"Mr. Shipley's Governess" by Joanne Troppello

February was Romance Month at Clash of the Titles




For February, Clash of the Titles featured two gooey, deliciously sigh-worthy clashes.

Amanda Flower hosted Most Romantic Moments Clash One: Karen Witemeyer's A Tailor-Made Bride vs. Joanne Troppello's Mr. Shipley's Governess.

"There’s a reason why Romance is the best-selling and most powerful fiction genre," Flower, author of the India Hayes mystery, Maid of Murder. "It makes a story relatable to the reader. Even if the story stars non-human characters, like some fantasy, sci-fi, or speculative fiction, the romantic relationship gives the story a human side with which the reader can sympathize."

A Tailor-Made Bride drew the most votes, and we thank Joanne with an "I Took The COTT Challenge" button, and our appreciation.



Joanne Troppello: http://www.joannetroppello.weebly.com/


Mr. Shipley's Governess: Kindle - http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Shipleys-Governess-ebook/dp/B004EYUH9M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=books&qid=1299433815&sr=1-1

"The Road to Deer Run" by Elaine Marie Cooper

February was Romance Month at Clash of the Titles

For February, Clash of the Titles featured two gooey, deliciously sigh-worthy clashes.

Michelle Massaro hosted Clash Two, another tough contest between Elaine Marie Copper's The Road to Deer Run and Lorna Seilstad's Making Waves. The COTT team was delighted with two new "firsts" for Clash of the Titles. Lorna's book was nominated by one of our team reviewers over at Title Trakk. "I was blown away and very honored that a reader would take the time to submit a scene from Making Waves, and I'm pleased as punch that it was this scene. It's always hard to know if the same scenes I see as romantic are the same ones that move readers," Lorna said.

The other "first" for COTT was that a self-published author won the Clash. "Recently, we've come to the decision to open up all of our Clashes to self-published authors," Michelle Massaro, assistant editor for COTT said. "There will still be guidelines to adhere to, disclaimers to sign, but we feel this will best serve you guys—our readers, authors, and friends. We will still have unpublished Clashes according to our usual schedule, but now they will be reserved for our truly unpublished friends."

And the Clash fairly zinged with the most site comments from our readers. "Readers flooded in to participate in this clash and the battle was fierce. The race was very tight--we were dead even up until the last couple of hours," Massaro said. The Road to Deer Run won the "I Conquered COTT button."



Websites:
Elaine Cooper: http://www.deerrunbooks.com/


The Road to Deer Run: http://www.amazon.com/Road-Deer-Elaine-Marie-Cooper/dp/1450219195/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1299433776&sr=1-1

"Making Waves" by Lorna Seilstad

February was Romance Month at Clash of the Titles

For February, Clash of the Titles featured two gooey, deliciously sigh-worthy clashes.

Michelle Massaro hosted Clash Two, another tough contest between Elaine Marie Copper's The Road to Deer Run and Lorna Seilstad's Making Waves. The COTT team was delighted with two new "firsts" for Clash of the Titles. Lorna's book was nominated by one of our team reviewers over at Title Trakk. "I was blown away and very honored that a reader would take the time to submit a scene from Making Waves, and I'm pleased as punch that it was this scene. It's always hard to know if the same scenes I see as romantic are the same ones that move readers," Lorna said.

The other "first" for COTT was that a self-published author won the Clash. "Recently, we've come to the decision to open up all of our Clashes to self-published authors," Michelle Massaro, assistant editor for COTT said. "There will still be guidelines to adhere to, disclaimers to sign, but we feel this will best serve you guys—our readers, authors, and friends. We will still have unpublished Clashes according to our usual schedule, but now they will be reserved for our truly unpublished friends."

And the Clash fairly zinged with the most site comments from our readers. "Readers flooded in to participate in this clash and the battle was fierce. The race was very tight--we were dead even up until the last couple of hours," Massaro said. The Road to Deer Run won the "I Conquered COTT button."





Web sites:
Lorna Seilstad: http://www.lornaseilstad.com/

Making Waves: http://www.amazon.com/Making-Waves-Novel-Manawa-Summers/dp/0800734459/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1299433897&sr=1-1

Liz Curtis Higgs "Mine Is the Night"

We're happy to have Liz Curtis Higgs with us today talking about her book Mine Is the Night. To learn more about Liz and her book, read on!

