Early Celtic illuminated manuscripts continue to intrigue us with their intricacy and craftsmanship. Contemporary artist Courtney Davis recreates portraits of the saints, border designs, Celtic symbols, and elaborate initials from all the Irish School manuscripts, spanning the period from the beginning of the seventh century until the twelfth century. His text vividly describes the historical background -- the Christianization of Ireland, the Viking raids, and the monks who fled with their precious books to libraries abroad. From the Book of Durrow to the Corpus Missal, the origin of each manuscript is given, with an account of where and by whom it was made, its purpose, and the symbolism of its designs.The result is an inspiration for designers everywhere, and an essential resource for anyone interested in the Celts.
Courtney Davis Books






Celtic Stained Glass Coloring Book
- 16 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Re-create glories of Celtic art with 16 full-page plates of Celtic motifs printed on translucent paper. Intricate, sinuous depictions of mythical beasts, Celtic crosses, saints, other subjects. Simply color and hang near a light source for exciting stained glass effects. Designs printed on both sides of translucent paper.
Celtic and Old Norse Designs
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Artists, illustrators, designers, and craftspeople in search of exceptionally bold and inventive motifs will find them in this versatile treasury brimming with 125 royalty-free designs. Taken from authentic Celtic and Old Norse sources, they include an amazing array of birds, human figures, and mythological creatures, all ingeniously woven into an intricate network of spirals and interlacings.Meticulously adapted from artwork that graced ancient rune stones and religious symbols, furniture, manuscripts, bronze mirrors, sword hilts, cooking utensils, and other artifacts, the illustrations depict a crucifix; decorative creatures that adorned the pages of the Lindisfarne Gospels; interwoven designs from stone crosses of Ireland, Scotland, and Cornwall; and many other designs and motifs.Convenient and inexpensive, this collection offers inspiration and a wealth of immediately usable dramatic ornamentation rich in character and distinctive in content.
This exciting and versatile treasury of copyright-free design offers graphic artists many different types of Celtic motifs in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, all expertly adapted from authentic Celtic design sources by artist Courtney Davis.Inspired by early examples of jewelry and ornament, illuminated books, manuscripts and other historic artifacts, the designs are both abstract and pictorial, and range from full- and half-page rectangles, triangles, and circles to frames, borders, corners, and medallions.Many of the designs are extremely rich and complex in character and content. Each is rendered by Courtney Davis with exceptional finesse. Graphic artists will find that wherever the bold and beautiful interlacements of Celtic design are called for, these splendidly conceived and executed motifs will add just the right touch.
Aristotle's Wolves
- 232 pages
- 9 hours of reading
As the daughter of an alpha and a rare female werewolf, Lilly faces the weight of her lineage and the expectations that come with it. Her journey unfolds as she navigates the complexities of her identity, the challenges of her heritage, and the responsibilities of leadership in a world filled with supernatural intrigue.
The Serpent and the Firefly
- 232 pages
- 9 hours of reading
In a world where prophecies dictate fate, a determined protagonist seeks to defy destiny and seize control of their own future. As they navigate challenges and confront powerful forces, themes of autonomy and rebellion against predetermined paths emerge. This journey explores the struggle between individual choice and the weight of prophecy, leading to unexpected alliances and revelations that could alter the course of their life and the world around them.
A is for Anacostia
- 38 pages
- 2 hours of reading
This colorful, rhyming children's book takes readers on an exciting journey through a vibrant community east of the Anacostia River in Washington, D.C. It showcases a variety of adventures, historic sites, and enjoyable activities that families can explore together, making it a delightful read for young audiences eager to learn about their surroundings.
A Spider in the Garden
- 236 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Set in a dark world, Aranha, the last spider shifter, navigates a life of solitude and survival. For two centuries, she has hunted the outcasts of society to find purpose and quell her insatiable hunger. With no family or friends, her existence is marked by vigilance against those who seek to end her life. This tale explores themes of isolation, identity, and the struggle for validation in a hostile environment.
Soul Sacrifice
- 294 pages
- 11 hours of reading
In a dystopian world, Ebony struggles as a halfsoul, surviving on meager government rations and her job. She faces a moral dilemma when presented with the opportunity to gain full rations and a better life by murdering the woman who holds the other half of her soul. Despite the tempting benefits of education, a better job, and the chance to find her soulmate, Ebony is determined to uphold her principles and resist the urge to commit murder.
Princess of Prias
- 300 pages
- 11 hours of reading
A princess defies traditional expectations by taking up arms and embracing her role as a warrior. Her journey is marked by determination and strength as she confronts challenges that test her skills and resolve. As she navigates battles and personal growth, her transformation highlights themes of empowerment and courage, showcasing that true leadership and valor can come from unexpected places.