Author Interview: A Work in Development by K.A. Ross

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Work in Development by K.A. Ross, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Work in Development 
Series: A Work in Progress Series #2 
Author: K.A. Ross 
Publisher: Sweetwater Books (a Cedar Fort imprint) 
Release Date: July 1, 2026 
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

For a woman who has edited hundreds of romance novels, Nellie’s own happy ending feels out of reach. After the death of her first husband, Daniel has offered her a second chance at happiness and love. But just as Nellie begins to hope for a future with him, her in-laws arrive to celebrate her late husband’s memory. Bringing more confusion than comfort, the well-intentioned relatives test Nellie's determination to be brave. 

Problems escalate when an unexpected threat emerges to tear open deep wounds from Daniel’s past and jeopardize everything Nellie has built with him. Nellie never thought she’d find love again. Now that she has, she’ll do anything to protect it. With only a week to keep everything from spinning out of control, keeping her romance from becoming a rom-com cliché is the least of Nellie’s problems. 

Nellie must face the fears buried inside herself to save her and Daniel’s story—or risk the next plot twist breaking it apart.  

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

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More in This Series

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Excerpt

“Hey,” Daniel dropped his voice so low I inched forward to hear him, “Did you call to finally tell me what the two most romantic words in the English language are?”

I rocked back in my seat with a giggle. After editing over a hundred romance novels, I’d picked up a few things. Making Daniel guess what the two most romantic words were became a game weeks ago.

“No. How many times must I tell you that you have to figure it out on your own?”

“Chocolate milk,” he said without hesitation.

I snorted. “Inside jokes between you and me are romantic but don’t qualify.”

“I see, I see.” I could picture Daniel rubbing his chin in a mock display of deep thought. The fact that he was talking with me instead of rushing back to his basketball game filled me with 100 percent concentrated glee.

“Is it, ‘I do’?” he said, sounding confused.

“You’ve already guessed that. Twice.” I rolled my eyes, wanting to slap my forehead that the matrimonial phrase I do hadn’t given Daniel pause or, apparently, any ideas.

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About the Author

K.A. Ross loves stories so much she can’t write in just one genre! Find her fantasy works under “Kay Ross” and her romance under “K.A. Ross.” When she's not at work, she's finding new stories, discussing old stories, or writing her own. If she's ever not thinking about stories, she's either trying not to be too invested in sports or climbing up a mountain so she can run down it. She may live out West, but she considers any open space with a view home. To be the first to hear about upcoming releases, and receive a free short story, sign up for her newsletter at authorkayross.com!

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Author Interview

Q: What inspired you to write A Work in Development?

K.A. Ross: In A Work in Progress, I’d written the journey Daniel and Nellie had to take to get to the point where they could date/admit they liked each other. But in real life, I know the journey doesn’t stop there. Life always finds a way to test love, and I wanted to see how Nellie and Daniel could be victorious in their devotion to each other when their respective pasts would try and get in the way. It was important to see how love could not only endure but grow in the face of adversity.

Q: How long did it take to write this book?

K.A. Ross: Less than a year.

Q: What surprised you while researching/writing this novel?

K.A. Ross: I loved working with a fantastic sensitivity reader to refine Luisa’s character. Writing this fiery Venezuelan Grandmother with all her quirks was so much fun.

 

Q: Do you have a favorite quote from A Work in Development?

K.A. Ross: Yes! Goodness yes. But it’s a bit of a spoiler. I feel like the entire book was written around this line. Hints: it’s in Chapter 16, spoken by Daniel. You’ll know it when you read it!

Q: When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

K.A. Ross: It’s a good question. I can’t ever remember a time I didn’t love stories or coming up with my own. But sitting down to right one with the intent to see it published first happened in 2021.


Q: Would you share something about yourself that most readers wouldn’t know?

K.A. Ross: When I was little, I had a paper route. All I would do when delivering those papers was think about stories. I would often get to the end of a street and not be able to remember which houses I’d delivered to because I was so engrossed in thinking about plot and characters. My favorite story to think about was my own sequel to Jurassic Park. (With myself as the child lead, of course!)


Q: What are you currently reading?

The Impossible Fortune (Book 5 in the Thursday Murder Club)


Q: What is your favorite genre to read?

Honestly, non-fiction. Not only are they fascinating but nothing triggers story ideas than real events.


Q: What is your favorite hobby?

Stories. Always stories. Reading them, watching them, reviewing them, writing them. Then hiking and eating Indian food!


Q: What is your favorite season and why?

