Blog Archives
Guidance and Knowledge
Using Your Superpower follows a woman thrust into the office of Secretary of State struggling with her own self-doubt and who finds that empathy is a mighty weapon in even the most challenging circumstances. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’m not too sure of my actual inspiration for creating this literary life of Amelia Castro. I have been inspired by the fact that Madeline Albright, Condoleeza Rice, and Hillary Clinton all were placed in that role, and in my opinion, each did an excellent job. Adding that factor to my conviction that the Secretary of State is perhaps the most important political post with the most difficult responsibility of all Cabinet positions.
Amelia Castro is an incredibly relatable character. What was your process for creating her traits and dialogue?
I wanted her to be successful in this role and therefore, just like the President selecting her, would have to select the most qualified person to do the job. However, the most important safeguard for Amelia was to have a support team and therefore I created the Fearless Five who would advise and protect her to the utmost degree.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
First, what was to be the Superpower, and I selected Empathy as the most important power that would guide my characters and the government agencies they led. Next, who were to be the other characters that guided Amelia and where did they all receive the Guidance and knowledge to provide the advice they imparted.
Can we look forward to more fiction from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes! I am currently near finishing a very ambitious Vision Quest fiction novel that follows a middle-aged man who decides to trek by foot throughout the country of Belize. He was inspired by the actions of Shirley McClaine when she performed the trek though the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain. There is no specific connection between my character’s journey and that of Shirley McClaine except for each person’s need to accomplish a trek that would satisfy a spiritual lack in each person that needed to be internally resolved. My character is more aggressive in attempting to reach a certain spiritual advancement, but both have that in mind for their trek.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
These three were Madeleine Albright (1997-2001), Condoleeza Rice (2005-2009),and Hillary Clinton (2009-2013).
This fictional story does not explicitly relate to those world leaders but acknowledgesm the legacy of the many strong women like them who can change the world through their actions.
From the author
Dan Ford
Using Your Superpower is a truly unique fictional novel. Its narrative beats with thelife and triumphs of Amelia Castro, a woman of exceptional strength and resilience, making it a compelling read for those who seek something different. In a story as enthralling as it is unique, we are drawn into Amelia Castro’s life as she struggles with her fears and the weighty responsibilities that come with her role as Secretary of State of the United States.
Amelia’s emotional odysseys, brimming with mystery, drama, and thrilling spiritual and physical escapades, will undoubtedly captivate readers. The novel uniquely
celebrates themes of non-religious spirituality, friendship, and unity, taking readers on a rollercoaster of adventure, emotions, and actions and inviting them to explore a different perspective of life.
Amelia’s closest friends, known along with her as the Fearless Five, are not just characters in a journey through life. They are integral, inspiring figures who strive for human supremacy as Spiritual Warriors who solve problems while promoting the power of Empathy. Their resilience in the face of severe opposition is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and inspires readers to consider concepts quite
different from the norm.
The Importance of Tithes and Offerings
Jacqui D. Williams’ The Importance of Tithes and Offerings is a heartfelt and deeply personal exploration of biblical giving. The book lays out the spiritual and practical reasons for tithing, emphasizing that it is not merely an obligation but an act of faith and love toward God. Williams combines scripture, personal stories, and practical advice to make her case, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments. She argues that giving should come from a place of devotion rather than duty, and she shares how financial obedience has shaped her own spiritual journey. The book also touches on common debates about whether tithing is relevant today, ultimately urging readers to honor God with their resources as a demonstration of trust.
One thing I appreciated about this book is its sincerity. Williams writes with conviction and passion, making it clear that this is not just theology for her—it’s personal. She shares how her mother and sister influenced her giving habits, and she openly talks about the period in her life when she struggled with tithing. Her transparency makes the book relatable, especially when she describes how prioritizing bills over God led to financial and spiritual struggles. She doesn’t just throw scriptures at the reader; she walks you through them, explaining how they’ve played out in her life. Take Malachi 3:10, for example—the famous passage about bringing tithes into the storehouse. Williams doesn’t just use it to tell readers what they should do; she explains how she tested God in this area and saw blessings unfold in unexpected ways.
The book leans on personal conviction. While Williams acknowledges that tithing is not a requirement under New Testament grace, she firmly believes in its importance. The writing style is conversational and easy to read, but certain points are hammered home multiple times in different ways. If someone is struggling with the idea of tithing or wondering if it still applies today, her arguments are clear, persuasive, and rooted in scripture.
