Chanticleer Book Reviews

Author: chanti

The 2024 M&M Mystery and Mayhem Semi-Finalists for Cozy and Not-so-Cozy Mysteries!
The Mystery & Mayhem Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Light-Hearted and Cozy Mysteries. The M&M Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (The CIBAs).

Chanticleer Book Reviews is looking for the best books featuring “mystery and mayhem,” amateur sleuthing, light suspense, travel mystery, classic mystery, British cozy, hobby sleuths, senior sleuths, or historical mystery, perhaps with a touch of romance or humor. We will put them to the test and choose the best among them. (For suspense, thriller, detective, crime fiction see our Clue Awards.)

These titles have moved forward from the 2024 M&M Short List to the 2024 M&M Book Awards SEMI-FINALISTS. FINALISTS will be chosen from the Semi-Finalists and recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference, CAC25.

We will announce the 1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 in beautiful Bellingham, WA at the Bellingham Yacht Club sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the FINALISTS of the 2024 Mystery & Mayhem Book Awards novel competition for Cozy Mysteries!

Join us in cheering on the following authors and their works!
- Valerie Taylor – A Whale of a Murder
- ML Barrs – Parallel Secrets
- Claire Dowley – Mud
- Charlotte Stuart – In$urance to Die For (A John Smith Mystery Book 2)
- Patrick E. Craig – The Boy In Blue Denim
- TK Sheffield – Model Ghost
- Nancy Raven Smith – Bushwhacked in the Outback – A Land Sharks Cozy Mystery Adventure
- Lori Roberts Herbst – Graven Images
- Jennifer S. Alderson – Collecting Can Be Murder
- Ann Philipp – The Zucchini Fairy Murder
- Kris Courtney – Florida Retirement Is Murder
- Gail Noble-Sanderson – A Cup of Revenge – A Drew Davies Railway Mystery – Book 2
- Elizabeth Crowens – Bye, Bye Blackbird
- Roxanne Dunn – Murder Richly Deserved
- Jeanne Matthews – If Two Are Dead
- M. K. Graff – Death in the Orchard: A Trudy Genova Mystery
- Aaron Woolsey – The Butler Did It
- Timothy Stecker – The Moth
- Shannon Bennett Riester – Heists and Horoscopes
- Christine Knapp – Murder on the Books
- Lorenzo Petruzziello – The Taste of Datura
- Margaret A. Blenkush – Welcome to Bellechester
- Mary Seifert – Creeps, Cache & Corpses
- Robert Sells – An Affair with Murder
- Kathleen Donnelly – Hunting The Truth
- TK Sheffield – Model Wave
- Tracy Carter – Lawyers, Dogs, and Money
- D.R. Ransdell – Dervla Alarms the Nanas
- Lyndsay Constable – The Puzzled Heiress
- M. S. Spencer – In the Crosshairs: The Body on Leffis Key
- Chris Chan – Nessie’s Nemesis
- Steve Lindahl – Ginger’s Shoes
- Rolynn Anderson – When Winds Howl
- E. Alan Fleischauer – Sherlock and The Tiger: Book 2, The Egg and More
- Jonny Thompson – The Limestone Manor
- Miriam Verbeek – The Forest
- Zaida Alfaro – In the Key of Dead: A Miami Music Mystery
- Kari Bovee – The Pryce of Conceit
- L. J. Aldon – Riddle of the Haunted Hoard
- Lori Robbins – Murder in Fourth Position
- Sharon Lynn – Death Takes a Fall: A Cotswold Crimes Mystery
PROMOTING OUR AUTHORS!

This post has been posted on the Chanticleer Facebook Page. We try to tag all authors listed here in the Facebook post. However, it is easier for us to tag authors when they have Liked and Followed us on Facebook.

Please click here to visit our page to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE on Facebook.

We will also be promoting this list in our Newsletter, which you can sign up for here!

Congratulations once more to the 2023 M&M Grand Prize Winner

A Haunting at Linley

By Michelle Cox

Click here to see the full list of 2023 M&M Book Award Winners for Cozy Mysteries.

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 M&M Book Awards for Suspense and Thriller Mysteries.

Please click here for more information.

Winners will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Awards Ceremony that is sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

April 3 – 6, 2025! Save the Date for Registration!

Seating is Limited. The esteemed WRITER Magazine (founded in 1887) has repeatedly recognized the Chanticleer Authors Conference as one of the best conferences to attend and participate in for North America.

