A Sweet Lovely Read

A Sweet Lovely Read

By 

Michelle Daly (Liverpool. UK.)This review is from: One Last Love (Paperback)

I wasn't sure what to expect when I began reading One Last Love by Derek Haines. My sister and also a good friend ended their days in a hospice, which left me with very sad memories. However, Derek Haines book revealed a lighter side of life in a hospice, where friendships and even love can blossom.
Derek Haines is a born writer and I never know what to expect from him except to expect the unexpected.
One Last Love by Derek Haines is a sweet, lovely read and I highly recommend it.

What's the deal Lang?

 What's the deal Lang?

By 

Mary Crocco "book reviewer / writer"

This review is from: The Sons Of Cleito (Kindle Edition)

A reader may choose The Sons of Cleito because they enjoy reading mysteries about ancient Greek and its mythology, maybe even Latin mythology, but even if that isn't the case, Chapter One will hook any reader immediately. It is one of the most intriguing first chapters I've ever read.

The main character, Langley Garret, is viewed as a regular run of the mill guy at one point, then becomes a complicated part of a political scheme when he is kidnapped.

Readers have no idea what is going on because poor Langley doesn't have a clue either. In Derek Haines true form developing his characters, his phenomenal writing style keeps his readers questioning the same things Langley is confused about.

In The Sons of Cleito, Langley becomes our best friend. We route for him to figure out his predicament, that is while we are internalizing (pun intended) why he thinks in terms of his internal organs, especially during some of his less friendly kidnapping ordeals.

Derek Haines showcases his expertise in letting his readers decide for themselves what his characters are all about. He is at his best writing The Sons of Cleito because it has the most unpredictable ending for Langley Garret.

Mystery lovers will appreciate reading The Sons of Cleito by Derek Haines, especially if they want to know if Langley Garret is successful unraveling his kidnapping.

Very Intriguing and Fascinating

By 

Doctor Dee

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This review is from: The Sons Of Cleito (Kindle Edition)

I was enthralled from the beginning as the story is written as if you are there right next to Langley as the events are unfolding. You don't have any more of a clue than he does during his ordeal. I think this method in the beginning of the book is what hooked me. I mean, you just got to know what is going on. I liked it.

Another point I liked was this book as a cerebral feel to it as it makes several references to languages and mythology. For someone with a working knowledge of Atlantis, ancient Greek, Latin and Greek mythology, they are going to have fun reading this book. This book represents the meaning of a "Mystery"

Well written with a great plot, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Listening to your inner voice

By 

Nataliya Field "Mummyfied"

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This review is from: The Sons Of Cleito (Kindle Edition)

I never had the inner voice placed somewhere within internal organs. Not to mention having them speak quite so eloquently to me - however it does make sense on some purely physical / instinctive level.

The unfortunate target of Derek's imagination struggles with a very strange case of kidnapping, (seemingly) bit of brain washing and torture (with repeated kidnappings) while trying to make sense of it and hopefully die, or live as the case may be.

I must say it's a very intriguing read. All the events make the main character's prospects of
'happily ever after' so bleak that even I got depressed for a minute. But Derek exercises his will as the main creator of the story once more and ... well. I can't tell you. But I must say the ending IS interesting. And it's one of those "darn I wish I had the sequel right here".

Definitely loved this interesting story and looking forward to reading the sequel.

Do Not Predict

By 

Priyam

This review is from: The Sons Of Cleito (Kindle Edition)

The thing about this book is that one seemly cannot predict where does Derek Haines take his reader. He can make the reader think about the strange unknown things we are told as 'mythology' while subtly changing gears and making it a narrative about the daily mystery of politics and power-play. The astonishing feat, one assumes, is the deft change of style which is so smooth that it is only at the very end that both come together for a stunning finale. You will never see it coming.

One can criticize the author here for a certain amount of excess in the ambiguity of the issues and especially the ending that seems to jump at you. However, that would be robbing off the author of one of the highlights of his writing: surprises.

This narrative seems to be very similar to another one of his novels - Milo Moon. Anyone who likes this novel must read that novel as well.