Summer. It is so light and hopeful. I’m incredibly grateful though, that I love all things about Fall like pumpkin spice, football, and falling leaves. It helps me not notice summer sneaking out the back door without leaving its phone number.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a signed copy of A Work in Development & a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 29, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 6, 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Spotlight: A Mother's Prayer by Chris Maday Schmidt

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Mother's Prayer by Chris Maday Schmidt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Mother's Prayer 
Series: Sweetwater, Arizona #3 
Author: Chris Maday Schmidt 
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired 
Release Date: June 30, 2026 
Genre: Inspirational Romance

Can an unexpected turn 
lead her right where she belongs? 

Pregnant, single and stranded in a storm with her two young kids, Olive Hart is out of options—until gruff mechanic Hank Valentine comes to their rescue. When her housing falls through, he reluctantly offers them shelter at his ranch in exchange for help at his garage. It’s just a temporary arrangement…but Olive’s chaotic, lovable crew begins to warm his guarded heart. 

They’ve both been burned by the past, but can they find the courage to build something lasting…together?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop |BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Hank turned back to Olive, his expression tinged with concern.

“You good to manage things on your own?”

She winked. “Don’t worry about a thing—boss.”

After reviewing the open work orders, she peeked over her shoulder before slipping onto the shop floor.

No telling how long Hank would be gone.

She grabbed a wooden dolly and, after a few tries, found a semi-comfortable position on the hard
board. Then she maneuvered under a run-of-the mill four-door sedan and got to work. As she found her rhythm, everything else faded.

She didn’t even hear the door squeak open—or the heavy clomp of boots on the cement floor.

“Mighty mackerel, woman—what do you think you’re doing!”

Startled, Olive jerked. Her hand slipped, and black, viscous oil spilled onto the cement.

“Oh, no.” She chomped her bottom lip as thick liquid pooled beside her.

The sharp intake of Hank’s breath preceded the sight of his boots inches from her face.

“Olive! Are you hurt—wait, don’t move! I’m calling 911!”

He dropped to his knees, ducking his head to peer beneath the car.

Then, sudden understanding lit her chest.

A burble of laughter rose and burst out.

“It’s—not—my—water…” she wheezed between giggles.

But Hank wasn’t laughing.

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More in This Series

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About the Author

Chris Maday Schmidt is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author who writes contemporary inspirational romance—real-life fairy tales filled with hope, humor, and heart. A member of Faith, Hope & Love Christian Writers, she is the author of the Love Inspired Sweetwater series for Harlequin, including her latest release, A Mother’s Prayer (June 30, 2026). Her debut novel received a 5-star review in the 2024 Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews and Award Contest.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a book tote, a B&N gift card, and a signed print copy of A Mother's Prayer!

(1) winner will receive a Sweetwater, Arizona book bundle: A Father's Vow, The Fire Chief's Surprise, and A Mother's Prayer! (print for US winner, ebooks if winner is outside the US)

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 30, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 7, 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 for print copies & book tote. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Book Spotlight: The Eyes of River by Cindy K. Sproles

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Eyes of River by Cindy K. Sproles, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Eyes of River 

Author: Cindy K. Sproles 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: June 23, 2026 

Genre: Historical Fiction

A heart-wrenching Appalachian novel from a best-selling, award-winning author

In the shadowed hollers of the early-twentieth-century Appalachian Mountains, Lizzy Haney is on the run. She's been falsely accused of murder and is desperate to reunite with her brother, River, whose unforgettable green eyes haunt her. The secret in her past is a stinging wound, but it motivates her toward her goal: freedom. 

But nine-year-old River, sent through the US Post Office to their late mother's friend in Knoxville, never arrived. Lizzy's dream of finding him and starting a new life away from their alcoholic and abusive father is ripped away. 

Her hope rekindles as she happens upon an unexpected friend to help her dodge the law and save the missing youngin'. As she finds herself trusting him, she discovers the accuracy of the old adage her momma repeated: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

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

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Excerpt

“Cat got your tongue?”

I had to give Alton credit. He was doin’ his best to start a conversation. I just didn’t have it in me to reply.

“I understand if you don’t want to talk. I know girls sometimes get a little bashful. Though you wasn’t too bashful tellin’ me you’d bloody my nose. I’m just tryin’ to be gentlemanly. You know, help out a friend. Do what’s right.”

“Will you stop babbling? I was at the station because I . . . I . . . I had business there.”

“I know. It’s none of my beeswax, right?” He kicked a rock a few feet in front of us. It splashed in the soggy grass.

“Look, Alton . . .”

“I know, Lizzy. You don’t like me. I understand. Like I said, I’m just tryin’ to be gentlemanly. I turned eighteen yesterday. Momma said it was time I bucked up and come into my manhood. Guess I ain’t doin’ so good at that, now am I.” His blue eyes focused on the ground at my feet.