Join us for our annual conference as we enter our second decade and discover why!
January 3, 2025
CONFLUENCE by Mary Elizabeth Gillilan – Contemporary Fiction, Travel Novel, Buddhism

In Confluence by Mary Elizabeth Gillilan, Maya has lived much of her life where she feels safe—at home with her Buddhist mother in the small town of La Conner, Washington. But a surprise discovery about Maya’s past pushes her to explore a wholly unfamiliar corner of the world.

Living with cerebral palsy, and a self-professed homebody, Maya is the queen of getting out of plans. But at sixty-five, two years after her mother passed, Maya finds a suitcase with her grandmother’s diary, several photos, and a letter written by her mother hidden inside.

In the letter, Maya learns she was born in a place called Sangam and her father could still be living there. The letter names a nun who helped deliver Maya and founded a hospital in that area, Yeshe Maya. Hesitant to leave her comfort zone, Maya waits to write to Yeshe Maya for a year. It takes even longer for Maya to work past all that is holding her back from the call of adventure.

Maya’s neighbor Jack, who’s like a brother to her, is a seasoned world traveler and supports her in facing her fears. Bolstered by her own desire to learn about her origins and reunite with her father, Maya begins the long journey to Sangam.

As a sacred place, Sangam’s location is a secret closely guarded from outsiders. A well-known guru wants to find Sangam to use for his own exorbitantly priced retreats. He decides to follow Maya’s movements after he learns the significance of her origin story.

A journey of unleashing one’s own inner strength, and a love letter to a beautiful location and way of life, Confluence is a gem of a novel.

Within the first page, the setting and Maya’s character are masterfully established. As a shorter novel, Confluence keeps up this efficient pace. Gillilan’s prose flows easily and carries the plot with natural speed. The shorter chapters provide readers a perfectly-sized break with an uplifting story.

Confluence is a reminder to step out of your comfort zones because you never know what life there is to live if you don’t go and find it.

The story is influenced by Buddhist ideology, but Gillilan makes its messages accessible and impactful to readers regardless of their familiarity with Buddhism.

Mary Elizabeth Gillilan creates her characters with heart. Finding inner strength to seek all the love and wonders life has to offer is a challenge, but it’s one we can all benefit from. In Confluence, we are reminded how that first step, while it may be difficult to take, opens the door to experiences and people that add so much to our lives.

January 3, 2025
The 2024 Military and Front Line Awards Short List for Narrative Non-Fiction
The Military and Front line Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Narrative Non-Fiction and Memoir exploring the lives of those who serve their country and others. The Military and Front Line Book Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (CIBAs).

Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring true stories about adventures, life events, unique experiences, travel, personal journeys, global enlightenment, and more. We will put books about true and inspiring stories to the test and choose the best among them. See our full list of Non-Fiction Divisions here.

These titles have moved forward in the judging rounds from all 2024 Military and Front Line Non-Fiction entries to the 2024 Military and Front Line Book Awards SHORT LIST. Entries below are now in competition for 2024 Military and Front Line Finalists. All FINALISTS will be announced and recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC25).

The First Place Category Winners, along with the CIBA Division Grand Prize winners, will be selected from the 25 CIBA divisions’ Finalists.

We will announce the 1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 in beautiful Bellingham, WA at the Bellingham Yacht Club sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the FINALISTS of the 2024 Military and Front Line Book Awards novel competition for Non-Fiction!

Join us in celebrating the Short List authors and their works in the 2024 CIBAs.
- Roderick S. Haynes – Unauthorized Disclosures a Navy Memoir of the 1980s
- David Huntley – The B-17 Tomahawk Warrior: a WWII Final Honor
- Patrick Hogan – Coincidence, You Say?
- Shari Biery – It’s Your Turn How To Rediscover Yourself Prioritize Your Well-Being Thrive with Purpose
- Max Lauker & Antonio Garcia – Number 788: My Experiences in Swedish Special Operations – Preparing for NATO and the War on Terror
- Kim Sloan – Memoirs from the Frontlines: Four states, Two years, One pandemic
- Ben Powers – Never A Dull Moment: The 80th Airborne Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion in World II
- Bibi LeBlanc – Wings of Freedom – The Story of the Berlin Airlift | Flugel der Freiheit – Die Geschichte der Berliner Luftbrucke
- Josh McConkey – Be the Weight Behind the Spear
Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

PROMOTING OUR AUTHORS!

This post has been posted on the Chanticleer Facebook Page. We try to tag all authors listed here in the Facebook post. However, it is easier for us to tag authors when they have Liked and Followed us on Facebook.

Please click here to visit our page to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE on Facebook.

We will also be promoting this list in our Newsletter, which you can sign up for here!

The Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2023 Military and Front Line Awards is:

Chasing The Daylight

By Joanna Rakowski

See the full list of 2023 First Place Military and Front Line Winners here!

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 Military and Front Line Book Awards for Non-Fiction.

Please click here for more information.

Winners will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Awards Ceremony that is sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

April 3 – 6, 2025! Save the Date for Registration!

Seating is Limited. The esteemed WRITER Magazine (founded in 1887) has repeatedly recognized the Chanticleer Authors Conference as one of the best conferences to attend and participate in for North America.

Join us for our annual conference as we enter our second decade and discover why!
January 2, 2025
The 2024 Harvey Chute Awards Short List for Business and Enterprise
The Harvey Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Business and Enterprise Non-Fiction. The Harvey Chute Book Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (CIBAs).

Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring motivational, strategy, technology guides, social media, finance, investing & money, communications, marketing, business, and economics. We will put these books to the test and choose the best among them.
See our full list of Non-Fiction Divisions here.

These titles have moved forward in the judging rounds from all 2024 Harvey Chute Non-Fiction entries to the 2024 Harvey Chute Book Awards SHORT LIST. Entries below are now in competition for 2024 Harvey Chute Semi-Finalists. Finalists will be selected from the Semi-Finalists. All FINALISTS will be announced and recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC25).

The First Place Category Winners, along with the CIBA Division Grand Prize winners, will be selected from the 25 CIBA divisions’ Finalists.

We will announce the 1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 in beautiful Bellingham, WA at the Bellingham Yacht Club sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the SEMI-FINALISTS of the 2024 Harvey Chute Book Awards novel competition for Business and Enterprise Non-Fiction!

Join us in celebrating the Long List authors and their works in the 2024 CIBAs.
- Ben Peterson – Engage Your Destiny
- Brian Lambert Phd – The AI Lead
- Ross Brand – Livestreaming Digital Media Predictions Volume Top Content Creators Help You Succeed in an Era of Rapid Change
- Richard Weylman – 100 Proven Ways To Acquire And Keep Clients For Life
- Matthew Sekol – ESG Mindset: Business Resilience and Sustainable Growth
- Roger Spitz – Disrupt With Impact: Achieve Business Success in an Unpredictable World
- Jenny Li Fowler – Organic Social Media: How to Build Flourishing Online Communities
- Anastasia Karklina Gabriel – Cultural Intelligence for Marketers: Building an Inclusive Marketing Strategy
- Zontee Hou – Data-Driven Personalization: How to Use Consumer Insights to Generate Customer Loyalty
- Nuala Walsh – TUNE IN: How to Make Smarter Decisions in a Noisy World
- Kori Reed – Men-in-the-Middle Conversations to Gain Momentum with Gender Equity’s Silent Majority
- Neal Schaffer – Digital Threads: The Small Business and Entrepreneur Digital First Marketing Playbook
- Steve Waddell, MBA, PMP – Valuepreneuers: The New Rules for Building Products, Growing Your Business, and Achieving Your Entrepreneurial Dream
- Diana Peterson-More – Courageous Communication: A Return to Civility
- Melina Palmer – The Truth About Pricing
- Celia Soonets – The Wheel of 8 Fears of Entrepreneurs
- Nick Barter & Christopher Fleming – Future Normal: 8 Questions to Create Businesses Your Children will be Proud Of
- Adam Bennett – Great Change – The Way to Get Big Strategy Done
- Jacqui Clarke – Stop Worrying About Money
Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

PROMOTING OUR AUTHORS!

This post has been posted on the Chanticleer Facebook Page. We try to tag all authors listed here in the Facebook post. However, it is easier for us to tag authors when they have Liked and Followed us on Facebook.

Please click here to visit our page to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE on Facebook.

We will also be promoting this list in our Newsletter, which you can sign up for here!

The Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2023 Harvey Chute Awards is:

Using Behavioral Science in Marketing

By Nancy Harhut

See the full list of 2023 First Place Harvey Chute Winners here!

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 Harvey Chute Book Awards for Business and Enterprise Non-Fiction.

Please click here for more information.

Winners will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Awards Ceremony that is sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

April 3 – 6, 2025! Save the Date for Registration!

Seating is Limited. The esteemed WRITER Magazine (founded in 1887) has repeatedly recognized the Chanticleer Authors Conference as one of the best conferences to attend and participate in for North America.

Join us for our annual conference as we enter our second decade and discover why!
January 2, 2025
On the 8th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me Cleaning Tips for my Writing Space| 12 Days of Christmas 2024!
Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 8th Day of Christmas…

“But Jiminy Crickets, it is the 2nd of January! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you still have time! You have FIVE Days!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the Eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Eight Maids A-Milking

Seven Swans A-Swimming

Six Geese A-Laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

This lyric represents the common worker. We are so grateful to all those who make the wheels of the world turn who can be so easy to forget! An extra special Happy New Year to all workers!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the Eighth Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…

Tips to keep your workspace clean!

