Giveaway and Spotlight: The Memory Stone by: Bryan Davis

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for The Memory Stone by Bryan Davis hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Memory Stone 

Series: Dragons of Camelot #2 

Author: Bryan Davis 

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers 

Release Date: January 6, 2026 

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure 

A Girl with Powers Beyond Her Understanding. 

A Boy Sworn to Protect Her. 

And a Kingdom Veering into Madness. 

Camelot is becoming increasingly dangerous for dragons and their allies. When a fear-inducing toxin seeps into the water supply, Merlin, Hawk, and Sabina suspect sorcery. Could this be Lady Morgan’s doing? But when Lady Morgan pleads innocent and offers a truce to save her poisoned sister, the trio hesitantly believes her. Using a supernatural device called the memory stone, the team splits up to embark on an epic journey to Dragon’s Rest and portals beyond to uncover the mystery. 

Readers of Bryan Davis’s previous books will devour this fast-paced read following the thrilling adventures of heroic new characters. 

Perfect for teen and tween readers of Christian fiction, this magical, YA fantasy adventure includes:

• Clues to Sabina’s Underborn heritage
• Suspenseful escapes and rescues
• An epic battle of good dragons and dragon riders versus the forces of evil
• Clean action adventure, portal fantasy, and supernatural mystery
• Cameo appearances by characters from Oracles of Fire series
• Multiple POVs from humans and dragons
• Strong faith themes focused on the power of prayer

More Books from this Series:

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Tyndale Fiction | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub

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About the Author

Bryan Davis is the author of several fantasy/science fiction novels for youth and adults, including the bestselling series Dragons in Our Midst. He and his wife, Susie, have seven adult children, and they work together as an author/editor team. 

Connect with Bryan by visiting www.DavisCrossing.com to follow him on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Excerpt

Hawk and Sabina leaped up and gathered any flasks and jars they could find, most of which had been used for water before, and set them near the secret panel. When Hawk searched under a shelf laden with old scrolls, he found a leather bag the size of a large gourd. The loose drawstring at the top allowed him to peek inside. The sparks powder filled the bag to the top. He tried to lift it, but it was too heavy. The powder had to be extremely dense.

“Hurry!” Merlin called from the panel as he held a lantern and an armful of the vessels. “We have enough. We must make haste.”

Hawk left the bag behind, picked up the remaining vessels, and all three hustled into the secret room. Merlin led the way to the end of the narrow corridor where his bed now sat instead of the table that had been there before. He set his vessels and lantern on the floor and pressed the wall at a spot where a knot marred the wood. The bed slid to the side on its own until it abutted the wall, exposing the trapdoor underneath.

Merlin crouched and knocked on the trapdoor, using the same combination of knocks that usually opened the secret panel. The trapdoor rose to a vertical position and stopped.

“This is a new invention,” Merlin said. “No time to explain. Hawk, you will come with me. While we are descending, Sabina, you will close and secure the panel leading here. When we arrive at the bottom, you will drop the vessels one at a time. We will catch them and signal for the next one. Then you will join us with the lantern.”

Sabina nodded. “I understand, Master Merlin.”

“Good. And we must work quickly.” He climbed down the ladder, his voice muted in the passage. “I will explain our purpose and our haste once we are together in the dungeon.”

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a softcover copy of The Memory Stone!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 18, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on February 25, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Mists Over the Channel Islands By: Sarah Sundin

Mists Over the Channel Islands is such a beautifully written story. Sarah Sundin did a great job shedding light on what happened during WWII on this small island. I think the thing that is most intriguing about WWII stories is that you can read multiple stories and they can all touch on different elements because it affected each country and people group differently. Jersey was no different. If you love historical fiction, this is the book for you.

Ivy is a doctor in Jersey; she is trying to keep the family practice afloat during WWII, during Germany's occupation of the island. Ivy, her sister Fern, and younger brother Charlie are left in Jersey as the rest of the family goes off to fight in the war. Fern is trying to keep Ivy on track, but often leans toward controlling and lashing out at Ivy. Charlie just wants to help anyway he can. The household gets split apart when Fern chooses to work for the Germans and ends up spending more time with the German officers than she should.

