The Judgment Stone: An Immortal Files Novel by Robert Liparulo
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: Science Fiction, religious
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: May 14, 2013

Jagger Baird is a tough guy. He’s a former Army ranger and he’s worked in security for years. He’s not someone you should cross or take for granted. After discovering that there are immortals walking around from Bible days, Jagger was pretty sure he’d seen it all. Except that there’s something new and it’s so dangerous that it has Jagger completely stunned. And this time, he is determined to protect his family and keep them out of harm’s way. Except that he’s one of the only people on the planet who is equipped to fight this new terrifying enemy.

The Clan is part of the Immortals – people who were cursed by God and forced to walk the earth without being able to die. Differing from the Tribe in monumental ways, the Clan is determined to cause as much chaos, harm, and destruction as possible. When they get their hands on a piece of stone that pulls back the veil to reveal the spiritual world and battles happening around us daily, a deadly plan emerges. What if they were able to track down all of God’s favorites and completely destroy them?

Robert Liparulo is a master of suspense, intrigue, and adventure – this tale is no exception. There were, once again, moments when I had to stop reading just to catch my breath. As delighted as I was with the first book, (The Thirteenth Tribe – see my review here.) I can say that this one did not disappoint. In fact, as hard as it was for me to imagine, Liparulo managed to up the ante and bring this to a whole new level of suspense and intrigue.

These characters resonated once again and though I admit that there are moments in the story where the dangerous focus on Jagger’s family felt a little heavy handed, I still felt emotionally drawn to each of them in an incredible way. The questions Jagger has, the wavering faith of his wife and the concern of his son all hit home in some powerful way. With these characters, he addresses all of the levels of faith, doubt and fear that we have as we consider God and our lives in conjunction with His plan. I love that.

I also love the fast-paced action in these books. If you’re a lover of Tom Clancy or Clive Cussler, these books will become fast favorites. Epic battles with a variety of weapons, hand-to-hand combat and realistic survival moments will keep you on the edge of your seat. (Warning: Seriously do not attempt to read this book to settle yourself down for bed. I have at least one night’s lack of sleep that was sponsored by the letters L, I, P, A, R, U, L and O) With twists and turns that you’d never imagine coming, this book will keep you entertained, breathless and most of all, wanting more.

Two thumbs way up for this outing from Liparulo. I’ve got dibs on the ARC for the next one the second it’s available. (I figure by putting this in my review maybe I have a chance of actually scoring a book before Josh Olds gets it! *shrugs* It’s worth a shot!)

Rated PG-13: There’s some seriously heavy stuff in here – places could get rough for anyone under thirteen or even those hovering around that age.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Afloat by Erin Healy
Reviewed by: Amber McCallister
Genre: Fiction/Suspence
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: May 7, 2013

Afloat is a stunningly, honest examination of the selfishness that is found within the human heart. We are given the opportunity to see how a group of very different people react to the chance of replacing their selfishness with selflessness (love). This is an edge-of-your-seat thriller chock full of the most delicious twists and turns that brings about the most unexpected and heart-soaring ending. You will have to read this hauntingly moving story in order to experience it for yourself.

The two main characters that this story revolves around would seem to be the most ordinary people that you would meet on the street. Unfortunately, life has thrown them some wicked curve balls, and they have both tried to pull themselves back up on their feet but through two very different methods. While Vance has come to rely on God through the compassionate and loving help from his friend and mentor, Zeke, Danielle has come to rely on a questionable local business man named Tony to help her get out of her life-altering misery. If anyone would examine the lives of Vance and Danielle, they would undoubtedly conclude that they were over the hump and back on track to getting their life back, but underneath the surface, things aren’t quite as happy and perfect for either one as some would assume.