On the 8th Day of Christmas, we’re diving into a very important tradition — keeping your space clean and your computer fresh as we head into the new year. Whether you’re writing your next masterpiece, editing your latest project, or just catching up on emails, your computer is one of your most valuable tools as a writer.

But how often do we think about maintaining it?

Just like your workspace, your computer—whether a desktop, laptop, or your trusty tablet—deserves a little TLC. After all, it’s where your creativity comes to life and where your stories begin to unfold. So, let’s take a moment this holiday season to give your computer the attention it deserves with a little cleaning and maintenance to keep it running smoothly in 2024.

The Essential Clean-Up: Get Your Computer Ready for 2025
1. Clean Your Keyboard, Mice, and Screens
Your keyboard is where the magic happens—but did you know that it can also be a hotspot for dust, crumbs, and all sorts of nastiness? A quick clean-up is a small task with big rewards.
- Keyboards: Wipe your keyboard down with a slightly damp microfiber cloth, then dry it with another cloth. Finish with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to ensure you’re clearing away germs. Don’t forget to give it a gentle shake or tap upside down each week to remove the hidden debris!
- Mice & Phones: Just like your keyboard, your mouse and phone need a little love too! Clean them regularly to remove oil and fingerprints, ensuring smooth interaction and a clear screen.
1. Clear Your Screen for Better Viewing
Editing with a dirty screen is like trying to read through foggy glasses! Let’s avoid that in the new year by cleaning our screens regularly.
- Microfiber Cloth: The best way to clean any screen is with a microfiber cloth. Don’t spray cleaner directly on the screen—dab a little onto the cloth and gently wipe the screen in circular motions. You’ll be amazed at how much better everything looks once your screen is spotless!
- Specialty Wipes: If you’re looking for a quick fix, consider using electronic wipes. These are great for clearing smudges from tablets, smartphones, and laptops—perfect for when you’re writing on the go or working from a coffee shop!
1. Boost Your Computer’s Performance with Regular Maintenance
It’s not just about the outside. Keeping your computer in tip-top shape means taking care of its inner workings too.
- Clear Your Cache: Over time, your computer stores tons of temporary files. While they help speed up certain processes, they can also slow down your machine. Be sure to clear your browser cache and clean up unnecessary files to make your system run smoother.
- Update Your Software: Outdated software can lead to performance issues and security vulnerabilities. Start the new year with the latest updates to your operating system, apps, and programs to ensure everything is running as efficiently as possible.
1. Don’t Forget Your Other Devices!
While you’re in cleaning mode, take a few minutes to clean your phone, tablet, Kindle, and even your remote controls. These everyday devices gather germs and dust, so a quick wipe-down can make them work better and last longer.

A Fresh Start for a New Year of Writing

Stay tuned for the 8th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping our presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and setting ourselves up in the New Year for publishing success (with Chanticleer Professional Services and the Chanticleer Authors Conference).

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!
January 2, 2025
On the 7th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me 7 Non-Fiction Divisions| 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

And the Seventh Day of Christmas brings us a New Year!

“But Jiminy Crickets, it’s after December 25th! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you’ve got an extra six days!

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Seven Swans-a-Swimming

Six Geese-a-Laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

The 7th Day of Christmas is January 1st! A new year means new beginnings, new habits, new routines, and new hopes and dreams for the future.

The Seven Swans symbolize Seven Graces: Service, Teaching, Encouraging, Giving and Sharing, Planning, Leadership, and Reaching Out to Others

What are your favorite ways to mark the new year? Resolutions? Thorough cleaning? A polar plunge?

On the 7th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me….

Seven Non-Fiction Divisions!

At Chanticleer, we’re proud to honor these remarkable stories through our seven Non-Fiction Divisions, each one representing a unique facet of the human experience. Whether overcoming adversity, inspiring others, or sharing expert insights, these authors remind us that there’s much more beneath the surface.

The Journey Awards for Overcoming Adversity in Non-Fiction

The Journey Awards honor memoirs of pain, survival, and endurance. These books will have you on the edge of your seat, pulling at your heartstrings and keeping you hooked until the very last page. Authors in this division share stories that explore the depths of human struggle, yet they also reveal the strength it takes to overcome the greatest of obstacles. These are stories that not only survive hardship but turn it into a testament of the human spirit.

