Whether you crave a fireplace as a source of heat or a center of ambience, Fire Places can help you sort through the choices. Gitlin, an architect, provides a thorough look at types of fireplaces and their construction, as well as the many materials and design possibilities for indoor and outdoor fireplaces. She also includes information on stoves and wood alternatives such as gas, corn and pellets. The many photos that illustrate the book provide inspiration. --The Kansas City Star

Fireplaces were originally all about function, but today they're valued at least as much for their charm as for the warmth they generate. Everyone wants a fireplace. And while it's neither easy nor inexpensive to install one in an existing space, such an addition can be successful as long as potential problems are identified and addressed. I urge anyone who's thinking about adding a wood stove or fireplace, indoors or out, to consult this book. --Rita St. Clair, Tribune Media Services Inc