I sighed. Alton wasn’t a bad person. I just wasn’t fancy on him, and despite his being nervous, he was being kind. I sure wasn’t beholden to his concern. “I’m sorry. It’s just been a hard day. And you’ve been nothing but gentlemanly. Got your fancy trousers on and all. See, I noticed.”

Alton lifted his gaze from the road to me. “Mighty kind of you to notice. Thanks.”

I nodded. “I just mailed a box to Knoxville.”

He stopped square at the edge of a puddle and rubbed his nubby chin with his finger. “Mailin’ a box don’t rate a person cryin’. Seems to me there’s more to that box than you’re lettin’ on.”

I was tired of lies. Tired of hiding things that should be spoken, and though I wasn’t keen on trusting just anyone, I’d known Alton long enough to see that he’d keep my secret to hisself. I hated being forced to shy from the truth. I ain’t no liar, and being honest means something to me. I stared into Alton’s eyes, and for an instant I saw someone I could tell the truth to and feel safe.

“I ain’t a liar, Alton. And I don’t trust many folks, but I think you’re different. So truth is, I mailed my brother to Knoxville.”

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About the Author

Cindy K. Sproles is a speaker and best-selling,award-winning author of several novels, including Mercy's Rain, Liar's Winter, and Coal Black Lies. She is the executive editor for Christian Devotions Ministries and the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference. She also mentors and coaches new writers with Write Right Author Mentoring Services. She is an Appalachian-born-and-raised mountain girl who now lives in East Tennessee.

Connect with Cindy by visiting cindysproles.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Eyes of River 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 June 24, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 1, 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.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Movie Review: The Story of Everything

About the Movie:

The Story of Everything is a cinematic exploration of the cosmos that reveals the hidden hand behind our universe. From the precise laws that govern the stars to the intricate patterns found in every living cell, the film traces evidence of intentional design throughout nature. Whether examining distant star-forming clouds or the spiral structure of DNA, we discover a consistent signature woven into the fabric of existence.

After a successful nationwide theatrical run that sparked conversation across faith, science, and culture, The Story of Everything is now available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video!

Buy The Story of Everything now on Prime Video!

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Movie Trailer:

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My Thoughts:

The Story of Everything, a new film addressing the age-old question of how did the universe start, features numerous experts – scientists, mathematicians, physicists, etc. True to current documentary styles, The Story of Everything jumps between narration, scientific explanation, and expert opinion. The dialogue is clearly meant to be accessible for all of us non-scientists, and the film achieves that for the most part. During the discussion of cells, DNA, and proteins, I paused it a few times to think through the scientific process being presented and to google a bit more explanation. The information is astounding though. How fascinating that such tiny things are so complex and capable! I’m amazed.

I also enjoyed the chronological development of theories presented in The Story of Everything. From old ideas of god and heliocentrism to modern theories of antigravity, steady state, and universe expansion (which are explained in understandable terms), The Story of Everything shows the sequence of development from what humans have theorized, to what has been proven/disproven, to what is currently being theorized with a strong emphasis on the concept of intelligent design. The documentary clearly advocates for intelligent design, but it also addresses other theories of origin. It presents numerous experts and film clips of earlier scientists discussing/arguing in support of a super intellect.

While The Story of Everything advocates for intelligent design, it does so in a way that is respectful and factual. Yes, it is biased towards the idea of a Creator or supernatural being, but the narrative supports its ideas well. It does not include a specific religion though occasionally it does mention the theological aspect that inevitably must be considered when discussing origin theory. I already believed that the universe was created by God (of the Bible), so I didn’t need to be convinced about the concept of intelligent design. However, I do think that someone who is questioning universe origin theory would find this a helpful step in the process of forming his or her own conclusion. This presentation would likely do well in youth groups and high schools. It is worth watching at least once for everyone, regardless of current belief system.

4.5 stars.

Many thanks to Sypher Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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More Information and Resources:

• Inspired by Stephen C. Meyer’s bestselling book Return of the God Hypothesis, the cinematic documentary invites audiences to explore one of humanity’s oldest—and most consequential—questions: Does the evidence point to a universe shaped solely by blind chance, or is there evidence of purpose and design?

• Resources for churches and homeschools are available here.

• The Story of Everything is now available to own on Amazon Prime Video in North America, the UK, Australia, and subtitled for Mexico and Spain. Buy The Story of Everything now on Prime Video!