Great read and not what I expected

Great read and not what i expected

By 

David Patrick 

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This review is from: Vandalism of Words (Kindle Edition)

All I can say is good stuff. I am generally a very optimistic guy so I always see things on the bright side but I truly enjoyed this book. You will laugh, you will agree and I am sure on points you will disagree (talking about the book of course), but if you are looking for something to entertain you, then start reading this :)

A Spy Novel that Delightfully Exceeds your Expectations

A Spy Novel that Delightfully Exceeds your Expectations

By 

Meghan 

This review is from: Louis (Kindle Edition)

If you're fond of reading spy novels from such luminaries as Ian Fleming or John Le Carre, then you "get" why Derek Haines' `Louis' can be a "jarring" experience--it does not pander to our need for a cheap thrill ride, but instead elevates the spy novel genre into something more well-rounded.

`Louis' tells the story of a half-Egyptian, half-British spy who happens to be more "born" into the role than merely picked to train for it. What sets `Louis' apart, however, is its humanity--you don't see a spy with all the awesome gadgets or the deadly martial arts expertise, or even the cunning tricks that keep a spy alive as long as possible. Instead, what you'll find in this book is a deeper treatment of the subject, with a more pwoerful emotional anchor.

`Louis' somehow carries a few genetic strains of John Le Carre's `The Spy Who Came in from the Cold', although this one is definitely more laidback--with the author taking time to flesh out the milieu in which the main protagonist, a person compelled by his birth to serve as a spy, moves and makes his decisions and fulfill his missions. Louis does not hurry to build up--his background, his circumstances and the import of his royal Egyptian blood is painted one painstaking piece after another in order to give the reader a more comprehensive vision of what makes the main character the way he is.

`Louis' is a good read. I found it after reading Derek Haines' other work, One Last Love. But while One Last Love is a literary romance of some sort, Louis is not easily boxed in any neat genre. I consider it as some sort of a `literary spy novel'--it's beyond the usual thrills of a typical spy novel, as the author makes it a point to get under your skin and, ultimately, inside your heart. Pick up a copy of it or download it if you'd like a thoughtful book with enough excitement in the right places to go with a peaceful weekend. I'm betting `Louis' will not disappoint.

A Labour of Love

A Labour of Love

By 

Priyam 

This review is from: Louis (Paperback)

"The thing that strikes you about this book is that from the first page you get the idea how much the author researched for this. The amount of labour that must have gone into it must have been staggering. When they say books are things that help you see places you haven't really visited, I'm sure they are talking about a book like this. It is written in a very personal way which makes it very engaging.

Another thing about the writing here is that even though the words don't really describe *everything*, you understand it because I guess that's how the author wanted it to be. Sometimes, things hidden are the things you notice first. In the end when you close the book, you remember that the author mentions in the beginning that it took him 40 years to write the book. Then you say to yourself that 40 years to polish a story like that was worth it. I loved it! :) I think you can love this book not only for the honesty but also because it is a labour of love - something that one can see throughout.

Like a Knife Stab in the Heart, But in a Good Way

Like a Knife Stab in the Heart, But in a Good Way

By 

Meghan 

This review is from: One Last Love (Kindle Edition)

Meet Bonnie: dying of cancer, he's spending what he thinks are the last few days of his life under the care of doctors. In a hospice, of all places. But just when he's supposed to be staring at death in the eye, something else happens, some wonderful thing named Madeleine.

I won't give away too many details, but let me suffice it to say that Derek Haines has written something unforgettable here, with `One Last Love.' It's one of those stories you feel deserves a movie version.

A deeply touching tale about finding love in the most unlikely of places--a place where death prevails more than hope--One Last Love is at once inspiring and uplifting and reassuring. Of course, throughout the story there is despair and hopelessness at every turn--you feel it each time Bonnie makes a little joke to lighten up the situation. But somehow you feel it's plausible, that even near the end of life a new beginning could unfold. And it is this message that gives power and vitality to this book. There's also something poignantly courageous about how Bonnie tries to hide his suffering behind his humor: Bonnie's bravado starkly juxtaposes the situation he's in, which all the more increases the emotional impact of the tragedy. Here's a man who knows he's dying, yet he tries so hard to protect those around him with what little humor he could scrape from the bottom of his soul.

