Book Spotlight: 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

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Book Excerpt

THE WOUNDED STRANGER
(Themes: healing, courage, unexpected return)

ARIMATHEA: 30 AD. Two weeks after their first meeting, Andrew returns—but not as Anna expected.

"Help… someone… please!"

I froze, my hand still buried in the soil. A man's voice carried over the stone wall.

I reached the courtyard as a man pitched forward onto the paving stones with a cry. Dark stains had soaked through his tunic in spreading patches, and his hair clung to a gash across his scalp.

My stomach dropped. For one terrible heartbeat I could not move. Abba. What if it's Abba lying broken in our courtyard while I kneel here frozen? But when I dropped to my knees beside the fallen man, my staff clattering away across the stones, I saw his face. Younger than my father's, the beard darker, the features I had memorized two weeks ago now masked in blood and swelling.

Andrew.

"Anna," he gasped, reaching for me with one arm. "I am sorry … to come here … like this."

He remembered me. He had returned. He needed me.

"Do not move," I said, though my voice shook. "You are badly hurt. Lie still."

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

Author Interview: 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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Book Excerpt

Grandpa rearranged clothes to fit the elvish box into the suitcase puzzle. “If you’re going to ask, then don’t.”

Will nodded. “Why?”

“Don’t want to talk about it.”

“Did you make the box? It’s really cool.”

“Nope.”

“Who did?”

Grandpa cleared his throat. “An old friend.”

“Who?”

Grandpa cleared his throat again, more forcefully. “Why do you ask so many questions?” Silence filled the air until it felt ready to explode. “George. George Gates.” He zipped up the suitcase.

“He must’ve liked Lord of the Rings a lot.”

Grandpa nodded. “He loved to read… and write. Writing was his stress reliever.”

“Too bad all the writing on the box didn’t mean anything.”

Grandpa’s eyes flashed. “Not George. Of course it means something. Everything was purposeful with George. I wouldn’t have had any idea—”

“You’re welcome,” Will interrupted. “I mean, on Jess’s behalf, you’re welcome. She’s the Lord of the Rings nerd.”

A small smile tugged at the right side of Grandpa’s lips. “She would’ve liked to know George.”

“Where are you taking the box?”

“Will, I said not to ask.”

“But Grandpa, why in the world would you be going anywhere after we just got here?”

Grandpa grunted and pulled the suitcase off the worktable. “Shut the door and lock it when you leave. Don’t touch my tools.”

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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.

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Author Interview

Q: What inspired you to write Grandpa’s Comrade?

The inspiration for this book struck when I was at an antique mall and found this neat work desk in the back room. The whole room felt like the start of an adventure, and I knew that adventure would involve a grandpa and his two grandkids. I was also inspired to write a multigenerational novel by the series The Boxcar Children. I loved those mysteries growing up, but I could think of very few teen fiction books with the grandparent-grandchild dynamic, and I wanted to write a story that honored the grandparents in my life.

 

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

Grandpa’s Comrade was written over the span of three years with a few long breaks in between. It started as a college writing project, and then about a third of the way in I had some major writer’s block and set the book aside for almost a year. I wrestled with trying to make the book fit what I thought a publisher would want, but eventually, after a lot of prayer and waiting, I felt ready to keep writing the story God wanted me to write, rather than trying to write for a publishing contract.

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

I learned a lot about the conflict between North and South Korea during the writing of this novel. I spent a lot of time studying the Demilitarized Zone and a town on the South Korean side called Taesung. Only about two-hundred people live there, and there are far more soldiers in the area than residents. South Korea incentivizes people living there as a symbol of the hope that North and South Korea will one day be reunited. On the North Korean side, there is a town called Kijong also meant to symbolize peace, but as far as anyone knows, Kijong is a fake town, where even some of the windows are painted onto the buildings. I was also surprised to learn that, while Americans are not allowed to visit North Korea, people from other countries are allowed to visit select portions of North Korea, but they must be accompanied by a tour guide the entire visit.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote from Grandpa’s Comrade?