Gerritt is a Dutch citizen who, along with his friend Bernardus, is part of the resistance and goes under cover as an engineer to help the Nazi’s. But they are truly sending out messages to the resistance to help them overthrow the Nazi occupation in Jersey. To everyone else, they are as loyal to the Germans as anyone else. When Charlie starts carrying messages for them, we find out who Gerritt and Bernardus are truly loyal to.

Ivy and Gerritt start to find themselves drawn to each other, but Ivy can’t get past Gerritt’s Nazi ties until the truth comes out. With Fern dating a German, Ivy must keep her distance from Gerritt because the whole town is talking.

Reading about what the town had to endure, and the prisoners that were sent there, was heartbreaking.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Giveaway and Review: Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy by: Karen Baney

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy by Karen Baney, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy 
Series: Love at Vargas Ranch #1 
Author: Karen Baney 
Publisher: Desert Life Media 
Release Date: February 3, 2026 
Genre: Christian Western Romance

He’s running from his twin’s crimes. She’s haunted by the man who betrayed her. Can she open her heart to his identical twin? 

Shannon thought she’d buried the past—until she arrives at Vargas Ranch and sees the face of the man who shattered her trust. The man she swore she’d never forgive. 

Parker has spent his life paying for his brother's sins. False accusations and shattered opportunities follow him everywhere—because no one sees the man behind the face. When Shannon mistakes him for his twin and has him arrested, his fragile fresh start shatters. 

Now forced to work together in the ranch’s equine therapy program, Shannon and Parker must navigate a tense enemies-to-friends journey. As they confront the pain of the past and the pull of unexpected attraction, trust becomes the hardest battle of all. 

She must learn to trust the man her heart keeps mistaking for the one who broke it. Parker must prove he's not his brother before he loses his second chance at love. 

When the past collides with the present, can love build the bridge to healing and forgiveness? 

A heartfelt Christian romance about redemption, mistaken identity, and love that dares to heal. Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy will steal your heart.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

Karen Baney is a member of Faith Hope & Love Christian Writers and the author of over 30 Christian contemporary cowboy romances and historical romances. She writes faith-laced stories where characters feel like lifelong friends—flawed individuals navigating second chances, redemption, and personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, Karen loves researching the state's rich history and seamlessly weaving real settings and historical details into her novels.

In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry. Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. 

 

Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. They enjoy exploring Arizona together, discovering new adventures that often influence Karen's stories. Both are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

Connect with Karen by visiting karenbaney.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Review

Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy by Karen Baney is the first book in the Love at Vargas Ranch series, which is a spinoff of the Vargas Ranch series. I loved going back to Vargas Ranch. I could not put the book down; I was completely hooked.

Shannon is working to rebuild her life after her ex-boyfriend stole all her savings and ran off. When she comes face-to-face with Lucas, or is it him? She quickly calls the cops and gets him arrested. Turns out it was his twin brother, Parker. Parker is used to being left with Lucas’ messes to clean up.

Parker could not be more opposite from his twin if he tried. He has tried so hard to do the right thing, even when his twin has left a wake of broken trust and hurt people. Parker finds himself working at Vargas Ranch after being blamed once again for his brother’s wrongs; it seems to have followed him to the Ranch. After things are cleared up, Parker finds himself working with Shannon as she is helping with the non-profit. The more time they spend together and learn to forgive, the closer they become. When a Parker is called back to his mom’s house to help out during an emergency, Shannon volunteers to go with him. Through this experience, lots of healing and forgiveness happen while learning to follow God’s leading.

This opposites attract/ enemies-to-more romance was perfect with kisses only.

Karen Baney did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout.  

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a "There's no such thing as too many books" tote & makeup bag, plus two slimline inspirational journals, and a signed copy of Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 11, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 18, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Giveaway and Review: Eye of the Mind By: Sara Davison

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Eye of the Mind by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Eye of the Mind 
Author: Sara Davison 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: December 17, 2025 
Genre: romantic suspense (with thriller elements)

She can't picture his face. 
But he knows hers. 

Firefighter Jules Adler suspects her blind date with Officer Dante de Marco will not go well. When she witnesses a violent crime, the night goes from bad to worse fast. 

