Shannon here: Charlsie Estess shares insight into inspiration for her writing. Comment or answer the question in this post to enter the drawing for a print copy of her Contemporary Romance, When the Ocean Roars, U.S. only. Deadline Feb 1st, 11:59 pm central time. Here’s Charlsie:
- Do you have pet that keeps you company while you write?
Charlsie’s Piano Man
I live in the Deep South countryside and have many pets, but only one lives inside. My King Charles Cavalier Spaniel is named Piano Man, aka Billy Joel. I did not name him, but goodness, this former show dog is equal parts momma’s boy and diva! He stays right at my feet, snoring like a grizzly bear, while I write. Sometimes it’s so distracting, I have to wear earplugs. Between writing sessions, I take plot walks and find my best ideas come while outdoors with Billy in tow.
- What is your favorite Bible verse? Why is it special to you? How do you follow it in life? Have you used it any books?
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.” Psalm 46:1-3
These verses inspired the title, When the Ocean Roars, and truly embody the heart of the story. While a book about a hunky professional fighter may surprise many people, it is no surprise that we all face our own fights, even spiritual battles.
During my own hard times, I have studied and prayed these precious verses, and they are so fitting for the book’s storyline. As the main male character learns, sometimes we face unexpected fights that cannot be won with our hands but only on our knees. A good reminder for us all.
Question for Readers: Do you prefer romances that offer exotic escape or small-town romances best?
About Charlsie: Charlsie worked in finance and strategic planning before tackling the full-time rearing of two, strong-willed boys. Through professional and mission projects, she has been blessed to encounter and work with some unforgettable characters on six different continents, experiencing amazing adventures and also witnessing some heartrending scenes. Forever a wanderer at heart, Charlsie knows everyone needs inspiration, a friend who packs a punch, and escape from time to time and prays her stories give voice to women who have not always had a voice. Love stories with wings for warriors, wanderers, and free birds! Learn more & connect:
Charlie’s Website Charlsie’s Facebook
Charlie’s Instagram Charlie’s Threads
About the book – When the Ocean Roars: 
He needs to surrender. She needs to fight. Are they ready for their next battle?
Weeks before the Ultimate Fighting World Championship, Keane “The Golden Lion” Temple lands in Japan for the battle of his professional life. The adored prizefighter is primed to take the win. And nothing has ever distracted him from victory in the ring.
But when his path collides with an intriguing woman, he gives in to impulse and asks her to spend his day off from training with him. Surely, he can keep his heart safe for one day.
Ami Ono cannot pass on the invitation but also hides her full identity. As their extraordinary day bleeds into night, both realize one day won’t be enough. Then the excursion ends in disaster when Keane discovers who Ami is. They part ways, but compelling circumstances and an undeniable attraction draw them back together, driving their attraction—and her high-society family drama—to something more intense than Keane has ever faced.
As the forbidden romance threatens to take down his principles in the knockout of his life, he struggles to honor his beliefs. Will The Golden Lion surrender his heart? Will Ami defy the domineering men in her life and accept it? Do they stand a chance against nature?
Can’t wait for the drawing? Worried you won’t win? Need extra copies for friends and family?
Get your copy/copies now!
When the Ocean Roars – Amazon When the Ocean Roars – Bookshop
When the Ocean Roars – ChristianBook
Come back Jan 24th for Shannon’s Book Bargains Roundup!
This book sounds intriguing. I like the exotic settings or small towns. A good story is what draws me in.
The piano man is adorable! I like both – exotic escape and small-town romances!
I like both exotic and small-town.
I enjoy both. Sometimes I am in the mood for exotic and sometimes I want a small town setting.
The best stories make me feel like I am there. I can easily get into a small town romance, but if the author really has a feel for an exotic location, I enjoy the excitement!
I have a winner! Mindy won the drawing. I appreciate Charlsie for being my guest and everyone else for stopping by.