“Aurthur,” Grandma’s gentle voice broke in, “what if there’s something even better on the other side of the breaking? The box wasn’t meant to stay a box; it’s meant to bring George home, and that’s what we want.” (p. 134)

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

I’ve been creating stories for as long as I can remember. When I was seven, I bought a design-your-own-book set from the store. I wrote and illustrated a story about two ballerinas learning to share. When I was ten, I started writing a series of stories about a family on the Oregon Trail. Somewhere along the way I decided I wanted to be an author when I grew up.

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

I got into Crossfit about a year ago and absolutely love it! It brings out my competitive nature to log my workout results each week and see how I am improving over time. I think it’s important as someone with a sedentary job to be intentional about getting in movement and doing it in a way you love.

Q: What are you currently reading?

I always have several books I’m reading at once! Currently I am reading The Case of the Missing Calf by Paul Hutchens, Ivy Introspective by Kellyn Roth, and The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges.

Q: What is your favorite genre to read?

It’s hard to choose a favorite! I love a good fantasy, a clean romance, a thrilling adventure novel, or a historical fiction. If I had to choose a favorite, though, it would be mystery. I enjoy trying to solve the case along with the main character!

Q: What is your favorite hobby?

I love making jewelry. It’s very calming to create patterns and string the beads together. It makes for fun, handmade gifts, and the repetitive nature of making jewelry is a perfect time to brainstorm new story ideas!


Q: What is your favorite season and why?

I love winter! My favorite days of the year are the days when snow blankets the ground. There’s something magical about the stillness and sparkle of a winter day. Since where I live snow is rare, it’s always a treat to have a snow day!

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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.

Enter Giveaway

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

Book Spotlight: A Father's Dream by Heidi Ennis

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Father's Dream by Heidi Ennis, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Father's Dream 
Series: Columbia River Saga #1 
Author: Heidi Ennis 
Publisher: At the Foot of Mountains 
Release Date: December 11, 2023 
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

A young Swedish immigrant determined to survive.  

A mountain guide haunted by his past.  

In 1883, in the Pacific Northwest, their lives collide in a faith-filled historical romance of courage, forgiveness, and second chances. 

Johanna Amalia Nilsdotter Oman has left everything she knows behind. By crossing an ocean and a continent, she now faces the two-hundred-mile journey up the Columbia River into Washington Territory. Her father purchased land near Lyle with dreams of building a sawmill, and Johanna is determined that nothing—not distance, danger, or loneliness—will stop her from reaching their new home. 

John is a man running from everything. Haunted by shame and regret, he has chosen the wilderness as his grave, determined to vanish into the mountains and die alone. 

But before he can disappear, he accepts one final job: guiding a Swedish settler named Nils Oman into the rugged foothills above the Columbia River. The promised twenty dollars will buy him freedom—or so he believes. 

But God has other plans. When Johanna’s path collides with John’s, both must face the truth they’ve been running from. In the shadow of towering evergreens and the roar of the Columbia, they will discover that even in the darkest wilderness, God’s love brings redemption, healing, and the courage to begin again. 

Fans of Christian historical romance, frontier love stories, and faith-filled pioneer fiction will be swept away by this tender story of hope, forgiveness, and second chances in the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.  

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

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Book Excerpt

And Johanna was an immigrant, an immigrant girl, a beautiful girl dressed as a man. Anyone with eyes could see that. Please, stay hidden, he begged the spirits or God or whoever was listening, if anyone was even listening.

“Come on, Captain,” the young one drawled and took a step forward. “Let me have a little fun? No one will even know.”

The officer held his hand up to stop him as they all heard the movement next to them. John just wanted to scream or kill them all. Maybe both.

“Is there a problem, sir?” Johanna stated in that ridiculous man voice. “If not, I will ask you to unhand my guide.”

The officer and the young man peered around John. Both tilted their heads to the side and their demeanors changed.

“Uh, Captain,” the young one began, “I’ve changed my mind.”

John had a plan. The one behind him was easy. The officer would be last. He would go for the young one first. Johanna would be the distraction. It was their only chance, and he would pay whatever price he needed to, even with his life.

He took a deep breath through his nose, planted his feet to step back and then lunge, just as Johanna stepped around him and between them all.

A fawn amongst a pack of wolves.

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More in This Series

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About the Author

Heidi Ennis writes Christian historical romance set along the Columbia River, where faith, hope, and love meet the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Her stories celebrate courage, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit—woven into real history and the landscapes she cherishes.