Vance has kept his mind busy in building the perfect inhabitable living structure that will float on water inside of a small cove. His dream is to offer this new housing to the homeless and those who can’t afford proper housing. However, in his search for funding, his dream is forcibly redesigned into offering these living spaces to the wealthy in order to make a profit after construction is complete. Danielle’s boss, Tony, who seeks to make life easier for her, pulls her farther and farther into his sticky web of deceptive advertising for Vance’s new housing for the wealthy. She works hard for him to show her appreciation, but her heart is somewhere else. She wonders how long she can keep up this pretense without Tony figuring out that it is not real.

This story will pull you under the surface as its once beautifully calm depths transform into a raging, life-altering trial. Just when all hope is lost, we see our redemption swoop in to carry us away, but we must still our heart and listen to that small voice. If we aren’t quiet we will miss the life-saving instructions from our Rescuer and risk being swept away by the waves of confusion and chaos. This story belongs to those whose minds and hearts can’t be easily stilled. It will bring such a hope that even they can’t deny or turn away from. I pray you will open your heart to what the Lord would show you as you take part of this hair-raising, heart-refining journey.

Rated PG: There are some adult situations discussed like sex outside marriage and a death as a result of an accident that might not be appropriate for younger children.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Broken Wings by Shannon Dittemore
Reviewed by: Lara M. Van Hulzen
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: February 2013

The second book in the Angel Eyes trilogy, Broken Wings begins with Brielle healed and teaching dance, content to have her boyfriend, Jake, living next door. When her dad begins dating a much younger woman and drinking heavily, Brielle worries the dark part of the celestial world is working to ruin her and her family. Believing she has a future with Jake, she clings to the light and promise that no matter what happens, their future is together. But is it really?

The demon, Damien, returns and Brielle’s mother’s grave is disturbed revealing things Brielle doesn’t want to face. The Prince of Darkness is after her and Jake, wanting Jake’s healing powers and her ability to see the celestial. As more and more truth is revealed, Brielle questions anyone she’s ever trusted and discovers she must fight despite her brokenness.

Dittemore creates a world where terrestrial and celestial collide and the reader can’t help but watch in awe. Brielle is a young woman with fears, worries and responsibilities just like anyone else her age and she must grasp the gift she’s been given and use it to honor the Father. The reader can relate to Jake as well. Together they show what can happen when prayer and faith are the glue of a relationship and how God can use anyone at any time if they are willing.

Exciting and fast paced from start to finish, Broken Wings steps up right behind Angel Eyes. I look forward to reading book three, Dark Halo.

Rated PG: This is a book meant for teens. Although there is nothing inappropriate in any way, the battles between angels and demons might scare a younger child.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Reviewed by: Amber McCallister
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: March 12, 2013

So Shines the Night is a masterful interweaving of a beautiful story of finding a life of meaning in God along with seeing the apostle Paul come to life before your very eyes. The intimacy with which we are given this inside look with Paul is amazing and breathtaking. I was astounded at just how powerful he must have seemed to those living in the darkness that then saw the light of God, His grace, and a reason for living. My heart is so full that I am not sure where to begin relaying how I feel.

This story really brought this time of history alive before my eyes, and I cherished every minute of it. I felt that I myself was walking down the very roads of Ephesus, and I so longed to see the beauty of it with the unforgettable and touching characters of this story. I was immersed in the lavishness of that culture, and it swept me off my feet.

There was something so pure and long ago lost from the followers of the Way. How Christians of today could learn from their love, their enthusiasm, and their hospitality. We have sadly seen the fervency of their love, their unwavering devotion, and their single-minded purpose get garbled, watered down, and twisted into the “religiosity” that we see so prevalent today. No wonder people are turned off by the Christianity that see around them. The purity of how it started out is not what is broadcasted to them, and this is to our great detriment as much as to theirs. How we need to go back to our first and only true love! Only then will the kingdom of God become what it was always meant to be.