Title: Mine Is the Night
Publisher: WaterBrook Press
Cover:SHE LOST EVERYTHING SHE LOVED. HE HAD EVERYTHING SHE NEEDED. BUT COULD SHE FIND THE COURAGE TO TRUST HIM?
Stepping from a battered coach on a rainy April eve, newly widowed Elisabeth Kerr must begin again, without husband or title, property or fortune. She is unafraid of work and gifted with a needle, but how will she stitch together the tattered remnants of her life? And who will mend her heart, torn asunder by betrayal and deception?
Elisabeth has not come to Selkirk alone. Her mother-in-law, Marjory Kerr, is a woman undone, having buried her husband, her sons, and any promise of grandchildren. Dependent upon a distant cousin with meager resources, Marjory dreads the future almost as much as she regrets the past. Yet joy still comes knocking, and kindness is found in unexpected places.
Then a worthy hero steps forward, rekindling a spark of hope. Will he risk his reputation to defend two women labeled as traitors to the crown? Or will a wealthy beauty, free of scandal, capture his affections?
The heartrending journey of the Kerr women comes to a glorious finish in Mine Is the Night, a sparkling gem of redemption and restoration set in eighteenth-century Scotland.
“The crown of the series! I loved the historical setting, the details,
the love stories, the characters who change and grow.”
—FRANCINE RIVERS, author of Redeeming Love

1) How did this story come to you?
The story of Ruth has been a favorite of mine since childhood. Just reading it sends dialogue and scenery and costumes spinning through this writer’s mind and heart! For the sheer joy and challenge of it, I transported the journey of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz to eighteenth-century Scotland, inviting my readers to see this familiar story through fresh eyes.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I write for the most encouraging (and patient!) publisher on the planet, WaterBrook Press. Here Burns My Candle and Mine Is the Night started out as a three-book series contracted in 2003, then shifted to a one-book wonder in 2007, and finally ended up a two-book saga in 2010 and 2011! As always, God knew best, because the biblical version has two parts, starting in Moab and finishing in Bethlehem; or, in the case of my novels, beginning in Edinburgh and ending in Selkirk. The relationships are also two-fold: a mother-in-law with her daughter-in-law, then a young widow with her redeemer. Oh baby. You will love this hero!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
LOL. I share so much in my nonfiction books, on the platform, and online, I’m not sure I have many secrets left! But they might be surprised to know I sing alto in our church choir, have a Bruce Springsteen tour jacket in my closet, and won a “Most Improved Bowler” award sometime last century!

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
After two historical novels, it’s time to return to nonfiction with a verse-by-verse look at the story I’ve been immersed in for years: the book of Ruth. Like my Bad Girls of the Bible series, this new book will filter solid research through a storyteller’s lens. And did I mention it will be fun?! Look for that in Summer 2012. Meanwhile, I’ll be speaking at Women of Joy events all over the U.S. this spring and making my first trip to Australia in May.

5) Parting comments?
I am SO grateful for my faithful readers! Over the last 28 books you’ve followed me from humorous nonfiction to children’s picture books to contemporary fiction to Bible studies and finally to historical novels. That requires some serious flexibility, dear ones…bless you!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Kindly visit my website http://www.LizCurtisHiggs.com and sign up for my free seasonal newsletter. You’ll also find me on Facebook and Twitter. Not very eighteenth century but a fun way to keep in touch!

Robin Carroll's "In the Shadow of Evil"

We're happy to have Robin Carroll with us today talking about her book In the Shadow of Evil. To learn more about Robin and her book, read on!


Title: In The Shadow of Evil
Publisher: B&H Publishing

Cover blurb: Informed by the real-life fallout of the U.S. economy and devastation caused by multiple hurricanes along the southern coast, In the Shadow of Evil tells a modern day story involving the exposure of a building rebound scam. Amidst the layers of unethical practices, supply shortages, and excess murders, a top Louisiana homicide detective loses his heart to a charitable contractor while uncovering a secret about his tragic past.

