Thursday, January 22, 2026

THE GODCHILD Tour & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: THE GODCHILD

Author: S.C. Terlecky

Genre: YA Christian Dystopian

Release Date: December 9, 2025

When fifteen-year-old Ellie Wilder discovers a contraband journal hidden in her attic, her decision to read its contents rather than turning it over to TEAMMATE officials will destroy any chance of living a normal life. The good news? Andy Jacobs, the most popular boy in her school, now realizes she exists. The bad news? She might not exist much longer if TEAMMATE has anything to say about it. Now that she’s awakened from the encompassing lie of the world she lives in, how can she possibly warn others who are content to remain in a blissful Neverland? She’ll need to challenge her own beliefs, embrace her destiny, and put everything on the line or else the dying spark she’s uncovered in this hostile future will be extinguished—along with her life, forever.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

S.C. Terlecky lives in Northeast Ohio with his two daughters and herd of cats. He enjoys a multitude of outdoor activities and reading stories each night to his girls. His previous works include American Relic and Canticle of the Spear. He loves strong storytelling, interesting characters, and concepts with lasting impact.

More from S.C.

The truth may set you free, but are you prepared for the cost?

When I set out to write my third novel, THE GODCHILD, I wanted to create something that would remain on the mind of the reader after the final page. There are a number of excellent young adult books that left a lasting impression on me in my younger years, and my desire was to contribute something truly moving for the next generation.

Drawing from some of my favorite classic YA dystopian fiction novels, there is often one theme in common—they focus on fighting an all-powerful, evil group of people with a smaller group of likeable underdogs who want to preserve some important, physically tangible aspect of living. It may be saving a faction of people from oppression by another faction like in Veronica Roth’s Divergent or Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. The story may highlight a need to break free from a world of total control like in The Giver by Lois Lowry or A Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. They may even primarily focus on saving humanity from extinction like in James Dashner’s The Maze Runner. But how many add the spiritual implications of eternity alongside these important physical themes? This is where THE GODCHILD is meant to have a deeper reach into the reader. And when the tale is completely told, the chilling part of this story is that it’s not unbelievable—especially in today’s world.

MY REVIEW

This book will give readers of dystopia much to think about. The world is so different as faith has been erased. The main word I thought of was control as I began my journey. I couldn’t imagine living in a place where God was banned. Going to the store was controlled and limited by time. The school is what really shocked me. Mandatory sports for younger children and tests for older ones to see what gift you have to benefit TEAMMATE.

The discovery of a forgotten journal will turn Ellie’s world upside down. She is a very strong character who goes against everything she has been told to unlock the secrets that have been hidden from everyone. Her decision will find her in danger as she starts to see the lies she has been told. I love how she wants to share with others and allow them to realize that they have been deceived.

As Ellie begins to study about Jesus her attitude towards TEAMMATE changes. For so long they have been forced to believe in one world religion. Now she must face the consequences for standing up for the truth. The author creates a world where you are not allowed to believe in Jesus. The mere mention of His name can be dangerous. It reminds me of a martyr who knows they may be prosecuted or killed but are willing to do it anyway. I am reminded of the scripture in the Bible that talks about, “if you deny me on earth, I will deny you in heaven.”

I loved reading the journal along with Ellie as she began to learn about Jesus. She is also warned that satan’s “ greatest trick ever played on the world was convincing it he didn’t exist.” This was not meant to scare her but for her to be on guard. The author does an excellent job of showing how easy we can be manipulated and brain washed as the world Ellie lives in tries to discredit Christianity. Oh how I can see greed and power creeping in as Ellie fights against TEAMMATES . Will she be able to convince others that the real evil is right in front of them?

This book will have readers intrigued and see that one person can make a difference. I saw her father as a believer but was afraid to express it. He wants to protect his family but sometimes all we can do is trust God. Get ready for an emotional, faith filled adventure.

“If you do not have love in your heart, you have nothing. Without love you gain nothing.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion