Chanticleer Book Reviews

Author: chanti

The 2024 Hemingway Book Awards Short List for 20th & 21st c. Wartime Fiction
The Hemingway Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of 20th Century Wartime Fiction. The Hemingway Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards and Novel Competitions (The CIBAs).

The Hemingway Book Awards competition is named for Ernest Hemingway who was born July 21, 1899.

Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring 20th Century Wartime Fiction in Historical Fiction; Romance and Romantic Fiction; Mysteries, Thrillers, and Suspense Fiction of the time; Literary works and Satire and anything else that author imaginations can dream up for the HEMINGWAY Book Awards division. We will put them to the test and choose the best among them.

For Post-1750s Historical Fiction, see our Goethe Awards here. For other Historical Fiction categories, please see more details here.

These titles have moved forward from the 2024 HEMINGWAY Wartime Fiction LONG LIST to the 2024 Hemingway Book Awards SHORT LIST. The Short Listers will compete for the Semi-Finalists positions. 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 Four Points by Sheraton sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the SEMI-FINALISTS of the 2024 Hemingway Book Awards novel competition for Wartime Fiction!

Join us in cheering on the following authors and their works!
- Gary Baysinger – What We Say in the Dark
- Larry Allen Lindsey – One Rogue Raider
- Mark Barie – For King Country and Love
- Mark Demeza – The Thirteenth Child
- R L Pace – Rising Son
- Michael J. Summers – Cherry Blossoms in Winter
- David Scott Richardson – An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze
- Dave Mason – Between the Clouds and the River
- Kregg P.J. Jorgenson – Sweet Sorrow: Book 3 of The Jungle War series
- Katherine Koch – The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany
- J.A. Nunn – The Stuff What Actually Is
- Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty – The Reluctant Conductor
- Kay Smith-Blum – Tangles
- Shanna Hatfield – Molly
- Bruce K. Berger – Brothers Bound
- Gary Santos – A Grand Pause
- Kathryn Gauci – Midnight in Istanbul
- Steve Bassett – Love In the Shadows Passaic River Trilogy Comes to an End
- Loretta Goldberg – Beyond the Bukubuk Tree: A World War II Novel of Love and Loss
- Libby Fischer Hellmann – Max’s War: The Story of a Ritchie Boy
- Julie Burnette – An Island Long Ago
- Jillianne Hamilton – The Land Girl on Lily Road
- Jillianne Hamilton – The Hobby Shop on Barnaby Street
- Travis Davis – One of Four: World War One Through the Eyes of an Unknown Soldier
- Bharati Sen – My War, My Child
- Ingrid McCarthy – Anna’s Shadow
- Miles Watson – Sinner’s Cross
- Constance Hays Matsumoto & Kent Matsumoto – Of White Ashes
- H. W. “Buzz” Bernard – When Heroes Flew
- Elaine Aucoin Schroller – The Bravest Soldiers
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!

Congratulations once more to the 2023 Hemingway Grand Prize Winner

The Silver Waterfall

By Kevin Miller

Click here to see the full list of 2023 HEMINGWAY Book Award Winners for Wartime Fiction.

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 HEMINGWAY Book Awards for Wartime 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 5, 2025
On the 10th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to me Marketing Tips! | 12 Days of Christmas 2024

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

The Tenth Day of Christmas gift of Ten Lords a’Leaping represents the 10 Commandments of the Old Testament that guide the faithful. We could use a lot of rules of ten for different writing practices!

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

Best Practices for Marketing your Book by Maximizing your Services!

On the 11th Day of Christmas, we’re focusing on how you can get your book the recognition it deserves in 2025. Whether you’re an indie author or a seasoned pro, marketing your book effectively is key to connecting with readers. That’s where Chanticleer comes in! From the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs) to our Editorial Book Reviews, we provide tools and services to help your book shine and grow its audience.

Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs): Boost Your Book’s Visibility

One of the best ways to promote your book is by entering it into the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs). As one of the most prestigious book awards programs for indie authors, the CIBAs offer incredible visibility for your work. Winning or placing in the CIBAs can propel your book onto readers’ radar, and with the exclusive badges and stickers we provide, you’ll be able to showcase your achievement wherever you promote your book!

Winning an award is great, but CIBAs also offer much more than just recognition. Each entry includes SEO-optimized technology, enhancing your book’s performance on our website and boosting its visibility online. With our dedicated SEO efforts, your book will be more discoverable by readers and search engines alike.

