Book · A collaboration
’carnation
The Many Lives of Ordell Clayton Hart
Matthew W. Bertsch · with Richard Nuñez
After a spectacular explosion involving an armadillo, some homemade hooch, and very questionable decision-making, Ordell Clayton Hart finds himself at Heaven’s gates — only to be told he’s not quite ready for admission.
$3.99
Under the guidance of a witty but wise angel named Gabriel, Clay gets a second chance to learn a valuable life lesson. Each transformation brings him closer to understanding what he lost twenty years ago when his childhood sweetheart Maddie moved away. Part spiritual journey, part slapstick comedy, with colorful Texas charm. A blue-collar mash-up of The Wizard of Oz and A Christmas Carol.
Originally a screenplay, converted into a book. Bloodborne Publishing. May 2025. ISBN 9798992790009. Comedy.
The lives
00
Clay Hart
Varmint control specialist. Homemade moonshine. Excessive force.
01
The blast
An armadillo, some hooch, and a spectacular explosion.
02
Heaven’s gate
Not quite ready. Gabriel offers a second chance.
03
Cockroach
Life from the floor up.
04
Duck
Another skin. Another lesson.
05
Gerbil
Small body. Hard-learned humility.
06
Chimpanzee
What it is to be almost human.
07
Police dog
Duty, scent, and a different kind of loyalty.
08
Maddie
The childhood sweetheart who moved away twenty years ago.
09
Return
The hospital. Pastor Matt. One more chance to live and love.
Hear him talk the book on The Really Podcast.