YA Fiction Book Review: Curio by Evangeline Denmark

YA Fiction Book Review: Curio by Evangeline Denmark

Book Description:
Grey Haward has always detested the Chemists, the magicians-come-scientists who rule her small western town. But she has always followed the rules, taking the potion the Chemists ration out that helps the town’s people survive. A potion that Grey suspects she—like her grandfather and father—may not actually need.

By working at her grandfather’s repair shop, sorting the small gears and dusting the curio cabinet inside, Grey has tried to stay unnoticed—or as unnoticed as a tall, strong girl can in a town of diminutive, underdeveloped citizens. Then her best friend, Whit, is caught by the Chemists’ enforcers after trying to protect Grey one night, and after seeing the extent of his punishment, suddenly taking risks seems the only decision she can make.

But with the risk comes the reality that the Chemists know her family’s secret, and the Chemists soon decide to use her for their own purposes. Panicked, Grey retreats to the only safe place she knows—her grandfather’s shop. There, however, a larger secret confronts her when her touch unlocks the old curio cabinet in the corner and reveals a world where porcelain and clockwork people are real. There, she could find the key that may save Whit’s life and also end the Chemists’ dark rule forever.

My Review:
Curio is the first steampunk I've read. That being said, Evangeline Denmark has an incredible imagination and has created an other world that's both fascinating and frightening. Grey is a wonderful, strong female character who's willing to take risks and step up to do the right thing.  Whit is a sweet young man willing to do what it takes to save the lives of the people he loves. As the two of them seek answers to help their family and friends, they venture into worlds they've never known and make sacrifices and selfless decisions. They're brave young people who want to make a difference. I'd recommend the book for 14 years and up. If you enjoy reading steampunk and fantasy worlds, you'll enjoy this adventure.

There is a prequel available as well, Mark of Blood and Alchemy: The Prequel to Curio.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

What Am I Wearing Today?

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Working at a public college, I see all kinds of people. Every day I cross paths with folks I don't know; young people just starting their adult lives, weary parents taking classes and working, veterans of the military and veterans of life. I receive many smiles, but I also see sadness and a lot of stress. As I walk my path I'm reminded that everyone of these people has a story.

I read a quote recently that went something like this, If we could look into everyone's eyes, we'd see that each person is wrestling with a challenge. Everyone has their own experience with life and may be facing a battle this very day. I love Paul's reminder to the Colossians and to me. As I get dressed every morning I want to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Sometimes I'm the one in the battle, but even so, I still need to gather these weapons of beauty and make the day better for those I meet. It's a challenge, but with the Holy Spirit's help, it can be done. Will you help me spread kindness? Praise God for the  loving and caring spirits who've ministered to me.

Book Review: Inspiring Words: 30 Verses from the Bible You Can Color

Book Description:
Take time to relax, sit back, and meditate on God’s Word. Inside these pages, you’ll find thirty unique and creative illustrations focusing on key verses from the Bible, each offering an opportunity to connect with Scripture while exploring your creativity. Throughout, NIV verses are paired with detailed line art, and each page is printed on high-quality, thick paper stock that won’t bleed through. And when you’re finished coloring with markers, pens, watercolors, or colored pencils, the completed page can be removed, allowing you to display your work for even more daily inspiration.

My Review:
One of the things I enjoy about reviewing books is finding packages on my porch or in my mailbox. I especially like it when I open the box and find a beautiful book like Inspiring Words. I've seen so many adult coloring books in the stores, but I believe this is one of my favorites. You not only have lovely designs to color, but words from God to meditate on. What a perfect combination for a relaxing, restorative winter activity. This would also make a great gift bundled with a set of colored pencils.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Beauty in Today 1/5/16

It's a beautiful thing when I come home from work exhausted, and my husband makes us dinner. 

Beauty in Today 1/4/16

A friend posted this verse on Facebook today. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8 

My first thought-Thank goodness! 

The rapid changes of every day life can be exhausting. Of course some change is for the good, but even that is tough to keep up with. Thank goodness Jesus never changes. That's a beautiful thing. 

Beauty in Today 1/3/16

After church, Tim and I stopped at a local restaurant for Sunday dinner. A nice end to our holiday break. The young lady who waited on us had a sweet smile and pleasant demeanor. She answered my food questions with patience. 


I couldn't help but notice the table next to us. The people somehow ended up with the wrong order. Our waitress offered to take the food back, but they preferred to keep it and have a reduction made to their check. 

I know this doesn't sound like a moment of beauty...but here's the rest of the story.

Toward the end of our meal, the manager made his way from table to table inquiring about customer satisfaction. When he stopped at the table next to us, they once again complained. Even though the waitress had assured them their bill would be reduced, they replayed the entire scene. Sadly, the waitress overheard and saw the manager offer them a gift card. Instead of being embarrassed, or angry, our waitress went to the table, smiled, and wished them a good day. She had an attitude that helped her rise above the grumblings. Now that's beauty in the day. 

Beauty in today 1/2/16

1/2/16-As I was working on my computer, I caught the reflection of a sweet little bird on my screen. He'd landed on a branch outside the window. God's engineering of that little guy amazes me. What a beautiful sight to start my day.

From Wikimedia Commons