Clash of the Titles ~ The Story

What sparked your idea for your review blog Clash of the Titles?

For a long time, I searched for a unique way to blog—something not done before, something to break all the molds. It came to me one day while I was on the treadmill watching Bobby Flay’s Throwdown (there’s nothing like the sight of fatty foods to keep you walking). You gotta admit it’s a neat spin on a contest. Take two of the best cooks, pair them up, and give the taste-testers a voice. Within 24 hours, I had a name—Clash of the Titles, where authors compete and readers judge. Months later, with the invaluable help of my wonderful staff, it became a reality.



Do you feel your creative tweaking of something that a lot of authors offer on their own blogs/websites (offering book reviews) has helped you along in your career as a novelist? How?

I answer that question with a resounding “yes.” Clash of the Titles (COTT) has been one of the most exciting and challenging ventures I’ve undertaken. All the added exposure for myself, I’ve met loads of talented authors. And in the writing world, we need each other to survive. I’ve developed wonderful friendships I never would have had otherwise. COTT has pushed me to do more, be more, and trust more. In short, it’s been a God-send.



What has been your favorite head-to-head book contest/clash and why?

The recent Most Gut-wrenching Clash was my favorite because of the many similarities between the excerpts as well as the quality of writing. It was a really tough decision for many readers, which makes things more challenging, and fun!



What response have you gotten from authors who've had their books "clashed?"

Without fail, they have sung COTT’s praises. Besides being fun, you just can’t beat the exposure. Few blogs promote authors to the extent that we do.


What does an author need to know about Clash of the Titles and how to submit their work to you?

All writers of Christian fiction are welcome, including the unpublished. Our submissions process is simple, and if an author can’t find a slot her work might fit in, we encourage her to submit to our Author’s Choice, which is always open for submissions. For full submissions guidelines, click HERE.


April Gardner has been a military brat, missionary's kid, and military spouse. After 21 years in various countries overseas, April happily resides in Georgia with her USAF husband and two sweet kiddos. In her free time, April enjoys reading, gardening, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.

Librarian, reviewer, and avid reader, April adores anything books. She writes a regular column for the joint blog, Reflections in Hindsight, and is the founder and senior editor of the website, Clash of the Titles.

April loves to hear from her readers at: aprilgardnerwrites@gmail.com