This story focused on two broken people fighting for the same thing, a second chance at a life of happiness, security, and fulfillment. Daria and Lucas’ chance meeting proved to be a turning point for both of them that started a rebuilding of their lives individually and as a couple. While they both desperately searched for the truth they needed, they each took very different paths in this journey. While Lucas’ path proved to be the deadlier of the two, Daria’s path revealed God’s strength through her that helped her and Lucas both find the freedom, truth, and love that they so desperately longed for.

This was my first foray into the genre of Biblical fiction, and I was far from disappointed. All of the elements that I have come to enjoy in a good story – the mystery, the suspense, the longing for truth and learning, and the sharpening of my mind – was all very much present in So Shines the Night. I am eager now to continue my journey into this genre to see what other treasures are out there to enjoy and learn from.

Tracy Higley is an author that stands out as one who is meticulous, thoughtful, and a force to be reckoned with. Her touch throughout this story is one of tenderness, humility, and awe at the marvelous works of our magnificent God and Father. His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. She wraps the mystery, the love, and the grace of our God throughout this story so much so that it feels as if you are enveloped in His arms as are you reading it.

While this story brought an immense amount of hope to my heart, I am saddened by the continued parallels that are drawn to our own time today. Some things have not changed and others have morphed into various forms to try and hide what they truly are. The shroud of deception has been gradually and gladly by some pulled over the eyes of those around us, and that makes our job that much harder and dangerous. Let us cling to the one true God, and through us He will work His wonders.

Rated PG: There are some adult topics like demon possession that younger children may not be able to deal with.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Reviewed by: Jill Williamson
Genre: YA Supernatural
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: February 2013

Brielle and Jake are growing closer, but her father doesn’t like it–doesn’t seem to like Jake at all. Brielle is certain it’s because of Jake’s faith, but there seems to be something more that her father isn’t saying. And then her dad starts dating Olivia. Brielle doesn’t approve. It’s just a feeling she has. But feelings aren’t enough to convince her dad of anything, so all she can do is stand by and watch… and pick up the pieces if things go bad.

Meanwhile, Jake still doesn’t know why the ring has vanished from the wooden chest. He hasn’t told Brielle that it’s missing, either, and she can tell that he’s keeping something from her. And unbeknownst to Brielle or Jake, Damien in hunting them both, hoping to take the boy who heals and the girl who sees to his master. The Sabres are coming. And Brielle learns more about the reoccurring nightmare she’s been having, and it’s leading Jake and her closer to something big.

I couldn’t put it down! This is a fantastical story of Biblical proportions and yet Shannon Dittemore make it feel so real. Brielle learns that faith isn’t a quick fix. That tough times still come. And the ending… Gah! You’ll be desperate for book three once you close this one.

This is one of my favorite new series. Dittemore has accomplished a rare feat with Broken Wings: she’s written a sequel that’s as good as/better than book one. Beautiful, romantic, and fascinating. I couldn’t stop reading this enthralling page-turner. I’ll be the first one in line for book three.

Rated PG-13: There is some violence and the demons are scary. There is no bad language, no sex. There is a little kissing, but it’s not graphic or overly sensual. There is a scene in the graveyard where a body is being dug up, but no bodies are shown.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Holy Bible (Compact, ultraslim designer series)
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: Bible
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: October 2, 2012

Since I got into the idea of reviewing Bibles, I’ll be honest. I’ve gotten quite a few to review. There are teen Bibles and tween Bibles and kid Bibles. (I could totally do a Dr. Seuss here…but I’ll save you the pain and embarrassment!) I’ve found several that I have really loved and this is definitely one of those. The moment I pulled the box out of the mailer, I fell in love with this Bible.

Covered in grey cloth and plum colored leather with intricate tooling, this Bible fit my hand perfectly. It’s got three snaps across the front which I love. When I put this Bible in my purse, I don’t have to worry about other things getting crowded between the pages. The snaps keep it shut tight. (They’re also gorgeous – silver floral buttons that highlight the tooling in the leather.)

