The Raven (Coffey & Hill #2) by Mike Nappa | Suspense Book Review

The Raven

Coffey & Hill #2

Mike Nappa

Suspense

As part of his street performance, a deception specialist who goes by the name The Raven picks his audience's pockets while they watch. It's harmless fun--until he decides to keep the wallet of a prominent politician, hoping for a few extra bucks. When he finds compromising photos of the councilman and his "personal assistants," The Raven hatches a plan to blackmail the man. However, he quickly finds himself in over his head with the Ukrainian Mafia and mired in a life-threatening plot code-named "Nevermore."

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues to rescue The Raven from a wild card bent on revenge.

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My Thoughts

As soon as I finished Annabel Lee I began to eagerly anticipate the next book in the Coffey & Hill series. Mike Nappa's writing style is very compelling. I found myself caught up in all the action and unable to put the book down.

The follow-up novel, The Raven, is even better than the first. Once again Mr. Nappa uses a clever rendering of one of Edgar Allen Poe's famous works. This time the main character is a street performer that goes by the name of The Raven. This character is one that you will grow to like and find yourself cheering for even as he makes bad choice after bad choice. There's just something about him that makes you want better for him.

Another interesting character is Mama Bliss. She's a very beloved fixture in her Atlanta neighborhood. Everyone knows Mama and Mama knows everyone and everything going on in the neighborhood. I really liked her, even when the story started opening up and we find out some questionable things about her, I still liked her. 

Then there's Trudy and Samuel, aka Coffey & Hill Investigations. I know there is so much in their past that it seems they will never be a couple again . . . but oh I want them to be! The sparks that fly when they are anywhere near each other make for a fast-paced story. Trudy is spunky and Samuel is suave, which should mix like oil and water but there's an emulsifier from their past relationship that just keeps blending them together.

If you enjoy a suspenseful read that has clever overtones and sizzling undercurrents of romance then this is your book. I recommend going back and reading Annabel Lee first to get all of the context. You can of course read this book as a stand-alone title, but why cheat yourself of the pleasure of getting in at the start?

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NIV Holy Bible For Girls, Journal Edition from Zondervan | Journaling Bible Review

NIV Holy Bible For Girls, Journal Edition

Zondervan

Bible / New International Version

THE PERFECT WAY TO 

APPLY SCRIPTURE

TO YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE 

Designed with you--a thoughtful writer-- in mind, this Bible lets you reflect on God's Word and add your own thoughts, art, and color to favorite verses. God loves you and wants to hear from you. Curl up in a cozy spot and spend some time with the Word. 

Features include:

• Lines on each page for journaling and notes
• Thick paper perfect for any writing utensil
• A presentation page for gift giving
• A “How to Use This Bible” page to get started on the right foot
• Ribbon marker
• The complete text of the bestselling New International Version (NIV)

Artwork Credit: Printable from Karla Dornacher

My Thoughts

I have been so pleased to see more and more of our teen and tween daughters and granddaughters join us in worshiping through Bible journaling. It can be such a beautiful expression of praise and I am thrilled to see the girls in my family join in.

Zondervan has come out with several new journaling Bibles especially designed with girls (of all ages) in mind. The covers are just stunning. One is in turquoise and the others are in pink, mint, and purple. We have the turquoise edition and I love the whimsical designs mixed with just the right amount of bling!

The inside design is single-column Scripture with wide lightly-lined margins. It is perfect for the writer and artist alike. I find that we do a mixture of both. Sometimes a quote strikes me and so I copy it. Other times a picture comes to mind and I place that in the margins. There is a lot of white space to accommodate whatever your preference may be.

Can I just say that while this particular Bible is being marketed towards girls it is also appropriate for full-grown women. The cardboard wrapping does say for girls but it doesn't say that anywhere on or in the Bible itself. If you love the cover like I do and want to give it to an adult just remove the wrapping!

With the holidays just around the corner this would be a wonderful gift. Why not pair it with a set of colored pencils or watercolors? The girl (or woman) on your list will be thrilled to get it. 