• “The response to this film has been incredibly encouraging,” said Stephen C. Meyer, author of Return of the God Hypothesis and featured expert in the film. “People from all backgrounds are asking bigger questions about where we came from and why we're here. Our hope is that The Story of Everything inspires curiosity, thoughtful conversation, and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable universe we inhabit.”

• Visit the social media pages for The Story of Everything: Facebook ⏐ Instagram

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Giveaway:

  

One commenter will win a $10 Amazon giftcard. Enter by leaving a comment below with your name and email. Alternatively, send an email to beautyinthebinding@gmail.com with the required information. Giveaway ends June 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.

Event Spotlight: Rendezvous 2026

Welcome to the Blog Tour that brings Rendezvous 2026 to you, hosted, sponsored, and organized by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Bringing Rendezvous '26 to You!

Rendezvous: reader and writer gathering November 7, 2026 
Holiday Inn Nashville Airport

Readers and Writers will gather at the fourth annual Read Write Rendezvous, organized and sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC, on November 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT at the Holiday Inn Nashville Airport. 

Rendezvous celebrates Christian fiction and sweet reads, featuring corporate worship, speaker sessions, author panels, small-group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up bookshop, and book signings. This event aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. 

Over forty featured authors are participating, including The Christy Award Hall of Fame and bestselling author Tamera Alexander who will deliver the keynote address. USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author Lisa Phillips will lead worship. We will announce several more authors in the coming weeks! We prayerfully honor the legacy of the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat through each Rendezvous event, and this year we are especially celebrating the very first CFRR which was held 10 years ago in Nashville. 

Rendezvous is open only to registered attendees. Want to extend your reader getaway? The Christy Award Gala and Art of Writing conference will be held at a nearby venue on November 6.

Learn more about the 2026 Rendezvous

If you're unable to attend Rendezvous this year, we don't want you to miss out on getting to know our authors and their books. Our bloggers are bringing Rendezvous to you by spotlighting several of the participating authors this week. Follow along to grow your TBR list to astronomical proportions!  

Check out recent releases by these participating authors in the JustRead Amazon Storefront.

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Spotlight: Angela Bell and A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile

I'm spotlighting Christian fiction author and all-around lovely lady, Angela Bell. I met Angela at Rendezvous '24 and she was a delight to talk to. Her new book, A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile, releases July 7, 2026. Read on to learn about the book and enjoy a guest post from Angela!

About the Book:

Margaret Kingsley's routine revolves around invention not investigation--until her ordered world springs a gasket.

London, England, 1895
Ambulatory wheelchair user Margaret Kingsley secretly crafts gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society, a covert team of lady inspectors disguised as harmless bluestocking spinsters. While her fellow inspectors gallivant about London solving crimes, Margaret has been perfectly content assisting from the sidelines--until her expertise is needed to infiltrate the domain of London's most prolific inventor.

Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends to his disabled father by night, but he can't pass up the chance to take a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences cause Charles' event planning to collide with Margaret's case, the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them. 

Purchase Links: Amazon | Baker Book House

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Guest Post by Angela Bell 

A Quaint Bookish Chat about Inspiring Women

Hello, dear reader!

My name is Angela, and today I’m here to share with you the story (or rather stories) behind my latest novel, so do take a moment to fetch your favorite cozy beverage, and let’s settle in for a quaint bookish chat. (I’m drinking a piping hot cup of Scottish Morn from Harney & Sons Fine Teas, for those who are curious.)

As I recall, the notion for A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile was first sparked by an antique book I thrifted, originally published in 1885. It was a nonfiction work—you know the sort with a quintessentially 19th century subtitle that’s lengthy to the point of being equal parts ridiculous and amusing. Said book was called, “Daughters of Genius: A Series of Sketches of Authors, Artists, Reformers, and Heroines, Queens, Princesses, and Women of Society, Women Eccentric and Peculiar.”

As a women’s history and Victorian Era enthusiast, I was most intrigued by this tome penned by one Mr. James Parton who in the book’s preface allotted precious page space to laud “the most essential and efficient assistance” of his beloved niece, Miss Ethel Parton. In Mr. Parton’s own words, “Many of these articles I could not have done without her aid, which was rendered with a ready tact and sympathetic zeal beyond her twenty years, though they were to be expected from her lineage. Whenever the reader comes upon a passage that betrays a finer insight and a happier touch than ordinarily appears in the work, he will know to whom to attribute it.”

This book celebrating brilliant women and contributed to by one such woman sounded like just my cup of tea . . . so much so, that an idea began to brew.