Whether it’s sharing your award badge on your Amazon author page, website, or across your social media platforms, the CIBAs provide the resources you need to amplify your book’s success. And with the white-glove service Chanticleer is known for, we’re always here to support you every step of the way.

Editorial Book Reviews: Enhance Your Book’s Reach with Professional Insight

In addition to awards, one of the most powerful ways to promote your book is with a Chanticleer Editorial Book Review. Not only do we provide in-depth, professional reviews for your work, but each review is packed with blurbs that you can use across various platforms. From social media posts and Amazon descriptions to website content and in-store shelf talkers, the blurbs we provide will help capture attention and intrigue potential readers.

Beyond the blurbs, our Editorial Reviews also come with comprehensive SEO optimization. This gives your book greater exposure on Chanticleer’s website and makes it more likely to be discovered through search engines. A great review helps you stand out, but the behind-the-scenes work ensures that your book gets the recognition it deserves.

Our team is committed to giving each author a white-glove experience, whether it’s crafting a tailored review or helping you optimize your marketing strategy post-review. We’re here to make sure your book gets the attention it needs to thrive.

The Power of a Badge and a Blurb

You know you want it…

Badges and blurbs are more than just accolades—they’re tools that can help you market your book and connect with readers. Whether it’s an award-winning badge from the CIBAs or a glowing editorial review blurb, these elements give you a professional edge that resonates with readers. Display them proudly on your book’s page, share them across social media, and use them to highlight your success.

At Chanticleer, we know how much effort goes into writing, publishing, and promoting a book. That’s why we’re here to support you with services that enhance your book’s visibility and marketability.

Get Ready for 2025: Make Your Book Stand Out!

This holiday season, take the opportunity to set yourself up for success in the new year. Whether it’s through the CIBAs or an Editorial Book Review, Chanticleer’s services are designed to give your book the recognition it deserves.

On the 10th Day of Christmas…

“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 still have time! Well, a couple more days.

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the Tenth Day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Ten Lord’s a’Leaping

Nine Ladies Dancing

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

We’re not sure why the lords are a’leaping over the 10 Commandments, but they sure do look happy.

Stay tuned for the 11th 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 4, 2025
The 2024 Hearten Book Awards Semi-Finalists for Uplifting and Inspiring Non-Fiction
The Hearten Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Inspiring and Uplifting Non-Fiction and Memoirs. The Hearten 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 from the 2024 Hearten Non-Fiction SHORT LIST to the 2024 Hearten Book Awards SEMI-FINALISTS LIST. 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 sponsored by the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

These titles are in the running for the FINALISTS of the 2024 Hearten Book Awards novel competition for Uplifting and Inspiring Non-Fiction!

Join us in celebrating the Semi-Finalists List authors and their works in the 2024 CIBAs.
- Elizabeth Fulgaro – Learning to Love (Not Loathe) Me
- Linda M. Lockwood – Sky Ranch: Reared in the High Country
- Genét Simone – Teaching in the Dark
- Jenell M. Jones M.Ed. – Shattered
- David Hutton – Drums of a Distant Tribe
- Douglas Green – The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead
- Dr George Ackerman – A Son’s Journey from Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver to Advocate
- Ingrid McCarthy – I Stood Among the Ruins and Cried
- Kasey Claytor – Finding the Light
- Jia Apple – The Tell
- Olivia Goodreau – But She Looks Fine
- Etsuko Diamond Miyagi – DIAMOND: The Memoir of a Lost Daughter of Japan
- Lynne Spriggs O’Connor – Elk Love: A Montana Memoir
- Jane Kim Yu – Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness
- L.A. Witt – I Changed My Mind: My Journey from Infertile to Childfree
- Mimi Zieman – Tap Dancing on Everest
- Liz Alterman – Sad Sacked
- Rachael Siddoway and Sonja Wasden – An Impossible Life: A True Story of Hope and Mental Illness
- Christina Ford – In Search of Mr Darcy: Lessons Learnt In The Pursuit of Happily Ever After
- Glenda Goodrich – Solo Passage: 13 Quests, 13 Questions
- Ginelle Testa – Make a Home Out of You
- Jennifer Cramer-Miller – Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope
- Susan Bloch – Travels with my Grief
- Mark Steven Porro – A Cup of Tea on the Commode: My Multi-Tasking Adventures of Caring for Mom. And How I Survived to Tell the Tale
- Susan Cole – Holding Fast: A Memoir of Sailing, Love, and Loss
- Tony Jeton Selimi – The Unfakeable Code®
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 Hearten Awards is:

Running Away From The Circus

By Nove Meyers

See the full list of 2023 First Place Hearten Winners here!