Christmas Quiet: Receiving The Gift Of His Presence: A 25-Day Devotional Coloring Book by Maisie Sparks & Lauren Younis | Advent Devotional Review

Christmas Quiet: Receiving The Gift Of His Presence

A 25-Day Devotional Coloring Book

Maisie Sparks & Lauren Younis

Nonfiction / Advent Devotional

Receive the gift of God's peaceful presence for Christmas 

while enjoying this uplifting devotional coloring book for 25 days.

In the 25 days leading up to Christmas you will deepen your awareness of God's loving presence and rejoice in the gift of your Savior by pausing daily to immerse yourself in these uplifting devotions, faith-building exercises, and peaceful coloring pages. Enjoy the true essence of the holiday as never before as you draw closer to God with this book.

Includes:

• 25 powerful devotions that can be read in five minutes and provide lasting inspiration,
• 25 reflective questions and thoughtful activities that deepen the experience of each devotion, and
• 25 gorgeous holiday coloring pages to enjoy whenever you like.

My Thoughts

I love the Advent season. For me it's a time to pause and reflect on the reason why we celebrate. But if I'm honest even the preparation for this blessed time can be overwhelming and create anything but peace. This beautiful devotional from Maisie Sparks and Lauren Younis understands the crazy that can come about in all of our well-doing.

Their book is designed to cut through all of the noise and allow our spirits to become quiet and focus on the reason for the season. There are twenty-five days of devotions and coloring pages. What I liked about the book is that the authors said right up front that it is okay to take more time with this book. It is meant to help you contemplate the miracle before us. If you need to take a few days to absorb one of the devotions, that's okay. 

The coloring page that corresponds with that day's devotion is printed on sturdy paper that should hold up well to colored pencils, markers, or even watercolors (as long as you don't over do the water!) The coloring page is one-sided so there is no problem with shadowing or bleed through. I have been cutting each coloring page out and displaying it in my home. It's a great way to continue focusing on the Scripture even after you've put the book away.

If you're looking for a way to quiet your spirit and focus on the One that the season is about I highly recommend this resource. 

The coloring pages make great wall hangings to help you reflect on the Scripture throughout your day.

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MaisieSparks.com

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Goodnight, Manger by Laura Sassi | Christmas Book Review

Goodnight, Manger

Laura Sassi

Illustrated by Jane Chapman

Juvenile Fiction / Christmas 

The board book edition of Goodnight, Manger, written by Laura Sassi and illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Jane Chapman, tells the story of Mary and Joseph as they try to lull Jesus to sleep in the noisy stable after his birth.

It's bedtime for Baby Jesus, but who knew a manger could be so loud? Mama, Papa, and all of the animals try to lull the baby to sleep, but between itchy hay, angels' joyful hosanas, and three kings bearing noisy gifts, it's just too loud. Until Mama finds a way for everyone to work together to shepherd Baby into peaceful dreams under the twinkling stars.

With sweet, rhyming text Goodnight, Manger offers a unique twist on the classic manger tale, deftly weaving together the comforting and familiar routines of bedtime with the special magic and wonder of the manger story.

My Thoughts
Goodnight, Manger is another addition to our 2016 collection of Christmas books. Each night leading up to Christmas we read a book that depicts the season. We enjoyed Laura Sassi's Goodnight, Ark and so I was quite sure that Goodnight, Manger would be a hit as well.
The story takes place some time after the birth of Christ. As every momma can attest there are just nights when the little one can't get to sleep. With sing-song verse and beautiful illustrations this common event is told to us in a way that is sure to make you giggle just a little.
Scripture tells us that Jesus was fully human while being fully God so I am quite sure that there were sleepless nights for all concerned . . . especially in a stable full of noisy animals. If you have a household with a new little one you'll be able to relate to this and share in the joy and chaos. 
I'm always amazed at the conversations that come from reading something like this to my grands. We had a wonderful conversation about Jesus as a baby and how important is was that He came to earth and lived a sinless life so that He could be an atonement for our sins. And you thought it was just a silly story! 
If you are looking for a fun new addition to your Christmas books I would recommend this one highly. It is entertaining but can also be a jumping off point to much deeper conversations.

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www.laurasassitales.wordpress.com

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www.ChapmanandWarnes.com

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Mattie's Pledge (Journey to Pleasant Prairie #2) by Jan Drexler | Historical Romance Review

Mattie's Pledge

Journey To Pleasant Prairie #2

Jan Drexler

Historical Romance

When she feels the pull 

of both home and the horizon, 

which will she choose?

