After an awful year filled with bad luck, Andrea Duncan is amazed when she inherits a house and a special ring from the grandmother she's never met. Once she arrives at the large old house in Texas, she begins to hear voices and discovers the ring opens a portal allowing her ancestors to speak to her. Andrea can't believe what is happening. She definitely doesn't need any more complications in her life and hides the ring away, hoping she can ignore its oddly beguiling call. While trying to deal with this unusual situation, she meets a friendly and very sexy Sheriff, and then adopts a mutt named Heidi who brings some much needed laughter and love into her life. They make the decision of whether to stay and settle down or sell the house and move on a tough choice for her. But misfortune seeks her out once again when she crosses paths with a serial killer. Will her ancestors provide the answers she needs and can the Sheriff keep her safe? Or must Andrea face death in order to follow her destiny?

It's the aftermath of Legacy Day, the day when the students at Ever After High are supposed to pledge to follow in their fairytale parents' footsteps, and everyone is in a huff and a puff! Raven Queen, daughter of the Evil Queen, has refused to sign the Storybook of Legends, rejecting her story--and putting everyone else's in jeopardy. The Royal Apple White doesn't want to think Raven is being a rebellious pain, but Raven's choice means Apple might never get the poisoned apple, Prince Charming, and a kingdom to rule. Behind Apple stands the Royals, those who want to play by the book and embrace their stories. The Rebels, supporters of Raven, believe in breaking free from destiny and writing their own stories. But when the chaos and rivalry land wonderlandiful Madeline Hatter in trouble, Raven and Apple must bring the Royals and the Rebels together to shut the book on their feud before it threatens to end all of their Happily Ever Afters once and for all. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...Who'e the Unfairest of Them All? Don't miss Book #1, Ever After High: The Storybook of Legends!

This book is a review of my life done with the purpose of understanding why it went the way it did. What I learned is that the major goals of my life were set up by an authority which I called destiny. This authority conducted events along pathways that led to the fulfilment of those goals. These events were either causal determined or were synchronized and were set up by destiny which seemed to be devoid of human feelings. The overwhelming intervention of destiny in life does not exclude the potential use of free will but it was not apparent that that will improve the outcome.

This book is based on the study of the traditional Chinese philosophy, and explores the relationship between philosophy and people’s fate. The book points out that heaven is an eternal topic in Chinese philosophy. The concept of heaven contains religious implications and reflects the principles the Chinese people believed in and by which they govern their lives. The traditional Chinese philosophy of fate is conceptualized into the "unification of Heaven and man". Different interpretations of the inter-relationships between Heaven, man and their unification mark different schools of the traditional Chinese philosophy. This book identifies 14 different schools of theories in this regard. And by analyzing these schools and theories, it summarizes the basic characteristics of traditional Chinese philosophy, compares the Chinese philosophy of fate with the Western one, and discusses the relationship between philosophy and man’s fate.