Derek Haines writes like a surgeon with a scalpel: he knows, with uncanny precision, which parts of human nature he must touch with his blade, or pen, that is. And I'm hoping Haines writes more, and soon--One Last Love shouldn't be his One Last Novel, but rather, just one in a string of what I believe are future bestsellers.

Two thumbs up for this wonderful story.

Powerful Story

powerful story

by paulat

This review is from: 

One Last Love (Kindle Edition)

Wow, some people have the ability to make you feel the story thought their words and Mr. Haines is one of them. He has an amazing way with words and he drew me into the story and the lives of his characters right away. This is not a typical love story, but one that is drawn from life. The main character is not the lovable perfect hero found in so many love stories. He is a man with imperfections who hasn't always made the right decisions. At the end of his life, he finds someone who touches his heart and connects with people he never would have connected with before. This is a great read for anyone. Life is so short and this book tells a powerful story of love, forgiveness and acceptance.

A Superb Tale!!!

Brooke D. reviewed February The Fifth (The Glothic Tales)

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 A Superb Tale!!! September 19, 2012

Author Derek Haines has truly outdone himself with this fabulous story of a very unlucky young man. This story was so well-written, it kept me on the edge of my seat and I absolutely could not put it down! I was always so excited to find out what new circumstance was around the corner. "February The Fifth - The First Glothic Tale" was a well-written and exciting book and I cannot wait for the next one in this entertaining comic series fiction adventure!!

A Book from Reality

Priyam reviewed Dead Men 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  A Book from Reality September 21, 2012 Certain lines stay with after you've finished reading a book. Every book has its own memory. That I completed the book in less than 24 hours should give you a hint how gripping it was. Never a pretty read but a stunning work of reality. Beneath all the `ugliness' (as the author points out) one appreciates the sensitivity of the characters. Not quite perfect, but undoubtedly human. With flaws, regrets, qualities and scars as anyone else. Life, of course, goes on and Hope, at the end of the day, is the fuel we all need to survive. The author makes it clear at the beginning with: "A story that may surprise, offend or shock, but will certainly not be forgotten." He is, as always, correct. Picking up a book about reality in its most honest form is never easy. Thinking that some people actually go through all that is even harder. Perhaps it isn't a mystery that fantasy sells so well. We all seek the unreal to avoid `ugly' reality. Those caught up in that reality are shady figures. Sometimes books like these are needed for a dose of reality. To tell the stories about the shady figures that we neglect or forget to care about. A page turner, as all his other books, this author can always connect with you. His characters stay with you. You can almost watch them in your head. That is how strong an effect he has with his writing. His word play and mixing of the visual element with the overall mood is stunning too. You might even be tempted to reread some portions that are truly emotive. Then you'd keep going back to it. One cannot help but appreciate the act of bravery that this book is. A memorable read! I still think this is the best book he has authored yet.

Easy to read classic meets pop culture tale

S. Coyne reviewed My Take Away Vampire

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 Easy to read classic meets pop culture tale September 29, 2012

A great mix of classic vampire lour and modern pop culture this is a great short story. While it is not very long that only adds to the charm, an easy and entertaining read. A story of struggle with self control, lust and loss, the main character is a metaphor for us all struggling through life's confusing stages. While the vampire theme may seem reminiscent of another popular vampire movie, the book in unique in its own way and is sure to please readers of all types. A bit of harsh language so probably not the best for young or timid readers, but not unreasonable. Over all a great read.

Intrigue and suspense all round

K. Hedges "hertstore" reviewed Milo Moon

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 Intrigue and suspense all round September 14, 2012

This is actually a great idea for a book. Political intrigue meets cover ups and conspiracies. There was a great deal of international political instability mixed in with some dumb but likeable characters. I think this is what carries the book; mixing a believable but odd character like Milo with an international secret concerning human experimentation. What more could you want from a suspense horror politically intriguing novel.

