When I began to write Dad in Training, the first book in the Man's Best Friend Series, I visited a program in Waterford, MI called Teacher's Pet. It's a wonderful program that pairs a special needs student with a dog facing euthanasia. Both child and dog benefit from the program. Molly Manning is the character in my book, but the real Molly is Amy Johnson, and though the story is fictitious in the most part, I tried to capture the real Molly's enthusiasm for what she does and how much it means to her.
As I began to write this novel, the other stories popped into my head. Book one led to book two, now titled Groom In Training to be release in Februrary 2010. That story focuses on Molly's friend, Steph, who owns a doggie daycare. The third book, if the proposal is accepted is Emily's story, a young woman who is a dog walker/sitter and works part time at the dog shelter, Time for Paws. I've titled the third book, Bride In Training.
When I sent a copy of Dad In Training to Amy Johnson, I heard from her on email and learned that her program has been featured in an article in USA Today. What an amazing feat for her. If you'd like to read about this amazing program and how it helps both kids and dogs, here is the link.
Look for Dad In Training in stores about August 29. Remember it's only in stores one month and then replaced by the October novels. It can still be purchased by ordering at the store or on Amazon.com or Christianbooks.com