The Hearten Awards for Uplifting and Inspiring Non-Fiction

If adversity fuels transformation, then The Hearten Awards shine with the light of hope. These books embody the courage to face hardships head-on while remaining a beacon of inspiration. Authors in this division tell tales of kindness, resilience, and triumph, showing us the best of humanity even in the most difficult times. Their works inspire us to rise above challenges and make the world a better place.

The Military and Front Line Awards for Service to Others

In the spirit of selflessness and community, the Military and Front Line Awards honor those who serve others. Whether through the military or community service, these authors’ stories remind us of the dedication and sacrifice required to serve others. This division was inspired by figures like Florence Nightingale and aims to shed light on those whose service makes the world a better place. Their stories are a testament to the power of giving and serving others.

The Mind & Spirit Awards for Metaphysical Non-Fiction

Sometimes, we need to expand our view of the world. That’s where The Mind & Spirit Awards come in. These works span from self-help to memoir, guiding readers on their personal journeys of transformation, healing, and spiritual discovery. Authors in this division offer wisdom and insights that encourage introspection, growth, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

The I&I, Instruction and Insight Awards for How-To and Self-Help

In our busy lives, we all need a little guidance from time to time. The I&I Awards recognize how-to and self-help books that provide practical solutions and insights. Whether offering expert advice or simple, actionable tips from those who’ve been there, these books are an essential tool for navigating everyday challenges and taking the next steps in life, business, or personal growth.

The Nellie Bly Awards for Longform Journalism

For those who seek depth and thoroughness in their reading, the Nellie Bly Awards celebrate longform journalism. These works offer well-researched, in-depth dives into subjects both timely and timeless. Whether investigating social issues, politics, or human rights, these authors bring critical attention to important stories and provide the detailed, comprehensive reporting we need to better understand the world.

The Harvey Chute Awards for Business and Finance

For those looking to elevate their careers and deepen their business knowledge, the Harvey Chute Awards are the gold standard. Recognizing works in business and finance, this division helps authors make sense of the complex world of corporate leadership, finance, and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring leader, or investor, these books provide invaluable insights to help you take your professional journey to the next level.

Stay tuned for the 8th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping our presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and setting ourselves up in the New Year for publishing success (with Chanticleer Professional Services and the Chanticleer Authors Conference).

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!

January 1, 2025
On the 6th Day, Chanticleer brings to me Six Newsletter Tips| 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 6th Day of Christmas, we wish you a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!

“But Jiminy Crickets, it’s after December 25th! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you’ve got an extra seven days!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Six Geese a-laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

The 6th Day of Christmas, December 31st, is New Years Eve! Despite not all cultures celebrating in accordance with the Georgian calendar, everyone culture has their own ways to mark the end of one year and arrival of the next. Here are some traditions from around the world!

United States

The Times Square ball drop is a nationally televised event that millions of Americans tune into on December 31st, with thousands more waiting on the freezing streets of New York City to watch in person. The inaugural drop was to mark the start of 1908 but the countdown until the midnight has become a wide-spread tradition enjoyed by folks of all ages.

Denmark

Danes take the expression “leaping into the new year” literally! It’s traditional to jump off a chair, couch, counter, or wherever you can find yourself several centimeters off the ground right as the clock strikes midnight. It is seen as a way to bring good luck into the new year.

Brazil

Since the new year arrives on the same day as the summer celebration of the sea god, these annual traditions overlap. Wearing white, meant to signify purity for the sea goddess Iemanjá, the culminating event of the night, everyone runs into the ocean fully dressed and jumps over seven waves. These jumps and waves are meant to hold wishes and hopes for the coming year.

Ireland

The Irish have many traditions surrounding the new year, including banging the outside of their homes with bread to keep away bad luck and evil spirits. The most heartfelt of these is the setting of an extra place at the table for the evening meal, said to be for any loved ones who have been lost in the past year.

Philippines

While many cultures eat “lucky” foods, such as Hoppin’ John in the southern USA or 12 raisins in Spain, or twelve grapes in Italy, in the Philippines it’s considered lucky to eat numerous round fruits. And not only do they eat round things, they also dress in polka dots! The more round objects the better.

What are your favorite ways to mark the new year? Resolutions?
Thorough house cleaning? A polar plunge?

On the 6th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…

Six newsletter tips!

Newsletters are a staple in an author’s marketing toolbox. But hitting the right mark with a newsletter that will attract readers can be elusive. For our Sixth Day of Christmas, we’re bringing you six tips to help you improve your newsletter to attract more readers.