Chapter Zero The Substitute Preface Ⅰ The Civilization of Sages and Worthies and Modern Civilization Ⅱ Knowledge of Wisdom Chapter One The Level of Worlds Ⅰ The Three Great Worlds of Matter, Energy and Information 1. The Relationship between Matter, Energy and Information 2. The Law of Period and Cycle 3. The pure information structure with no information structure II Altruism is Human Nature III The Universe is Unified in Ground State Information IV All Appearances are Empty and False. Chapter Two The Generation of All Things in the Universe Lecture One Concerning the Evolution of the Universe Lecture Two Theories and Mechanism of Evolution I Evolutionary Theories in Eastern and Western Cultures The Cosmic String theory and Taiji Tu Shuo Exposition on the great wisdom in Yi Jing Emptiness is produced in the great perception. Dao produces one; the one produces two; the two produces three. II All Dharmas are the Creation of the Mind. Chapter Three Problems Related to Epistemology I Several Problems concerning Epistemology 1. “Water Knows” proves the non-duality of subject and object and unity of heaven and man 2. The pollution of human mind leads to environmental pollution 3. The “Sudden insight” in the History of Science 4. Direct manifestation and comparative manifestation II Understanding Concerning Time and Space III Sages’ Theories Concerning Knowledge Understanding of differences Turn consciousness into wisdom; go from difference to non-difference 3. Zhuang Zi’s theory on knowledge 4. Desire-based and desire-free cognitive channels 5. The pursuit of learning and the pursuit of Dao 6. There is only one; “Only the self is solely honored.” Chapter Four Order and Disorder I The Open System II Stay Away from the Equilibrium State III Nonlinear Effect IV Fluctuation Effect V The Division of the Ten Dharma Realms VI Brief Introduction to the Four Basic Laws of Thermodynamics VII Development and Evolution VIII The Phenomenon of Self-organization and Others Chapter Five The Phenomenon of the World is Discovered According to Karma I Everything is an Upside-down perception displayed by Consciousness only. II All Appearances Are Empty and False. III The World Discovered is Based on the Karma Created. 1. The information structure of the “S” line 2. Greed, anger and stupidity result in flood, fire and wind. 3. Discovery made according to karma; capacity measured based on knowledge. 4. Show kindness and compassion for creatures and be a vegetarian. 5. Stop doing evil but do good IV The Great Wisdom of Sages Chapter Six Life Forms and the Value of Life Part 1 The Phenomenon of Life I The Phenomenon of Life 1. The software-- the core of life 2. The cycle of life 3. Improve your software and upgrade your life form. 4. Four Types of Life Form II Correct Outlooks on Life and Values Part 2 The Essence of Life I The Composition of Life 1. The relationship between software and hardware 2. Information structure determines life form. 3. The value of life and the summoning of goodness and evilness II The Value and Significance of life III Self-reflection and Practice Chapter Seven Polarization and Depolarization I. The Sages’ Theories on Evolution and Return 1. “Dao” is zero and Wuji 2. Zhou Dunyi: Wuji transforms into Taiji; Taiji is originally Wuji. 3. “The two produces three.” “The three produces all things.” II What is “interact in unseen force to achieve harmony”? 1. Inductions and feelings are “unseen force” 2. The whole universe is connected through feeling and induction. III Polarization and Evolution of the World in the Eyes of the Buddha Chapter Eight The Way of Great Learning I Eastern and Western Cultures are to be integrated II Three States of World Existence 1. The three states embodied by the human body 2. Different systems of the human body III The Way of Great Learning, a Means of Increasing the amount of Information 1. Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire; Manifest the bright virtue 2. “Love the people”- the great mind of same-body compassion 3. “Rest in the supreme goodness” Chapter Nine Movement and Change I The Mechanism of Movement 1. All movements are expressions of difference 2. The shadow of the flying bird does not move. 3. Study the culture of sages and worthies to open wisdom. II How do movement and change occur? 1. Things spring up in the very spot where they also come to an end. 2. The ultimate goal of human civilization III The Law of Movement and Change 1. The chain of cause and condition 2. Spot the reality through the dharma of cause and condition. 3. The law of cause and effect 4. The heaven’s net casts wide and has big meshes, but nothing can slip through. IV As soon as One Dharma Arises, the Ten Thousand Dharmas will Follow. Chapter Ten The Relativity of Polarity and Absoluteness of True Emptiness I All Movements and Changes are Transformations of Appearances. II Understanding the one-appearance of absolute vacuum 1. The characteristics of relativity and absoluteness 2. The truly empty absoluteness of one-appearance and non-duality 3 Everything moves in the absoluteness of true emptiness. III The Existence of Relative Things. IV The Information Structure of the “S” Line 1. It is information structure that makes us have to do. 2 Penetrate the cause of everything under heaven through “S” lines 3. Only the absoluteness of true emptiness exists. V Three Suggestions to Transform a Mortal into a Sage Chapter Eleven Witness the Absolute Truth I The Revelation of Color Blindness II How to Spot the True Appearance 1. Seeing, hearing, sensing and knowing are all empty and false. 2. There is no falseness outside trueness; there is no trueness outside falseness. 3. Personally certify the absolute truth III The Mind is Correspondent to the World IV Purify the Mind and Sublimate the State. Chapter Twelve The Grand Unified Field I The Mechanism and Principle of the Grand Unified Field 1. The principle of the “S” line 2. The unification perceived from the appearance of things II Expressions of the Sages’ Great Wisdom 1. The still and unmoving Yi 2. “Neither production nor extinction”, “Suchness” and “The interdependence of the two ways.” III Enter the Realm of Freedom from the Realm of Necessity Chapter thirteen Step into the Way of Sages I Influence of the Correct Three Outlooks II The Wisdom of Sages and Scientific Discoveries 1. The perfect and ultimate wisdom of sages 2. The theory of relativity proves no existence of subject and object. 3. Open up the original conscience 4. Inherit and carry forward the Way of sages III Some statements from Sages and Science 1. Concerning the composition of matter 2. The sages’ theories on the evolution of the universe 3. Water moons and water have the same body and are not dualistic. IV The Common Understanding of Sages and Worthies 1. Zero is all numbers and all numbers are zero. 2. There is only one. 3. The universe is not evolution but direct manifestation 4. “Stick-or-yell”, a superb teaching method V Mankind is in Movement and Change 1. Two types of spontaneity and their applications 2. The importance of nucleation 3. Which do you refer, egoism or altruism? 4. The Mode of motion and relative existence 5. Understand cause and condition, and return to the original source VI Enter the Primary Meaning; Turn a Mortal into a Sage 1. All dharmas have no production, no destruction, no appearance and no action. 2. Zhuang Zi’s theory on equalizing things Chapter Fourteen The Comprehensive I Fu Xi’s Great Wisdom II Eastern Tathagata and Western Tathagata III The Interconnection of the Sages’ wisdoms IV The Three Lectures on Confucianism 1. The Three Outlines in Great Learning 2. The “Nature”, “Way” and “Teaching” in Zhong Yong 3. The Mind-Method of Confucianism V A Lightless Flower VI Achievement at Ease VII Change the Software Programs of life VIII Appendix (1): The Flower Adornment Sutra