1) How did this story come to you?
Since I'm from Louisiana, the hurricanes devastation and rebuilding interested me when a fellow author read me an article about rebuilding scams and shortcuts.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
This was the 3rd book in a trilogy sold to B&H Publishing. Previously, I’d published eight romantic suspense books with Steeple Hill.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Only 3? LOL Okay.
1-My favorite food is hibachi, but I refuse to eat sushi.
2-When not on deadline, I usually read a novel a day.
3-I love my lab/Catahoula mix, but I’m really a cat person.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now, I’m working on the revisions to Injustice For All, the first book in a new trilogy. It releases in January 2012.

5) Parting comments?
Thanks so much for having me. I love dropping by and visiting with your blog friends.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My website is http://www.robincaroll.com/ and from there, people can sign up for my newsletter, catch my latest releases, visit my blog, and click to follow me on social media sites Twitter and Facebook.

Kimberley & Kayla Woodhouse's "No Safe Haven"

We're happy to have Kimberley & Kayle Woodhouse with us today talking about their book No Safe Haven. To learn more about Kimberley and Kayle and their book, read on!

Title: NO SAFE HAVEN
Publisher: B&H Books

Cover blurb: Jenna and Andie Tikaani-Gray are hoping for a fresh start. Though twelve year-old Andie has long struggled with a rare medical disorder, she and her mother have finally received good news from out-of-town specialists. It's news they desperately needed, especially after the recent death of Jenna's husband (Andie's dad) in a car accident.
But as they are flying home to Alaska, ready to begin again, the unthinkable happens. The pilot sabotages their small plane and crashes into Sultana, one of the most remote and dangerous mountains in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Even worse, a winter storm is headed their way along with someone who doesn't want to save them, but to kill them.
Only one man can keep them alive: Cole Maddox, the mysterious last-minute passenger who joined them on their flight. But trust doesn't come easy to Jenna or Andie and they both sense Cole is hiding something.
A relentless tale of survival and suspense unfolds, involving military technology designed by Jenna's late husband that some would do anything to possess.

1) How did this story come to you?
Our brilliant editor, (Karen Ball), suggested Kayla and I write together, and from there it snowballed.  Kayla’s character has the same disorder she has, we lived in Alaska for several years – so we wanted to add the adventure of the Land of the Midnight Sun, and we just plain ol’ had fun.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
It was quick. Not your ordinary experience. Karen suggested we write together and asked for a proposal with a deadline of three days! We managed to pull it off and crank it out. Then we hashed it all out and Kayla and I wrote it in a quick few weeks. We both write fast, but I had no idea how fast we would be together! It was an amazing journey and so much fun. We’ve already finished Race Against Time, book 2 in the series, and are now into book 3. We love every minute of it.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Kayla writes faster than me. And I write pretty fast 
I’m a DP fan. Dr. Pepper AND David Phelps.
I lived on an island in Alaska that was a volcano and had no Wal-Mart.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now we’re working on the last of this three-book series, another three-book series, Kayla is working on a fantasy/allegory, and I’m working on a Romantic Suspense set in Alaska.

5) Parting comments?
Thanks for having us here! Hope you enjoy NO SAFE HAVEN. We’re loving hearing from readers and fans.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://kimberleywoodhouse.com/ and fan page http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=55713641#!/KimberleyWoodhouseFanPage

Trish Perry's "Unforgettable"

We're happy to have Trish Perry with us today talking about her book Unforgettable. To learn more about Trish and her book, read on!

Title: Unforgettable
Publisher: Summerside Press

Cover blurb: Rachel Stanhope tries to see the good in everyone. But even her good graces are challenged when she meets Josh Reegan outside her Arlington, Virginia dance studio on a brisk fall morning in 1951. Admittedly, he’s attractive, but she finds his cynicism and cockiness hard to tolerate.
A hard-news journalist and former World War II Air Force pilot, Josh considers distractions like ballroom dancing frivolous wastes of time. He has yet to shed his wartime drive to defend good against evil whenever he can. Yes, Rachel’s confident nature is a refreshing challenge, but he wouldn’t tangle with her if his newspaper hadn’t roped him into covering one of her studio’s competitions in New York City.
Between Arlington and New York, between the melodrama of ballroom antics and the real drama of political corruption, between family involvement and romantic entanglement, Rachel and Josh have their hands full. The last thing either of them expects is mutual need and support. But once they stop dancing around the truth, the results are unforgettable.