Mattie Schrock is no stranger to uprooting her life. Even as her father relocated her family from one Amish community to the next, she always managed to find a footing in their new homes. Now as the Schrock family plans to move west from Somerset County to a fledgling Amish settlement in Indiana, she looks forward to connecting with old friends who will be joining them from another Pennsylvania community--friends like Jacob Yoder, who has always held a special place in her heart.

Since Mattie last saw Jacob, they've both grown into different people with different dreams. Jacob yearns to settle down, but Mattie can't help but dream of what may lie over the western horizon. When a handsome Englisher tempts her to leave the Amish behind to search for adventure in the West, will her pledge to Jacob be the anchor that holds her secure?

Tender, poignant, and gentle, Mattie's Pledge offers you a glimpse into Amish life in the 1840s--and into the yearning heart of a character you'll not soon forget.

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My Thoughts

I am quite fascinated by the stories of people that have crossed the United States by covered wagon. In Mattie's Pledge, Mattie Schrock and her family along with several others have decided to leave their current home in Pennsylvania to make a new life in a small Amish settlement in Indiana. There are mixed feelings about the move. Some like Mattie's mother are reluctant to go because it means leaving not only her home but some loved ones. Others like Mattie and her father are excited to embark on this new adventure.

Without being tedious Jan Drexler has given us a glimpse into how long and arduous such a journey can be. There are hidden obstacles and some that are right out in the open taunting the determined travelers. There are also personal obstacles to overcome.

Our human condition tends to always think of the grass being greener on the other side of the fence. Mattie has an inner struggle that inevitably comes to a head and allows her to decide what is really important in life. I and many others will be able to relate to her struggle.

This is book two in the Journey to Pleasant Prairie series but I think it could easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I read and enjoyed book one, Hannah's Choice, and I think I enjoyed Mattie's Pledge even more because I knew the background of many of the characters. If you have time to read both books I think you'll feel like it was worth it.

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Photo Credit: © Magnified Photography

www.JanDrexler.com

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Jesus: A 365-Day Devotional | Juvenile Nonfiction Review

Jesus: A 365-Day Devotional

Zonderkidz

Juvenile Nonfiction (ages 8-12)

JESUS

IS READY AND WAITING FOR YOU

TODAY . . . AND EVERY DAY.

Jesus isn't only found in the New Testament of 

the Bible-mentions, whispers, and echoes of him can 

be found in hundreds of clues and promises 

throughout the Old Testament.

Jesus: A 365-Day Devotional helps 

eight-to-twelve-year-olds understand how these 

verses throughout the Bible point to Jesus, and how the 

promises in the Old Testament were fulfilled when Jesus 

came to live among his people. Each devotional also includes 

a Scripture and a prayer for reflection, along with ways to 

apply that day's discovery to everyday life--all of which work 

together to help readers see that Jesus is the way, 

the truth, and the life.

My Thoughts

The number one overriding theme that I want to teach my kids and grands is that Jesus is at the center of every aspect of Scripture. He was present in the beginning when all things were created. His name was whispered throughout the Old Testament as they looked forward to a Savior. And then finally His name leaps from the pages of the New Testament. There is nothing more important than teaching about Jesus.

With that in mind I am thrilled to tell you about Jesus: A 365-Day Devotional. It is designed with tweens in mind but I think everyone would benefit from the walk through Scripture while focusing on the passages that shine a light on our Savior.

It is intended for a daily reading but the nice thing is that the days are numbered but not dated so it can begin at any time. The devotions start in Genesis and then proceeds through the Old and New Testaments covering the references that point directly to Jesus. 

I'm not sure who wrote the individual devotions but they are phenomenal. The author brings that day's Scripture passage to a relevant modern day example and expounds upon the truth that the verses contain. I'm looking forward to passing this along to one of my oldest grands but before I do you better believe I'm going to spend a bit more time gleaning from it!

