Showing posts with label TheresaLinden. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TheresaLinden. Show all posts

Tuesday, 3 February 2026

Sharing the Sorrow - Theresa Linden and Kelsey Doherty - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 2

Sharing the Sorrow
Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 2
Theresa Linden
Kelsey Doherty (Illustrator) 
ISBN 9781734992991
ASIN B0G1N5Y3L4

Sharing the Sorrow - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 2

This story marks the 41st time I have read a book by Linden, and I have read her contributions to anthologies numerous times as well. My children are well past the reading age for this book, but I love Linden’s writing so much I decided to give it a read anyways, who knows hopefully someday I can read it with grandkids. 

The description of this volume states:

“Sharing the Sorrow is the second in this Rosary-themed chapter book series.

When Peter’s friend Caitlyn comes to visit, he can’t wait to play outside. Last time they traveled through the Portal to the Rosary Mysteries all the way to Bible times, and he wants to go again! Caitlyn doesn’t seem as anxious to go. She tells him that the next mysteries of the Rosary are sad, and she doesn’t want to be sad. Then she finds a note in her Rosary journal that changes her mind: “Saint Faustina said Jesus gives us great graces when we meditate on the Sorrowful Mysteries.”

Peter remembers how they moved from each mystery after finding the virtue for that mystery, so he plans to find the virtue quickly if a mystery gets too sad. It’s a good plan, but once they step into Bible times, nothing goes as expected.

Join Caitlyn and Peter on their adventure to Bible times as they experience the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary with Jesus, the Apostles, and the Blessed Mother in this Rosary-themed chapter book geared toward six- to nine-year-olds. Readers will learn to use their imaginations to meditate on the mysteries and will think of praying for specific virtues. After the story, find Bible verses and a list of virtues specific to each mystery, along with a "Prayer before the Rosary" for children.”

This story and series are really interesting and a unique twists on the time traveller motif. In some ways it is similar to Lisa M. Hendey’s Chime Travellers Series or the Mr. Baker’s Book Series by Andrew Votipka and even Douglings Adventures by Carissa Douglas. The main difference is that in this volume and I assume series is that the children are witnessing events but often appear to not be seen or heard, at least for the most part. There are jumping through events from the Bible for the mysteries of the Holy Rosary, in this cause the sorrowful mysteries. The sections in this volume are:

Chapters 1-10
Dear Reader,
Virtues for the Sorrowful Mysteries
Bible Verses for the Sorrowful Mysteries
Prayer before the Rosary
About the Author
About the Illustrator
Books By This Author

The story begins with Peter wanting to get out of the house, and see if they can go on another Rosary adventure. His mother wants him to spend some time with his little brother. Caitlyn’s doll has an arm ripped off by her sister. But the two escape the house and soon they are on another adventure bac in time to the holy land. Caitlyn is concerned about the sorrowful mysteries as she is already sad and upset. Peter’s plan is to just figure out the virtue they need to learn and move on quickly. Things do not go according to plan. 

The Sorrowful Mysteries are my favourite, and default when I do not know what to pray. But this little volume brought them to life and a new and moving way. I was impacted deeply by the encounters with Jesus, the disciples and even Mary our mother. I was almost brought to tears during the end of the last mystery. Linden has done an amazing job opening up these mysteries to young readers, and to turning them into deep meditations where we can picture ourselves witnessing the events.

This is an excellent little read. It is a great volume and series and they that would be a great additions to any home, school, or church library. I concluded that this is a much younger version of Caitlyn and Peter that we encounter in the West Brothers Series when they are teenagers. 

This is another great volume from Linden’s masterful pen. It is written for a younger audience than many of her books, but tie some of them together. It is a great read in a wonderful series.   

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2026 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by Theresa Linden:
Tortured Soul
...

Chasing Liberty Series:
01 Chasing Liberty
02 Testing Liberty
03 Fight For Liberty
Bound to find Freedom - Short Story
...

West brothers Series:
Roland West Loner
Life-Changing Love
Battle for His Soul
Standing Strong
Roland West Outcast
Fire Starters
...
...

