New to XML services book recommendation please

[Phil Da Lick!]

Hi all,

I am about to move into programming using an xml web services model. The
first thing I need to know is whether you can use them privately within a
corporate LAN, or whether you need to be connected to the internet for
something.

Secondly I'd like a good book recommendation (I'm in the UK). The
documentation online is a minefield if you aren't familiar with the whole
..net framework. I am very comfortable with C++ and the traditional
framework model. I understand the reason for the XML services model but none
of the specifics regarding implementation. I also know next to nothing about
the .net framework. So I'd like a book that is geared up towards
knowledgeable programmers who are new to these technologies. If possible I'd
like a book which also covers the difference between using an xml web
service and .net remoting. Database usage with .net would also be an
advantage.

Thanks.

Phil.