1) How did this story come to you?
 I honestly struggle to remember the genesis of some of my books. Summerside gave me this particular title, and the timeframe was inherent in the title (since the books in this line—the When I Fall in Love series—are each set during the era when the title song was released). Beyond that, I simply designed my two main characters and then waited until I could imagine them crossing paths numerous times because of their professions. The plotline developed from there. I always play with the long-range plot structure as I go along, since sometimes things happen between the characters that I didn’t originally foresee. I love it when that happens.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
 I hadn’t yet worked with Summerside but I was interested. When I suggested an idea for Summerside’s Love Finds You line, they contacted my agent and said they were more interested in working with me on their new nostalgic romance line, When I Fall in Love. There were a few song choices available to me, and I love Nat King Cole’s Unforgettable and consider the fifties a fun time frame, so I chose that one.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I was working on my second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do when I finally decided to hang up my dobok (uniform).
I used to sing lead in a rock band.
I keep a loaded shotgun under my bed. (Mercy. I’m much nicer than all of this makes me sound. Honestly.)

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
In April my second Tea with Millicent book (Tea for Two, Harvest House Publishers) will release. Very excited about that!
I just turned in my manuscript for my Christmas novel, ‘Tis the Season, which will be coupled with Debby Mayne’s Deck the Halls in Summerside’s September release, Love Finds You on Christmas Morning (I got an LFY title after all!). Now I’m working on my share of devotions for Summerside’s Your Grace is Sufficient But Decaf is NOT, which is a follow-up devotional to Delight Yourself in the Lord…Even on Bad Hair Days, which released March 1. I teamed up with a few fantastic authors for those two devotionals.

5) Parting comments?
I know the typical comment here tends to be along the hang-in-there lines (that’s what I usually say, anyway), and that’s good advice. But just to add to that, could I encourage unpublished writers to add to your personal numbers? I mean, write and submit as much, and as often, as you can. There are many factors to getting contracts in this business, and the more work you have out there representing your capabilities, the better your chances of finding the publisher(s) with whom you fit.

6) Where can fans find you on the Internet?
My site is http://www.trishperry.com/. I feature fellow inspirational fiction authors twice a week, and they give away signed copies of their latest releases to readers who comment.
I’m also on Facebook as Trish Hawley Perry and on Twitter as TrishPerryWrtr.

Yesterday's Tomorrow by Catherine West

We're happy to have Catherine West with us today talking about her book Yesterday's Tomorrow. To learn more about Catherine and her book, read on!

Title: Yesterday’s Tomorrow
Publisher: OakTara

Cover blurb:Independent, career-driven journalist Kristin Taylor wants two things: to honor her father's memory by becoming an award-winning overseas correspondent and to keep tabs on her only brother, Teddy, who signed up for the war against their mother's wishes. Brilliant photographer Luke Maddox, silent and brooding, exudes mystery. Kristin is convinced he's hiding something.
Willing to risk it all for what they believe in, Kristin and Luke engage in their own tumultuous battle until, in an unexpected twist, they’re forced to work together. Ambushed by love, they must decide whether or not to set aside their own private agendas for the hope of tomorrow that has captured their hearts.

1) How did this story come to you?
I’m not exactly sure. I’ve always been fascinated with Vietnam, and had heard about the young female journalists who traveled there to cover the war, so I thought it might be an interesting story.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Well. It’s a long story, but I’ll try to keep it brief.  Once I had a rough idea of the story, I put together a synopsis and sent it off to someone I’d been corresponding with through blogging. She was a freelance editor for some major CBA houses. She loved the idea and gave me some great tips and off I went. Once I finished the first draft, she asked me to send it to her. A few weeks after that, she told me she was in the process of making a career change, and would soon be a literary agent. That wonderful person was Rachelle Gardner, and she offered representation because of this book. But I think she liked me, too.  Anyway, it went through several re-writes and we shopped it to all the major CBA houses but nobody wanted it. Sadly, we had to sit on it for a couple of years. But then we started sending it to the smaller publishers who seemed more open to ‘touchy’ topics. OakTara loved it, and here we are.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Wow, I don’t know.  I’m really not adventurous. I could never hop a plane to Vietnam like Kristin did. I hate to fly, which is bad because I live on an island. And I’m a very impatient person. My agent, editor and poor critique partners can attest to that one!!