Armor of God Series Original Editions:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Boot of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
…

Armor of God Series Second Edition:

Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Series:
…

Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

Sharing the Sorrow - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 2


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Monday, 31 March 2025

Top Ten Fiction and Non-Fiction Books First Quarter 2025

Top Ten Fiction and Non-Fiction Books First Quarter 2025


It has been a great year for reading so far, not my best to date, but well up there. I averaged over a book a day. Faster than the last few years, but I had the first few weeks off work, and so many books and series I am working through. 

In April of 2023 I wrote a piece called How I Read So Much? Because I get asked the question so often, read the piece linked above if you are looking for some ideas on ways to read more. 

This quarter I read 132 books and I did not any to the ‘did not finish’ list, one of my highest quarters since I started keeping track, below is the comparison with the last 9 years:

     2025 - 132
     2024 - 119
     2023 – 160
     2022 – 145
     2021 – 97
     2020 – 96
     2019 – 123
     2018 – 91
     2017 – 100
     2016 – 52

As can be seen this is right about on par, with the last few years. One factor that impacts this year is Lent started much later, in fact the latest it can start, and during Lent I try and read and pray a Stations of the Cross each day which provides a bump during those 48 days. But back to this quarter by the numbers:

Books Read: 132
First Time Reads: 89
Fiction: 32
Non-Fiction: 100
5/5 Stars: 105

I was really surprised; when the year started I expected it to be another year with a dip. In fact I planned on it. I did not see hitting close to the high water mark again, so I am pretty surprised by these results.  

Here is my top ten fiction and non-fiction books of the fourth quarter of 2024.

Top Ten Non-Fiction Books:

 1. Books by Pope Benedict from the Catholic Truth Society
 2. Jesus and the Jubilee - John Bergsma - The Biblical Roots of the Year of God’s Favor   
 4. Books by Barbara Calamari and Sandra DiPasqua
 5. Led by the Immaculata - Joshua Mazrin
 6. Honor Thy Wife - Kevin Lowry - A 31-Day Spiritual Journey of Marital Renewal 
 7. CTS Children's books by Juliette Levelier
 8. Drawing Close to the Holy Spirit: Keys to a Transformed Life and Joyful Heart - Sr. Mary Ann Fatula, OP  
 9. Great Spiritual Teachers Series - Ave Maria Press
Come into the Silence 30 Days with Thomas Merton - John Kirvan
11. Catholic Truth Society Books associated with the new Lectionary
The Gospel of John - Fr John Hemer MHM
The Gospel of Luke - Fr John Hemer MHM
The Gospel of Mark - Fr Javier Ruiz-Ortiz
The Gospel of Matthew - Fr Javier Ruiz-Ortiz

Bonus Books:
Catholicism and Mental Health - Dr. Pravin Thevathasan - CTS Explanations
Deepening Prayer: Life Defined by Prayer - Mary David Totah - CTS Deeper Christianity
Devotion and Prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus - J. B. Midgley - CTS Devotions
Lectio Divina: Spiritual Reading of the Bible - Jean Khoury - CTS Deeper Christianity 
Louis Marie de Montfort - Alan J. Frost - CTS Great Saints  
Louis Marie de Montfort: His Life, Message and Teaching - Paul Allerton SMM - CTS Great Saints 
Spiritual Warfare Fighting the Good Fight - Vivian Boland - CTS Deeper Christianity  
Thérèse Teacher of Prayer - Craig Driscoll - CTS Spirituality 

Top Ten Fiction Books:

1. Honeymoon from Hell - Declan Finn
Fae'd To Black
2. The Second Skater of the Apocalypse - Fiorella De Maria - Skaters Book 2
3. Madness of Worlds - Karina Fabian
4. Joline - Jim Sano - Father Tom Book 5 
5. Incarnate - Antony Barone Kolenc - Incarnate Series Book 1 
6. In Plain Sight - Leslea Wahl - Finding Faith Book 3 
8. Pogue One - Edited by Spearman Burke - Raconteur Press Anthologies Book 44
9. The Case of the Mixed-up Marathon - Karen Kelly Boyce and Sue Anderson Gioulis - Sisters of the Last Straw Book 9
10. Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden and Kelsey Doherty - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

Bonus Books:
Books by Gordon Korman:
The Zucchini Warriors - Macdonald Hall Book 5

My reading has been up and down over the last few years it is staying pretty consistent at about a book a day for the year. I attribute in part to Brandon Vogt’s course Read More Books Now, removing all games but 1 brain game from my devices. Working from home reading took a little more discipline, and we are now back to a hybrid model with 5 days a month in the office, so things have changing again.  

