also well illustrated.

The purpose of a reference book is to have it readily available when that one question arises for which a physical book is invaluable, especially if that question covers something to do with your inoperable computer!I know that I refer to this book fairly consistently and certainly over and over again and again.

macs for dummies
this book came in very very good condition - delivery was before expected very reliable vendor ... Read more

Product Description
Learn how to work under the hood of Mac OS X without breaking a sweat using this all-new addition to Sybex's reputable suite of Mac titles. Employing a skill-level approach to the command line, this unique book works for all Mac users from beginner to experienced. First get familiar with the fundamental commands then tackle complex tasks, such as modifying users, groups, and permissions. Finish up with advanced system maintenance and management techniques. A logical next step to Sybex's best-selling Mastering Mac OS X, 3rd Edition, this book offers timesaving ways to work more efficiently. Includes a Foreword from Adam Engst, the publisher of TidBITS. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

MAc OS X Command Line: Unix Under The Hood
Hi all, I have a pleasure in letting you know that I got my book as I expected. My suggestion is it would be nice if an ebook of this kind can be developed so as customers that bought it can download for an option to read from the iPad or Kindle.

This book is more for Unix novices
I found 2 chapters to be very useful, Chapter 12 on Working with Users, Groups and Permissions and Ch. 14 on Managing Programs and Processes.The remaining chapters are pretty much standard Unix commands; but, very well written for Unix novices.Overall the book is well written that I would use it as a Unix reference for commands that I am familiar with (example, didn't know ls -F would show me the directories with a slash).

It is really good book, pleasure to spend time with.
OS X UNIX is amazingly friendly and accessible. Some people who had never used command line before, type commands and work with the operating system directly as a "cool guys" in movies! This book is very helpful and well written and it is serves as a very nice reference. If you really need the initial training I would say that "UNIX Essentials" DVD I found here on Amazon is a nice option. It is complete UNIX course recorded and this book and a video they contribute one another greatly. You improve the reading and by reading you improve what you have seen.
The book is very particular about the subjects that related to OS X and because there are some differences between OS X and other UNIXes it is nice to have a book that deals with it.

Mostly good stuff
Structured in a distinctive but helpful way, "The Mac OS X Command Line: Unix Under the Hood" is quite a solid introduction to the command line, a mechanism that not only speeds and simplifies many tasks but also lets you do a number of things unavailable under the GUI. Its 400+ pages, arranged fundamentally as a tutorial, are replete with basic steps and shortcuts alike. The book covers everything from Terminal ("gateway" to the command line) to the file system to text editing and printing; in the later chapters, it moves on to such relatively advanced topics as file compression and archiving, groups and permissions, networking, program and process management, system maintenance, and shell configuration. Interleaved between the chapters (and here is where the book's structure is distinctive) are sections devoted to key Unix concepts that recur to the point of transcending multiple chapters; these nine sections, referred to as Interludes, tackle things like command syntax, pathnames, redirection, the "open" command (more powerful than it may sound), wildcards, and ways of automating commands.

Besides obviously providing a nice treatment of the basics, the book offers plenty of advanced material for the experienced user. The index is nice to see and easy to use. Other nice touches are a command list, chapter summaries in the introduction, and an appendix with additional readings.

Allowing for a variety of problem areas, in large measure evidently outside the author's control, this is a book well worth reading and using. It is true that some of the editing errors are thoroughly confusing (references to subsequent material as supposedly already presented, references to misidentified chapters, related graphics positioned out of logical order, and so on); still, the book is redeemed by the readily understood and applied, comprehensive, and mostly well-organized content.

Chuck Brandstater

Clear and easy to follow
As anyone who's used one of Kirk McElhearn's other books on the Mac OS will be unsurprised to hear, I found this book very easy to follow -- so easy in fact that I found I could skip the first few chapters. That's probably because I'm not a complete command-line virgin (I remember the days before Windows and the first Mac OS, and as a web designer I've done a bit of tinkering in Unix on some of the web servers I use) but even if you are, from my impression of the first chapters, this book can tell you everything you need to know to start using the command line.

The book is designed as a chapter-by-chapter tutorial, teaching you the things you need to know in a methodical order, but it contains enough information, and has a good enough index, to be used as your main reference for the command line once you've mastered the basics.

My only criticism would be that while it tells you how to do all sorts of useful things, it doesn't have enough real-world, detailed examples of the kind of uses you could put your new knowledge to -- I was expecting some kind of 'case studies' feature, giving real examples of how to use commands you've just learned to automate your back-up procedures, for example. The information's all in there, but to some extent you have to work out what you can do with it for yourself.

But I guess that's only a minor criticism -- you probably wouldn't read this book in the first place if you didn't have some idea of the kind of thing you can do with the command line.

So all in all, it's a great starting point, and I can see that in the future I'm going to find it a valuable reference. ... Read more

Product Description
UntitledExcel X for Mac OS X is the model OS X app, from its Aqua interface to its complete support for OS X's modern architecture. In Excel X for Mac OSX: Visual QuickStart Guide, author Maria Langer, veteran Mac writer andconsultant, walks you through all that's new and noteworthy in Microsoft'sspreadsheet powerhouse, dispensing lots of expert tips along the way.