I’d recommend this book to Christians who want to deepen their understanding of giving, particularly those who are uncertain about tithing or struggling to be consistent with it. If you want a personal, encouraging take on why giving matters and how it can change your faith, Williams delivers. Her passion for the topic is evident.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0984PBJ23
Literary Titan Gold Book Award: Nonfiction
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes outstanding nonfiction books that demonstrate exceptional quality in writing, research, and presentation. This award is dedicated to authors who excel in creating informative, enlightening, and engaging works that offer valuable insights. Recipients of this award are commended for their ability to transform complex topics into accessible and compelling narratives that captivate readers and enhance our understanding.
Award Recipients
Party at the End of the Rainbow by Ronald Schulz
Ageless Desire A Steep Age Gap Romantic Erotic Tale by TG Gore
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
God Was Always At Work
From Worry to Wonder is a collection of your personal stories about faith, resilience, and divine intervention offering readers hope and peace. Why was this an important book for you to write?
“From Worry to Wonder was an important book for me to write because it’s a testimony of God’s faithfulness in my life. Looking back at the trials I’ve faced—whether it was growing up without a father, navigating financial struggles, or facing unexpected challenges on the foreign mission field—I see how God was always at work, even when I couldn’t recognize it in the moment. Writing this book allowed me to reflect on His provision, protection, and purpose through every hardship.
I also wrote it for others who may be in the middle of their own struggles. Worry can feel overwhelming, but I want readers to see that even in their hardest moments, they are not alone—God is writing a greater story. My prayer is that these real-life stories will inspire others to trust Him, even when life feels uncertain, and to find peace in knowing that wonder often follows worry when we fully trust God.”
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My memoir is filled with stories that highlight key themes that were important for me to share. One of the biggest ideas is that God is always at work, even when we don’t see it. So many times in my life, I faced challenges that felt overwhelming—little food in the cupboards, caught on a foreign street with curfew fast approaching, having the baby we were hoping to adopt taken from us, among a few. But looking back, I can now see how God was guiding, providing, and shaping me through each of those experiences.
Another key idea is the importance of trust. Worry is a natural response to life’s uncertainties, but I’ve learned that when we surrender our fears to God, we open the door for Him to do something greater than we could imagine. I wanted to show readers that faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part of writing my memoir was ensuring that readers wouldn’t just see my life story as a series of interesting events, but that they would find deeper meaning and personal application within each chapter. I didn’t want the book to simply recount what happened to me—I wanted each story to resonate with the reader’s own journey. My goal was to weave in lessons and scripture that would encourage and challenge them to discern God’s hand in their own struggles. Striking that balance between storytelling and meaningful reflection was both difficult and important to me.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
If there’s one thing I hope readers take away from my memoir, it’s the assurance that whatever trial they are facing, God will see them through it as they trust Him. Life is full of challenges—some monumental, some mundane—but none of them are wasted in God’s hands. Romans 8:28 is the foundation of this book: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Even when we can’t see the good in the moment, we can trust that He is weaving something greater than we could ever imagine. My hope is that every reader walks away not only encouraged but better off for having read this book—stronger in faith, more at peace, and filled with the confidence that their worries can turn to wonder when they place their trust in God.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Through her earthly travels and life experiences, Amy does an excellent job of reminding readers that God’s love is not calculated by our ability to experience a tribulation-free life but through his lasting grace and devotion toward us.
What if your hardest moments were actually invitations to trust God more deeply?
As believers we all go through seasons of heartbreak, exhaustion, and uncertainty. Maybe you’re facing financial struggles, the pain of loneliness, or the weight of watching someone you love go through a difficult time. Maybe you’re questioning God and wondering where He is in all these trials.
This author understands. She’s been there too.
In this Christian memoir From Worry to Wonder, Hagerup shares the real, raw stories of her life—times when she felt abandoned, weary, and unsure of what God was doing. She takes the reader through her journey as a missionary, a mother, and a woman simply trying to obey God, even when the road was tough. Through it all, you’ll see how God never left her side, even in the moments when she couldn’t feel Him.
What you’ll find in this book:
Encouragement for seasons of loneliness and exhaustion
Stories of God’s unexpected provision in financial hardship
Faith-filled lessons on trusting God with your children’s struggles
Hope for those feeling hurt or let down by loved ones
The beauty of God’s hand in the ups and downs of adoption
A reminder that even when life feels uncertain, God is still in control
Each story is a quick, powerful read—perfect for moments when you need reassurance of God’s faithfulness. Readers often find themselves saying, “Just one more!” because these stories are not just the author’s—they’re for you too.
If you’re in a season of struggle, know this: You are not alone. God is working, even now, even in your pain.
Note from the author: “My prayer is that through my stories of heart-wrenching challenges, you’ll find hope, peace, and a renewed trust in God’s sovereign plan for your life too.
