A father's influence

Today's youths face tremendous challenges, particularly when the topic turns to relationships and abstinence. Patton, Mo., native Regina Tittel addresses these issues and more in The Ozark Durham Series.

The five-book series is considered to be in the category of inspirational suspense romance. Tittel's first book, "Abandoned Hearts," deals with abstinence and scripture memory.

Her recently released book, "Unexpected Kiss," is the first of four sequels that feature the grown children from the first book.

Regina Tittel

One of the main characters in the story, Carli Williams, grew up without her father around and went from one short-lived, intimate relationship to another -- each failing to fill the void in her heart.

After her mother's passing she learns that her father, also deceased, had left her an estate with instructions.

During this period she re-connects with a man named Ethan Durham. Though attracted to him, Carli doesn't think Ethan, a Christian, could look beyond her past.

Several attempts on Carli's life take place, but Ethan, who was attempting to convince her of God's unconditional love and his, vows to protect her.

Tittel said the book is primarily written for women dating age and older but noted its widespread appeal.

"I feel that anyone who reads it would benefit as it opens our minds to the importance of active fathers," Tittel said.

Krista Francis, Regina's sister-in-law who lives in Marquand, Mo., read an advance copy of the book and was captivated.

"I was amazed at how well Regina was able to capture the most secret emotions that someone with a fallen past goes through," she said. "I was able to laugh, cry and hurt with Carli; and when she is finally faced with the choice to either accept or reject the unconditional love God has for her, I felt like I was right there holding her hand. It was an exceptional example of God's redeeming love."

Lynelle Herron, manager of Gospeland Bookstore in Cape Girardeau, said she hasn't read the latest book but was impressed with "Abandoned Hearts."

"As a first writer, she had extremely good writing. I was very impressed ... with the writing and the storyline."

A father's impact

Fathers play an important role in their child's life, and Tittel says their influence has a lasting effect.

"If the strongest guy on your team believes in you and encourages you, no matter what your size, pretty soon you adapt to his belief," Tittel said.

"Fathers provide a much-needed security in their children. Their positive affirmations build their children's confidence. If 'Dad' believes in me, then I can do anything."

Tittel said a strong father can help determine the type of man their daughter will gravitate toward.

"If a father continues to remind his daughter of her value and self-worth through positive reinforcement, she'll come to expect that from the men she dates. If he shows her how a man should respect a woman through the respect he shows her mother, she'll expect the same from the man she dates."

Though some fathers do not play an active role in their child's life, Tittel encourages people to pursue God, the heavenly father.

"A father's time and attention says to the child that they are important," Tittel said. "His concern says they are cared for. His presence means they are protected. His hugging arms show they are loved. Isn't that the same with our heavenly father?"

Tittel recommends that parents and youth leaders consider participating in programs such as True Love Waits and her forthcoming study guide to "Abandoned Hearts." Additionally, she notes that having quality family time every week that is family-centered and not based on outside activities is a good practice.

With feedback from a teenager on abstinence, Tittel said that if a young person is going to date someone who is sexually experienced, it's more likely that they, too, will give in to the temptation.

"Two ways to prevent that is the strength of the convictions of the individual or the parents guarding the dating experience by setting different standards than that of the norm."

Three area book signings with Tittel have been scheduled. On Thursday, she will be at the Marble Hill Library from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Later that day she will attend the Mineral Area Writers Group meeting. The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. and is held at Cantwell Baptist Church in Desloge, Mo. The Riverside Jackson Library will host a signing from noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 29. At 1:30 p.m., Tittel will speak on character development and marketing but said she will address any questions on the book as well.

"Abandoned Hearts" is available at Gospeland in Cape Girardeau, Nevaeh Faith Christian Store in Fredericktown, Mo., Oasis Christian Bookstore in Farmington, Mo., amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, smashwords.com and createspace.com. "Unexpected Kiss" is available through the same online retailers and will soon be in stores.