Maria knows you're a busy professional. That's why Excel X for Mac OS X:VQS was designed to let you learn as you work. Use it as aquick-reference guide: Just look up a topic in the index--or use the pagetabs to thumb to it--then follow the simple, concise steps and check yourresults against the accompanying screenshots. Newcomers can treat the book as a step-by-step introduction to Excel, starting with the basics, thenmoving on to more advanced techniques, such as inserting objects andmultimedia events, creating charts and graphs, and publishing spreadsheets to the Web. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Computer Reference Books
I received Excel X for Mac OS X in excellent condition. Love it. Thank you.

Great for beginners
This is the second book I've purchased written by Maria Langer.The first was Mac OS X Panther (Visual QuickStart Guide).Like the book for panther. Excel X is great for those new to the program, or for those who have little experience in formating the spreadsheets, conjuring up formulas, and establish and managing lists.

For more experienced/advanced users, you'll appreciate the book as quick reference and the nice tips you'll find to increase your efficiency.But if you're looking for more advanced techniques (i.e. scripts, macros, advanced formatting) you might want to look elsewhere.

Excellent way to quickly transfer your Excel skills from Wintel to Mac.
This book probably works just as well for an introduction to Excel for the ones who have no experience with this program.Given that I have extensive experience with Excel, my review focuses on this guide's ability to transfer your Excel skills from the Wintel to the Mac OS environment.

This guide does a very good job of transferring the skills you have acquired in Excel/Wintel to Excel/Mac OS in the minimum of time.The format of the book is even superior to the Dummies series (my favorite until now).This is because each page is smartly divided between a relevant simple list of action steps to take to achieve a specific function.And, the other half of the page shows actual pictures of what the screen will look like.So, the emphasis on actual visuals is second to none (it is ahead of the Dummies series on that count).

It is the simplest stuff who will baffle you at first.The more advanced features of Excel are common whether you work on the Mac or the Wintel platform.But, what is unsettling is that the simplest features are different. When you first work with Excel for Mac, just the simple viewing and editing of cells is different.It leads one to believe that Excel for Mac and Wintel are really incompatible.They are actually very compatible.But, you just have to understand how the Mac environment works.It is a little bit different.Once you get the hang of it, it's a cruise.

After studying this guide, you will quickly realize that Excel for Mac is just as flexible and powerful an analytical tool as Excel/Wintel.It even has some advantages.The Clipboard is more visible and useful.The Calculator feature gives you more space and control when developing complex formulas.The List function offers more robust database capabilities than the traditional Excel.It integrates Access capabilities into Excel.The graph function has several additional 3-D capabilities.Thus, overall I strongly recommend this book, that will quickly teach you Excel for the Mac.

Mac users do well to get Windows Excel books
I'm a long-time (since 1984) Mac user and devotee, so I'm not being heretical when I say that the best books about Excel are written for a Windows audience. The Mac versions of Excel are sufficiently compatible with the Windows versions that almost everything you learn from a Windows book will apply on the Mac. There are so many more Windows users (and especially power users) of Excel that many more books have been written for them. If you want to become a power user, try "Microsoft Excel 2000 Formulas" by John Walkenbach.

Great 4 Beginners - Power Users Will Be Disappointed
I've bought several of the Visual Quickstart Guides for other Mac applications so when I decided I wanted to become a real Excel power user, I thought this would be a good book to start with.For those just getting into Excel, this would be the place to start.(In fairness, this is probably their target audience in the first place.) I even found it useful for gaining a better understanding some functions I hadn't attempted in the past.

My only complaint is that it just doesn't go deep enough.I wanted some help with formulas in general and more advanced formulas in particular (e.g. HLOOKUP, VLOOKUP, etc. and nested formulas) and the book didn't provide any more information on formulas than the application's help file, which isn't much.

To be helpful, it would be nice to see a nice long list of example formulas with descriptions on how or when you would use them.

OK, maybe I'm being a bit harsh, but hey, I bought the book and was a little disappointed. ... Read more

Product Description

When Macaroni sings a song,
Cheese will never sing along.
Mac likes to jump and play and sing,
But Cheese does not like anything.

Customer Reviews (16)

A good endeavor but lacking....
Before I started reading this book I didn't know much about Fleetwood Mack and now that I've finshed it, I still feel like I don't know much about this band.

The origins of Fleetwood Mack were probably the most interesting parts but then he stars skipping all over the place with no indication of where in their career he's referring to and things start to get a little murky and drawn out.

Mick wrote this book and I don't think he should be writing any others.

Mick Fleetwood on Fleetwood Mac
I applaud Mick Fleetwood's insightful on his feelings of the group.He tells of the early history of Fleetwood Mac to the many transformations of the band. Mick does not sugar coat any part of the struggles, relationships and his own faults. I found it a very moving book that I couldn't put down

good read
I found this very interesting reading as to howbands are formed and act and spend everything thus requiring that they continue to tour.Very frank and entertaining.

boring
i can't believe how boring this book is.for example: when christine and john initially get together...he's sitting next to her.he asks her to have dinner with him sometime, and she says she would.wow...how riveting is that?