When she's not writing, you’ll find her sipping coffee with a dog or two at her side, exploring the outdoors, or sharing random PNW history facts with her family. Heidi loves languages, Pacific Northwest history, and telling stories that leave readers encouraged and inspired. 

Follow her at atthefootofmountains.com for new releases, sneak peeks, and stories that lift the heart.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Father's Dream (Book One) and An Echo of Courage (Book Two) plus a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 19, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 26, 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/CAN 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 Review: The Samurai’s Soul by Walt Mussell

About the Book:

Osaka 1590. 

Aki, the youngest daughter of an Osaka cloth merchant, knows her father will marry her off one day. She isn't prepared for her callous and greedy uncle to announce plans to adopt her to arrange a marriage advantageous to him.

Samurai Nishioji Tomi works for the Osaka Police as a cover for finding a clandestine anti-Christian conspiracy group. His biggest challenges, though, are hiding his Christian faith, which is under suspicion, and his mother’s illness, which could get her banished.

When Tomi arrests Aki’s father for tax evasion, the samurai finds himself impressed by Aki’s devotion in proving her father’s innocence. He extends her a temporary position as his mother’s caregiver, and Aki accepts to forestall her uncle’s plans. But when efforts to find silk smugglers implicate Aki’s family and an old enemy arises to seek Tomi’s death, will the family secrets each holds be the weapons that destroy them?

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My Thoughts:

Having read the prior two books to The Samurai’s Soul by Walt Mussell, I entered this book expecting lots of sixteenth century Japanese culture (a unique setting in Christian Fiction) and an entertaining story. I was not disappointed. The culture and practices of this time influenced the decisions and actions of Aki and Tomi while also displaying the author’s extensive research. I liked that Mussell included author notes and a bibliography of his sources.

As for the story in The Samurai’s Soul, I found a gentle romance built on admiration and honor. Though the characters make mistakes and face tough circumstances, quiet Christian (Catholic) faith paves the way for restoration. More prominent to me, was the mystery of silk smuggling connected to an anti-Christian group. Tomi’s work for the Osaka Police takes up a lot of page time. Deception abounded and the plot had at least three surprises that I didn’t see coming. I think I would have liked to see more character development for Aki and Tomi, as I gravitate toward character-driven fiction, but that is a personal preference.

The Samurai’s Soul stands as book two in The Heart of the Samurai series by Walt Mussell. Though it could be a standalone, I recommend reading the series in order for a fuller experience. I look forward to book three.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Book Review: CSB Women's Study Bible

About the Bible:

The CSB Women's Study Bible is a robust, full-color study Bible, with content created by women and for women, featuring helpful study notes, timelines, maps, and more on the same page as the biblical text they refer to. Help women of all ages dig deeper into Scripture.

Order your copy today wherever books and Bibles are sold or visit csbwomensstudybible.com to learn more!

B&H Publishing | Amazon | ChristianBook.com

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My Thoughts:

Growing up, the only translation of the Bible I was exposed to was the Authorized King James Version. As I have explored other forms of the Bible over the years, I have enjoyed trying out different translations and sometimes have found that reading different versions provided a fuller understanding of a verse or passage.

As expected, this new CSB Women’s Study Bible included several pages devoted to introducing how a Bible translation is created and the method that the CSB edition used. In short, the creators of this version used what is called “optimal equivalence” which means they placed "equal value on fidelity to the original and readability for a modern audience (xxi)”. Basically, they used literal translation where it fit best and a more dynamic translation where the meaning needed extra clarity for the modern reader. I’m no expert on Bible translations, but I did appreciate their explanation and I find this to be a reliable version that I am comfortable with. The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) currently ranks in my top five translations.

This new CSB Women’s Study Bible feels like a luxury Bible. I like the front cover design, and I appreciate the dust cover that protects the physical covers from wear. Inside, there is so much to love. Each page is full color! There are many photos and illustrations that I found fascinating: the inside of a Bedouin tent, an Egyptian broad collar necklace, an Ephesian terra-cotta lamp, etc. The study notes are extensive and the word studies pop-up fairly often. I especially liked the biographies of notable Christians in church history which seemed inclusive to both genders and multiple ethnicities. And there are more features I have not listed!