Dante, the police sketch artist, is tasked with getting enough details from her to draw the killer. If only Jules could visualize the man’s face. 

She and Dante are forced to spend a lot more time together than either would like, trying desperately to come up with a likeness. The problem is, with a ruthless psychopath closing in, that time is about to run out. 

For fans of fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat suspense, slow-burning romance, humor, and deep issues of faith.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

Sara Davison is the author of numerous romantic suspense series. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, including the Christy Award, Davison is a HOLT Medallion, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner for romantic suspense. She lives in Ontario with her husband, Michael. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason. Get to know Sara better and subscribe to her short, monthly newsletter at ontheedgesuspense.com.

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Review

Eye of the Mind is the third book I have read written by Sara Davison, and I look forward to reading more. If you enjoy Christian Romantic Suspense novels, then buckle up, because this novella is fast-paced.  

Jules and Dante find themselves set up on a blind date that neither of them seems to want. The whole date is a mess, and Jules is prepared to call it a night when she ends up seeing a murder take place. Though due to her aphantasia, she is unable to recall details or even what the murderer looks like. Jules finds herself at the police station trying to help when none other than Dante walks in. After the horrible blind date, Dante and Jules find themselves working to solve this murder. But nothing is as it seems when Jules appears to be stalked by the murderer.

Set in Calgary, Alberta, it was fun to have a story set in Canada.

This second chance at love, fixed proximity romance is perfect with kisses only.

Sara Davison did a great job intertwining faith in this story.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Eye of the Mind plus a $25 Amazon card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 10, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 17, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Giveaway and Excerpt: An Appearance of Impropriety By: Jayna Breigh

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: An Appearance of Impropriety 

Author: Jayna Breigh 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: January 27, 2026 

Genre: Romantic Legal Drama 

Will their love turn into a scandal despite their efforts? 

As the youngest female judge in Los Angeles, Mahalia Jackson has her career on a fast track to success. Her polished exterior makes sure of that. But when she volunteers for the Junior Jurors and ends up working side by side with attorney JD Cash, her plans begin to falter. 

JD heads up the program—born out of his own troubled past—where local teens learn about the legal system. He leverages his position as an attorney to fulfill God's calling on his life: to support the orphans and widows of society who have lost beloved fathers and husbands to TransNation's eighteen-wheeled time bombs roaming America's freeways. 

Mahalia's rule—never date a lawyer—is a straitjacket that tightens when she presides over the case where JD serves as a young widow's attorney. When Mahalia is placed in a vulnerable position, her resolve begins to waver. 

Her increasing proximity to the empathetic lawyer sparks an onslaught from anonymous online adversaries attempting to destroy Mahalia's reputation and career by throwing around claims of an appearance of impropriety. The digital disgrace pushes Mahalia to ask one hard question: Is loving JD worth risking her career?

With a great story, well-developed characters, and a tale that explores the value of second chances and giving back, the latest from Breigh is a must-buy. —Library Journal, Starred Review

"An Appearance of Impropriety is filled with characters I cared about who were placed in challenging situations that compelled me to keep reading long into the night."

—Cara Putman, award-winning author of the Secrets to Keep series 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | BookBub | Bookshop

Also Available:

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About the Author

Jayna Breigh is a retired attorney living in the southeastern United States and the author of The Hunted Heir. She brings to her writing over a decade of experience in trust and estate litigation in Los Angeles.

Connect with Jayna by visiting www.jaynabreigh.com. to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Excerpt

“Your Honor.” JD’s voice brought her back to the present. “Like I was saying, I’ll walk you to your car. It’s late, and the parking deck will be empty.” Hesitation sprang up. Her general policy was to refuse offers like this. Didn’t want to provide any fodder for the courthouse gossip mill. But tonight was different. She and Mr. Cash were two professionals working on a community service project. They were peers. Colleagues. A security walk to the car was appropriate—no impropriety.

“Sure, I’d appreciate that, Mr. Cash.”

They walked to the elevator, and she cast about for small talk while they waited. “How long have you been in practice?”

His gray hair and haunted eyes didn’t match his fit physique. He could be anywhere from thirty to fifty.

JD tilted his head back and closed his eyes. “Basic training right after high school, then straight to Afghanistan. Reserves during college, and law school after that. Four years in JAG. Been in solo private practice since . . .”