A Quick Read -- Funny, Informative, Highly Enjoyable
I picked this up at a used bookstore the other day, wondering what ole' Mick had to say about all the goings-on in the band.

What a surprise!

This is a funny, entertaining, highly enjoyable pass through the life and times of English rock in the early to late 60s, abd then an equally enjoyable romp through the craziness that was the LA music biz in the 70s and 80s.

Mick's voice is assured, hilarious, wry, insightful, and informative.He is at times modest, regretful, generous and always engaging.The early days of Mac, including the wild goings on with Peter Green and Jeremy Spencer, were a highlight, and of course the Rumours era insanity and some not-flatterring anecdotes about Buckingham are there as well.

If you have any interest in rock and roll you will want to read this book.

Bravo Mick! ... Read more

Product Description
The way you think can make you or break you. In The Power of Attitude, entrepreneur Mac Anderson presents some strong suggestions that can guide readers toward success. A complement to his first book The Nature of Success, this book features the same powerful imagery but emphasizes the internal workings of the mind and heart that drive a person in productive paths. As founder of Successories, the leading manufacturer of inspirational and motivational wall décor, Anderson practices what he preaches with notable results. In his introduction, he writes of his hope to energize and inspire you to live the life of your dreams, and then also to make a positive difference in the lives of others. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Totally thrilled
Recently I received the book "The Power of Attitude" by Mac Anderson. I was so excited to open the package and see my new purchase. The book is small and easy to handle. The cover was filled with a beautiful picture that lured me into the pages of the book. The book is filled with amazingly beautiful picutures along with verses and comments that are truly inspiring and uplifting. Each time I pick up the book and thumb to a random page, the verse brings some meaning to whatever is dragging me down and gives me a whole new perspective that helps me get through the rest of my day.

Thank you, Mac Anderson!! This is a wonderful book. Anyone that buys this book will be completely satisfied with it!!

Change the way you Think and enrich your Life
This is a collection of awsome quotes, thoughts, and short stories about all things that make up or effect your attitude.I refer back to these quotes often and use them in my life to communicate philosophies that enrich not only my life, and my families life, but in my business network.This is a must read for everyone.I especially liked, "The Good News Girl Story."I have shared that story with all of my business associates and friends.
Thank you Mac for giving us this book!

RJ Stratton

Great little book with a very timely and ageless message
This is a great little book with lots of reenforcement for positive thinkers. Many of the articles are real-life examples that demonstrate the importance and value of maintaining a positive attitude.I purchased additional copies and passed them along to family members.Everyone has loved the book.Given these difficult times and all the bad news, I use mine as a source for a daily dose of positive thinking.

Simple Truths VERY good
This is the first book I have bought within the Simple Truths aspect by Mac Anderson.I must say that it is wonderful!Each and every book from this series is inspirational and can be used for personal enjoyment and learning and many can be used in the workforce!Inspirational books are a joy to read and these book hit the top of the list.This book is powerful and would be a good addition to any home or work office!

The Power of Attitude
A must read for everyone!I got what I expected...a great book and in mint condition.Thanks! ... Read more

Product Description

Taylor Wellington doesn't do relationships. She learned a long time ago that they were a recipe for heartache. However, she does do flings--steamy affairs that burn hot...and brief. And her sexy new contractor, Thomas "Mac" Mackenzie, has her thinking about burning up some sheets. Problem is, now that she's got him right where she wants him, she can't seem to stop playing with fire.

At the start, Mac is in perfect agreement with Taylor--they'll keep things hot and light, then walk away when they're done. But for reasons he can't explain he doesn't want to end this affair. In fact, he wants more. So now he'll just have to use some seductive persuasion to convince her that this is too good to let go....

Customer Reviews (1)

lighthearted romantic romp
Though her two new friends that she rents rooms to recently found love, Taylor Wellington expects to never fall into that disgraceful state.She does not need love to tell her how to live as she has observed relationships through her uncaring mother.She not only expects to grow old alone, she looks forward to it.

In South Village, five miles from Los Angeles, Taylor has hired a contractor to renovate her Victorian style home built in 1902 that she recently inherited.However, though they start off poorly as he thinks she is a spoiled princess, Taylor and contractor Thomas "Mac" Mackenzie are attracted to one another.Although they begin to fall in love she holds back because she knows he still loves his ex-wife while he wonders if she cherishes someone more than him.Unless these two non-believers clear the air, a chance of a lifetime will become memories that love hurts.

MESSING WITH MAC is a lighthearted romantic romp that delightfully closes Jill Shalvis' warm South Village trilogy.The story line never takes itself seriously so the audience can sit back, relax and just enjoy the heated tale.Though Taylor's mother is unbelievable, fans will appreciate this contemporary romance.

Harriet Klausner ... Read more

Product Description
If you're like many people, you wouldn't dream of turning on your computer without also instantly (or almost instantly) launching at least one of the applications included in Microsoft Office. This task-based guide recognizes that and gets down to business fast, taking you step-by-step through all of the key features of the Microsoft Office 2004 suite for Mac OS X: Word 2004, Excel 2004, PowerPoint 2004, Entourage 2004and MSN Messenger Version 4.0. If you're a beginning user, you'll appreciate the friendly, visual approach to all of Office's word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, calendaring, and email features. And if you're an Office veteran, you'll relish the coverage of Office 2004's newest features (many of them exclusive to Macs): Compatibility Reports, which identify and correct discrepancies between different versions of Office documents (including Mac and Windows versions); Word's Notebook Layout View; Excel's Page Layout View; and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Microsoft Office for Mac OS X 2004
This book, although listed and priced as used, arrived in new condition. Very pleased.

