Spirit of Place

Spirit of Place

Aurelien Villette

Villette is a world traveler and award winning photographer. He has taken photographs from several of his architectural series and put them together to create this beautiful book. Each photograph is a masterpiece that calls to the viewer. We are often fascinated with the beauty in ruins, the history that is still speaking to us, the way earth seems to take back what belongs to her. Villette has captured these moments with an eye for the essence that calls us to notice.

The coffee table size book begins with a cover that will grab the viewers attention. The forward, written by Harold Hinsinger, is in three languages and is eloquent and provocative. Each picture fills the page with color and inspiration. I fell in love with urban decay photography years ago and feel that this artist really captures the essence of the craft. Each picture seems to capture the beautiful that is still in the decaying buildings and tells a story of an era gone by. A word about the publishers - I have had the privilege of reading quite a few of their books and I have yet to come across a book published by them that isn't outstanding in quality and character. I absolutely love their work.Overall, this is a book that I would highly recommend for its quality photography and excellent workmanship.

I received this book free of charge from teNeues Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Motorcycle Passion

Motorcycle Passion

Michael Kockritz

There is nothing like the thrill of riding a motorcycle and feeling the wind whip past your face. The sound of the engine, the heat from the pavement, and the sun on your face are all just a part of the wonderful world of riding. Most motorcyclists will tell you it's not just a ride, it's a passion. This book takes a look at that passion and shares a small part of what makes motorcycles so addicting and powerful.

This is a celebration of motorcycles. The photography is outstanding. The large coffee table size of the book lends to larger pictures and great page layout. The first section has specs on various bikes from around the world and the famous people who ride them. Old and new are mixed together to create a fascinating look at a wide variety of bikes. The history about the racers is interesting as well. The next section is all about the road. It lists those amazing roads that should be on every rider's bucket list. It showcases famous races, festivals, and places to go to meet other riders and join in the passion. The third section is all about custom bikes, the shops they come from and the people who make them.

This book is outstanding. It will definitely be kept in a place of honor in my library. It showcases so well the spirit and passion of the rider. We are all different, but at the end of the day all that matters is the bike and the road.

I received this book free of charge from teNeues in exchange for my honest review.

Living In Style Country

Living In Style Country

Photographes by Andreas von Einsiedel

Texts by Jean Nayar

Urbanites love their cities. But the stress of a busy, chaotic life leads them to the country where they can find peace and relaxation.  The retreats are from different countries and have vastly different styles. But each of these country homes provides an escape for their owners.

The photography is gorgeous. Each home is beautifully showcased. The large coffee table style book is perfect for flipping through when you have a few minutes. Although I must admit, I read the whole thing through in one sitting. Each photograph has a brief description that tells a little about the home, its owners, restoration that may have been done, and details about the decor. The pictures are beautiful to look at, but can also add inspiration for your own home. The book has text in English, German, and French. This would make a wonderful gift.

I received this book free of charge from teNeues Publishing in exchange for my honest review.