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now I’m working on a family saga called Reprisal. Lots of interesting characters with a ton of issues. It’s the kind of book I like to read, so I’ve been having a lot of fun with it. I’m also working on a romance that takes place in a California vineyard. I was recently there on vacation and think I may have to go back for more research.

5) Parting comments?
I always love to encourage new writers, because were it not for the many authors who encouraged me along the way (and still do), I probably would have given up. Study your craft, go to conferences if you can, get some great critique partners and just believe in yourself. It’s not an easy road, but if it is the one you feel called to, you will succeed eventually.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Website: http://www.catherinejwest.com/
Blog: http://www.catherinewestblog.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @cathwest
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-West-Author/157773297594081
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/vVQUMRlYhkM

Eileen Rife's "Journey to Judah"

We're happy to have Eileen Rife with us today talking about her book Journey to Judah. To learn more about Eileen and her book, read on!

Title: JOURNEY TO JUDAH
Publisher: OakTara

Cover blurb:Could love await her, even in India?
Maggie Osteder’s given up hope of finding a man who shares her love for India. So while her friends plan dream weddings, she follows her heart, fulfilling a ten-year dream of becoming a career missionary. “Don’t lose heart. Stay focused on serving, and God will take care of the rest,” her mother always tells her. Yet upon arrival in Chennai, a fellow missionary makes a comment that strikes to Maggie’s heart—that her ministry will be more effective if she’s married. And her newfound friend says she has the perfect match: the new doctor, Gavin Munsfield.
But Maggie isn’t so sure she’s ready to open her heart . . . especially to a man who seems to be struggling with his own issues.
One woman. One God. One passion.
In an exotic culture of 7.5 million people and 30 million gods, one woman’s resolve to make the journey results in an amazing story of the Lord’s protection and provision.

1) How did this story come to you?
My daughter's love story was the initial seed; the rest is totally fiction. I was so impressed by the way God provided Rachel's "Boaz" clear around the world that I had to write about it.
My faith got a shot in the arm as I watched the Lord lovingly pick up a young man in Washington State, take him to India to meet my single missionary daughter, and then marry her in 2005 and return to India as a couple in 2006. It was truly a love story written by God. The Lord deepened my assurance in Ps. 84:11 which says, "The Lord is a sun and shield; He gives grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly."
About the time Rachel was introduced to Nathan, my women’s small group was studying A Lady in Waiting based on the story of Ruth. As I thought about the similarities between Ruth and Rachel, a story began to emerge. I woke up one morning with the title for my novel: Journey to Judah.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
The first draft poured out of me in-between two weddings! Several readers and one agent offered helpful suggestions. After allowing the work to cook for a few months, I pulled the manuscript out once more, tweaked according to suggestions, then submitted through the Writer’s Edge agency. A year passed with no nibbles. Then in January, 2007, while visiting Rachel and family in India, I clicked onto my email. There sat an invitation from Capstone Fiction, now OakTara, to preview the entire manuscript. After more revising, Journey to Judah was published in April, 2008.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
While Journey to Judah is based on my oldest daughter’s love story as a career missionary in India, actually my other two daughters are involved in mission work around the world as well. Not only that, I grew up in home mission work. My father served in East Tennessee with Children’s Bible Mission for over 50 years; hence the fodder for chapter twelve of Journey to Judah where Maggie returns to one of her old childhood haunts.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
After a final proof, my third book, CHOSEN ONES, in the Born for India trilogy will be released. I have also signed a contract with OakTara for a stand alone novel titled, SECOND CHANCE.

5) Parting comments.
Journey to Judah is packed with action, adventure, and romance. But most of all, I want readers to know that following the Lord is not a step to fear, but a fulfilling journey on which He proves to be a faithful lover, provider, and protector. With this assurance, I hope readers will discover the special journey God has for them, no matter where that path may lead.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.eileenrife.com/
http://www.eileen-rife.blogspot.com/
http://www.guardyourmarriage.com/

Elisa Maria Crites "Secrets Under the Midnight Sun"

We're happy to have Elisa Maria Crites with us today talking about her book Secrets Under the Midnight Sun. To learn more about Elisa and her book, read on!