William R. Wilson

Office 2004.
This is one of the bestof the Quick Start guides. It is clear and concise and makes a long time Mac. user comfortable.

Owen O'Meara

Microsoft Office 2004 for Mac OS 10 Visual QuickStart Guide
This books makes learning the workings of Microsoft Office 2004 super easy. The photos and instructions take the reader step-by-step through the inner workings of the program. A must for the beginner and a resource for the experienced user. Learn Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as Entourage and more by using this guide any way you wish.

Gets You Started Quickly
Aimed at the beginning and intermediate user of Microsoft Office for Macintosh, this book is part of the Visual Quickstart Guide. The philosophy of the series is to use a lot of photographs so that you can see what the screen should look like as you do various tasks during the learning process.

The organization of the book, after an introduction that you really should read or at least glance over, is modular just like the software. There's a part on Word, on Excel, on PowerPoint, and on Entourage. Each part is self standing and can be used independently of the other parts. You can read the part on the software you need without having to go do everything at once. Although to be sure you will sooner or later want to use the various applications together, and for this there is Part VI: Combining the Applications.

As a visually oriented book, there are hundreds of pictures/drawings to illustrate just about every point. It's a very fast way to get started.

Excellent quick guide to Microsoft Office
This 453-page book is written for beginning and intermediate users of Microsoft Office 2004. It blends short, well-written sections on the various parts of Office 2004 with screen shots and other graphics that show you visually how to do things.This is a winning combination and makes learning about Office 2004 easy and fun.I also was pleased to find short "tips" following the various discussions that further enhanced your ability to use the feature being discussed.

Starting the book is a good summary of what's new with the four components of Office 2004, namely Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Entourage.This is followed by separate"Parts" for each of these four applications plus an introductory section and a special ending section.The latter contains instruction on combining some of the aspects of the four applications.Within each of the major "Parts" are Chapters of major features each broken down further into short sections focusing on the various useful ways to use various features of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Entourage.

For example, Part II is on Microsoft Word.It is broken down into 6 chapters focusing on working with word, document formatting, text formatting, adding graphics, creating tables, and other word features.Then within each of those are several subsections providing specific help on various aspects of each chapter topic.For instance, within "document formatting" you'll find specific focus on paper size and orientation, margins, headers and footers, page numbers, inserting page breaks, creating multiple sections, and multiple columns.And all are user-friendly and quite helpful!

This book is part of the "Visual Quickstart Guide" series of Peachpit Press, and the again lives up to the other fine visual guides from this company.I was also impressed by the knowledge shared in this book by the skilled author whose past works included more than 50 other books and hundreds of computer-related reviews and articles for various well-known computer magazines.He knows his subject and has the skills to guide the reader to a most satisfying understanding of Office 2004.

All and all, I would highly recommend this helpful book and I'm sure I will be referring to it many times whenever I have a question about Office 2004 - and I have confidence that I'll find the answer! ... Read more

Product Description
Automator for Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard: Visual QuickStart Guide uses a combination of task-based instruction and strong visuals to teach intermediate Macintosh users how to automate repetitive, time-consuming tasks with the Automator application that is included with Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard. Automator comes with many useful automated routines (called actions) preinstalled, for lots of popular applications, that do things like remove empty playlists from iTunes or add attachments to Mac Mail. The real power of Automator lies in mixing and matching these actions to have them do exactly the job you want. They're put together in a string of actions known as a workflow. Author Ben Waldie introduces readers to how Automator works, and then helps them assemble and use Automator workflows.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Automator has more limits than the book
The problem is not with this book, although it is fairly superficial.

The problem is with Automator.Apple upgraded it in Snow Leopard, and obsoleted many "actions," which have not been replaced.

I've built a few, and finally just gave up, and went back to the GUI.Point and click, point and click.Plan your manual workflow, and you can save more time than you will save messing around with Automator.

Automator Rocks
PRO: Excellent tutorial and reference for both Automator. Online extras is a bonus
CON: none
Moose Rating: 1-5 (5 highest) 5

With each evolution of Mac OS X, Apple keeps improving Automator, although I wonder how many people really use it. It really is a jewel in the rough as it can make routine redundant tasks very easy to accomplish. I have been discovering ways to use my Mac and make my tasks easier using Automator. From scaling and changing formats of graphic files to batch renaming to thinking of ideas of how to use the image capture plugin to make a useful Automator action for better photo management. Ben Waldie first wrote this book for Leopard and this one is expanded to cover the latest information. In this edition, a beginner to Automator will learn how to start making workflows ( or recording them), saving them as workflows, applications or plug-ins. All the information is here, he explores the standard actions available and includes some of the applications that have Automator support. Fetch FTP is an application not listed that has AppleScript and Automator support.

