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
My Take:
My favorite part of the novel is its setting. The mountains always make a beautiful background for a novel like this one. Cindy Sproles writes the Appalachian Mountains with authenticity. The landscape is a living presence that shapes the characters, their values, and their resilience. Her love for the mountains shines through every page.
What I Loved
I found myself drawn into both the beauty and the hardship of mountain life. Sproles balances suspense with heartfelt relationships, creating a story that moves steadily while allowing readers to pause and appreciate the setting and its people. Her dialogue feels genuine, and the strong sense of place makes you feel as though you're walking the mountain trails alongside the characters.
Final Thoughts
The Eyes of River is more than a historical mystery. It is a story about family, identity, resilience, and finding hope when life seems darkest. Readers who enjoy Appalachian fiction, strong female protagonists, and stories that celebrate both the beauty and hardships of mountain life will find much to appreciate.
This beautifully written novel lingers long after the final page, reminding us that love, courage, and hope often shine the brightest in the most difficult seasons.
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.
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.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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