Title: Secrets Under the Midnight Sun
Cover blurb:
Twelve-year-old Fredricka O’Reilly has a dark secret. It’s 1967 in the last frontier-Alaska, and the truth keeps the normal happy life she longs for just beyond her reach. Her brother’s four-year stint in the Air Force ends, and Fredricka believes his return will change her life for the better, until he reveals a secret of his own. As her life crumbles around her, the only one left to turn to is her mother. Can Fredricka risk telling her secret even if it could tear her family apart?

1) How did this story come to you?
A relentless character who called herself Freddie showed up at my house one morning and insisted I hear her story. Freddie is upbeat and wonderfully quirky in spite of the abuse she has suffered, and her story is the story of far too many children.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
After writing the story, I got into a couple of critique groups and rewrote the story many times. Then I hired a editor and after doing more rewrites, had another editor go over the manuscript. The decision to self-publish was made after much consideration, seeking advice and prayer.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’m a registered nursing assistant, a massage therapist specializing in pain relief methods, and I teach financial classes.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I have a children’s book based on a true story about an unusual ambassador that has waited for several years to be written, am working on some articles and also another YA book.

5) Parting comments?
This book deals with abuse, but it’s about hope. And that’s something we all need. And I want to thank you, Dawn for inviting me.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.elisamariacrites.com/
Facebook Elisa Maria Crites, my blog, http://secretsunderthemidnightsun.wordpress.com/

Pastor Bobby Keating's "Apply Wisdom to Life's Circumstances"

We're happy to have Pastor Bobby Keating with us today talking about his book Apply Wisdom to Life's Circumstances. To learn more about Bobby and his book, read on!

Title: Apply Wisdom to Life’s Circumstances
Cover blurb:Apply Wisdom to Life’s Circumstances is a guide to applying the Wisdom found in the book of Proverbs to circumstances that face each of us on a daily basis. The leaders during the Golden Age of Israel used the Proverbs to teach their children to be successful leaders in government and Commerce. This information is as relevant today as it was in King Solomon’s day. This book is a companion to ‘Wisdom: A Commentary on King Solomon’s Proverbs.’

1) How did this story come to you?
I have studied the Proverbs extensively for the past 8 years. While working as a pastor, I began to notice a pattern in the behavior of our young people and our young adults. Too often I found myself thinking, “What are these children being taught at home?” They were often (very often) unruly and less than respectful to older people. They seemed to consider our youth group just another ‘thing’ that they had to do. They were normal and, unfortunately, typical kids. Without delving into the ‘state of affairs’ in our American social system, I came to the conclusion that these people were getting no positive guidance from their home or social environment. I immediately began to study the Proverbs and to write analyses of the wisdom in the proverbs in a language that they could understand.
As I studied, I realized that the information in the Proverbs was information that could be used for any circumstance in anyone’s life. This prompted me to study deeper and to present the Wisdom in the Proverbs to everyone. This information is vital and life changing when applied to relationships, parenting, career development, finances and practically every other situation that could arise in anyone’s life.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I have published through ‘Traditional Publishers’ and I found the process so unappealing that I decided that that was not the route for me. I had to relinquish too much control and often found myself almost in agony trying to get things done. I write the books that I do for three reasons. The first reason is to bring glory to God. This is, without belaboring the point, the most rewarding. Secondly, I write these books in the hope that they will help the reader gain a new and fresh perspective of God’s Word (His Wisdom.) The third reason is that they are a tool that God has given me to raise funds for my outreach ministries. I preach the Gospel as often as possible, often in outside settings and in prisons. I have written an addiction counseling program and I lead and train others to lead meeting for people who suffer from addictions. I also teach those interested in becoming entrepreneurs the biblical success principles. I do this at The Christian Success Institute (http://christian-success-institute.com) Self-publishing gives me the control that I want but is very work intensive. Traditional publishing is not much different for the non-famous but I do not have to relinquish as much of the funds to a publisher who does so very little.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Since they can’t see me, I am tall, dark and extremely handsome. Doesn’t everyone like a bit of humor? Seriously speaking, to look at me and to speak to me no one would guess that at one point in my life I was a very accomplished alcoholic and drug user. Christ changed all of that. This is, however, the reason my heart literally breaks for those I see who are suffering from addiction. To look at them and to know that I have a solution that can change everything gives me the impetuous to charge ahead.
Second thing would be that I am a world famous chef. For twenty five years I worked aboard some of the most spectacular Mega Yachts in existence. I prepared foods for some of the wealthiest, famous and infamous figures in modern history. I have worked for wealthy businessmen, politicians, heads of state and entertainers. I prepared banquets twice for Prince Rainier of Monaco’s birthday celebrations. I will do no more name dropping!
The third thing that would surprise people is that I have studied in The USA, Greece and France. I lived in Spain and am somewhat fluent in Spanish. I am hoping soon to develop a church service at my local church for Latin-Americans who do not have a command of English. I also speak French and Greek and I have a working knowledge of English.
That about sizes that up. The rest is rather mundane except for my passion to help others understand the Wisdom that is available to them in the Holy Scripture.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
As far as writing is concerned, I am working on a new book about the Constitution and where our country is headed. The working title is ‘Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness, as God sees it.’ Next, well I’m not sure. I am hoping to influence one more soul to accept Christ.