Early in the book, you are shown some simple Automator workflows. Chapter Three builds on the complexity of workflows. Whether you need to use variables (user defined) or system or add AppleScript to overcome an Automator limitation it is covered in the book. I have found trying to build my own workflows is the best way to learn. You can also use the record process or find existing examples to use or glean from. Chapter 12 provides automator resources.

I have in the past contacted Ben Waldie by email asking questions about how to do something. He has always been very generous with his time and assistance. This is an intangible we don't see much anymore but appears to be more prominent in the Mac community. His website is [...] and has workflows available for purchase.

I would say the added bonus to this book is the companion site which offers two bonus chapters and two appendices. There was also flash video or iPod friendly podcasts available through iTunes. I found the flash video quality to be questionable but the podcast were acceptable. It looks like podcasts are added on a regular basis so this continuous the learning process of Automator.

The book is available in paperback, Kindle edition and in Adobe e-pub format from the Peachpit site. Maybe we'll see this on the iPad too. In closing, this is a great book to get started on learning Automator and reducing your workload.

Solid
Automator is a wonderful tool built into OS X, and I think most people skip right over it. It is unfortunately, not an incredibly intuitive program, and the QuickStart Guide is very helpful. It gives a few examples of how it can be used and that would be my only think keeping from giving it a full five stars is that it could use a few more real life day to day examples of how Automator might be used. I recommend this. ... Read more

Product Description

The Genius is in.

You don't have to be a genius to switch from a PC to a Mac. But if you want to make the move with less hassle, put this savvy Portable Genius guide to work. Want to share data between your Mac and your PC? Understand the differences between Mac OS®X and Windows®? Learn how to perform everyday Mac tasks? Transfer important stuff like calendars, contact lists, and music? You'll find cool and useful Genius tips, full-color screenshots, and pages of easy-to-access shortcuts and tools that will save you loads of time and let you enjoy your Mac to the max.

Paul McFedries is the president of Logophilia Limited, a technical writing company. He has written more than four dozen books that have sold more than two million copies worldwide. These books include Macs Portable Genius, Teach Yourself VISUALLY Macs, and Teach Yourself VISUALLY Windows Vista. Paul encourages all readers to drop by his Web site, www.mcfedries.com.

Portable GENIUS

Fun, hip, and straightforward, the new Portable Genius series gives forward-thinking Apple users useful information in handy, compact books that are easy to navigate and don't skimp on the essentials. Collect the whole series and make the most of your Apple digital lifestyle. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great Transition and Starting Point
I made the leap to Mac this past week and purchased this book as soon as I ordered my MacBook Pro. This is a quick read and I finished it using Kindle for the iPad on a roundtrip from DFW to Boston. There are some weird page breaks on the Kindle edition and the pictures and diagrams do not have the resolution to be enlarged and of much use.

This is exactly what I needed to get started and highly recommend the book. There are some areas it goes into more detail than I needed (all the ways to run Windows on a Mac) and some others that were less detailed and helpful (how to integrate Mail, iCal, etc. with Exchange Server - particularly Exchange Servers prior to 2007 - it doesn't). These are my only comments that keep it from being a 5 Star Review and I understand that everybody will have diffrent areas of emphasis, it is still a very worthwhile $15.

If you order your Mac online it will arrive in about 5 business days, more than enough time to read this book. It is also easy to have it open next to you when going through setting up preferences and some disaster preparedness issues like an additional Admin User Account.

I recommend the Portable Genius series.

Best of Luck.

Mac Book
This is an awesome book to know the ins and out of Mac. I just switched from a pc to a mac so was a little lost on how to navigate the mac. Overall a really good book that gives you the facts straight and isnt boring.

Very Informative
I purchased this book because I just got my first MacBook Pro and this book has been very helpful. ... Read more

Product Description
Mac Gober grew up with an unholy appetite for violence and brutality, satisfied first by war in Vietnam and then as a member of an outlaw motorcycle gang. This is the story of his dramatic conversion and his new life as a minister of God. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Amazing
My brother is a Vietnam Vet; bitter, troubled and disillusioned.This book touched something deep inside him that only another Vet can touch, open and heal.I don't know if he will change his life but I do know that it opened up conversations that we would not have had without the influence of this book.It's a quick read.There is some language and situations described that can be disturbing but Mac is telling a true part of his life.He doesn't sugarcoat it. Thanks Mac Gober.

Excellent Book and Testimony!
Great book, moving.

I actually contacted the author, Mac Gober after reading it!

Great Testimony!

amazing
this book was beyond amazing. I was rivited to me seat like in a roller coaster ride. He told an amazing story of violence and love with out using one piece of prophanity. this story should be a movie.
the media can take a lesson from Mac Gober on how to tell a story that was as horrific as his without being offensive. it totally can be done; by the leading of the holy spirit.
I am buying the book again because I gave the copy I had away.
this book should be read in Jr/high school. it also should be must reading in juvinile detention centers, or wherever there are youth behaving badly.
I love you Mac. try to get this made into a movie.