Note: I do not include books that have been read in previous years and were reread this year in my top ten lists, they are sometimes in the bonus section.
 
But if you want more options check out my favourite books year by year list.  



Statistics Books Read By Year:
132 - 2025 January-March
363 - 2024
455 - 2023 
438 - 2022
365 - 2021
317 - 2020 
392 - 2019
359 - 2018
380 - 2017 
272 - 2016 
177 - 2015 
130 - 2014 
88 -  2013
176 - 2012 
163 - 2011
302 - 2010
142 - 2009
98 - 2008
83 - 2007
191 - 2006
151 - 2005
60 - 2004
52 - 2003
97 - 2002
50 - 2001
41 - 2000
71 - 1999
73 - 1998
131 - 1997
101 - 1996


Relates Posts: 
Top 10 Fiction Books 1st Quarter 2010
Top 10 Fiction Books 2nd Quarter 2010
Top 10 Reading Goals for 2010
Top 10 Fiction Books 3rd Quarter 2010
Top 10 Fiction Books 4th Quarter 2010
Top Ten Reading Goals For 2010 - Recap
Top 10 Fiction Books 2010
Top 10 Picture Books of 2010
Top 10 Non-Fiction Books of 2010
Top 10 Graphic Novels for 2010
Top Ten Reading Goals For 2011 
Top Ten Fiction Books 1st Quarter 2011
Top Ten Fiction Books 2nd Quarter 2011
Top Ten Reading Goals for 2011 Update 
Top Ten Fiction Books 3rd Quarter 2011 
Top Ten Fictions Books 4th Quarter 2011
Top Ten Fiction Books 2011
Top Ten Reading Goals 2011 - Recap
Top Ten Reading Goals 2012
Top Ten Fiction Books 1st Quarter 2012
Top Ten Fiction Books 2nd Quarter 2012
Top Ten Fiction Books 3rd Quarter 2012
Top Ten Fiction Books  4th Quarter 2012
Top Ten Fiction Books 2012
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2012
Top Ten Reading Goals 2012 - Recap
Top Ten Reading Goals 2013
Top 10 Fiction Books 1st Quarter 2013
Top 10 Fiction Books 2nd Quarter 2013
Top 10 Books Second Half 2013
Top Ten Fiction Books 2013
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2013 
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2014
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2014
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2014
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2014
Top Ten Fiction Books 2014
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2014
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2015
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2015
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2015
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2015
Top Ten Fiction Books 2015
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2015
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2016
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2016
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2016
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2016
Top Ten Non- Fiction Books 2016
Top Ten Fiction Books 2016
Top Ten Catholic Books
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2017
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2017
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2017
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2017
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2017
Top Ten Fiction Books 2017
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2018
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2018
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2018
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2018
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2018
Top Ten Fiction Books 2018
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2019
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2019
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2019
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2019
Top Ten Non-Fiction Books 2019
Top Ten Fiction Books 2019
Top Ten Books First Quarter 2020
Top Ten Books Second Quarter 2020
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2020
Top Ten Books Fourth Quarter 2020 
Top Ten Books Third Quarter 2025
... 




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Saturday, 8 February 2025

Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

Jumping into Joy
Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1
Theresa Linden
Kelsey Doherty (Illustrator) 
ISBN 9781734992977
ASIN B0DTZR75XZ

Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

This story marks the 40th time I have read a book by Linden, and I have read her contributions to anthologies numerous times as well. My children are well past the reading age for this book, but I love Linden’s writing so much I decided to give it a read anyways, who knows hopefully someday I can read it with grandkids. 

The description of this volume states:

“Jumping into Joy is the first in this Rosary-themed chapter book series.

Nine-year-old Peter dozes off while his family prays the Rosary. His friend Caitlyn encourages him to use his imagination. He’s not sure what she means until she takes him through the Portal to the Rosary Mysteries. At first Peter doesn’t see the ancient town of Nazareth. But as Caitlyn describes their surroundings and the teenage girl carrying a water pot, Peter begins to see it too! Hey, is that Mary?

Peter uses his problem-solving skills, and Caitlyn refers to her Rosary Journal as they try to discover the virtues attached to each mystery of the Rosary. Once they discover the virtue, they zip to the next mystery!

Prayer is more important than ever—and not just for adults. Children have the potential to become great prayers warriors and to grow in virtue by using Our Lady’s gift of the Rosary. We know that the Rosary is more than a recitation of words; it is also a meditation on the lives of Jesus and Mary. Children have a unique ability to use their imagination. Following lively characters, this Rosary-themed chapter book, geared toward children ages six to nine, will show readers how to use their imaginations to meditate on the mysteries and will encourage them to pray for particular virtues.

After the story, find Bible verses and virtues specific to each mystery, along with a “Prayer before the Rosary” for children.”

This story is really interesting and a unique twist on the time traveller motif. In some ways it is similar to Lisa M. Hendey’s Chime Travellers Series or the Mr. Baker’s Book Series by Andrew Votipka and even Douglings Adventures by Carissa Douglas. The main difference is that in this volume and I assume series is that the children are witnessing events but often appear to not be seen or hear. And there are jumping through events from the Bible for the mysteries of the Holy Rosary.

The story begins with a Rosary being said at a Home-school meet up. And Peter has fallen asleep again. After the Rosary, Peter and Caitlyn head out to the woods to play. Caitlyn challenges Peter to use his imagination to meditate while thinking on the mysteries of the Rosary. She uses her journal to pull out factions and quotes from the bible. Soon they are witnessing the events the woods are transformed into the desert, and cities of Israel. And with each mystery they realize there is a virtue being shown and they work to figure out how the mystery links to a virtue and how that virtue should be worked on in their own lives. 

This is an excellent little read. It is a great volume and one that would be a great addition to any home, school, or church library. I cannot help but conclude that this is a much younger version of Caitlyn and Peter that we encounter in the West Brothers Series when they are teenagers. 

This is another great volume from the masterful pen of Linden. It is written for a younger audience than many of her books, but appears to tie some of them together. It is a great read in what looks like it will be a wonderful series.  

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by Theresa Linden:
Tortured Soul
...

Chasing Liberty Series:
01 Chasing Liberty
02 Testing Liberty
03 Fight For Liberty
Bound to find Freedom - Short Story
...

West brothers Series:
Roland West Loner
Life-Changing Love
Battle for His Soul
Standing Strong
Roland West Outcast
Fire Starters
...
...

Armor of God Series Original Editions:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Boot of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
…

Armor of God Series Second Edition:

Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Series:

Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden and Kelsey Doherty - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

Jumping into Joy - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 1

Sharing the Sorrow - Theresa Linden - Caitlyn and Peter's Rosary Adventures Book 2


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Friday, 20 September 2024

Shadows Visible & Invisible 7 Stories for Teens - Catholic Teen Books

Shadows Visible & Invisible 7 Stories for Teens 
From Catholic Teen Books
ISBN 9798985348521
ASIN B0DGGZ7CXY

Shadows Visible & Invisible 7 Stories for Teens - Catholic Teen Books

This is the fifth anthology from the authors at the Catholic Teen Books collective. Each has been a great read. This collection of stories is focused on the triduum of Allhallowtide which focuses around All Hallows Eve, All Saints’ Day, an All Souls’ Day. Normally, one of the things I love about reading anthologies, is discovering new authors. That was not the case with this one. I have read books by all of the contributors. In fact, at the time of writing this review, I have written 124 reviews and articles from authors that are part of the CTB group. I knew I was in for some great reading when I picked up this collection. I had some high expectations, based on the contributors and the previous four anthologies. Yet even with those high expectations, I was terribly impressed with this collection and, to be honest, each story within it. Often when I read an anthology, there are a few great reads, some good reads, and some okay reads. That was not the case this time. Each story was a excellent. I read the volume in a single sitting because I could not put it down. Then I went back and reread it a story a day. 