Fatal Frost (Defenders of Justice #1) by Nancy Mehl | Romantic Suspense Review

Fatal Frost

Defenders of Justice #1

Nancy Mehl

Romantic Suspense

Following in her absentee father's footsteps in a law enforcement career, U.S. Marshal Mercy Brennan has just recovered from being shot in the line of duty. And, unbeknownst to her, her father's recent reappearance in her life has put her in the sights of St. Louis's most powerful gang. Her boss assigns Deputy U.S. Marshal Mark St. Laurent--Mercy's ex-boyfriend--to get her out of town until her safety can be guaranteed. 

Unaware of the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark, it isn't until a freak ice storm strands them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy to put them in great danger. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive--if help is even coming at all?

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My Thoughts

I really enjoy a book that is relevant to our current times. And in my opinion you can't get much more relevant than Nancy Mehl's newest series, Defenders of Justice. I just finished the first book, Fatal Frost and I think you could unfortunately read a very similar story in the news today.

The story centers around U.S. Marshal Mercy Brennan who is working out of the St. Louis area. From the opening chapter we are thrust into the ongoing conflict between law enforcement and drug cartels. The action is fast and the situations are life and death. As the story progresses the stakes just continue to get higher and higher.

Nancy has done her homework so the drama rings all too true. You will find divided loyalties between family members and coworkers. Money is a powerful enticement but threats against those you love are even more compelling. The story explores all of this and allows the reader to see inside the conflict as well as getting a glimpse of what promises to be a resolution.

I completely enjoyed this first book and can hardly wait for the next books to come out. Mercy Brennan, Mark St. Laurent, and Tally Williams are characters that I look forward to getting to know better. If you like a true-to-life story that has a bit of a romantic overtone then you are going to enjoy this novel.

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Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography

www.NancyMehl.com

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Christmas Love Letters from God: Bible Stories by Glenys Nellist | Children's Christmas Book Review

Christmas Love Letters from God: Bible Stories

Glenys Nellist

Illustrated by Rachel Clowes

Children's Christmas Book

Written for children ages four to eight, Christmas Love Letters from God cleverly combines both prose and poetry as the story of Jesus’ birth unfolds. The book includes seven stories, beginning with Isaiah’s prophecy and ending with the visit of the wise men. Following each story, the child will find his or her own letter from God, folded into a small envelope attached to the page. Each letter begins with a space in which to write the child’s name, so each one can be specially addressed to the child.

Written as if God is speaking, each personalized message gives the young reader a sense of wonder as they discover anew the Christmas holiday and the birth of Jesus. A very special Bible verse, entitled God’s Perfect Promise, also accompanies each story and letter as God’s personal words of love, promise, and hope.

My Thoughts
Christmas Love Letters from God is another new edition to our family's 25 days of Christmas books collection. I am especially excited about this one because I love Glenys Nellist's writing and particularly her other Love Letters from God books. The sparkle in my grands eyes when they read a personalized letter from God is absolutely priceless.
The story of Christ's birth is told through seven different sections and they begin with the prophesy in Isaiah. After we hear from Isaiah we switch to Mary and her visit from the angel. Glenys' version of the Magnificat is beautiful. Next is Joseph and his dream. And then the couple are off on their trip to Bethlehem. The story of Christ's birth is told in a way that will stick with you for a long time. Then we get the account of the shepherds and finally the wise men.
While this book isn't probably for the littlest ones on their own. (There are flaps for each of the letters that little hands may tear.) It is sure to be a delight for the whole family year after year. We're in the process of replacing some of our oldest Christmas board books and I am absolutely thrilled with this one. Rachel Clowes' art work and Glenys Nellist's words combine to tell the Christmas story accurately yet uniquely. I'm sure that your family will come to love it as much as ours has.
Other Reviews For This Author
Love Letters From God Little Love Letters From God Snuggle Time Prayers Snuggle Time Psalms NIrV Love Letters From God Holy Bible
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www.GlenysNellist.com
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NIV Beautiful WORD Bible from Zondervan | Journaling Bible Review

NIV Beautiful WORD Bible

Zondervan

Journaling Bible / New International Version

"BEAUTIFUL WORDS, WONDERFUL WORDS,

WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE."

