Author: chanti

  • COMING OUT Of The METAPHYSICAL CLOSET by Lisa Rhyne – Spirituality, Metaphysics, Memoir

    COMING OUT Of The METAPHYSICAL CLOSET by Lisa Rhyne – Spirituality, Metaphysics, Memoir

     

    Lisa Rhyne offers a view into her beliefs, education, and personal experiences with the mystical and otherworldly in Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet.

    In this autobiographical compendium of supernatural phenomenon, Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet is a combination of multiple original manuscripts, beginning with a hefty overview of the foundational science and concepts to help frame Rhyne’s experiences, the metaphysical world, and those who claim to work in it. Rhyne explains her perspective on walking between and having to function in both the ‘normal’ and ‘mystical’ worlds and, like many visionaries, describes this reality as illusory and subjective, created by the collective consciousness of living beings through morphogenic fields and a universal repository of knowledge.

    Within this metaphysical framework, humans reincarnate from an ‘Oversoul’ that seeks to learn through each lived experience—the good, bad and everything in between. As such, Rhyne relates that shamans such as she can step between past and present lives, and even across different planes of existence. Throughout the book, Rhyne expands on the powers, dangers, as well as unique transformative opportunities that these spiritual journeys can lead to.

    Her own path within the metaphysical community takes center stage as she shares impactful moments in her life. From a complex and abusive relationship with her mother, to a dangerous stalker, to joyous life-changing personal revelations, she insists that metaphysical forces have watched over her since before she was born.

    Rhyne maintains a strong sense of yearning and hope throughout these stories, with moments of evocative description that paint both the mundane world and her enchanting mystical visions. Emotional scenes frame otherworldly ideas with experiences that readers can easily connect to—the pain of supporting a loved one through illness, the simple love between a girl and her cat, the joy and satisfaction of feeling that you’ve helped another person.

    As she learned more about mystical practices and her relationship to them, Rhyne continuously connects with many fascinating people. Her continued studies include a wide variety of scholars, healers, and thought leaders, Hopi and other indigenous elders, fellow Metas (her term for those who share her beliefs, abilities and practices), and renowned authors such as Michael Talbot, Phillip K. Dick and shamanic practitioner Dr. Hank Wesselman, PhD. Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet contains numerous references and links, so curious readers will find many more valuable threads of knowledge to pursue.

    Rhyne shares examples of her metaphysical experiences and powers such as manifesting desired outcomes into her life, healing herself and others by moving between dimensions, and being guided by higher beings to pursue or avoid certain relationships. The full nature of these higher beings remains elusive, with references and stories that paint them in angelic, ancestral, and even extraterrestrial light.

    Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet seeks to inspire readers—encouraging those who not only believe in but know the mystical to utilize their powers and share their abilities and perspectives with the world to foster understanding and acceptance of all things metaphysical.

    Some readers might find some ideas difficult to grasp, as this book is oriented more towards those who already have some education and connection to various metaphysical theory and beliefs, but Rhyne grounds the more esoteric ideas with figurative language, scientific foundations, and recurring explanations. Additionally, as some ideas are often drawn from various mythologies across the world, they show interesting connections between belief systems that at first glance appear disparate but share foundational concepts.

    Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet has over 300 images including pictures and video stills of sometimes unexplainable supernatural phenomena, and significant moments for Rhyne, with an online gallery that further expands on them, including transcripts and videos.

    Rhyne’s online gallery includes images in the book and provides readers a chance to view the photos on their computers to be able to see the details better. More significantly, she includes security camera videos of drifting motes of light. The true nature of these videos is interesting to consider, whether one believes them to be small spiritual manifestations, or physical things catching the camera’s attention. Similarly, the photos and videos, and recording of the Mysterious & Unexplained show, include significant technical issues and comments by others experiencing the phenomena, giving tangible examples of Rhyne’s claims that her energy disrupts electrical systems.

    Rhyne also provides supplemental documents like the full Dragon dictation messages (from Chapter 8) in this gallery. These messages contain some ominous and even poetic lines, though similarly to Rhyne herself, readers will find it difficult to parse meaning from this text. Much could be read into it, however, and the lack of clarity prompts one to wonder how an otherworldly entity might struggle to communicate with someone in our reality utilizing electronics.