Awesome Conspiracy Mystery

Karin Cornelsen reviewed Milo Moon 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  Awesome Conspiracy Mystery September 14, 2012 When it comes down to an edge-of-your-seat action, conspiracy theory mystery, Milo Moon most definitely packs a punch, and so far it has delivered. It has everything you need for a good novel. I am a fan of conspiracy theory novels, because it is so easy for me to get caught up in the mystery and intrigue and getting lost between the lines of fiction and fantasy. The action begins on the very first page, but continues to build throughout the story, creating mystery and deception. Milo and Mary Seaton become entwined in an international conspiracy plot, as well as victims of political anarchy, as a secret is revealed by the Swiss government. The author has created strong characters and rich story-telling. The action scenes were probably my favorite part of this book. The way Haines walks you through the intense story-line makes you feel like it is being played out right in front of you.

Grips the Reader

Robin Moore reviewed Louis 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  Grips the Reader September 13, 2012 LOUIS by Derek Haines is a gripping novel portraying the lifetime of a spy. I definitely found it fascinating. Loved the complexities of the turns in Louis's life. The changes portrayed as Louis adapts his identities over and over to accomodate his life as a spy, grip the reader with an intimate look at a lifestyle most of us wouldn't dare to choose. A life he didn't choose, but it chose him. His adventures through the decades also portrays the changing of eras. A must read, yet suave James Bond he isn't. Louis is much more subtle and feeling.

A real happily ever After.

DareToBeADreamer "Mary" reviewed One Last Love

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 A real happily ever After. September 12, 2012

One Last Love by Haines, Derek is a love story set in the most unimaginable place. I always thought it was just me who was one of the last "hopeless romantics" out there. After reading this great book, I know now that I'm not the only one. This book will definitely give you the reassurance that love and happiness can be felt no matter how bad things get.
Bonnie is a man who makes his sad reality into something much more pleasant. I do have to warn you this book is a tear jerker, but well worth the saddening tears. I couldn't put this baby down. It wasn't something I normally would have read (luckily I took the time to read the reviews for this book) but I'm glad that I did. The ending might be one of the most realistic happy endings that I have come across with.
I personally don't like reviews that basically spoil the reading, so I won't be summarizing this book or writing any spoilers. I will however say it like it is, "This book will send your emotions into a rollercoaster ride of emotions" It won't have you barfing at the end but it will have you feeling satisfied and happy that you got to experience it.
Derek Haines made me feel as if I knew Bonnie, Danny, Madeleine and even Charles and his daughter Beatrice personally and that's was what prompted me to write this review. I hope that whoever gets a chance to read this review can understand that One Last Love gives you an experience that sadly enough not many books are able to give you.

I haven't enjoyed reading a book this much in a while

Dennis Turner reviewed Louis

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 I haven't enjoyed reading a book this much in a while September 8, 2012

If you are looking for a high quality book, then look no further because you just found one. The author did an outstanding job writing this one, and he has obviously conducted quite a long and thorough research, to be able to describe so vividly and accurately events and facts from the early 20th century, in different regions of the world. To me that's a great bonus since I always find it interesting when historical events are seamlessly incorporated into the plot and are given a new angle of perspective.
The story itself is very well written and I found myself captivated right from the get go and all the way through, there isn't a dull moment in it, you are always kept involved and thinking. This book made a very enjoyable read.

Louis a boy raised to become a spy.