This is the story of a beautiful, sensual, and very desired woman by the name of Destiny. Destiny is not arrogant or vain at all despite the belief of others. She just chooses not to let other's dictate to her or run her life. Destiny's friend Elaina is something serious and always makes sure she has Destiny's back, especially after the death of her husband Alan. Destiny had to make some choices, as well as decide to live again. Destiny loves her coffee so much that everything and everyone had a flavor! Destiny's life changed one day when she stopped at her favorite spot to get her coffee. She had no idea of what she was actually facing or dealing with. Destiny finds herself in a position of having to deal with very different and desirable men. How will she react to it? What will her next move be? When Destiny steps out and lets herself go, the unexpected happened and she never saw it coming! How will she be able to go on, or will she become filled with anger and hatred?

Konkani is a modern Indo-Aryan language and a state language of the Indian state Goa. Until recently, it was considered a dialect of Marathi, but it is now considered an independent language. Konkani has several varieties, including the Manglore variety spoken in the south of Goa, the Gawdi variety spoken by the Gawda ethnic group, and the Goan (Panaji) variety. The latter is the focus of this description, and is the variety used in schools, media and state administration. The book provides a descriptive linguistic analysis of Konkani based on spoken and written data collected by the author during extensive fieldwork. The linguistic features of Konkani phonology, morphology, word-formation and syntax are described in detail, and where significant, compared with the Manglore and Gawdi varieties. Since Konkani is undergoing standardisation, and since it has close contact with Marathi, significant similarities and differences between the two languages are also discussed. Konkani has the honour of being the subject of the oldest European grammatical work on any Indian language: Thomas Stephens’ Arte da Lingoa Canarim published in 1640. This grammar is thus the most recent addition to the long tradition of Konkani grammars.

Through pain comes pleasure... From the betrayal of her ex-boyfriend Richard, the constant drama from her so called "best friend" Ebony and the recent lost of her parents - Destiny Shaw needed a drastic change in her life. Subsequently, she decide to move from California to Atlanta, Ga. With her new found peace, she soon discovers that all the pain and drama from her past is just that...the past. From forbidden pleasure come consequences... New life, New beginnings...drama free...or is it? After running into Richard's younger but more handsome brother Josh, Destiny finds the good qualities in him, that she missed so dearly in Richard. However, there are just some pleasures of life that are forbidden. She soon finds herself wedged deeper in a love triangle that she could ever imagine. However, the head-strong woman that she is, manages to control any issue that is thrown at her, until secrets from her past comes back to haunt her... Lies, betrayal and scandal are just the beginning of her downfall...But will love heal matters of the heart, or will her past control her Destiny?

“No one provides hotter emotional fireworks than the fiery Ann Major.” RT Reviews From USA Today bestselling author Ann Major: a boxed set composed of the first three novels in Ann’s series Texas: Children of Destiny. Passion’s Child (Book 1) When his son’s life is threatened, Nick returns to claim his wife and child. But can their love survive his sins and her secrets? Destiny’s Child (Book 2) Ever since Megan MacKay’s father lost the MacKay ranch to neighboring rancher Jeb Jackson in a card game, Megan MacKay resented Jeb almost as much as she desired him. Now she’s all grown up and such a handful, his feisty pilot is the last woman Jeb wants to desire. Too bad for him a passionate kiss makes him realize he wants to possess her even more than he wants her land. Night Child (Book 3) When world-famous ballerina Dawn Hayden is abducted and a mysterious stranger, who seems dazzlingly familiar rescues her, passion flames and old memories are triggered. Who is Kirk MacKay? What is he hiding? Why won’t he tell her what happened to her in the past? Reviews of her TEXAS: CHILDREN OF DESTINY PASSION’S CHILD (book 1) Ann Major begins a high intensity trilogy with PASSION’S CHILD (4-), the dramatic tale of an estranged couple brought back together by the critical illness of their young son. Ms. Major creates a mesmerizing emotional ambiance and strong plot development… RT REVIEWS DESTINY’S CHILD (book 2) DESTINY’S CHILD (4) is the impressive second book in Ann Major’s CHILDREN OF DESTINY trilogy. A powerful rancher and his feisty private pilot lock horns over his methods of acquiring her family’s holdings. The sensual flames burn very brightly indeed while this explosive couple battles toward a highly satisfying resolution. RT REVIEWS This excellent story is intense and emotionally involving. —Rendezvous NIGHT CHILD (book 3) A powerful story that is as equally compelling, intense and emotional as the first two. The entire trilogy offers a wonderful reading experience. —KW Rendezvous NIGHT CHILD (book 3) Ann Major’s stunning conclusion to her Children of Destiny series, NIGHT CHILD (4+) powerfully blends romance and danger…. The fiery romance will win a reserved spot on many a bookshelf. — RT REVIEWS