    All these examples might encourage others with metaphysical beliefs to openly share their experiences, their own documented phenomena, and could certainly spark fascinating discussions which is one of the goals of this book—to start authentic dialogue without any fear of negative repercussions or discrimination.

    This book will resonate with those who experience—as well as seek to experience—seemingly unexplainable mystical things, and ultimately advocates for a world of understanding, love and authentic personal empowerment.

    At the core of Coming Out of the Metaphysical Closet is the idea of inclusion and universal connection—through past lives, Aka cords, soul groups, or even just the small moments of kindness that turn strangers into friends. Whether or not readers share every belief with this book, Rhyne reminds them to search for people who enrich their lives and live the ideals of empathy and equality.

    For readers on a journey of metaphysical spirituality, or for those who are merely ‘psi-curious’ (to borrow one of Rhyne’s terms), this book will spark curiosity and a sense of community. Rhyne understands there will be those who doubt and no matter how much evidence is presented by her or anyone else, some will never accept. And that’s perfectly fine with Rhyne. This book is a beacon of light for those who wish to be the masters of their lives and dreams. There are two questions that sum it up nicely. “What if she’s wrong?” and “What if she’s right?”

     

  • Spotlight on Tony Jeton Selimi – Globally celebrated Author, Speaker, and Coach

    Spotlight on Tony Jeton Selimi – Globally celebrated Author, Speaker, and Coach

    TONY JETON SELIMI – Globally celebrated author, speaker, and coach, specializes in transforming human behavior and cognition.

    Tony is committed to guiding individuals, entrepreneurs, leaders, business owners, and organizations from frustration to the pinnacles of breakthroughs, purpose, prosperity, and philanthropy. With a rich technology, business, wealth creation, and personal and professional growth and development background, he has honed distinctive methodologies that marry scientific rigor with spiritual intelligence, captivating audiences and clients worldwide.

    From a humble beginning to a towering figure of influence, Tony’s narrative is a testament to perseverance and vision. His literary contributions, including the acclaimed titles “A Path to Wisdom,” “#Loneliness,” “The Unfakeable Code®,” and “A Path to Excellence,” have left an indelible mark on countless lives. His forthcoming work, “Climb Greater Heights,” is set to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit, urging business leaders to forge a legacy of impact and benevolence.

    Tony’s acumen transcends the bounds of authorship. As a distinguished orator, he has illuminated platforms such as the UN, TEDx, and the London Business Exhibition with his profound insights into wealth generation, media mastery, and the art of strategic alliances. Celebrated with over a hundred literary accolades and featured in a myriad of media appearances, Tony stands as a beacon for authors worldwide.

    In his presentation, “Soaring on the Wings of Words: Monetizing Authorship with Tony J. Selimi’s ‘Climb Greater Heights’ Method,” Tony charts a course for authors of all echelons. He offers the blueprint that propelled his ascent from anonymity to global renown, empowering authors to harness their craft for unparalleled success. Embark on this journey with Tony and witness the alchemy of words into wealth. For more information: https://tonyselimi.com

    Tony will be presenting a two part session: Soaring on the Wings of Words: Monetizing Authorship with his “Climb Greater Heights’ Method

    You’ll hear firsthand how leveraging technology, business acumen, and strategic partnerships can catapult your work from the shadows into the spotlight.

    Join us and let Tony J. Selimi show you how to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of authorship with grace and confidence. This isn’t just a talk; it’s a call to action for all who believe in the magic of their stories and the potential of their dreams. Secure your spot and prepare to soar to greater heights on the wings of words.


    Still thinking about Registering for the Chanticleer Authors Conference?

    Register Today!

    We have a stellar line up of speakers for CAC24, with multiple options to attend.

    Find out why The 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.

  • Spotlight on Janet Oakley – Award Winning Author and Historian

    Spotlight on Janet Oakley – Award Winning Author and Historian

    JANET OAKLEY – Award-Winning Author and Historian, and Educator

    J. L. Oakley writes historical fiction that spans the mid-19th century to WW II with characters standing up for something in their own time and place. She is an award-winning author and a recipient of the 2013 Bellingham Mayor’s Arts Award; the 2013 Chanticleer Grand Prize; the 2014 First Place Chaucer Award;  an Everybody Reads and Bellingham. When not writing, she demonstrates 19th-century folkways in the schools and at San Juan Island National Park. She also has a cat who thinks she’s editing.

