Kelsey Gjesdal releases her latest novel, Grandpa’s Comrade, on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2025. This military adventure novel takes readers on a grand adventure to South Korea as the characters search for a missing sailor and healing from family wounds. Grandpa’s Comrade already has glowing reviews from early readers and is available for order at your favorite online book retailers.

Want to know which character you are from Grandpa’s Comrade?

This compelling young adult adventure novel explores themes of military service, multi-generational family relationships, true bravery, and the price of heroism.

Kelsey Gjesdal, daughter of a U.S. Navy veteran, is an award-winning author, blogger, and host of the Wholeheartedly with Kelsey Lee podcast. When she’s not writing and podcasting, you’ll find her serving at a local pregnancy center, playing music, or reading a book with a cup of coffee in hand. She resides in lovely Albany, Oregon. You can keep up with Kelsey on Instagram at @kelseyleewrites.

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.