“Engaging characters, stories that thrill and delight, shivering suspense and captivating romance. Want it all? Read Ann Major.” –New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts "No one provides hotter emotional fireworks than the fiery Ann Major." RT Book Reviews Ann Major’s name on the cover instantly identifies the book as a good read.” –New York Times bestselling author Sandra Brown In these seven tales from USA Today bestselling Ann Major’s miniseries, Texas: Children of Destiny, old flames burn the hottest! You won’t want to miss these seven poignant reunion stories that include all the novels except Book 7 of her Texas: Children of Destiny series. (Book 7 is available in ebook format by Harlequin.) Passion’s Child (Book 1) When his son’s life is threatened, Nick returns to claim his wife and child. But can their love survive his sins and her secrets? Destiny’s Child (Book 2) Ever since Megan MacKay’s father lost the MacKay ranch to neighboring rancher Jeb Jackson in a card game, Megan MacKay resented Jeb almost as much as she desired him. Now she’s all grown up and such a handful, his feisty pilot is the last woman Jeb wants to desire. Too bad for him a passionate kiss makes him realize he wants to possess her even more than he wants her land. Night Child (Book 3) When world-famous ballerina Dawn Hayden is abducted and a mysterious stranger, who seems dazzlingly familiar rescues her, passion flames and old memories are triggered. Who is Kirk MacKay? What is he hiding? Why won’t he tell her what happened to her in the past? Wilderness Child (Book 4) Passion and old betrayals meet in a conflagration in the Australian wilderness when a transplanted Texas cattleman’s old love walks into a trap he’s set just for her. Scandal’s Child (Book 5) Noelle will do anything to gain Garret’s forgiveness for her past mistakes, and even more to help his son. Does she have a second chance, or is it already too late? The Goodbye Child (Book 6) Saying goodbye to Raoul Girouard eight years ago to please her wealthy family was the hardest thing Eva had ever done. Now he’s back, more dangerous than ever. Because of him her life’s in jeopardy, and he’s her sole protector. When she’s safe again, can she say goodbye a second time to the only man she’s ever loved? Nobody’s Child (Book 7) Not included because this work was already published as an e-book by Harlequin. You can find it on your favorite retailer’s web page. Secret Child (Book 8) When Passion and Fate Intertwine in this gripping romantic mystery suspense novel, will two Lost Souls get a Second Chance at True Love? After a woman with a tragic past is struck by a runaway cab, she gets a brand-new face. Unfortunately, there is a string attached: a pretend marriage to a sexy, Texas cowboy husband. Jack West is dead-set against her no matter how much he desires her. Or is he? Wrongfully sent to prison, Jack has vowed to punish the wife who put him there. But the woman he finds is so transformed, he soon wants something far more dangerous than revenge. Reviews Reviews of her TEXAS: CHILDREN OF DESTINY PASSION’S CHILD (book 1) Ann Major begins a high intensity trilogy with PASSION’S CHILD (4-), the dramatic tale of an estranged couple brought back together by the critical illness of their young son. Ms. Major creates a mesmerizing emotional ambiance and strong plot development… RT REVIEWS DESTINY’S CHILD (book 2) is the impressive second book in Ann Major’s CHILDREN OF DESTINY trilogy. A powerful rancher and his feisty private pilot lock horns over his methods of acquiring her family’s holdings. The sensual flames burn very brightly indeed while this explosive couple battles toward a highly satisfying resolution. RT Reviews NIGHT CHILD (book 3) Ann Major’s stunning conclusion to her Children of Destiny series, NIGHT CHILD (4+) powerfully blends romance and danger…. The fiery romance will win a reserved spot on many a bookshelf. — RT REVIEWS WILDERNESS CHILD (book 4) What a terrific story! The dialogue is fast-paced and snappy, the storyline is exciting, the characterization is great and the love scenes singe the pages. RT Reviews Secret Child (Book 8) Ann Major's Secret Child sizzles with characters who leap off the page and into your heart.... This one's hot!" —New York Times Bestselling author Lisa Jackson