    As a First in Category winner in the Goethe, Laramie, and Chatelaine Awards for Mist-chi-mas: A Novel of Captivity, the Chaucer Award for Timber Rose and The Jøssing Affair, the Hemingway Grand Prize Winner for The Quisling Factor and the OVERALL Grand Prize for her book, Tree Soldier.


    Still thinking about Registering for the Chanticleer Authors Conference?

    Register Today!

    We have a stellar line up of speakers for CAC24, with multiple options to attend.

    Find out why The 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.

     

  • MISTRESS Of LEGEND: Guinevere’s Tale Book 3 by Nicole Evelina – Arthurian Legend, Historical Fantasy, Myths & Legends

    MISTRESS Of LEGEND: Guinevere’s Tale Book 3 by Nicole Evelina – Arthurian Legend, Historical Fantasy, Myths & Legends

     

    In Mistress of Legend, the enticing finale of Nicole Evelina’s Guinevere’s Tale trilogy, matters are life-and-death by the second sentence, pulling readers deep into Guinevere’s fate in this retelling of Arthurian legend.

    We come upon heroine Guinevere in the midst of an ill-fated romance with Lancelot. It’s far from her first troubled entanglement, but the stakes rise as she’s severely injured and faces even more threats, pursued by possible enemies. The novel’s beginning is woven with backstory, which adds suspense to the drama unfolding in Guinevere’s present. This summarizing might be slow for readers familiar with the series, but makes the story accessible for those who haven’t picked up the first two books.

    Many more characters appear, waving the web of intrigue Guinevere finds herself caught in.

    Evelina builds this setting through well-researched cultural details, like the holidays and rites of Guinevere’s pagan world, and the symbolism and ideology of the Christianity that threatens to blot her world out.

    Though it’s a work of fantasy, Mistress of Legend has the feel of magical realism. Paranormal abilities like Guinevere’s “sight” fit subtly within Evelina’s carefully constructed foundation. Details down to ritualistic makeup and intoxicants are based on fascinating historical truths, many of which are explained in the author’s notes at the end.

    Evelina avoids foreshadowing to ensure her characters’ futures long remain inscrutable. Unpredictable shifts in individuals and relationships seem to arrive at every turn, making for a thrilling, if at times mystifying, read. Guinevere’s relationship with Morgan, Arthur’s second wife, feels uncertain until the end, as the two vacillate from enemies to friends and back again. Meanwhile, Mordred, son of Morgan and Arthur, undergoes surprising development that makes perfect sense only in retrospect.

    The use of “the sight” by characters like Guinevere and Morgan provides windows into other places, even the future, as the women experience highly realistic visions.

    This allows Evelina to show two places at once without using multiple points of view (though some characters are so fascinating that readers may wish they could see things through their eyes). Instead, only Guinevere’s perspective is given, and readers feel her claustrophobic sense of being trapped in the mechanisms of fate.

    Along with the characters involved in it, this tale of political intrigue only grows more complex with time.

    The story begins to feel like a tapestry whose threads disappear and reappear in the weave. Some characters – even main ones – vanish and are nearly forgotten, only to return when they’re least expected. Guinevere’s life-threatening injuries, so crucial to the first pages, are soon eclipsed by even more pressing problems. Yet they return to the narrative from time to time, the marks left behind to remind the aging Guinevere of how much she’s lived – and how much is still in store.

    Mistress of Legend fits well within the literary tradition of retelling classics from a strong woman’s point of view.

    It’s a great pick for readers of magical realism, historical fiction, and new twists on old classics. It takes things a refreshing step further, too, with a strong female character who remains formidable, agile, and the subject of much male attention as she ages past 40. Youth is no threat to Guinevere. The foolish grabs for power that surround her are.

    The pace of the novel shifts wildly: speeding through seasons, only to suddenly slow and zoom in on the intense details of a moment. At times, it feels a bit like whiplash – but surely that’s how Guinevere felt, as the life she built crumbled time and time again. Readers remain close within her viewpoint, feeling everything she feels, in a world whose only constant is change. Ambitious though she is, her true quest is simply for peace.

    Mistress of Legend by Nicole Evelina won First Place in the 2018 CIBA Chaucer Book Awards for Pre-1750s Historical Fiction.

    The Guinevere’s Tale series by Nicole Evelina won Grand Prize in the 2021 CIBA Book Series Awards for Fiction Series.

