Book Review of 'Special Target' by Jerusha Agen

Happy Monday Bookworms!

This weekend was an absolute whirlwind and had several surprises that are amazing, unexpected, and having me feeling all the feels. Not only did my oldest turn 21 last week but he also found his own place and will be moving this next week! How is this possible?!! So much change and more in the foreseeable future as we will be listing our house to sell in a few weeks and our new house is breaking ground tomorrow! I knew 2026 was going to have some pretty big milestones but I did not expect this trajectory. That's life, huh?

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Suspense Thriller and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Special Target by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Special Target
Author: Jerusha Agen
Publisher: ‎ SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: March 26, 2026
Genre: Christian Suspense Thriller

She’s trying to save the boy’s life. What if he’s supposed to save hers?

For tough-as-nails Chicago social worker Ashley Sorenson, it’s nothing new to risk her life for hurting children. Seeing innocent kids suffer every day may have made her a little cynical, but she’ll stop at nothing to rescue children from miserable circumstances.

But Ashley faces a special challenge when Matthew Borden, a sixteen-year-old with Down syndrome, is orphaned. Finding a suitable foster home for the boy becomes the least of her problems when someone starts threatening her and Matthew.

The sudden appearance of a mysterious FBI agent confirms Ashley’s growing suspicions that Matthew is no ordinary teen. The boy she thought no one wanted is wanted by many…dead or alive.

Dodging danger at every turn, Ashley races to find the secrets that could save Matthew’s life. When the truth unearths her own dark past and threatens more than their lives, the God Matthew trusts may be her only hope for rescue.

A gripping and gritty standalone Christian suspense thriller from the bestselling author of the Guardians Unleashed Series.

My Review

“What a horrible feeling-realizing she might be a puppet but unable to cut the strings because she didn't know who held them.”

As I was reading this novel, I couldn't tell which was up. The pace is fast and rooted in mystery, and honestly, there was so much thrown at me that it got to a point that I didn't know what to believe! There are some moments that are pretty sinister, and quite a few things said that were grating to me. I could see moments being triggering for some who have loved ones that are special needs but I also know that this is sadly a sentiment that is believed by some.

I did breeze through this novel rather quickly, but I can’t really say it was always an enjoyable affair, not because of the reading itself but the subject matter. I did not care for Ashley and her brash toughness and seemingly coldheartedness. I also side-eyed practically everyone in this story with the exception of Matthew, the non-verbal young man with Down syndrome. Ashley’s attitude came across as crass and unlikable, while Matthew evoked a whole other feeling and reminded me of a sweet boy that I grew up with who also has Down syndrome. Knowing what a pure and innocent heart Matthew has made Ashley look so much worse in a lot of the story but also highlighted the powerful character growth as the story progressed.

I will say, this was such an unexpected yet incredibly powerful ending that hit like a gut punch. This entire story felt very rough around the edges, but the message was crystal clear and one that will stick with me long after I’ve finished reading. Powerful writing from the immensely talented Jerusha Agen has won me over again. Talk about one powerful, thrilling, and emotional ride.

My Rating: ★★★★

Also Available

About the Author

Jerusha Agen is a Christy Award finalist who imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies. Find more of Jerusha’s thrilling, fear-fighting stories at JerushaAgen.com.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback copy of Special Target, a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card and a Special Target mug, notebook, and magnet!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 30, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 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

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