In the foreword for Secrets, Visible & Invisible, the first anthology in this series, Mark Hart of Life Teen International states:

“We call Him Savior, Teacher, Wonder Worker, and Lord. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Bread of Life and the Light of the World. He is the Messiah, the Promised One, the Divine Physician…the Good Shepherd. Jesus Christ is all of these titles and an endless list of more. Yet, there is one title that I’ve rarely – if ever – heard used to describe Jesus of Nazareth, and I feel it is a glaringly myopic omission on our part. Almost never have I heard Jesus Christ described as “Master Storyteller,” though He most certainly was.”

The contributors in this collection, in their own way, imitate Christ and are master storytellers in our generation. I have a great deal of respect for the seven authors who contributed to this series. And a couple of them are among my all-time favourite authors. And I read a couple hundred books a year. This is an excellent collection of seven faith filled stories by 7 great authors.

Contributors:

In this collection we have one short story from each of the contributors. Some contain characters you can encounter in novels by the authors. Some are from books and series that have been around for a several years.

Contents:
Grace and the Grave Robber - Leslea Wahl
Bogey in the Belfrey - Carolyn Astfalk
A Very Jurassic Hallowtide - Corinna Turner
Lucy and the Forbidden Secret - Antony B. Kolenc
Helpless - Theresa Linden
At the End of His Tether - Marie C. Keiser
The Far End of the Cemetery - T. M. Gaouette

I was very intrigued when I found out the title of this latest anthology from Catholic Teen Books. For the last 5 or 6 years Purgatory has been a theme coming up in my reading, and more and more in my prayer life. Looking up the meaning of the word I discovered:

“The word Allhallowtide was first used in 1471, and is derived from three words: the Old English word hallow, meaning holy, the word tide, meaning time or season (cf. Christmastide, Eastertide), and all (from Old English eall) meaning "every". The latter part of the word Hallowmas is derived from the word Mass.”

I also found out:

“Allhallowtide, Hallowtide, Allsaintstide, or the Hallowmas season is the Western Christian season encompassing the triduum of All Saints' Eve (Halloween), All Saints' Day (All Hallows') and All Souls' Day, as well as the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (observed on the first Sunday of November) and Remembrance Sunday (observed on the second Sunday in November) in some traditions. The period begins on 31 October annually. Allhallowtide is a "time to remember the dead, including martyrs, saints, and all faithful departed Christians." The present date of Hallowmas (All Saints' Day) and thus also of its vigil (Hallowe'en) was established for Rome perhaps by Pope Gregory III (731–741) and was made of obligation throughout the Frankish Empire by Louis the Pious in 835. Elsewhere, other dates were observed even later, with the date in Ireland being 20 April. In the early 11th century, the modern date of All Souls' Day was popularized, after Abbot Odilo established it as a day for the monks of Cluny and associated monasteries to pray for the dead.”

Maybe it is because I am past the half century mark, or maybe just finally growing up a bit, or even because if have lost a sibling to addiction, but whatever the reason for the last 5 years the concepts of purgatory, and praying for the dead have been more and more on my mind, on my heart, and part of my daily prayers. Because of that this anthology touched me deeply. Each of the seven stories caused me to reflect, think and pray. 

Grace and the Grave Robber 

This story includes strange encounter in a graveyard. A commitment to prayer for the deceased, and a Grandmas brownies and an incredible story. This is a story that will stay with you. The characters in this story appeared in a previous story and will be featured in an upcoming novel.

Bogey in the Belfrey 

An intriguing story of family, faith, and a special prayer card. William and his friends are exploring the belfry when they are started and depart quickly and just a little afraid. But William wants to know what is behind the secret door and what caused the yellow light. Will his curiosity get the better of him? A wonderful tale with a surprising twist.