     

    5 Star Best Book Chanticleer Reviews round silver sticker

     

  • Spotlight on Strider Klusman – Award Winning Author and Podcaster

    Spotlight on Strider Klusman – Award Winning Author and Podcaster

    STRIDER KLUSMAN – Award Winning Author and Host of the Author in the Headlights Podcast

    An award winning, first place author of the Chanticleer International Book Awards, Strider began his writing career after twenty-five years as a fire fighter/EMT. The emotions and experiences of those calls carry themselves through every story, bringing true ‘been-there’ reality to the scenes.

    With additional years as a business owner, general contractor, designer, wildland firefighter, big game guide, ski instructor, back packer and sword fighter, his wide range of knowledge is intricately woven throughout his stories.

    To date, Strider has written YA (young adult), NA (New adult), and general fiction in the realm of: sci-fi western, light steampunk, dystopian (post apocalyptic), gaslight (early mechanism era) and just good fun reading.

    Strider’s sessions will include a LIVE interview from Author in the Headlights as well as mini-interviews with authors at the conference. He will also be on panels focused on YA fiction, series writing, and podcast creation.


    Still thinking about Registering for the Chanticleer Authors Conference?

    Register Today!

    We have a stellar line up of speakers for CAC24, with multiple options to attend.

    Find out why The 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.

  • Spotlight on Kianne Burgess- Social Media Manager for D.D. Black

    Spotlight on Kianne Burgess- Social Media Manager for D.D. Black

    KIANNE BURGESS – Social Media Manager for D.D. Black, TikTokker, Social Media Manager 

    Kianne works as the full-time social media manager for the Bestselling Thriller author D.D. Black, handling his presence across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. She focuses specifically on boosting sales and cementing his digital footprint through long tail digital marketing. As social media always changes, Kianne constantly is learning the newest and best ways to continue to build upon an already successful platform.

    A writer herself, Kianne is currently working on the first book in a fantasy series. She plans on publishing her debut novel near the end of 2024. Her dream of being a writer has found a solid ground in her work with D.D. Black and allowed her to make even better inroads into the indie publishing community. She will be presenting a session on TikTok 101 for writers who are just getting started and are curious about BookTok and Reels.


    Still thinking about Registering for the Chanticleer Authors Conference?

    Register Today!

    We have a stellar line up of speakers for CAC24, with multiple options to attend.

    Find out why The 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.

  • CAC24 is almost here! Don’t miss out on a weekend of incredible presenters!

    CAC24 is almost here! Don’t miss out on a weekend of incredible presenters!

    THE WRITER’S LIFE:

    ADVANCED WRITING CRAFT, MARKETING, PUBLISHING, BOOK to FILM

    & BEYOND

    Prices are going up soon, so register today!

    We’re bringing together top experts in storytelling, marketing, book publicity, and publishing for the 2024 Chanticleer Authors Conference!

    With two master classes (read our recent article celebrating those here!), we are just getting started with the incredible offerings at CAC24! Check out these amazing attendees and upcoming sessions below!

    MICHELLE COX – OVERALL GRAND PRIZE AUTHOR

    Near and dear to our hearts is Michelle Cox, the author of the multiple award-winning Henrietta and Inspector Howard series as well as “Novel Notes of Local Lore,” a weekly blog dedicated to Chicago’s forgotten residents.  She suspects she may have once lived in the 1930s and, having yet to discover a handy time machine lying around, has resorted to writing about the era as a way of getting herself back there.

    Her work has received multiple Mystery & Mayhem and Clue Awards from Chanticleer as well as the Overall Grand Prize Award for Best Book for her book A Spying Eye, in addition to several top-rated reviews and other accolades, so she might be on to something.  Unbeknownst to most, Michelle hoards board games she doesn’t have time to play and is, not surprisingly, addicted to period dramas and big band music.  Also marmalade.


    DIANE GARLAND – Your WorldKeeper – Continuity Senior Editor

    An expert in world building and continuity, Diane Garland and her editorial company Your WorldKeeper, specializes in the world of continuity. Multiple USA Today best-selling and award-winning authors in various genres rely on her system of cataloging and organizing the minutiae and rules of their story worlds. Growing up as an AF Brat, Diane traveled extensively as a child, which has fueled her passion for travel and reading. She graduated from Florida State University and is a life-long learner. She, along with her husband and two cats, have recently relocated to Columbus, Ohio from the Seattle, Washington area.