He held up a hand and counted off on his fingers. “About five and a half years. I’m thirty-six.”

“Me too.”

As she understood from Goldstein, he wasn’t scraping by with low-ball settlements from insurance carriers. He’d won numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts. Was that true? Why was she so curious about him anyway?

“With contingent cases, isn’t it feast or famine?” Ugh. She wished she could suck the words back inside. “Sorry. Don’t answer that.”

“No worries. It’s all pretty much out there with the public trial verdicts. My clients are widows and orphans. Money can’t bring back a family member. But add up loss of future earnings and loss of companionship, and tack on punitive damages . . . the verdicts are in the multimillion-dollar range.” He shrugged.

She schooled her facial expression. All of that in thirty-six years? Given his military service, education, and net worth, it was like he’d jammed two lifetimes into one.

The elevator dinged, startling her out of her musings.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of An Appearance of Impropriety and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 4, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on February 11, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Atlas By: Ronie Kendig

Atlas is the first book I have read written by Ronie Kendig. This is the first book in the new series Discarded Heroes: Scions, though it is a spin-off of the previous series Discarded Heroes. While digging into it, that series seems to be about the fathers of the characters in the Scions series. I have not read this series, so there were a few missing pieces, though this story was still enjoyable, and I look forward to reading the next book in this series as well as going back and reading the original series.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat. There were a few areas where I did feel a little lost, but I am glad I stuck with the book. It was a great read full of suspense, military elements, romance, and faith elements.

This friends-to-more romance was the perfect kissy-only romance.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Giveaway and Excerpt: Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee by: Barbara M. Britton

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee by Barbara M. Britton, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! 

About the Book

Title: Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee 
Author: Barbara M. Britton 
Publisher: Scrivenings Press 
Release Date: January 6, 2026 
Genre: Biblical Fiction Devotional

Discover the life changing power of Jesus in six short stories from the Gospel of Mark. The miracles of Jesus will leap from the page in a Biblical Fiction story, author reflection, and relatable study. 

Travel with Jesus as he calms a storm, heals a desperate woman, raises a dead daughter to life, sends His disciples on a minimalist mission, feeds thousands on a hillside, and shows compassion to a persistent mother. 

A perfect study for your small group, personal or family devotions, or even a book club. If you know Jesus, fall in love with Him all over again. 

If you haven’t experienced Jesus’s power and love, jump in His boat and engage with the Creator and Savior of the world.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Scrivenings Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

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About the Author

Barbara M. Britton is an author of Christian Fiction who loves to bring little-known Bible stories to light. She has taught the Bible in church and schools for thirty years. Barbara has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. You can find out more about Barbara and her books on her website barbarambritton.com.

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Excerpt

A woman suffering from bleeding for twelve years receives news of hope.

Lydia slumped against her walking stick, the emerging heat draining her strength.

Elon flinched. He could not offer her assistance without becoming unclean. As if sensing why she traveled from her tent, he sprinted to a water jar and set it by her ram skin prison.

A tear slipped from her eye and graced her cheek. “You are too good to me, Elon.” And good for her. You should have abandoned me years ago.

Before she collapsed and embarrassed herself, and him, she grasped his basket and turned toward her tent. The rain had dampened the woven reeds, so the handle fit securely in her palm. If only her future were as secure.

“There is a man.” Elon’s words chased after her. “He lives with a fisherman. Near the lake.”

There was always a man who claimed he could help her. For a fee. The slashes and burns and bindings of the physicians had never healed her. Her health worsened. The horrors of what they had made her drink sickened her stomach. She had only received disappointment and pain.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive an Across the Lake book box which includes a paperback copy of Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee, a Hebrews 12:2 Scripture Rock, a necklace with cross and GRACE tag, a print copy of the Shelter in the Night devotional by LoRee Peery, a Philippians 4:13 notebook, and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 26, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 2, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Giveaway and Review: Forged in Firra by: C. B. Sharp

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Forged in Firra by C.B. Sharp, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Forged in Firra
Series: The Oriel Odyssey #1
Author: C. B. Sharp
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: January 22, 2026 
Genre: YA Christian Fantasy

Three will be born of pure intent,  

One of bravery, one of compassion, and one of faith.   