1. Be unique. Create a newsletter that reflects your brand, or your book’s genre, to give your readers an idea of what to expect when they dive into your latest release. Think about color choices, subject matter, layout, and what extras you may want to put into it to keep readers coming back for more. I’ve seen newsletters that offer a recipe, discount offers, and some that even offer birthday wishes to their followers.

2. Write original email subject lines. You’ve got to catch their attention right away, so you better use your writing chops to throw out that hook! Create a phrase that relates to the content of your newsletter, and make it interesting. Think of it as a tagline—something that will excite them enough to open it. This also goes for your preview text.

3. Consistency is king! Do your research to find the best time and day to schedule the release of your newsletter, but note, the best day/time you see today could change in the future so check back every few months to see if the statistics have changed. A simple Google search can help you with finding the most updated information.

4. Keep the topic focused. Your newsletter readers follow you for a reason. They know they can get the information they are looking for when they click to open the newsletter. It could be they are interested in your writing journey, tips, or you! Newsletters are a branding tool that need to reflect what you are creating. It also helps to create interest if you give a little insight into your own life, but just a taste. A photo collage of a place you visited that you reference in your book is a good example.

5. Repurposed content. We all need a few extra hours during the day, so don’t give yourself extra work. Find ways to repurpose the content you’ve already generated. I offer a bit of information, just a short blurb, with a link embedded in the text or through a clickable button that will take them to my website where I have a full article for them to read. This way I am seeing an advantage with my newsletter and my website at the same time!

6. Keep it timely. People are reading your newsletter because they think of you as an publishing insider. Stay up on the topics of the day and provide them with well-researched content, or an honest critique on the top issues of the day.

Stay tuned for the 7th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and continuing to prepare the Chanticleer Authors Conference and the CIBA Banquet and Ceremony.

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!

December 31, 2024
On the 5th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me Five 2025 Publishing Trends | 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 5th Day of Christmas…

“But Jiminy Crickets, it is the 31st of December! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you’ve got an extra seven days!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

Not one ring to bind them in this case.

Of course, there is another age-old interpretation of the Five Golden Rings is that they refer to five ring-necked birds such as Ring-necked Pheasants or the European Goldfinches in keeping with the bird theme of the song.

On the Fifth Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…

Five publishing trends for 2025!

The world of publishing is changing fast and authors need to know what’s coming next. That’s why Chanticleer is offering five 2025 trends for the Fifth Day of Christmas!

1. Digital growth: Publishers are focusing on digital growth, including developing new ways to reach audiences, advertising solutions, and digital subscriptions. Because the popularity of ebooks continues to grow, an emphasizes on aesthetics has also taken on a greater importance.

2. AI assistance: AI is becoming more influential in publishing, with more books being written with the help of AI for research, writing, editing, or design. Issues surrounding AI generated content are in the news daily, with efforts being made by publishing industry advocates to protect copyright laws, and authors and publishers are busy learning how to effectively use AI technology.

3. New technologies: More options will be available to authors in 2025. This will create greater accessibility for readers, and more revenue generated as publishers attempt to offer more readers what they want. Publishers will also be pursuing more ways to reduce their carbon footprint, such as eco-friendly printing methods and biodegradable book covers.

4. Augmented reality: Augmented reality is being used to enhance stories. What is augmented reality (AR) service, you ask? AR can help authors customize and submit their own 3D models to incorporate interactive elements into their work. For instance, a fantasy novel could have an AR game that allows readers to explore a virtual map of the story’s world, interact with the characters, or even engage in virtual battles.

5. Genre-bending covers: Book cover designers always are on the look out to find exciting new ways to present a book. They will be experimenting with book covers that break traditional genre norms in 2025, mixing elements from different styles and graphics.

Stay tuned for the 6th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and continuing to prepare the Chanticleer Authors Conference and the 2023 CIBA Banquet and Ceremony.

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!

December 30, 2024
The 2024 Mind and Spirit Awards Long List for Enlightening Non-Fiction
The Mind & Spirit Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Spirituality and Enlightenment Non-Fiction. The Mind & Spirit Book Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (CIBAs).

Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring Spirituality, Enlightenment, Self-Help, Mindfulness, Well-being, Meditation, Energy, and more.

These titles have moved forward in the judging rounds from all 2024 Mind & Spiri Non-Fiction entries to the 2024 Mind & Spirit Book Awards LONG LIST. Entries below are now in competition for 2024 Mind & Spirit Short List. The Short Listers will compete for the Semi-Finalist positions. Finalists will be selected from the Semi-Finalists. All FINALISTS will be announced and recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC25).

The First Place Category Winners, along with the CIBA Division Grand Prize winners, will be selected from the 25 CIBA divisions’ Finalists.