Inside though, is far more than a bare bones version of the Word. This Bible has pages at the beginning for memos on your favorite verses, prayer requests (and answers) and space for stories you can share about your reading. At the end of the Bible, it has a full concordance, full colored maps that are referenced with scripture stories and verses, and a one year reading plan.

This Bible is absolutely gorgeous and filled with enough extras that it is a perfect gift or purchase. Thomas Nelson also has a lifetime guarantee on this Bible so you know that they stand behind the quality and craftsmanship. If there’s a special woman you know that could use a special (and beautiful) Bible, this is the perfect gift.

Rated PG-13: Bible.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Right Where I Belong by Krista McGee
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: YA
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: December 11, 2012

Natalia has watched her father bounce from marriage to marriage during the course of her lifetime. It’s gotten so bad that she’s completely written off love herself. But when he announces that he’s divorcing his third wife, the only woman who has ever been even close to a real mother for her, Natalia is completely ready to give up on everything.

Instead of staying with her father in Spain, where she’s grown up, Natalia decides that she’d like to go and live in the United States with her soon to be ex-stepmother. (Yeah, did you follow that? Instead of staying with her dad, she’s leaving with the woman he’s divorcing. Threw me for a loop, too.) So with the blessing of both of her parents, Natalia heads to the U. S.

When she arrives, she isn’t sure what to expect but being the center of attention certainly isn’t it! Brian, the local pastor’s son, is a really nice guy who volunteers to help her out with getting into the groove of things. She also becomes the target of Spencer, another more popular (and wealthy) boy at school who wants to connect with her too – but it’s for completely different reasons.

As what is supposed to be a modern day retelling of the story of Ruth from the Bible, Right Where I Belong hit all of the high notes for me. I really enjoyed this story and meeting all of these fabulous characters. Sometimes when you’re reading YA books, it seems like they’re living in some sort of world the rest of us don’t reach. The kids are perfect (or perfectly horrible) and there aren’t really solid representations of life for tweens and teens. This book does not suffer from that. Natalia’s struggles are realistic (especially for anyone who has ever needed to adapt to living in a new place) and she’s honest about her failings.

She also needs to deal with the issues of not living up to the expectations that her parents have for her and at the same time, has to help her step-mother through the transition of being divorced. Some of those scenes were hard to read, but again, they were realistic and relatable.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I wanted to know more about Natalia and her journey and when the book ended, I was annoyed. I wanted it to keep going! (I hope she does plan to write more!)

I’ve already recommended this book to several friends and handed it off to my daughter for her to read. I look forward to seeing where she takes us next!

Rated PG-13: There are some heavy topics in here…might be tougher for someone under 13-15 to handle. (Divorce, parental issues, etc.)

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

Holy Bible (Designer, compact ultraslim)
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: Bible
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: October 2, 2012

This ultra-compact version of the Holy Bible is definitely something to behold. Covered in butter soft light purple leather, it’s held closed with a lavender satin ribbon that wraps around a button that looks like a peppermint. The verse from I Timothy 4:12 about not letting anyone despise you in your youth, it’s obvious that this Bible targets tweens and teens.

Labeled as ultra-compact (so you know it’s slim and light) you would think that it would be bare bones scripture, but Thomas Nelson has packed an incredible amount of information into this Bible. I was shocked to discover not only a full concordance in the back, but full color maps labeled with relevant stories and scripture references as well. In the opening pages, you can find memo areas to record favorite scriptures, memories and even prayer requests and answers. I was also delighted to find, tucked in the back, a one year reading plan for the word as well.

For a small Bible, this one packs an incredible punch. I am blown away by the quality and forethought that went into the creation of this Bible. Easily a beautiful gift for any young girl, there’s no doubt that the team at Thomas Nelson who put this together worked hard to cover every avenue and detail.

Like the other leather covered Bibles I’ve reviewed, this one also has a lifetime guarantee. You can tell when you pick up these Bibles that they are solid and they should last a long time. Thomas Nelson stands behind that with their guarantee. (You can see it stamped on each box.)