DareToBeADreamer "Mary" reviewed Louis

2 of 2 people found the following helpful

 Louis a boy raised to become a spy. September 6, 2012

Louis by Derek Haines
Louis is a book that offers an inside look at the life of a Spy. I got a complete "Start to Finish" experience of Louis's(Charles, aka Teremun) life. This book offers everything a spy could possibly go through. From the decisions he must make to the decisions made for him. The obstacles Louis had to face were detailed and made easy to understand. There wasn't a moment while reading this book, that I thought the book was a work of fiction.
In the beginning of this book I got pulled in by a tragic episode in Louis's life and the end I was left feeling overwhelmed about how the story had ended.
I did find myself getting a bit confused with all the identities that Louise had to consume, throughout the book. At first I didn't understand why the book was called Louis, but once I reached the ending, I understood perfectly. I won't spell it out for you; I just hope you yourself understand. I really just want to start discussing every aspect of this book, but I am afraid I might ruin it for everyone else. I will tell you this, if you ever wanted to be a spy, then this book is for you.

Surprise ending

reader42 reviewed Louis

2 of 2 people found the following helpful

 Surprise ending September 6, 2012

Though this book did slow down in parts and I had to reread some parts to keep all the people straight in the story, it was well worth the extra time. It is a book about how through no fault of your own you are faced with choices you can't refuse to take.
This story starts with a young boy and follows how his life is all planned out for him by others and there isn't anything he can do to change it. His journey gives him many name changes throughout his secret life. How he deals with this is what is touching about this story.

Moving tale of later life

K. Hedges "hertstore" reviewed One Last Love

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 Moving tale of later life September 4, 2012

I found One Last Love almost like a tearjerker with the reader being introduced to a dying man who is all but ready to shuffle of the mortal coil. At first you wonder how Bonnie, the main character is introduced as a man who has not long left for this world. But One Last Love gives another avenue, one I did not expect and one I was glad it did. One Last Love was well written and the characters are extremely funny, well Bonnie is; in fact he is a typical grumpy old man with a wry of sense of humour that comes across well in the book. I can honestly say I was glued throughout.

An incredibly fun read...

B. Matthews "B. Matthews" reviewed February The Fifth (The Glothic Tales) 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  An incredibly fun read... September 4, 2012 I'm not normally a sci-fi fan (except for movies) however, after reading Derek Haines book "Louis" I began searching for more of his titles. And really, this story could be set in any place and anytime to be a true gem so even if you're not a sci-fi fan, you'll find this to be an excellent read. Haines is an extremely talented writer and seems to be able to enter any genre and knock out an extremely enjoyable story. If you haven't read any of Haines' work, pick up Louis or February the Fifth and you'll immediately become a fan. February the Fifth is a fun galactic journey of a boy trying to discover what it takes to become the man he needs to be to lead his kingdom. Feb meets some very unique characters along the way while engaging in some very memorable good (and not so good) times. Like Haines' other book, the character development is unparalleled. This is truly a witty tale with wonderful descriptions, great comedy and very memorable characters.

True Love Never Dies...

Ms. Eden reviewed One Last Love 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  True Love Never Dies... September 4, 2012 One Last Love, by author Derek Haines, is a beautiful, bitter-sweet love story that also touches on the reminder of death and dying. This well-written tale manages to run the gamut of emotions, from humorous to despair to grim resignation. Haines manages to draw back the curtain and reveal what runs through the human mind when faced with the inevitable end of life. While death is a journey one must truly face alone, the author gives his characters a brief respite, and shows that indeed, the "love of a lifetime" can be one that is measured in days rather than years. I look forward to reading more from this talented writer. Well done.

Real life James Bond...but better!

B. Matthews "B. Matthews" reviewed Louis 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  Real life James Bond...but better! September 3, 2012 First, I should say that I am a sucker for a good spy book. However, this one was unlike anything else I've read. Louis is like James Bond without all the show. Yes, he's savvy. But this book presents Louis as a real person--someone you can't help but like, feel sorry for and relate to. This was a true page turner--gripping from the very first page. I especially enjoyed the modern history aspect and the great details of Louis' travels amongst historic events (two world wars and more). One of the best reads I've had in a while.