I think the CSB Women’s Study Bible offers an accessible version for women of all ages. There is plenty to learn no matter how long one has been reading the Bible, and the 8000+ study notes are bound to introduce new ideas about verses/passages. This Bible would make a lovely gift. I have enjoyed using it. Five stars for this beautiful edition!

Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for
this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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More about the Bible:

• “Useful and practical for any reader that wants to study the Bible deeply" - Stefana Dan Laing

• Created by a team of women who love Scripture and want to help you engage with it meaningfully, this Bible is packed with verse-by-verse study notes, word studies, profiles of women in the Bible, devotional content, and tools to help you live out what you're learning.

• Order your copy today wherever books and Bibles are sold or visit csbwomensstudybible.com to learn more!

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Giveaway:

One commenter will win a copy of the CSB Women’s Study Bible (Floral Hardcover version). US addresses only. Enter by leaving a comment on this post with your full name (required by the tour company) and email. Alternatively, you may email me (beautyinthebinding@gmail.com) with your full name for a giveaway entry. Giveaway ends 1/16/2026 at 11:59 PM.

Book Spotlight: The Unending Light by Brett Armstrong

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Unending Light by Brett Armstrong, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Unending Light 
Series: Quest of Fire #7 
Author: Brett Armstrong 
Publisher: Expanse Books 
Release Date: December 16, 2025 
Genre: Christian, Epic Fantasy

War has consumed the Lowlands in both Jason and Anargen’s eras. Each teen struggles to keep true to the Quest as the armies led by the dark powers of the Lowlands edge closer to victory. 

A secret buried in Ordumair can guarantee that evil Monarch Ilyron destroys the Tower of Light Anargen has striven to defend. And Jason’s brother, Dorian, has found an equally powerful weapon in the mysterious land of Jhi. The ancient threat of dragons returning to the Lowlands threatens to plunge the Lowlands into ruin. 

Losses that leave both teens grieving deeply and an ever-diminishing list of allies means they must be willing to give everything to rescue their world from the looming desolation. But they must face the truth that it is still far too little to win, unless they can hold on till the King’s Day arrives.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Scrivenings Press | Amazon | BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Deep-set blue eyes, steeped in regret, fell on Anargen. “Child, are you certain the mayor saw the agent of the Monarch in his beastly form? Does the mayor truly know what sort of pact he has made?”

Anargen nodded. “He saw him partially transformed. Whether he understands the depth of the darkness with which he bargains, I can’t say. He has a reputation for being a bold warrior, decisive and fierce, yes? Perhaps he thinks he can best the dark if it betrays him.”

“Don’t all Dag Votere have that reputation?” Seren chimed in. “Just because they were warriors in the past doesn’t mean that heart still beats in them.”

“Hmph,” Sir Matthias grunted and started to speak, but let his long jaw stay slack as he appeared to reconsider his words. “My people have that reputation and perhaps have grown softer in the years of peace and abundance. Comfort has sapped our strength less than our virtue, I daresay. Our mayor likes the money we earn from trade with the Ecthel Monarchists. It keeps us atop the Knors, who are still as brutal and ambitious as our people began. It makes such a treaty—”

“Forgive me for any impertinence,” Glewdyn interrupted. “We need not stand here and talk of Vogteremark politics, nor its history, nor even what has already passed between us. What matters is what you intend to do today. That will define you.”

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More in This Series

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About the Author

Brett Armstrong has been exploring other worlds as a writer since age nine. Years later, he still writes, but now invites others along on his excursions. He’s shown readers haunting, deep historical fiction (Destitutio Quod Remissio), scary-real dystopian sci-fi (Tomorrow’s Edge series), and layered, sweeping epic fantasy (Quest of Fire). Every story is a journey of discovery and an attempt to be a brush in the Master Artist’s hand. Through dark, despair, light, joy, and everything in between, the end is always meant to leave his fellow literary explorers with wonder and hope. Always busy with a new story, he also enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with his wife and son.

Connect with Brett by visiting brettarmstrong.net to follow him on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon gift card and exclusive Quest of Fire digital content (series theme music and digital maps)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 7, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 14, 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/CAN 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!