    Join Diane at her sessions about the necessity, creation, and organization of a story bible along with pointers on maintaining and using it to take your author career to the next level.

    Sessions include:

    • Creating Worlds that Last
    • Continuity and Preparing for a Series

    LISA SPICER – Producer, Editor, Writer

    Our local expert on Book to Screen, Lisa Spicer has worked in television, film, and video production for over 30 years as producer, writer, and editor. Starting in the documentary unit at KCTS/PBS Seattle, later on she worked on the Bill Nye the Science Guy show, earning 3 Emmys. As an independent documentary producer, she has worked in Kenya, Mexico’s Lacandon rainforest, Northern Cheyenne and Lummi Indian reservations, Boulder, Seattle,
    and Bellingham. Lisa has a BA in Broadcast Journalism and certificates in Filmmaking and Screenwriting (UW). Mid-career she earned an MA in Anthropology (WWU). Integrating anthropology into documentary, she
    co-produced Homeless in Bellingham, an award-winning web series and documentary, and served as Consulting Anthropologist for the feature documentary, Cheech and Chong’s Last Movie. Recently
    finishing an historical novel, Radio Smokva, she’s now writing about her back-to-the-land childhood and publishing a weekly series on Substack, Collective Effervescence: Research About the Counterculture.

    Lisa will lead a workshop called How to Read a Film, with a focus on enhancing your fluency in the language of film. Rooted in the practice of mise-en-scene, learn how meaning is conveyed through elements such as camera angle, set design, motif (shapes), lighting, actors, sound, all of which work together in support of the narrative.

    How to Read a Film and Writing Tips & Tools with the Screen in Mind – by Lisa G. Spicer
    • Writing for the screen or with the screen in mind, whether narrative or non-fiction (documentary) film.
      • Ex: From any story, what is selected to be scripted and filmed? How is it framed (what do we see)?
      • Ex: Screenplays are written in present tense
    • As related to writing, film borrows from theater by using elements of mis en scene and motif.
      • Ex: How do theater directors use props and costume to support the narrative?
      • Writing for film or with film in mind can be informed by the craft and how films are actually made.

    Ex: Basic camera terminology, used throughout entire process: writing, filming, editing.


    JANET OAKLEY – Award-Winning Author and Historian, and Community Leader

    The leader of our usual suspects and historian extraordinaire, J. L. Oakley writes historical fiction that spans the mid-19th century to WW II with characters standing up for something in their own time and place. She is an award-winning author and a recipient of the 2013 Bellingham Mayor’s Arts Award; the 2013 Chanticleer Grand Prize; the 2014 First Place Chaucer Award;  an Everybody Reads and Bellingham. When not writing, she demonstrates 19th-century folkways in the schools and at San Juan Island National Park. She also has a cat who thinks she’s editing. Read pick and the 2015 WILLA Silver Award, Pulpwood Queen Book Club 2016 backlist pick for February 2016.

    As a First in Category winner in the Goethe, Laramie, and Chatelaine Awards for Mist-chi-mas: A Novel of Captivity, the Chaucer Award for Timber Rose and The Jøssing Affair, the Hemingway Grand Prize Winner for The Quisling Factor and the OVERALL Grand Prize for her book, Tree Soldier, Janet will present at the 2021 Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards Ceremonies (The CIBAs) on Sunday evening and recognize the finalists and announce the Grand Prize winner, and perhaps the Overall Grand Prize winner on Sunday evening.

    J.L. Oakley is an expert in presenting on the following:

    • Ins and outs of running a successful Kickstarter
    • Creating Audiobooks and working with Narrators
    • Becoming a Research Expert in your Writing

    STRIDER KLUSMAN – Award Winning Author and Host of the Author in the Headlights Podcast

    Renaissance Man and one of the most interesting people you’ll meet, Strider is an award winning, first place author of the Chanticleer International Book Awards, Strider began his writing career after twenty-five years as a firefighter/EMT. The emotions and experiences of those calls carry themselves through every story, bringing true ‘been-there’ reality to the scenes.

    With additional years as a business owner, general contractor, designer, wildland firefighter, big game guide, ski instructor, backpacker and sword fighter, his wide range of knowledge is intricately woven throughout his stories.