We will announce the 1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 in beautiful Bellingham, WA at the Four Points by Sheraton sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the SHORT LIST of the 2024 Mind & Spirit Book Awards novel competition for Spirituality and Enlightenment Non-Fiction!

Join us in celebrating the Long List authors and their works in the 2024 CIBAs.
- Rhona Epstein – The Satisfied Guide To Eating Well
- Kristin Sven Larsen – Joy of Being Mindfully Present
- Wilma Macliver – Life Behind the Masks
- Teri M Brown – 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure
- Jill Amy Sager – Guidance From the Universe Hopeful Messages for Everyday Challenges
- Shari Biery – It’s Your Turn How To Rediscover Yourself Prioritize Your Well-Being Thrive with Purpose
- Steven Joseph – Cranky Superpowers Life Lessons Learned From the Common Crankatsuris Chronicles
- Bobby R. Patton, Rusalyn H. Andrews, Jennifer Page Daily – Keys To Healthy Communication
- L.A. Mcmurray – God Is in the Odd the Ordinary and Outside Church
- Lori Pappas – The Magic of Yes Embrace the Wise Woman Within
- Thomas Weems – Unlocking Kabbalah a New Synthesis of Astrology Tarot and the Tree of Life
- Dr Harry Somaraju – Anxiety To Ahh-Mazing in Days
- Manisha Jane – Truth Was Once Taboo a Memoir of Self-Knowledge in the Age of Spiritual Sovereignty
- Ann Michelle Mracek – Unpacking the Attic
- Wendy B. Correa – My Pretty Baby Seeking Truth and Finding Healing
- Juliana J Bruno – Reasons to Live: An Interactive Guide to Healing and Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts and How to Help Others Survive
- Damian Fozard – Disbelief
- G.E. Poole – Infrequent Frequencies Rare Resonance
- Marijke McCandless – Naked in the Now: Juicy Practices for Getting Present
- Joseph Clarke – SOL: supportive guidance for healing & awakening
- Alicia M. Rodriguez – The Shaman’s Wife: A Mystical Journey of Surrender and Self-Discovery
- Hilary Giovale – Becoming a Good Relative: Calling White Settlers Toward Truth, Healing, and Repair
- Kimberly Harms – Are You Ready?: How to Build a Legacy to Die For
- Tejas Hiremani – The Principles of Creation
- Christin Collins – be. love.
- Eileen Marlowe – The Call to Connect Spirit
- Anne Kiehl Friedman – Higher Love: A Psychedelic Travel Memoir of Heartbreak and Healing
- Lynne Spriggs O’Connor – Elk Love: A Montana Memoir
- Jane Kim Yu – Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness
- Rachael Siddoway and Sonja Wasden – An Impossible Life: A True Story of Hope and Mental Illness
- Lisa Rhyne – Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet
Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

PROMOTING OUR AUTHORS!

This post has been posted on the Chanticleer Facebook Page. We try to tag all authors listed here in the Facebook post. However, it is easier for us to tag authors when they have Liked and Followed us on Facebook.

Please click here to visit our page to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE on Facebook.

We will also be promoting this list in our Newsletter, which you can sign up for here!

Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

The Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2023 Mind & Spirit Awards is:

Psychological Secrets for Emotional Success

By Dr. Kelly Rabenstein

See the full list of 2023 First Place Mind and Spirit Winners here!

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 Mind and Spirit Book Awards for Spiritual Non-Fiction.

Please click here for more information.

Winners will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Awards Ceremony that is sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

April 3 – 6, 2025! Save the Date for Registration!

Seating is Limited. The esteemed WRITER Magazine (founded in 1887) has repeatedly recognized the Chanticleer Authors Conference as one of the best conferences to attend and participate in for North America.

Join us for our annual conference as we enter our second decade and discover why!
December 29, 2024
The 2024 I&I Instruction and Insight Awards Long List for Non-Fiction Guides
The Instruction and Insight Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Guides and Self- Help Non-Fiction. The I&I Book Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (CIBAs).

Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring HOW-TO, Guidance, Travel Guides, Cookbooks, Instruction, Insight, Self-Help, and more.

These titles have moved forward in the judging rounds from all 2024 I&I Non-Fiction entries to the 2024 I&I Book Awards LONG LIST. Entries below are now in competition for 2024 I&I Short List. The Short Listers will compete for the Semi-Finalist positions. Finalists will be selected from the Semi-Finalists. All FINALISTS will be announced and recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC25).

The First Place Category Winners, along with the CIBA Division Grand Prize winners, will be selected from the 25 CIBA divisions’ Finalists.