We are now accepting submissions into the 2025 Hearten Book Awards for Inspiring and Uplifting Narrative 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 3, 2025
On the 9th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to me Software Tips | 12 Days of Christmas 2024
Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 9th Day of Christmas…

Some say the Nine Ladies Dancing represent the Nine-Day Novenas. A novena is made up of nine days of prayer and meditation for some thing or some guidance from God. Can you see “dance” in that word “guidance?”

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

Top Tips to keep your Software up to date and Safe!

On the 9th Day of Christmas, we’re taking a step into the digital world—because just like you need a clean workspace and a fresh computer, your software needs attention too. As we head into 2024, it’s the perfect time to ensure that the tools you rely on for your writing are running smoothly and securely. Let’s take a look at some essential software maintenance tasks to help you start the new year on the right foot.

J.L. Oakley’s intern Kinky Boots knows all about software
1. Password Management: Secure Your Work and Peace of Mind
Let’s start with something crucial: your passwords. Did you know that more than 6 million passwords are hacked every single day? Keeping your passwords secure should be at the top of your list for 2024.

Use a reliable password manager to keep track of all your credentials. Whether you choose LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden, a password manager helps protect your accounts and saves you from using the same password for everything — something that could be a major security risk.

Take it a step further by enabling two-factor authentication on your accounts. It may feel like a hassle, but it’s an essential safeguard against unauthorized access.
1. Clearing Your Cache: Keep Your Browser Running Smoothly
Your browser’s cache might be storing old data that can slow down your computer. It’s time for a little “browser hygiene.”

Clearing your cache regularly helps speed up your browsing experience and ensures that you’re always seeing the latest version of your favorite websites — especially your author platform. While every browser has a different method for clearing the cache, it’s worth doing every few months (or when your browser starts feeling sluggish).

Remember, clearing cookies can also help with privacy. It’s a simple way to protect your data while browsing, so it’s worth adding to your routine maintenance.

NOTE: Before you do this, please be sure to have your passwords secure. Clearing your cache on some browsers can remove any saved passwords you might have.
1. Anti-Virus and Malware Protection: Stay Safe from Threats
The risk of cyber threats is real, but fortunately, a good anti-virus program can keep you safe. With malware attacks becoming more sophisticated, it’s essential to have a reliable anti-virus program that updates daily to guard against the latest threats. Programs like Norton and Bitdefender are great options to keep your devices secure.

It’s important to regularly update your anti-virus software and run periodic scans to detect any potential threats lurking on your system. If your computer slows down unexpectedly, or if you start receiving strange messages from your contacts, it could be a sign that malware has slipped in.
1. Backup Your Files: Don’t Let Data Loss Derail Your Year
Writers, don’t let your precious words be vulnerable to data loss. Backing up your files is the most effective way to ensure that your work is protected. Whether you use Google Drive, OneDrive, or an external hard drive, always have a backup plan.

Consider setting up an automatic backup system, so you never forget to save your most recent work. Remember: if it’s important enough to write, it’s important enough to back up.
1. Update Your Software: Stay Current for Optimal Performance
Last but not least, always keep your software up to date. Software developers release regular updates to patch security vulnerabilities, fix bugs, and improve performance. Make sure your operating system, writing tools (like Scrivener or Word), and any other software you use are running the latest versions.

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues, slow down your computer, and expose you to security risks, so take the time to check for updates.

Get Ready for the New Year of Writing!

By taking a little time to clean up your software and digital space, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful and productive 2025. These simple steps will help you stay secure, organized, and ready to tackle your writing goals without any digital distractions.

The Ninth Day of Christmas gift of Nine Ladies Dancing are symbolic of the nine life principles: Love, Joy, Peace, Kindness, Goodness, Loyalty, Gentleness, Self-Control, and Patience.

“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 still have time! Well, four days that is.

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Nine Ladies Dancing

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

Stay tuned for the 10th 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 3, 2025
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.

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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