What if I wrote a novel where Little Women met Inspector Gadget in the form of a found sisterhood known as the Daughters of Genius Society—an elite team of lady inspectors disguised as a club for bluestocking spinsters? Recruited for their astute intelligence and aristocratic lineage, what if each D.O.G.S. member was inspired by a real woman of genius from the Victorian Era, and what if together, these daughters of the heavenly Father of all Genius, covertly investigated crimes committed by members of London’s high society? And what if, just for fun, the fictional tale was wonderfully eccentric and peculiar?

Thus, a story idea slowly steeped into a cuppa Victorian whimsy with notes of light academia, steampunk gadgetry, humorous shenanigans, and investigative adventure, sweetened by a he-falls-first romance.

Then, quite unexpectedly, another real woman of genius—one from the pages of my own life—began to leave an indelible mark upon the story, adding a depth of body and poignant aroma to my literary cuppa with authentic disability representation. Fingerprints of this woman’s harrowing struggles and sincere faith can be found on every page of this novel, just as her name can be located on the dedication page—Tabitha Margaret, my sweet sister and my heroine’s namesake.

While Miss Ethel and her uncle may have provided my imagination with the initial story spark, it was Tabitha’s unassuming example of genuine faith that fanned the spark into a flame. By steadfastly carrying me to Jesus when I needed Him most . . . by teaching me how to praise amid pain, hope amid hardship, and cling courageously to the One who calms the sea amid the fiercest storm . . . Tabitha gave this eccentric and peculiar story its beating heart.

It is because of Tabitha that this book was written in honor of those living with chronic pain and invisible illness, and it is because of her that I pray this whimsical little story helps fellow spoonies and their caretakers feel seen. Seen and reassured that—whether the pain they bear weighs on their bodies or their minds—that it matters. That they matter. Both to me and to the Father of all Genius who sustains every one of us by His amazing grace.

Connect with Angela on her website to learn more about her and her books!
 

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Author Bio

Angela Bell is a twenty-first-century lady with nineteenth-century sensibilities, and she resides with her charming pup, Mr. Bingley Crosby. One might categorize her books as historical romance, but Angela likes to describe them as “a cuppa Victorian whimsy” because it sounds so much more poetical. Whenever you need a respite from the harried hustle, you’re welcome to visit her parlor at AuthorAngelaBell.com, where she can be found waiting with a pot of tea and a great book.

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Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 gift card (winner’s choice of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, or Baker Book House)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 15, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 22, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Review: James and Poppa at Christmas

About the Book:

Poppa always visits James at Christmas time. James has been waiting for weeks to take Poppa throughout his village and to meet his best friend, Charlie. After Poppa arrives, he and James go out and take on the activities of town, from visiting the train station to the local farm and everything in between. At the end of every day, James and Poppa have their favorite ice cream. As the days go by, though, James notices that Poppa is having trouble. He gets tired easily. He trips on a walk for no reason and forgets James and Charlie at the ice-skating rink. James begins to be concerned for Poppa and decides to tell his mother about what he has noticed. His mother agrees that she, too, has seen changes in her father.

The purpose of this book is to help children understand that their beloved grandparents may change and to treat them with love and compassion and bring their concerns to their parents. Understanding is the key to maintaining a loving relationship that helps families stay together during difficult seasons. For any family experiencing the heartache of Alzheimer's disease and has children or grandchildren, this book will help provide kindhearted understanding.

Purchase Links: Amazon ⏐ Christian Book Distributors

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My Thoughts:

In James and Poppa at Christmas (And Their Journey Through Alzheimer’s), author Sherrie Benton offers a gentle way to introduce children to Alzheimer's disease in a loved one. Drawing on her real life experience as a caregiver, Benton creates James, his parents, and his aging grandfather who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. As James spends time with Poppa, James notices Poppa’s symptoms. The story affirms James for telling a safe person his concerns about Poppa. The result is healthy, hope-filled family dialogue about their family and the future.

Although James and Poppa at Christmas is set at Christmastime, it can be useful at any time of year. The sharp, colorful illustrations support the story, and the hardcover gives the feel of a durable book that should last. The dialogue is written in drama style with the speaker denoted by first initial rather than in-line identification (James said, Poppa said, etc.).

I recommend James and Poppa at Christmas by Sherrie Benton to any parent or caregiver looking for a resource to introduce a child to a loved one’s Alzheimer's disease diagnosis.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

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About the Author:

Sherrie Benton has been the caregiver for her husband with Alzheimer’s disease for over twenty years. She has, firsthand, watched the disease progress and seen her husband lose his skillsets and change his behaviors radically. With every downturn, Sherrie has had to make changes in how they have lived while trying to keep life afloat. Sherrie and her husband have two grandchildren and six great grandchildren.