We will announce the 1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 in beautiful Bellingham, WA at the Bellingham Yacht Club sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the SHORT LIST of the 2024 I&I Book Awards novel competition for Guiding and How-to Non-Fiction!

Join us in celebrating the Long List authors and their works in the 2024 CIBAs.
- Margaret C Beeler – Tropetails: A Cocktail and Mocktail Book for Bookworms
- Brooke Martin – Controlled Burn
- Stephanie O’dea – Slow Living
- Ross Brand – Livestreaming Digital Media Predictions Volume Top Content Creators Help You Succeed in an Era of Rapid Change
- Lorraine Ballato – Success with Hydrangeas a Gardener’s Guide
- Karen Gross – Mending Education Finding Hope Creativity and Mental Wellness in Times of Trauma
- Mary Deal – Advanced Self-Hypnosis Techniques Hypno-Scripts Book
- Tania Israel – Facing the Fracture How To Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation
- Daniel C. Rodgers – Escape the Clock Your Program Guide for Financial Freedom and Early Retirement
- John M. O’brien Ph.d. – Rudeness Rehab Reclaiming Civility in the Workplace and Your Home Space
- Grace Torres-Hodges – Private Practice Solution Reclaiming Physician Autonomy Restoring the Doctor-Patient Relationship
- Chris Chan – Some of My Best Friends Are Murderers: Critiquing the Columbo Killers
- G.E. Poole – Infrequent Frequencies Rare Resonance
- Elizabeth Fulgaro – Soul Care-Song Prayers: A Spiritual Practice Toward Resilience and Well-Being
- Dr. Maheshika Halbeisen – The Job Well Done – The Queen’s Way To Successful Leadership
- Katherine Fabrizio – The Good Daughter Syndrome: Help For Empathic Daughters of Narcissistic, Borderline, or Difficult Mothers Trapped in the Role of the Good Daughter
- Martess Amunette Dowling – Is He Ever Going to Leave His Wife?
- Amy L Bernstein – Wrangling the Doubt Monster: Fighting Fears, Finding Inspiration
- Katie Myers – Being Seen
- Kimberly Harms – Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For
- Lorda Dabresil – Solutions to Nursing Shortage in New York
- Anna Brooke and Vindy Teja – WRITE! Your Guide to Revealing the Writer Within
- Chris Chan with Patricia Meyer Chan – The Autistic Sleuth: Screen Portrayals of Detectives on the Spectrum in Sherlock Holmes Adaptations, The Millennium Trilogy, The Bridge, Death Note, … Dog in the Night-Time, and Other Productions
- Nuala Walsh – TUNE IN: How to Make Smarter Decisions In A Noisy World
- Lynne Spriggs O’Connor – Elk Love: A Montana Memoir
- Jane Kim Yu – Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness
- Natalie Kohlhaas – Hello Anxiety My Old Friend: Harness Your Invisible Superpower
- Léonie Rosenstiel – Protecting Mama: Surviving the Legal Guardianship Swamp
- Bob Dahms, MBA, CPA, CMA – Let’s Talk About This: 50 Things You Need to Know About Starting and Managing a Small Business
- Douglas A. Burton – The Heroine’s Labyrinth: Archetypal Designs in Heroine-Led Fiction
- Jacqui Clarke – Stop worrying about money
- Angela Lomenzo – Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women
- Lisa Rhyne – Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet
- Holly Swenson – Stop, Drop, Grow, & Glow
- Matthew J. Louis – Hiring Veterans: How To Leverage Military Talent For Organizational Growth
Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

PROMOTING OUR AUTHORS!

This post has been posted on the Chanticleer Facebook Page. We try to tag all authors listed here in the Facebook post. However, it is easier for us to tag authors when they have Liked and Followed us on Facebook.

Please click here to visit our page to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE on Facebook.

We will also be promoting this list in our Newsletter, which you can sign up for here!

Good luck to all as your works move on to the next rounds of judging.

The Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2023 I&I Awards is:

Eating Together Being Together

By Julian C.E. Clauss-Ehlers and Caroline S. Clauss-Ehlers

See the full list of 2023 First Place I&I Winners here!

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 I&I Book Awards for Guiding and Helpful Non-Fiction.

Please click here for more information.

Winners will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Awards Ceremony that is sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

April 3 – 6, 2025! Save the Date for Registration!

Seating is Limited. The esteemed WRITER Magazine (founded in 1887) has repeatedly recognized the Chanticleer Authors Conference as one of the best conferences to attend and participate in for North America.

Join us for our annual conference as we enter our second decade and discover why!
December 29, 2024