A Haunting in the Arctic by C. J. Cooke delivered an atmospheric tale about a deserted shipwreck off the coast of Iceland. Cooke skillfully shares its past and present as a modern daily explorer Dominique, feels the need to document the ship before it is destroyed. A chilling tale perfect for a chilly winter’s night.

A Haunting in the Arctic
by C.J. Cooke
Genres: Thriller
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

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A deserted shipwreck off the coast of Iceland holds terrors and dark secrets in this chilling horror novel from the author of The Lighthouse Witches.

The year is 1901, and Nicky is attacked, then wakes on board the Ormen, a whaling ship embarked on what could be its last voyage. With land still weeks away, it’s just her, the freezing ocean, and the crew – and they’re all owed something only she can give them…

Now, over one hundred years later, the wreck of the Ormen has washed up on the forbidding, remote coast of Iceland. It’s scheduled to be destroyed, but explorer Dominique feels an inexplicable pull to document its last days, even though those who have ventured onto the wreck before her have met uncanny ends.

Onboard the boat, Dominique will uncover a dark past riddled with lies, cruelty, and murder—and her discovery will change everything. Because she’ll soon realize she’s not alone. Something has walked the floors of the Ormen for almost a century. Something that craves revenge.

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I’ve read this author before and like the clever way she unfolds her stories, filling with them with supernatural elements. In A Haunting in the Arctic, we travel with Dominique to the remote coast of Iceland where the Ormen washed up on shore over hundred years ago; the crew gone without a trace.

Dominique plans to document the details before a crew comes to destroy it. We learn that others have attempted to and strangely disappeared. A strange woman on the beach, an abandoned village, wild horses and strangers arriving to film, all add to the atmospheric vibe of the tale.

As the story unfolds, we learn about the Ormen’s history. In 1901, it was a whaling ship. As it embarks on its last journey, Nicky, the whaling companies’s daughter, awakens to find herself captive on the Ormen. We learn Nicky’s story in alternating chapters. In the 1800s it was a refitted as a researcher ship. When it washed up, only Dr. Diego Almeyda’s remains were found, including his shattered feet. The other occupants of the ship vanished.

The tale was brilliantly paced with moments of fear and suspense. It’s pure gothic horror, and I lost myself in the telling. I devoured this in a few days. Cooke did a superb job of moving between the three timelines, painting a tapestry of fear, comprehension, and twists. The ending blew me away and caught me a little by surprise, but it all clicked. I closed the book completely satisfied.

If you are looking for a dark, unputdownable story with supernatural elements and a gothic horror vibe, you’ll want to grab A Haunting in the Arctic.

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/02/a-haunting-in-the-arctic-by-c-j-cooke.html

The quest for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with the divine can seem daunting in a world filled with chaos and noise. Take a Step with Him by Karen Brough emerges as a valuable guide for those seeking to strengthen their relationship with God. Central to the book is the concept of keeping God at the forefront of one’s life. Brough presents a series of inspirational ‘love letters’ that showcase the Father’s steadfast love, accompanied by relevant Bible verses and actionable steps aimed at nurturing spiritual growth.

Drawing from her own spiritual journey, Brough writes with genuine empathy and insight. The book invites readers into a journey of faith that promises transformation and a more profound understanding of God’s limitless love. Brough steers clear of cliches and generic advice, opting instead for relatable insights and thought-provoking reflections that cater to the reader’s personal spiritual journey. The book’s format, featuring bite-sized insights, reflective questions, and space for personal notes, encourages self-exploration and growth. Covering a broad spectrum of topics, from managing emotions to understanding God’s legacy, each chapter of this book is thoughtfully enriched with Bible verses and questions for deep self-reflection.

This third installment in the series is a valuable resource yet complements other recommended materials. It serves as an invaluable tool for those aspiring to a richer, more fulfilling spiritual life, offering inspiration, encouragement, and practical tools for finding joy and experiencing Christ’s love in daily life. Brough’s attention to detail and compassion is evident throughout, as she guides readers with understanding and kindness. The book is both intellectually and spiritually nourishing, offering encouragement and wisdom in equal measure.

Take a Step with Him is distinguished by its blend of personal insights, adaptable learning experiences, and practical exercises. This guidebook is bound to have a lasting impact on its readers, making it a recommended read for anyone on a spiritual journey. It’s the kind of book you’d suggest to friends and family looking for guidance in their faith.

Pages: 334 | ASIN : B0CQVSBVP7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/22/take-a-step-with-him-companion-guidebook-adventuring-with-god-into-fresh-beginnings-be-held-by-him-book-6/

See Listen Play by Anna Kuk offers a thoughtful and engaging exploration into the intricate connections between music and everyday life. Kuk’s book presents a unique perspective on how music mirrors and influences the complexities of personal and professional interactions.

Kuk’s narrative is both philosophical and introspective, inviting readers to consider the symphonic qualities inherent in their daily lives. She adeptly uses metaphors and analogies to draw parallels between the harmony of musical notes in an orchestra and the dynamics of human relationships. This approach allows Kuk to delve deeply into the concept of individuals as both participants and creators in the vast symphony of existence. Her writing is characterized by eloquent prose and insightful analysis, illuminating the metaphorical relationship between life’s rhythms and orchestral music. Kuk’s vivid descriptions and poignant anecdotes provide a deeply emotional and resonant experience for the reader, making complex ideas accessible and relatable.

See Listen Play is more than just an informative guide; it is an invitation to a deeply expressive and emotive journey. Kuk encourages self-awareness and introspection, urging readers to consider their actions’ impact in the various roles they play in life. This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the depths of their relationship with music and its profound influence on life’s journey.

Pages: 180 | ASIN : B0CPMP7MJZ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/22/see-listen-play/

In Murder in Concrete, author Arthur Coburn delivers a riveting mystery thriller centered around the determined and headstrong Charlie Purdue. The narrative begins with Charlie’s world being shattered by the traumatic discovery of her mother’s body and her father fleeing the scene, an event that throws her once-ordinary teenage life into disarray. Struggling with PTSD and paranoia, she takes it upon herself to unravel the truth behind her mother’s murder, leading her on an unexpected journey to a Los Angeles movie set. There, she not only finds clues to the murder but also uncovers answers to questions she hadn’t even considered.

Coburn crafts a compelling investigation, effectively drawing readers into Charlie’s quest. Her refusal to accept the town’s prevalent theory about her father’s guilt drives the story forward with urgency. The depiction of Charlie’s PTSD is a notable aspect of the book, adding layers to her character and introducing an element of unreliability in her narration. This narrative choice enriches the plot’s complexity and adds to the overall suspense.

Coburn successfully portrays Charlie as a convincingly relentless avenger in her quest for justice, complemented by a well-rounded ensemble of villains and allies. Although there are moments where the dialogue between Charlie and the secondary characters could be more fluid, these instances are balanced by the overall strength in character development, adding depth to Charlie’s interactions and journey. While occasionally facing challenges in fluidity during scene transitions, Coburn’s prose successfully maintains a brisk pace that keeps the reader thoroughly engaged. The story culminates in a notably satisfying conclusion, skillfully tying up loose ends and offering a twist that is poised to delight readers.

Murder in Concrete stands out as a solid pick for those who enjoy a fast-paced thriller that combines an intricate mystery with high emotional stakes. Coburn’s narrative invites readers into a world where uncovering the truth is as perilous as it is imperative, making for an engaging and suspenseful read.

Pages: 335 | ASIN : B0CRJ19QWQ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/22/murder-in-concrete/

In The Dreamlighters Go to Space by Mike Gammage, readers are swept into a delightful blend of fantasy and reality. The story follows the journey of Kaleb and his sister Maya, two children with a burning curiosity to explore the vastness of outer space. Their dream seems out of reach until they meet Jazz, a mystical figure who opens the door to an extraordinary adventure.

Gammage’s narrative skillfully interweaves the magic of imagination with elements of real-world science, creating a tale that resonates with the universal longing to explore the unknown. The story is not just a whimsical ride; it also offers educational value. As the children prepare for their space journey, they interact with the scientists responsible for the rocket launch, providing young readers with a glimpse into the complexities of space travel. The illustrations in the book are vibrant and dynamic, adding depth to the narrative and bringing the characters’ emotions to life. The relationship between Kaleb, Maya, and Jazz is portrayed with warmth and affection, enhancing the story’s appeal. The portrayal of the engineers struggling with the rocket launch adds a touch of humor and realism, reminiscent of the challenges faced during real-life space missions like the Artemis 1.

The Dreamlighters Go to Space is an adventurous tale that is heartwarming and captures the joy of dreaming big. Recommended for children aged 5 and older who are fascinated by space and the wonders of the universe, this book is an excellent choice for bedtime reading. It combines cheerful illustrations with a seamless blend of science and fantasy, encouraging young minds to pursue their dreams and explore the world around them.

Pages: 50 | ASIN : B0CQTWJDL5

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/22/the-dreamlighters-go-to-space/

In Claw School, Angeli R. Fitch ventures into the realm of children’s literature with a captivating tale. The story revolves around Ruby, a determined black cat with a lifelong ambition to become a licensed attorney. As Ruby embarks on her journey at Claw School, she confronts unexpected challenges, notably from her peers who underestimate her abilities due to her intelligence.

The narrative takes an intriguing turn when a prominent attorney visits the school in search of an outstanding student. Ruby, with her unwavering passion, stands out and is chosen to participate in a significant legal case. The plot thickens as Ruby faces the ultimate test of her skills in solving the case. Ruby’s character is crafted with a blend of likability, inspiration, and resilience. Despite her visual impairment, which limits her vision to one eye, Ruby’s focus remains steadfast on her goals and dreams. This aspect of Ruby’s character mirrors the author’s own commitment to social justice, adding depth to the storyline. The book is visually appealing, with bright, thoughtfully composed illustrations that complement the narrative. An added educational component is the inclusion of a glossary at the end of the book. This glossary decodes ‘catified’ legal terms, enhancing the reader’s understanding and engagement with the story.

Claw School strikes a balance between simplicity and substance. The writing is concise and accessible, with definitions provided for more complex terms. The illustrations are full-panel and captivating, enriching the reading experience. Moreover, the book encapsulates a powerful message of empowerment and social awareness, making it a commendable addition to children’s literature. This book is not only a delightful read but also serves as an introduction to themes of perseverance and social consciousness for young readers.

Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0CS44WD7Z

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/22/claw-school/