Wield the sword to slay the kings,   

And destroy the bloodless wraith.  

The immortal Ancients have positioned themselves as creators, worthy of worship and rule. As a result, they have morphed into beasts, keeping Clay Borns divided and dependent upon them. After their parents are captured, and they are left for dead, the Oriel siblings learn of their fate: free Tirra Nova from the Ancients’ oppressive regime and restore divine order to their world. Forced to trust their former enemies and seek the aid of a stardust maiden, the Oriels must rely on their wits and faith to fulfill a seemingly impossible mission.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

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About the Author

C. B. Sharp has been writing magical tales since she was a child, dreaming up imaginary worlds. She has a degree in Elementary Education and taught elementary school in remote northern Canada. After her northern adventures, she founded a successful tutoring company. In addition to teaching and writing, she also enjoys visual art, graphic design, movie marathons, cooking, and quality time with her loving fiancé and quirky cat, Munch.

Connect with the author by visiting cbsharpwrites.mailerpage.io to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Review

Forged in Firra is C.B. Sharp’s debut novel. This is YA Fantasy, so it did take me a little bit to get into this story. Like most stories in the fantasy genre, I was mostly lost for the first little bit. Once I could picture the world, I was all in. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

I loved that this was a sibling journey. The Oriel children: Brion, Caitlin, and Fallon live in this world where the immortal Ancients, which are animals, rule the Clay Borns (humans). The Ancients have kept the Clay Borns in an oppressive community. Where everyone must watch out for themselves and report others for survival. The Oriel siblings find themselves with their parents taken away. In a world that abandons orphans to the forest, they are left for dead, but they find themselves on a quest to free Tirra Nova from the Ancients. Secret tunnels, scrolls, talking to animals, stories become real, characters with a disability, this is an adventure worth taking.  

C.B. Sharp did a great job using allegory throughout the journey. I loved the Christian elements.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Forged in Firra and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 27, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 3, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Giveaway and Review: Grandpa's Comrade by: Kelsey Gjesdal

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Grandpa's Comrade by Kelsey Gjesdal, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Grandpa's Comrade 
Author: Kelsey Gjesdal 
Publisher: Kelsey Lee Writes LLC 
Release Date: November 11, 2025 
Genre: Christian YA fiction, multigenerational fiction, military fiction, adventure novel

A boy who wants to be a hero. A girl who just wants to be lost in her books. And a Grandpa with a past that won't leave him alone. 

Teens Jess and Will are stuck with their grandparents for three weeks while their parents go on a second honeymoon. Neither are too excited to be bored in a house full of off-limits secrets. But when Will's curiosity gets the best of him, the siblings uncover a mysterious box with a hidden message that could change everything. As former Navy SEAL Grandpa plans a rescue mission for a long-lost comrade, the teens must decide if they're ready for a real adventure. Jess and Will must navigate the unknown territory of South Korea... and Grandpa's PTSD. With each new clue comes haunting memories, and time is running out. Can Jess and Will find Grandpa's Comrade before it's too late? 

Join Jess and Will as they learn about true bravery, family love, and the price of heroism.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Author's Website | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

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About the Author

 

Kelsey Gjesdal is an award-winning author and host of the Wholeheartedly with Kelsey Lee podcast. She is the author of the Truth Squad Trilogy, A Woman of Excellence Ruth Bible study, and, most recently, Grandpa’s Comrade. Through fiction and nonfiction writing and podcasting, Kelsey seeks to encourage Gen-Z to live wholeheartedly for Christ. When she’s not writing and podcasting, you’ll find her serving in her local church’s children’s ministry, playing music, or reading a book with a cup of coffee in hand. She resides in the beautiful state of Oregon.

Connect with Kelsey by visiting kelseyleewrites.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Review

Grandpa’s Comrade is the first book I have read written by Kelsey Gjesdal. As a Christian YA book, it was a great read. It captured my attention and drew me in.