A Very Jurassic Hallowtide 

Anytime there is a new story in the unSPARKed world my son and I get terribly excited. I have read unSPARKed stories 39 times not counting a number of times for each anthology they appear in. This was a deeply moving story about friends, a tragedy from long ago, and maybe surprising repentance. Harry has a surprising dream and a vision. This Hallowtide will not soon be forgot.

Lucy and the Forbidden Secret 

I absolutely love the Lucy short stories by Tony Kolenc, they fit between main stories in his Harwood Manor series. In this one Lucy gets in trouble for keeping secret. But there is far more at play at Harwood Abbey than just a novice slipping out and another struggling with distraction and just plain being mean. To find out the trouble Lucy gets into this time and how she gets out you will need to read this wonderful story.

Helpless 

Three friends visit a grave year to find out about rumours of strange lights. They are frightened off but Vanessa returns the next night, because her grandfather was recently interned and if the lights are just kids being jerks she wants to put an end to it. But after a fall and a strange encounter she just might be seeing life and death in a whole new way. An inspiring story from Linden.

At the End of His Tether 

The only science fiction offering in the collection Keiser’s story is one of family, family and service. It is also about maturing and finding your place in the work. Philip wants to show that he can help, that he brings value that he can contribute. He is desperate to do so. He wants to be part of the crew that attends the graves on the hull of the ship on All Souls’ Day. No matter the risk

The Far End of the Cemetery 

This story begins with a spark and grows into flames. A story about the power of prayer and intercession. A story of hope, and of desire. A wonderful story that I serious hope becomes part of a bigger novel.

As I have previously mentioned this is a great collection of short stories. I really could not pick a favourite or least favourite. Each story is very well written. And I thoroughly enjoyed them all. 

For fans of any of the authors in this collection, you need to pick this book up to read their contribution. For readers who love remarkable stories, this collection is for you also. And if you want some great reads that are clean Catholic fiction this is the book for you. This anthology is excellent!


Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!

Links to other reviews of books by the contributors:
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Friday, 16 February 2024

Sword of the Spirit - Theresa Linden - Armor of God Series Book 6 Second Edition

Sword of the Spirit
Armor of God Book 6 Second Edition
Theresa Linden
Nihal Dungdung (Illustrator) 
Silver Fire Publishing
ISBN 9781734992922
eISBN 9798201650506
ASIN 

Sword of the Spirit - Theresa Linden - Armor of God Series Book 6 Second Edition

I read the first edition of this story back in 2022. I thought the book and series was excellent. The series is being rereleased in second editions with new covers and new artwork. The artwork is by Nihal Dungdung, it is not my favourite style but I am sure children will appreciate it.

I have now read books from Linden’s masterful pen 39 times, and her contributions to anthologies several times each. To say that Theresa Linden is one of my contemporary Catholic and Christian authors, would be a bit of an understatement. Everything I have read from her has been impressive. I have reread several of her books myself, and reread others with one or more of my children. My children are all through their first communion, but even so we loved this book and this series. I am a fan of all of Linden’s writings, but this series geared for a younger audience than her other works is excellent and a great addition to the canon of her work. With this volume we are two thirds of the way through the series.

As is obvious by the series title this series is based on the Armour of God:

“Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So, stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
~ Ephesians 6:13-17

The chapters in the story are:

1 Sword Fighting
2 A Knight At Home
3 To Become A Good Knight
4 Time To Go
5 A New Mission
6 What Shelter?
7 That Shelter
8 Afraid Of The Dark
9 George And A Lantern
10 Waiting On The Knight
11 A Wrong Turn
12 Responsibilities
13 Hope And A Prayer
14 A Figure Eight Knot
15 The Shield Of Faith

The description of the book is:

“While George and the other pages work hard at Knight School, learning how to earn the Shield of Faith, Robyn notices several knights have gone away. She suspects they've gone to investigate the dragon sightings.

Before George and his friends can learn more, Sir Lucian invites George and his little brother, Erik, on a secret mission that answers questions George has been wondering ever since he first became a page. When George finds himself in a tight situation, he'd rather have a lantern than faith. He's not the only one facing a challenge. Each page--anxious to earn the Shield of Faith--is tested before the day is out.”