Speaking of boxes, this one comes in a beautifully decorated cardboard box that can be used to store or even carry the Bible and keep it well protected.

I loved this little Bible and know that this would be a gorgeous gift for any tween or teen!

Rated PG-13: Bible.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!

If We Survive by Andrew Klavan
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: YA, Adventure
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: November 6, 2012

Will Peterson is just a normal teenage guy. He’s got his issues with girls and friends and schoolwork. He deals with all the regular stuff you’d imagine that a teenager deals with on a daily basis. When the chance came for him to join a mission trip to Central America, he figured why not? So Will went to a foreign country with a few other friends from school and their youth pastor to help build a wall. What he never expected was to get caught up in a violent uprising and be stuck in the middle between two warring factions while people around him are tortured to death and die.

The next few days of Will’s life turn him into a completely different person. Constantly on the run, looking at every situation through the lens of life or death, and watching friends be in situations you can’t help will tend to do that to a person. Gun battles, torture, hand to hand combat – not your typical training skills for a mission trip.

I know that this summary doesn’t really cover the specifics of the action, but it’s hard to summarize this particular tale without massive spoilers, so I’m doing my best to keep you free and clear of spoilerage on this one!

That said, Andrew Klavan has created a brilliant edge of your seat thriller with this one. There were moments it was hard to read. That could be because I have a daughter who isn’t too far off from the age of the characters in this one and she’s already expressed some potential for mission and service work. Or it could just be that no matter what, the idea of teenagers stuck in another country and being in harm’s way is frightening enough without the details. However, Klavan fills in those details with crystal clarity – leaving no doubt of how serious this situation is for the kids and those around them.

The characters were spot on teenagers and even though a few times they felt a little like caricatures, the reality still shone through in every action and moment of this situation. A well crafted plot, the story moves quickly with good pacing and sometimes, breakneck speed. Again though, it’s not too far out of the realm of reality for this type of situation and it makes for an interesting read. In life threatening situations and horrifying situations, things often move faster than our brains can process. Klavan captures that well.

This was an adventure of nearly epic proportions packaged into book format. Have you ever read a book and felt like it really NEEDED to be a movie? This one is that in spades. You almost wonder if there’s already a film script lying around somewhere and this book was adapted from it.

If you’re a fan of Andrew Klavan’s, this will definitely be right up your alley. If this is your first foray into his universe you may want to hold on – the ride’s pretty wild.

Rated R: This one’s pretty hard core with the action. People die. Right in front of teenagers. Teenagers have guns – in order to save their own lives but it’s still there. I’d definitely keep this one in the hands of older kids.

*In light of the Sandy Hook tragedy in Connecticut, it’s possible this book could create some different anxiety and stress for people reading it. Be warned that it’s a tense book about teenagers (without parental influence at this point) in life threatening situations. If you’re sensitive to this sort of plot, keep that in mind.

Review copy provided by the author. Thank you!

Holy Bible Pocket Edition
Reviewed by: Lori Twichell
Genre: Bible
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: September 4, 2010

The Thomas Nelson Pocket Bible is a small, cloth covered version of the entire Bible. Labeled as a specialty fashion design, the two copies that I received to review were both intricately decorated and reminded me of something from my childhood. (The 70’s and 80’s were a beautiful time, people!)

No nonsense and basic, this is the scriptures without flourish or addition. Perfect for tucking into a purse or giving as a gift, these Bibles are light and easy to carry. There’s a small concordance tucked in the back of each that provides further insight to the Word, but beyond that, it’s simple, plain and elegant.

The cloth covering had my daughters immediately asking if they could color or add to the cover. If this is something that might intrigue you, that would be a benefit. It’s not a cover that could be easily washed though, so take that into consideration.

All in all, these versions are a great gift for someone or easy to tack on to a gift as well. I can see them being distributed en masse at a hospital or a function where the gospel is being preached.

Rated PG-13: Bible.

Review copy provided by the publisher. Thank you!