This story takes us on a journey to try to save a missing comrade in Korea. Grandma and Grandpa are taking care of Jess and Will. The teens go into Grandpa’s workspace and stumble upon a box that has elvish written all over it. Jess, the Lord of the Rings fanatic, is excited and goes to work translating it. They discover the meaning of the hidden message, and that is when Grandpa decides he must go to Korea to search for his missing comrade. Grandpa deals with PTSD and often has a hard time with things. Jess and Will also will not be left behind. So Grandpa, Grandma, and the teens end up on an adventure to Korea. Jess and Will want to help Grandpa so badly that they often find themselves in bad positions. Between secret tunnels, a missionary, PTSD, kidnapping, and more, this story was quite the adventure.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Grandpa's Comrade plus a $15 Amazon Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 20, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 27, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Giveaway and Review: Anna of Arimathea by: Susanne Blumer

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Anna of Arimathea by Susanne Blumer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Anna of Arimathea 
Series: The Arimathea Chronicles #1 
Author: Susanne Blumer 
Publisher: Sutton Avenue Press 
Release Date: December 7, 2025 
Genre: Biblical Fiction

Some wounds are carried in silence. Some healings require more than medicine. 

Eighteen-year-old Anna bears the marks of a childhood tragedy that left her motherless, scarred, and lame. Hidden within the household of her father, Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy councilman of the Sanhedrin, her days are measured in herb gardens and healing tinctures, in the steady work of hands trained to help others, and in the quiet safety of a world made small. 

Then Andrew of Bethsaida arrives at her father's gate with urgent business for Joseph and talk of a teacher who calls ordinary people to extraordinary purpose. A fisherman turned disciple, Andrew follows the rabbi Jesus with a conviction that unsettles every long-held expectation—including Anna's own. 

When Andrew's kindness cracks open the door to a larger world, Anna faces an impossible choice: remain in the safety of her father's estate or risk everything for the possibility of healing, love, and a life she never dared imagine. 

Set against the dusty roads and fishing villages of first-century Judea, where miracles unfold and mercy walks among the broken, Anna of Arimathea opens The Arimathea Chronicles—a richly imagined tale of faith, first love, and redemption in the footsteps of the Messiah.  

Anna of Arimathea is perfect for readers who love: 

Biblical and historical fiction with rich period detail 
Redemptive love stories that explore the cost of faith 
Immersive historical worlds 
Characters who choose courage over comfort  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Author's Website | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Susanne Blumer lives her life surrounded by stories—some she writes, and some she sells. As the CEO and Founder of Sassafras on Sutton LLC, she is the owner of three magical indie bookstores nestled in the North Carolina mountains of Black Mountain and Waynesville and Beaufort, South Carolina. One even has a full coffee bar. Oh, happy day!

She is the author of The Arimathea Chronicles, a series set in first-century Judea and centered on the life of Anna, the daughter of Joseph of Arimathea. The first book, Anna of Arimathea, published in December 2025 and the second, Anna of Bethsaida, will be available in March 2026. She's also written several children's books, including the award-winning Bell Tower Bible Adventure series she co-wrote with her husband. Her new children's picture book series, The Story of You, will release its first book late Spring 2026 called Before Your Story Had A Name. 

When she’s not writing or doing other entrepreneurial tasks, you can usually find her hanging out on the floor of one of her stores, drinking coffee and learning the stories of her customers or spoiling her eight chickens. Susanne splits her time between Waynesville, NC in her beloved mountains and Beaufort, SC on the enchanting Lowcountry coast.

Connect with Susanne by visiting susanneblumer.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Review

Anna of Arimathea is the first book I have read written by Susanne Blumer, and it was such a treat. This is the perfect biblical fiction story. Taking a look at what things might have been like being in the outer circle of Jesus inner circle.

Anna’s father is Joseph of Arimathea, who we encounter in the New Testament. Joseph is a member of the Sanhedrin, but also a follower of Christ. The story begins with an accident that leaves Anna’s mother dead and Anna with scars, a limp, and in pain. Joseph then takes Anna to their house and has her stay there while he does his Sanhedrin duties. Anna follows in her mother’s footsteps and is learning different remedies to heal people. When Andrew, the disciple, shows up at her doorstep.

This book brought the bible to life in a great way. I loved reading this beautifully crafted story. I look forward to the next book in the series.    

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a signed print copy of Anna of Arimathea plus a $50 Bookshop.org Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 21, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 28, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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