- PHILIP P. BLISS

Find beauty in the Word of God as you discover wisdom to sustain you in every season. The NIV Beautiful Word Bible will draw you into the splendor of God's words with colorful, illustrated verse art and uplifting imagery that complements Scripture. Open your heart to the rich diversity of stories, characters, prophecies and hope found in the Bible as you experience God's Word in a creative way.

FEATURES

500 verses illustrated in full-color and indexed for easy search

Single-column text of the New International Version (NIV)

Wide margins and high-quality paper for notes, journal entries or artwork

My Thoughts
Bible Art Journaling has become very popular these days. While it is beautiful and a great way to meditate on Scripture, it can also be intimidating for those that don't feel very artistic. I happen to be a painter but I still have days where I am just completely uninspired to do anything original.
The wonderful thing about the NIV Beautiful Word Bible is that it not only gives you space to be creative but it also already includes artwork that can inspire you to branch out and add your own artwork. Even if you aren't into art the single-column text and wide margins that are lightly lined make it easy to add notes beside the passage.
While the version that I have is a hardback there is also a leather-like edition that is beautiful. This Bible would make a wonderful gift for yourself or a friend. 

NIV Wonders of Creation Holy Bible: Illustrations to Color and Inspire | Children's Bible Review

NIV Wonders of Creation Holy Bible

Zondervan

Bible / New International Version

THE WONDERS OF THE CREATED WORLD

FILLED WITH THE

HUES OF YOUR IMAGINATION

With detailed black-and-white illustrations of amazing animals, landscapes, and other wonders of creation, this Bible features over 50 ready-to-color pages alongside the full text of the New International (NIV) translation.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

• Lay-flat binding made for the perfect coloring experience
• Over 50 pages of black-and-white illustrations ready to be colored
• Key verses called out on each coloring page
• The full text of the bestselling New International translation
• Presentation page for gift giving
• Ribbon marker

My Thoughts

I've been enjoying Bible Art Journaling for awhile now and much to my delight my granddaughters have shown interest in doing it as well. The NIV Wonders of Creation Holy Bible is the perfect solution for introducing my younger grand girls to this form of worship.

This Bible has a ton of full-page art with Scripture just waiting to have color added. I feel like it is a great first step in encouraging my girls to meditate on a particular passage while they add their own personalization to the page. The only drawback to this particular Bible is that it doesn't have wide margins so you can't really do journaling on the pages. I do plan on showing them how to add some tip-ins so they can do art on passages that have deep meaning to them. 

I am particularly excited about the presentation page. It has the usual to, from, and date sections but it also has beautiful butterflies just waiting to have color added. My plan is to color them in as a special memento from me to them.

This would make a wonderful gift for your favorite budding art enthusiast. Since the translation is the NIV it doesn't even have to be a child! May I also suggest the companion coloring book Wonders of Creation? Those two books and a pack of colored pencils (or markers, or gel pens) would be a really nice and encouraging present.

A Night of Great Joy by Mary Engelbreit | Children's Christmas Book Review

A Night of Great Joy

Mary Engelbreit

Juvenile Fiction / Christmas

"All those gathered under that bright

star were filled with joy, and knelt down

to worship the child.

At last, the Savior of the world

had come."

A Night of Great Joy celebrates the joyful season of Christmas and the story of the nativity, told through the performance of a children's Christmas pageant. Mary Engelbreit paints a wonderful picture of the night that Jesus was born--a night of wonder and awe. From the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem to the gathering of many before the baby Jesus, this holiday treasure leads children through the tale of the birth of Jesus, guiding them with the star of Bethlehem.

My Thoughts
One of my very favorite activities during the Christmas season is to attend the children's Christmas program at our church. What could be more darling than little shepherds dressed in their daddy's old bathrobe? Or how about the shy little angel that suddenly bursts into tears? All of it is just precious.
Mary Engelbreit has captured the beautiful simplicity of this traditional event in her very own whimsical way. She happens to be one of my favorite artists and this book showcases the very best of her talents. It will definitely become a treasured part of our yearly Christmas book reading.
If you are like we are and do a nightly Christmas book reading leading up to Christmas then I can't recommend this book enough. It is sure to delight the little ones because they can envision themselves in the same roles but it will also bring a smile to the adults' faces as they recall Christmas programs of the past. I personally look forward to sharing this book with each of my grands.
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www.MaryEngelbreit.com

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