5) Parting comments?
Alas! Adieu, mon petit choux. Er, that’s not what you meant, is it? I suppose, to be commercially mercenary, I would like to mention that I am hosting an Internet launching for my new book ‘Apply Wisdom to Life’s Circumstances’ on March 15th, 2011. This is a one day event to entice as many people as possible to go to Amazon.com to purchase a copy of my book (and hopefully see my other books.) Info for this is at http://thesuccessbook.info/booklaunch.htm
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to God for arranging this interview and for your listening to Him prompt you.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I’m the guy in the baseball cap.
MY blog is at http://pastorbobby.com/
My book’s website is at http://thesuccessbook.info/
You can always find me at The Christian Success Institute@ http://christian-success-institute.com/.
My FaceBook.com page is @ http://www.facebook.com/pastorbobbykeating
My LinkedIn.com page is @ http://www.linkedin.com/in/pastorbobby
and tweet me @ http://twitter.com/#!/Pastorbobcsi

"In Honor Bound" by Deanna Dodson

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

DeAnna Dodson and her novel In Honor Bound

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

DeAnna Dodson joined us during our Most Gut-wrenching Clash. Her book In Honor Bound (http://www.amazon.com/Honor-Bound-DeAnna-Julie-Dodson/dp/0891079092) is an incredibly moving story of loss and betrayal, forgiveness and love. Prince Phillip’s father will stop at nothing—even murder—to keep the royal bloodline "pure." Prince Philip Chastelayne burns the bridges of his life, and finds one woman, Rosalynde, his loyal wife, who will show him that he needs God's forgiveness.

And it’s now available on Kindle! (http://www.amazon.com/Honor-Bound-Chastelayne-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B004LX09DA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1297453647&sr=8-1)

DeAnna explains the title of her book: Philip is a man of honor, a man who will “swear to his own hurt and change not.” He wants desperately to do what’s right. That’s his greatest strength and his greatest weakness. He’s so proud of his “rightness” that he almost loses sight of what really is right. He truly is bound up in his honor.

Here a tiny peek at DeAnna’s excerpt:

Philip sat numbly in the corner of his cell, oblivious to the dawn light that had filtered into his bleak surroundings. His mind was fixed on his last sight of his young wife, looking scared and small, flanked by soldiers, forbidden to speak to him. He knew it would likely be the last time he ever saw her.

It still astounded him that he was even here in his father's prison, forbidden to communicate with anyone. His father thought him mad or bewitched and would not hear him. Katherine was doomed, he could feel it in the cold dread that sat heavily in the pit of his stomach, and he could do nothing.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/most-gut-wrenching-scene.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com/) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"In the Manor of the Ghost" by Tina Pinson

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

Tina Pinson and her novel In the Manor of the Ghost

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Tina Pinson (http://www.tinapinson.com/) joined us during our Most Gut-wrenching Clash. Her book In the Manor of the Ghost (http://www.amazon.com/Manor-Ghost-Tina-Pinson/dp/0595195911/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297022986&sr=1-1) took home our cyber-laurel. Congratulations, Tina!

There’s a ghost in the manor? Really? I definitely need to know more!

About the book: It's the 1870's and those who dwell in Clayborne Manor seemed trapped in time. Trapped amid the whispers of failure and sorrow; whispers of longing and defeat. Caitlin hears them clearly at night. But what ghosts really haunt Clayborne Manor? The ghost that restlessly walks the halls in the night? Or the ones that plague the minds and spirits of those residing there?