Poignant and inspiring romance is also a story of survival

Ariana R. reviewed One Last Love 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  Poignant and inspiring romance is also a story of survival September 1, 2012 One Last Love is at once uplifting and a tearjerker, with Bonnie's unflappable sense of humor carrying him through a grim prognosis and the painful years that followed. The writing is lyrical, the dialogue warm and eminently readable- not one character utters an uninteresting line in the whole book. A magic chronicle of second chances and a life examined as death inches closer, this is a great story of a man who suffered affliction with true courage. Bonnie's relationship with his wife and second chance at love resonates in the context of his illness and will be inspiring to anyone who has ever lost a loved one in death. Derek Haines is a gifted writer, with crisp, clever dialogue and powerful emotion refreshingly free of overly sentimental treatment. This examines the idiosyncrasies of love in a whole new way and will be a book you'll read over and over.

A unique, heart-warming love story

ForTheQuinn reviewed One Last Love 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  A unique, heart-warming love story August 30, 2012 In this book, author Derek Haines presents us with a unique and memorable protagonist that it's easy to connect with right away. Bonnie is a tough man who has had a difficult life, but as the story develops and his hard shell is stripped away, the sensitive man underneath comes into view. The pace of the story works perfectly, painting a beautiful picture of the character's life and the heartwarming romance that comes to him in his final years. It's a warm, poignant love story that brings a smile to your face and leaves you feeling wiser for having read it.

Very touching end of life romance

Charles Findlay reviewed One Last Love 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  Very touching end of life romance August 30, 2012 While I knew the book couldn't have a happily ever after in the traditional romance genre sense, I had high expectations when I started reading this. Fortunately I was well satisfied. Without giving away any spoilers, I was pleased on how engaging the hero/heroine interacted with each other and their feelings developed realistically. A level of believability stayed constant throughout the story and it never veered off into the absurd that some romance books do. A solid amount of dialogue mixed in with appropriate setting and I enjoyed it from start to finish. Well worth reading Notice: I was offered a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A Beautiful Story

Suzanne Nielsen reviewed One Last Love 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  A Beautiful Story August 29, 2012 One Last Love is a beautifully written book by Derek Haines. The main character, Bonnie, comes to terms with his life after he is diagnosed with a terminal illness. He is forced to examine how he has lived his life and come face-to-face with his checkered past. The story is well thought out. It has depth, credibility, and insight into facing ones mortality. It really tugged on my heart strings. I won't talk about the story line, because I don't want to give too much away, so you will just have to read it for yourself. It is a powerful story, as it lingered in my mind even after I finished reading it. The author wrote in such a way that, for me, evoked strong, deep emotions, which triggered inner reflection, and in my case, healing a part of my past. This is a great book to include in your Kindle collection, and you can't go wrong with the price. I highly recommend.

Love In A Hopeless Place

Juliet C. Obodo reviewed One Last Love 2 of 2 people found the following helpful  Love In A Hopeless Place August 29, 2012 This book was amazing. The story was written so beautifully, but in a way that was realistic and touching rather than fluffed up and commercialized. Human emotion alone is entertaining and mystifying enough that you don't need formulaic plots with common twists. This book avoids the trap that a lot of novels fall in to. You feel for Bonnie even as your chiding him for his stubbornness and sometimes ignorance. You root for him and all the characters in their race/ search for one last love. A simple love that isn't just romantic, but natural and true.

I loved this short story.

mzglorybe reviewed One Last Love

2 of 2 people found the following helpful

 I loved this short story. August 25, 2012

This gives us a great look at what goes through someone's mind in the last days of his life. Too bad it took going into hospice for the main character to realize that people have more to offer than what we see on the outside. Bonnie is a man in his 70's facing his immortality. It's now down to a week or two and he is sent to a hospice center for the last of his days. All his life he had been prejudiced against blacks, against gays, against teens with tatoo's and piercings, and yet these were the first people to befriend him in hospice. To sit by his bed when he was too ill to fend for himself. It surprised him, and he was forced into taking an honest look at himself and realized how he had treated "these kind of people" when he was younger.

We all now people like him, my own father is like that, and he is 91 so he is never going to change, but I sure wish he was still able to read. I think it would be an eye-opener. Yes, I read him some lines, and did tell him about it. Unfortunately, dementia is getting in the way of anything we tell him, sadly, he won't remember it tomorrow.

One of the things I loved most was that this main character (think Walter Matthau) has such a good sense of humor, even in facing death. He makes you chuckle with his comments and realism, and that was the gift he gave to his new friends in hospice with him. I think that alone bought him some redemption for past injustices, that he brought laughter into the lives of others suffering through their last days. Even one of the nurses commented in the first day or two of his stay there that she hadn't heard laughter in the lunchroom, well, ever.

Definitely recommend this little gem.

An unusual love story

ponys "ponys" reviewed One Last Love

2 of 2 people found the following helpful

 An unusual love story August 18, 2012

In this short novel you meet a crusty older man, very near the end of his life, who finds love in a hospice center.I didn't like him at first but grew to like him as the story progressed. It's a poignant story that pulls you in gradually.

Un-put-down-able

 R. Hubbard reviewed Louis

3 of 3 people found the following helpful

 Un-put-down-able August 4, 2012

"Louis" is un-put-down-able. It is a more realistic version of James Bond. The protagonist is someone that it is impossible not to care about. Louis could have penned Green Day's "I Walk Alone". The ending was surprising.

A unique love story

Elizabeth M Caldwell reviewed One Last Love

2 of 2 people found the following helpful

 A unique love story July 23, 2012

Derek Haines has captured my heart and soul with this book. The story proves that it is never too late to fall in love, to enjoy the small miracles of life(stop and smell the roses), to overcome bigotry and much more. I love the laid back way the story unfolds. The main character Bonnie, is 78 and we catch up with him at the end of his life. This book has stirred up so many emotions for me, please make sure you do not miss out. Very good book!

Heart touching

Dannie Hill reviewed One Last Love

11 of 11 people found the following helpful

 Heart touching July 17, 2012

Derek Haines is a prolific writer whose words capture and hold you.

ONE LAST LOVE is one of Mr. Haines' best. A love story set in the most unlikely of places--a hospice care center. People go to these places to die but are also given a chance to contemplate their past.

Bonnie was a hard man in his life and a man not many would like. In his last days he meets Madeleine and in his own way brings humor and acceptance to the people who touch his life.

ONE LAST LOVE is a tale a reader might think would be bitter-sweet, but it's not. I found myself reliving my past and wondering how to change my future to bring more light and humor into this world I live in.

ONE LAST LOVE is a beautiful book and I highly recommend it.

EVERYONE will love this.

NickTrott reviewed Vandalism Of Words 1 of 1 people found the following helpful  EVERYONE will love this. June 21, 2012 'Vadalism of Words' is a gem. Honestly, there is something in Derek's writings for everyone. Observations on beer, food, cooking, Aussies, the Swiss, rugby, cricket, dogs and etc. And a peppering of lessons on grammar and the structure of english. If only it was taught like that at school! No hesitation in giving this read 5 STARS!!! And I haven't even finished it yet.

New twist on Vampires

Fred Paxton reviewed My Take Away Vampire

4 of 4 people found the following helpful

 New twist on Vampires March 30, 2012

For such a short read the main characters were richly developed. Once started, I could NOT put this book down. Haines puts and interesting twist on vampires that I did not, repeat not, see coming. A delightful book sure to please any vampire lover.

Louis

Jack Eason reviewed Louis

5 of 5 people found the following helpful

 Louis March 2, 2012

Take a child of mixed race born in the early twentieth century and give him over to a woman, not his birth mother, to bring up. Then when he is twelve, send him away from his home country to a boarding school in England, then on to Oxford University. What do you get from this far from unsatisfactory beginning - Derek Haines' hero Louis, an intelligence officer in the employ of the British government?

Enjoyable read

Grant McDuling reviewed February The Fifth (The Glothic Tales)

1 of 1 people found the following helpful

 Enjoyable read February 21, 2012

This was the first book of this genre that I had read. I must admit to being attracted to it merely by its title. At first I found the subject matter strange (to me that is) but the more I got into it, the more I began to understand and enjoy. Derek had me turning pages, to the end, so that's a good thing.