24 June 2026

the eyes of river | book review + giveaway

justread publicity tours

about the book


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.

publisher: kregel publications
release date: june 23, 2026


review

an atmospheric historical-fiction novel with some unexpected twists and turns!

it all starts when lizzy decides to mail her nine-year-old brother, river, to knoxville to keep him safe. of course, her plan goes awry, and she winds up on the run, wanted for murder, and maybe falling a little in love with the childhood friend she's never seen that way before.

the eyes of river is an adventure, for sure. lizzy makes some questionable decisions along the way, but she uncovers life-altering revelations and learns to trust God a little more with it all, too. it's a journey of ups and downs, plenty of emotion—and all the while, the appalachian setting feels very present and transporting.

i quite enjoyed this historical read. i think any historical reader, especially with a love for appalachia, will enjoy it, too.

considerations:
—language: none
—spice: kisses only
—faith: consistent christian themes and mentions
—content: violence, death, mentions of loss of a parent, rape, abduction


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.

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 HERE
tour schedule

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