Read it all nite
about three years ago, I picked this book up, and I couldn't put it down. And I have read it several times since. I let several people read it. Some of them have even got their own copies to give out to others.It may sound corny, but I laughed, I cried, and grew in my love for all those who are still lost.Jesus is real, and this man proves it. Jesus is powerful, and He proves it right here in this book. God's love for you never gives up as long as there is breath in your body. in this book, Mac proves how God loves all of us so much, no matter how dirty we get.I am convince that most of us don't even really understand the passionate love of God for us. I have seen Mac Gober speak in person, just last nite and today in fact, for probably the fourth time in my life, and he is just so sincere and genuine, funny, very smart in the knowlegde of the Word of God. He loves Jesus, and he loves people because Jesus loves them! And he knows without Jesus we are NOTHING! Sin ruins us, but Jesus set us free! Mac Gober is a reflection of the work that Jesus came and did on earth!!!! He is a Leader! Check out Canaanland!!

True MAN of God
Mac Gober's story is an amazing story of a man who can trully speak from experience on God's grace and His love.From the jungles of Vietnam to riding with one of the most notorious bike gangs in history, this book covers it all.

I had a chance to hear Mac speak personally, and what a life changing experience it was.

Please, read this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Guitar transcriptions for 14 Fleetwood Mac classics, including: Don't Stop * Dreams * Gypsy * Hold Me * Landslide * Little Lies * Rhiannon * Sara * You Make Lovin' Fun * and more. ... Read more

Product Description
The latest update of Robin Williams's bestselling guide will have you working miracles in no time with Snow Leopard, the fastest and most reliable version of the Mac OS X ever. With this book, you can learn in your own way, whether it's working through the lessons from start to finish, jumping straight to step-by-step exercises about new features, or looking up just what you need to know at that moment. There are hundreds of exciting tools and hidden gems in your Macintosh. And with the gentle, yet expert, hand of Robin Williams guiding you along the way, you will learn to take full advantage of all that Snow Leopard has to offer. If you are new to Mac OS X, you'll learn to use your Mac with help from a world-renowned teacher. From there, you can move on to customize it to suit the way you work. And if you've been using Mac OS X already, you'll learn to use all of the new features in Snow Leopard. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Well...not what I expected
I wasn't thrilled with it. I found that, even as a new Mac user, this book is too basic as far as it goes concerning Snow Leopard itself. Any user of a PC would know most of the stuff contained in here concerning basics just by fooling around for a couple days. True, the book gives direction and so one would waste less time, and the book does contain chapters on using specific features, but I was hoping for more info on how to perform basic tasks like unistalling applications, drivers and so on. Along with other maintenance tasks I'm used to doing in Windows XP Pro.

Course I can't say a lot for Snow Leopard in general as a very stable platform. Mine has not been since I purchased a Mac Pro with Snow Leopard. There've been chronic problems with it, and problems with Safari as well. XP is a better platform overall, though I'm still glad to get away from PCs, frought with their own host of problems/issues. (I have Windows installed in Bootcamp as a matter of necessity in a business world that uses only Windows.)

To be fair (and giving it 3 stars), I'm sure the book is fine for people looking for intros to a number of bundled features, from using I-Tunes to trying to figure out Time Machine (which is no Restore Point, believe me!). But that's not what I expected in a manual that says on the cover: "Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard." I expected a manual on understanding and using the platform itself to solve problems with the platform itself (yes akin to Windows various system tools and so on, which Mac OSes seem to lack in general), not on using the applications bundled with it. The title is a little misleading.

If your thing is playing with all the mini-applications, then go for it. If you work on computers in a more professional capacity, look for a different book.

Informative Book - Helpful tips
Very informative book.Our office recently went "all mac" and the book has answered a lot of questions for myself and my team.

Stellar as always!
Robin Williams never ceases to amaze. As a Mac user for many, many years, it's always wonderful to pick up her latest and see what the new Mac brings. The format is easy to follow and if I need to find how to do something quickly, it's easy to do. Kudos to Ms. Williams and Mr. Tollett.

Snow Leopard
I gave this book as a gift and haven't had any feed back from the "receiver". I leafed through it and it looks like it had bunches of good information for this new Mac program.

asparagus
great vegetable, one that we should always consider on a regular basis. the book is good as well, but not as tasty as the asparagus. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (10)

Kinda far out situations...
#2 Mac MacKenzie mystery set in and around the Twin Cities, MN. Mac works as a private investigator but due to having his own financial resources, often takes cases without a paying client. In this book, Mr. Mosley, and old friend of his father's, asks him to look into what could be causing the demise of the honeybees in his hives. Mac hires a research assistant to a friend of his at the University to go out and take soil samples--and when she ends up getting shot at by an unknown farmer, Mac pays the farm a visit and ends up embroiled in a case of a rogue mafia don and a rogue FBI agent having a power struggle. The problem is, Mac's friends end up getting in the crossfire, with Mr. Mosley dead and his lawyer's wife attacked.

Determined to find the man who killed Mr. Mosley and bring him to justice, Mac passes himself off as a journalist from South Dakota doing a story on the city of Hilltop, a small enclave that seceded from the suburb of Columbia Heights. The FBI agent resides there temporarily and Mac wants to find out what he is up to in the hopes that he will be led to the mafia guy, whom he believes is responsible for Mr. Mosley's death.