Get your copy today—and let’s walk this journey of faith together.”
Sampling of chapter titles:
“Too Exhausted to Serve a Visitor”
“Lesson Learned from a Mule”
“Doctor’s Prediction I’d Go Insane”
“When the FBI Came to Our House”
“House Arrest with Our Baby”
“Jeered by the Spectators”
“Adoption: Blocked”
“Hurting People Hurt People”
When God says in Romans 8:28 that He will work all things together for good, He’s not promising a life without bumps or a path that’s always easy. Instead, He’s inviting us into a beautiful journey of transformation—one where every challenge, every setback, is part of molding us into the image of His Son. It’s a gentle push towards becoming more like Jesus while aligning our hearts with His divine will.
Don’t wait—dive into this memoir and allow yourself to be uplifted by the transformative beauty of God’s goodness in your life.
It’s Time To Go Up!
Nico Smit’s It’s Time to Go Up! is a passionate, personal, and deeply convicting book about pursuing a life of revival and intimacy with God. Smit makes it clear from the beginning that this isn’t just a book; it’s a call to action. Through personal stories, biblical reflections, and a relentless emphasis on worship, prayer, and obedience, he urges readers to leave behind complacency and step into a life of spiritual awakening. The book focuses on the idea that revival starts with the individual, not just churches or large gatherings. It’s about saying “yes” to God’s invitation to go deeper, higher, and closer in faith.
One thing I really appreciated was the intensity and urgency of Smit’s writing. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. At times, I found myself nodding along, convicted by his words, especially when he talks about the difference between visiting God’s presence and living in it. He compares many Christians to people who only check in with God when they’re in trouble, rather than abiding in Him every moment. It made me pause and reflect.
Another thing that stood out was Smit’s emphasis on prayer. He doesn’t treat it as a religious obligation but as the heartbeat of a real relationship with God. He describes prayer as the gateway to transformation, not just a routine or a checklist item. I loved how he linked prayer with going “higher,” not physically but spiritually. He makes a strong case that prayer lifts us out of earthly distractions and into a heavenly mindset. His writing on this topic isn’t just informative; it’s inspiring. You can tell he’s not just talking about theory; this is how he actually lives.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Chapter 9: Revival Starts with You. Smit challenges the idea that revival is some massive event that just happens. Instead, he insists that revival is deeply personal; it starts in the heart before it ever reaches a community. I loved his analogy of revival being like a seed planted in the soil of our personal lives. It grows in secret, in those quiet moments with God, long before anyone sees its impact. That idea stuck with me. It’s easy to want change in the world, in churches, in society but Smit reminds us that real change begins when we get serious about our own faith first.
It’s Time to Go Up! is the perfect read for anyone who feels stuck, dry, or just going through the motions in their faith. This book will challenge you, push you, and maybe even make you a little uncomfortable, but in the best way. It’s not a passive read. Smit writes with fire, and you can feel his passion on every page. If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to pursue a deeper, more committed relationship with God, this is the book.
Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0DTQ68FNK
Daily Communication With God
God Is Speaking to You offers readers heartfelt encouragement for those seeking clarity in their exploration of Christianity. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Throughout my journey as a born-again Christian, I have often heard this question, ‘How do I know when God is speaking to me?” I knew in my spirit that this was a question that only through the Holy Spirit of God did I want to try my best to answer; and that way is based on my own personal experiences. I knew that it was not something that would happen overnight, but over time well spent with God. Which can only happen by reading the Word of God and daily communication (prayer) with God.
What was your biggest challenge in putting this guide together for readers?
I would say my biggest challenge in putting this book or any book (guide) together would be that I maintain accuracy as I relate my story to the Word of God. I always want to make sure that what I share is backed and followed up with scripture. I would tell anyone when it comes to the Word of God always do your own research. If you cannot find it in God’s Word then do not believe it and please do not follow it.
As Paul said in the scripture, 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”
What is one thing you hope readers are able to take away from your book?
The importance of having a personal relationship with the one and only true God of all Creation, and the importance and need to accept and receive the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Saviour.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
First question, is yes and actually God Is Speaking to You, is my third book, I already have four other books that have been published and are available for purchase:
How Do I Know I Am Really Saved?
The Importance of Tithes and Offerings
God Is Speaking to You
Life after Death: Heaven and Hell Are Real Places
I currently have in publication my fifth book, which is titled – Focused for Purpose, and I hope to have this released by late Spring or early Summer.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | The Importance of Tithes and Offerings | How Do I Know I Am Really Saved | Life After Death | Amazon
Throughout our life, we can see examples of God’s spoken Word that brought forth life to our dead situations, healing to our sick bodies, and restoration in our broken relationships. Even during some of our hardest and most difficult times of hurt, pain, disappointments, and devastation, we as children of God can testify that there is evidence where God still used something from that pain to turn it around for our good and in our favor (Romans 8:28).