Here a tiny peek at Tina’s excerpt:

Kaitlin slipped past the barricades and pushed through the crowds. Heavy smoke made it hard to catch her breath. Nothing could stop her scream when she saw her apartment building engulfed in flames.

She scanned the lines of blackened faces. Her family wasn't there. Her gaze was drawn to the building, to the raging mingling of fire and life. Kaitlin prayed her family would come out. No one exited -- the agony of her thoughts cut her like a well-sharpened saber. Looking up, her thoughts became flesh.

Jean Marc stood in the upstairs window holding a bundle. Kaitlin knew, with another slice to her soul, the bundle was Simone.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/most-gut-wrenching-scene.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com/) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"Yesterday's Promise" by Delia Latham

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

Delia Latham and her novel Destiny’s Dream

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Delia Latham (http://www.delialatham.net/ ) joined us during our Conversions Scenes week. Delia’s book Destiny’s Dream (http://www.amazon.com/Destinys-Dream-Delia-Latham/dp/1611160456/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297022048&sr=1-1) took home our cyber-laurel. Congratulations, Delia!

So, what exactly is heroine Destiny’s dream, and why should we root for her to achieve it?

Delia: When her mother dies, she leaves Destiny an awesome spiritual legacy, and Destiny is spurred to pursue the dream she’s fostered for so long – to open a Christian dating agency. Throughout the course of the book, Destiny faces enormous obstacles…and wonderful, spine-tingling miracles. Through it all, she maintains a steadfast faith in God’s calling. How can one help cheering her on?

Since the Clash’s theme was Conversion Scenes, I asked Delia what her character’s hold-up was for trusting Christ.

Delia: Destiny has no problem trusting Christ—she is completely in sync with Him and His will. Clay, however, has wandered from his childhood faith. He’s uncomfortable when Destiny talks about God as if He’s a dear, personal Friend. It was a great joy for me to bring Clay full circle back to Christ, and teach him that something deeper than he’d ever known was there for the asking.

Here a tiny peek at Delia’s excerpt:

As Pastor Paul Porter extended an altar invitation, Destiny sneaked a peek at Clay’s face. His hands had been fisted into white-knuckled balls for the past twenty minutes. Now a muscle worked in the strong line of his jaw as the familiar, sweet notes of “Softly and Tenderly” played in the background.

Miss Willard was consistent in her preference for the old hymns.

Right now, Destiny had no objection.

She laid a gentle hand over one of Clay’s hard fists. He opened his eyes and slanted a misty look her way even as he unfurled his fingers to wrap them around hers. Without a word, he nodded, and they stood. Destiny walked with him toward the front of the church, joyous tears dimming her vision.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/conversion-scenes-excerpts.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"My Mother the Man-eater" by Tracy Krauss

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

 

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Tracy Krauss (http://www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com/) joined us with her book My Mother the Man-eater, (http://www.amazon.com/Mother-Man-Eater-Tracy-Krauss/dp/1609765850/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297021598&sr=8-1) where “hunting never looked so good.”

With a title like that, my first question was—What kind of fascinating character would be given such a label? So I asked the author. Apparently, heroine Joleen Allen is on the hunt. For a man, that is. Unfortunately, every time the mother of five meets a prospect, he falls for one of her daughters instead!

“Joleen’s life has not been an easy one,” Tracy says about the book’s heroine, “but she is a fighter. The fact that Joleen is so tenacious, despite almost insurmountable hardship, makes her somebody to root for, I think. Also, she portrays the kind of confidence and penache that makes her stand out, although most of it is a coping mechanism.”

Since the Clash’s theme was Conversion Scenes, I asked Tracy what Joleen’s hold-up was for trusting Christ.

Tracy: Deep down she doesn’t feel like she deserves it. She can’t accept the fact that God could forgive her for the multi-layered sins of the past, nor can she believe God could change her penchant for ‘sin’ in the present.

Here a tiny peek at Tracy’s excerpt:

“If he loves me so much, why did he let so many bad things happen in my life?” Joleen asked.

“I can’t answer that for sure,” William replied. “All I know is, what Satan meant for harm, God can use for good. Will you let him? Take the pieces of your life and turn it into something good?”

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/conversion-scenes-excerpts.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)