As much as I enjoy the writing style and the wonderful local color and ambiance, I find this story, much like the first in this series, to be too fantastical to be believed. Far too many coincidences, and the main character has an almost super-hero list of friends who will go to no end of trouble to do very big, very strange favors for him. I mean, it's almost laughable at times, and I found myself snorting and mumbling, "yeah, right!" because it was one extremely-unlikely situation after another. Still, I did mostly enjoy it and liked the little history lesson about Hilltop as well.

Wishes
Although I found Tin City to be an interesting read, I was really put off by the snide digs at religion, conservatives and Fox News.Why is it that some authors insist on dragging their uber-liberal viewpoints into otherwise good novels?Why is it that Housewright insists on insulting at least half of his readers?Probably his background in the 'progressive' swamps of academia and journalism makes him believe that everyone is of the same stripe.I sure hope he realizes sooner rather than later that many of us are religious, conservative Fox News viewers.

Tin City
This book was great.I love the main character, Mac McKenzie.The writing style of the author reminds me of Robert Parker of the "Spenser" novels.To go further back in time, McKenzie reminds me of Shell Scott in the Richard Prather books of old.Great story, great characters, good read. I highly reccomend this book to anyone that just wants to enjoy a fun book.

Tin City
I just cannot lay down a Housewright novel, Tin City is no exception. A very good read.

Smart & Enjoyable
Except for a few soft-hearted touches, a good read. Less romance and more hardboiled action would put it over the top. I'm for more. ... Read more

Product Description
Titles are: Albatross
* Black Magic Woman
* Big Love
* Bleed to Love Her
* The Chain
* Don't Stop
* Dreams
* Fleetwood Mac
* Go Your Own Way
* Gold Dust Woman
* Gypsy
* Hypnotized
* Landslide
* Never Going Back Again
* Oh Daddy
* Over My Head
* Rhiannon
* Sara
* Say You Love Me
* Sentimental Lady
* Songbird
* Spare Me a Little of Your Love
* Sweet Girl
* You Make Loving Fun. ... Read more

Product Description
This popular book shows readers how to take advantage of the iLife '08applications that to many are the coolest parts of using a Mac. Throughtutorials, tips, and techniques readers will learn how to use each ofthe powerful applications -- individually and as part of an integrated,interactive suite. Robin and John also cover the features of theimmensely popular .Mac Web Gallery, which enables you to share youriPhoto library with family and friends with just a few clicks.Friendly, practical instructions will have new and veteran Mac ownersusing all that's new in the suite in no time. They'll find everythingabout getting on the Internet and using email; using the way-cool iChatAV, which adds audio and video to instant messaging; using iTunes,including access to the iTunes Music Store; the new video libary iniMovie; new organization and editing tools in iPhoto; new animatedthemes in iDVD; and much more! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Cool Mac Apps
This is a very concise but well explained book. It is easy to read and follow.The illustrations are clear and accurate. An excellent book for anyone, especially those of us who are not well versed in computer usage.

Good Over-view of Applications
As a new Mac owner I needed something to help me navigate through the jungle of options, widgets events and albums which differ from folders for filing pictures, menus and much, much more.
I have had my new computer for 1 month and now I feel comfortable thanks to the information garnered from this book.

Good book, but not Robin's best work
Robin Williams (the writer and graphic designer, not the actor) has rightly earned her crown as Queen of the Mac. Her writings on Macintosh software is simply outstanding. While "Cool Mac Apps" isn't her best work, it's still a great book and compliments other books on how to use Leopard. In fact, this book should be seen as a companion to her other books on Leopard, most notably her "Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard: Peachpit Learning Series." "Cool Mac Apps" expects a basic understanding of how to use the Mac and the Leopard operating system.

The book assumes you have iLife '08 and Leopard installed, and while focusing on iLife, it still covers such Leopard applications as iCal, Mail, Address Book, Safari, iChat and Time Machine.I would have suggested calling this an iLife book, but with the addition of some of the more practical applications that don't fit into the iLife series, that wouldn't make much sense either.

Overall the book is a competent overview of iLife and other Leopard applications.The book was lacking in some of Robin Williams' trademark design.In fact, this book read like most other books on computers.The writing was a bit dense and lacking in full color photos and white space that increases readability.Dare I saw the book was a bit boring?The writing in individual chapters consisted mostly of features, menu commands and preferences and was lacking in practical applications or exercises.

After reading this book, don't expect to become an expert in any of these subjects, but if you feel you want to "dabble" a bit more and don't want to buy a whole book on iPhoto or iDVD, this may be a good book for you.This might be a good "in-between" book to help a reader determine if they want to explore iLife further. I would recommend this book to a Mac beginner who understands the basics of their new Mac, but wonders what all those programs that came with the computer can do.