In this book, God Is Speaking to You, I want readers to be open to hearing what the Spirit of the Lord is speaking to their hearts as it relates to their individual walk with God. God is always speaking to us in some way, and we want to be sensitive to recognize and know when it is the voice of God (John 10:4–5). When we spend quality time in His presence, there will be no doubt that we will be able to identify the difference between the voice of God and a stranger.
God Is Speaking to You
Jacqui D. Williams’ God Is Speaking to You is an earnest and deeply personal exploration of how God communicates with us through scripture, prayer, and personal experiences. The book serves as both a guide and an encouragement for believers who seek clarity in recognizing God’s voice. Williams emphasizes the importance of cultivating a relationship with God, surrendering to His will, and staying constant in prayer. The message is clear: God is always speaking—it’s up to us to listen.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its emphasis on building a personal relationship with God. Williams doesn’t offer a formulaic, step-by-step guide to hearing divine direction, and I appreciated that honesty. Instead, she highlights the necessity of daily prayer and Bible reading, noting that true spiritual discernment takes time. She addresses the common frustration of believers wanting specific answers from God, only to realize that scripture doesn’t always spell out personal details. Her insight that “you will not find personal specifics in the Bible where it tells you to marry a person or take a particular job, but when you receive Jesus…you have something even better” resonated with me. The focus on deepening faith rather than demanding answers was refreshing.
Williams speaks with conviction, often sharing personal experiences to back up her points. She recounts a time when a minister prophesied over her, and she instinctively prayed for God’s protection. I found this anecdote powerful because it underscored the importance of discernment. The book does a great job emphasizing the need for caution when it comes to prophecy and spiritual guidance. The warnings about false prophets are valuable, and while the book takes a strong stance on being watchful, I think it could also highlight that spiritual discernment is a journey, one where learning from experience, including missteps, is part of growing in faith.
Chapter 5: You Are Forgiven tackles the difficulty of forgiving ourselves. This was one of the most impactful sections for me. Williams writes, “A lot of us still have a problem letting go of our past mistakes even though we know we can’t take them back.” Her reminder that God forgives us fully, even when we struggle to forgive ourselves, felt like a warm reassurance. The book shines when Williams offers these moments of heartfelt encouragement. She doesn’t just talk about faith theoretically; she speaks as someone who has walked through doubt and self-condemnation and found peace on the other side.
God Is Speaking to You is a solid read for Christians who are seeking reassurance that God is present and actively guiding their lives. It’s particularly suited for believers who are struggling to hear God’s voice or those who feel distant in their faith. If you’re looking for a book that both instructs and encourages, this is a worthwhile read.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0CXTBVNKV
Be Deeply Honest with Yourself
Embracing the Unknown is the candid and deeply moving story of a woman’s journey through heartbreak, grief, and self-discovery as she rebuilds a life aligned with her truest self after the death of her husband. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Any book I have ever written has been for my own healing. Writing is a way for me to deeply process and honor whatever has happened in my life – good and bad.
How did your perspective on grief and healing evolve as you wrote the book?
That perspective is an ongoing exploration and so much has continued to unfold. I can’t specifically comment on the approximately ten-month period when I wrote the book.
Was there a particular moment in the writing process that felt especially cathartic or challenging?
There was a poem I wrote about my husband’s death that was really raw and brought up a lot for me. I had initially planned to include it but eventually decided to keep it private. I reveal a lot in this book, but some things aren’t meant to be shared.
What advice would you give to someone afraid of stepping into the “unknown” in their own life?
Be deeply honest with yourself about where you are in your life and trust your heart.
Author Website
READERS’ FAVORITE FIVE-STAR SEAL RECIPIENT
This book is the tale of two selves.
We have two identities. One is the individual person who is born, lives and dies. We are also something greater. We are an Aware, Conscious Presence that is the source of true Intelligence and Creativity and is What We Truly Are. These two selves are seamlessly interconnected, yet only our True Self is ultimately real and ultimately lasts.Some of us are content with only knowing and living from our limited personal story, but others of us are drawn to more deeply know this greater dimension of our identity. This is the story of one separate self with a powerful longing to know the Truth and what happens when Truth is put as the primary desire—because when Truth becomes the primary desire, the game changes.
If you like strong women, transparent stories of endurance and spiritual awakening, then you’ll love Julie Maurer’s liberating tale of resilience and discovery.
LITERARY TITAN 