At the beginning of the book is a note ‘Dear Reader’ And at the end a section about the author and about the series. All the books available in this series are well worth reading. Between many of the chapters are Brother Coll’s Catechism Lesson, there are 6 of these lessons in this volume. And the last one really hit me hard. It is:

“Brother Coll’s Catechism Lesson 

Whether you are preparing to make your First Holy Communion or you have already received this Most Blessed Sacrament, pray for faith. 

At every Mass, the priest changes ordinary bread and wine into the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord. Let us pray for the faith to believe not in what our eyes see—ordinary bread and wine—but in what Jesus tells us: this is my Body given for you.”

Part of these stories is the adventure and growth in virtues of the students at the Knight’s Academy. Part is living out their faith and lessons. Learning to live, work and play in mind of our role as Christians. Part of the stories is these lessons, and bringing home the faith in a very meaningful and applicable way. My own first communion was over 40 years ago, and yet this passage at the end of this volume has refreshed my approach to communion and spiritual communions. Linden has infused these stories with faith. And it is a faith that will both inspire and challenge us, no matter our age!

This continuing story of George Pennington, and as we now know Dragons truly are on the move, that the knights are preparing for them, and preparing the towns and village folks about, we can guess that this George is one who later in life is one of some fame.. He is a young lad who is attending knight’s school. To graduate they must obtain the 6 pieces of the armor of God. Six levels of training to become a squire. In the first volume, Belt of Truth, only some of the classmates do not get their belt. And it was very close for George. George learned the value of truth, even if you need to admit to lies, and mistakes you have made. Robyn Haylan and Erik, Georges younger brother continue to be good influences. In the second they must earn the Breastplate of Righteousness. In the third volume they must earn the Boots of Peace. And in this one they are working towards the Shield of Faith. At the beginning of the story we are informed that:

““Today you will learn a new virtue from the Knight’s Code.” Sir Lucian motioned toward the word “faith” scrawled on the chalkboard. A few students whispered. “A knight strives to be the best he can. You learn and practice both physical skills and inner strength. Virtue. But a knight can’t do everything on his own. Knights rely on one another. And . . . knights rely on God.” Sir Lucian stopped. He stood still a moment and looked from student to student.”

And at the beginning of the final chapter:

“Armor day came sooner than expected. 

After the meeting with the townsfolk at dawn, the knights called the pages and squires together on the back lawn of Knight School. Heavy clouds threatened rain, but the sun shone brightly between them.

Sir Lucian’s cape flapped around him as he stood before the students. He explained what the knights had told the townsfolk. The rumors were true. Dragons had been spotted nearby, but no one needed to worry. Stay alert and ready. No one could know the day or hour. Should the threat increase, the knights would come to their aid. The squires and certain pages would know what to do.”

And a few paragraphs further on:

““You have risen above fear”—the knight glanced at George—“and disappointment.” His gaze shifted to Robyn. “You have overcome worry”—he looked at Erik—“and even failure.” He looked at other pages in the group, including Henry and Otho. “You have trusted in God. …”

The way Linden explains faith and how to live it out in this tale is wonderful. Those lessons are not only excellent for younger readers but for us older readers as well. Several of the characters have specific tests or trials; George, Robin, Erik, Fendrel, and of course several of the Knights.

This is another excellent volume from the masterful pen of Linden. It is a great read in an excellent series. I recommend them to those in the intended audience who are preparing for their first communion. And for older reads who enjoy a faith filled story.  

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!





Helmet of Salvation - Theresa Linden - Armor of God Series Book 5 Second Edition

Sword of the Spirit - Theresa Linden - Armor of God Series Book 6 Second Edition

Books by Theresa Linden:
Tortured Soul
...

Chasing Liberty Series:
01 Chasing Liberty
02 Testing Liberty
03 Fight For Liberty
Bound to find Freedom - Short Story
...

West brothers Series:
Roland West Loner
Life-Changing Love
Battle for His Soul
Standing Strong
Roland West Outcast
Fire Starters
...
...

Armor of God Series Original Editions:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Boot of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
…

Armor of God Series Second Edition:

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