Pros:Broad coverage of programs that come with new Macs
Cons:Lacks readability and practical application

Greatest author in the world
This author is just excellent. I cannot say enough about her. She takes the technical out of technology and speaks to us like a friend. She is the Pulitizer-worthy author of computer books. What can I say to convince you. She is very cool as well as being totally informed about the software and hardware she writes about

Many missing pages. Poor quality printing and figures.
I got this from Amazon with 46 pages missing. The print looks like it was run off an old black and white 1960's era Zerox machine and stapled in a binder. I told Amazon about the missing pages and they sent a new one quickly. Apparently no one read my note and Amazon sent another copy that had exactly the same missing pages. I returned that one too and asked for a refund. Wasted time!
I liked Robin William's books, but quality control is lacking at both the publishers andAmazon. ... Read more

Product Description
Learn how to get the most out of Mac OS X version 10.5 Leopard with legendary teacher and author Robin Williams.

The Peachpit Learning Seriesbrings you the best-selling authors you know and love, on the topicsthat are near and dear to you, in a format that allows you to learnjust what you need to know, and at your own pace. With this book, youcan learn in your own way—whether it’s working through the lessons fromstart to finish, jumping straight to step-by-step exercises about newfeatures, or looking up just what you need to know at that moment.There are hundreds of exciting tools and hidden gems in your Macintosh.And with the gentle yet expert hand of Robin Williams guiding you alongthe way, you will learn to take full advantage of all that Leopard hasto offer. If you are new to Mac OS X, you'll learn to use your Mac withhelp from a world-renowned teacher. From there, you can move on tocustomize it to suit the way you work. And if you've been using Mac OSX already, you'll learn to use the new features in Leopard, likeSpaces, Quick Look, and Time Machine, and explore all the enhancementsto favorites like Mail and iChat. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

Not what I was looking for
I was looking to be able to learn Leopard but the index was hard to follow. I was unable to find a lot of things I needed to learn a new operating system. As an old Windows user it's hard to change some old habits.

The Finder program is hard to figure out but with a lot of searching I did make it thru....

Just became a mac user and loved this book.
This book was a great help since I just became a mac user. I had general questions about the most basic parts of a mac and its system. This one answered all my questions and then some.

Mac OS X Guide
I looked at several different Mac guides before I selected this. I'm a average windows user that's converting to Mac.The thing that sold me on this guide is the abundance of photo's that accompany the text which makes it very easy to follow. All the material would enable the user to use most of the Mac functions. If you're already an advanced windows user David Pogues book would be a better selection but for the rest of us this is a great book.

OUTSTANDING! STRONGEST POSSIBLE RECOMMENDATION!
I'm GLAD I took the time to get/read this book from cover to cover. I went from "n00bie" to having a pretty fair grasp of what's up with my Mac. I'd recommend it to all with no reservations whatsoever (it was positively the BEST book I found on Leopard).

Not that Great
If you are familiar with computers in general, all the information found on the book are there for free on the internet. Don't waste your money buy this book. There plenty of other choices out there. I was extremely disappointed with this book and it was a waste of money .. Look at alternative before you buy

... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (10)

Kinda far out situations...
#2 Mac MacKenzie mystery set in and around the Twin Cities, MN. Mac works as a private investigator but due to having his own financial resources, often takes cases without a paying client. In this book, Mr. Mosley, and old friend of his father's, asks him to look into what could be causing the demise of the honeybees in his hives. Mac hires a research assistant to a friend of his at the University to go out and take soil samples--and when she ends up getting shot at by an unknown farmer, Mac pays the farm a visit and ends up embroiled in a case of a rogue mafia don and a rogue FBI agent having a power struggle. The problem is, Mac's friends end up getting in the crossfire, with Mr. Mosley dead and his lawyer's wife attacked.

Determined to find the man who killed Mr. Mosley and bring him to justice, Mac passes himself off as a journalist from South Dakota doing a story on the city of Hilltop, a small enclave that seceded from the suburb of Columbia Heights. The FBI agent resides there temporarily and Mac wants to find out what he is up to in the hopes that he will be led to the mafia guy, whom he believes is responsible for Mr. Mosley's death.

As much as I enjoy the writing style and the wonderful local color and ambiance, I find this story, much like the first in this series, to be too fantastical to be believed. Far too many coincidences, and the main character has an almost super-hero list of friends who will go to no end of trouble to do very big, very strange favors for him. I mean, it's almost laughable at times, and I found myself snorting and mumbling, "yeah, right!" because it was one extremely-unlikely situation after another. Still, I did mostly enjoy it and liked the little history lesson about Hilltop as well.

Wishes
Although I found Tin City to be an interesting read, I was really put off by the snide digs at religion, conservatives and Fox News.Why is it that some authors insist on dragging their uber-liberal viewpoints into otherwise good novels?Why is it that Housewright insists on insulting at least half of his readers?Probably his background in the 'progressive' swamps of academia and journalism makes him believe that everyone is of the same stripe.I sure hope he realizes sooner rather than later that many of us are religious, conservative Fox News viewers.

Tin City
This book was great.I love the main character, Mac McKenzie.The writing style of the author reminds me of Robert Parker of the "Spenser" novels.To go further back in time, McKenzie reminds me of Shell Scott in the Richard Prather books of old.Great story, great characters, good read. I highly reccomend this book to anyone that just wants to enjoy a fun book.

Tin City
I just cannot lay down a Housewright novel, Tin City is no exception. A very good read.

Smart & Enjoyable
Except for a few soft-hearted touches, a good read. Less romance and more hardboiled action would put it over the top. I'm for more. ... Read more