    To date, Strider has written YA (young adult), NA (new adult), and general fiction in the realm of: sci-fi western, light steampunk, dystopian (post apocalyptic), gaslight (early mechanism era) and just good fun reading.

    Strider will be presenting in and around the following topics:

    • Creating a Young Adult Series
    • Best Practices for Making a Podcast

    Our full list of presenters are here!

    SCHEDULE WILL BE UPDATED REGULARLY HERE!

    Keep an eye out for more to come!

    Other upcoming sessions include:

    • Learn the Power of Pitch Decks, Log Lines, and Quick Pitches
    • Working with Ingram 
    • Marketing for Indie Authors 
    • Multi-Author Anthologies – the Why and How You Should Do Them
    • How to market your work, yourself, be seen by producers, execs, studios. How to get a Lit Manager or Agent and if you need one.
    • Going Wide—Selling Your Books Internationally
    • Selling On Amazon – How to Up Your Game
    • Getting Your Books into Libraries – Panel
    • CHAT GPT
    • AI intro with Argus – Creating Cover Ideations & Story Telling Collateral
    • Pitching with Kiffer Brown
    • Dynamic Dialogue: The Art of Subtext 
    • Grabbing the Reader’s Interest and Not Letting Go – Techniques and Strategies
    • Writing the Short Story
    • Look Out! He’s Behind You! 
    • Power Moves to Make Your Story UNDENIABLE
    • Women’s Fiction Writing
    • Get to Know Your Characters – A new perspective 
    • Incorporating the Mystery Genre Into Any Genre – Master Class
    • Pacing and Plotting
    • The Five Best Pieces of Advice I IgnoredD.D. Black
    • Healthy Habits for the Writing Life – Tana Hope
    • Do’s and Don’ts for Book Events – Paul Hanson & Chloe Hovind
    • Intro to TikTok
    • Intro to reels
    • Podcasting
    • Audiobooks

    AND MORE!

    We’re gearing up for our best Chanticleer Authors Conference yet, and can’t wait for YOU to be a part of it!

    Register Today!

    Multiple Options are available for your convenience, as well as options for Companion Passes!

    It’s going to be a blast!

  • The 2023 Chanticleer Int’l Book Award Finalists for Shorts and Series Finalists!

    The 2023 Chanticleer Int’l Book Award Finalists for Shorts and Series Finalists!

    A Huge Congratulations to all of the Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards (CIBAs) Shorts and Series Finalists!

    CIBAs Badge general

    Every tier of the CIBAs is an important one, though few manage to rise this far in the ranks.

    For our Shorts and Series Authors, this post has links to all of the Finalist Awards for the 3 CIBA Division Lists we have for Longform work like collections, anthologies, and novellas; Short Prose like Short Stories and Essays; and Series. We will have a separate post for Fiction and Non-Fiction.

    All Finalists in attendance will be recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference, and we will announce the Winners at the CIBAs Ceremonies on Saturday, April 20th at the Chanticleer Banquet. We can’t express how excited we are to be able to do this in person with our fully vaccinated and boosted staff in a healthy metro area.

    Now let’s take a step back and look at where we came from to make this happen.

    A pyramid showing the different levels of CIBA Achievement

    The remaining tiers are the First Place Winner, the Grand Prize Winners, and finally, the coveted Overall Grand Prize Winners. The Overall Grand Prize Winner takes home the $1000 and more! See the Book Award details here.

    Blue and gold finalist badge for the CIBAs

     

    Now, presenting the links to the Non-Fiction Awards Finalists

    The Official 2023 CIBA Lists of the First Place and Grand Prize Winners for all Divisions of the CIBAs will start to be posted after April 21st, 2024.

    We have badges available starting with the Short List. If you need a digital badge reflecting your tier level, please email info@ChantiReviews.com with your division and rank, and we will send you one as soon as possible.

     

     

    The 12th Anniversary Chanticleer Authors Conference is April 19-21, 2024

    Don’t Delay, Register Today!


    Goodreads Icon

    Make sure your Award gets the attention it deserves on Goodreads.com 

    In the Librarian Manual on Goodreads, you can go to your Book Edit Page — Literary Awards.

    You want to list the Award for Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBA) Winners, and be sure to include the year and what place you received. For example:

    The year Long List, Short List, Semi-Finalist, or Finalist.

    Note from Goodreads: “To add a new award or edit an existing award, you’ll need help from one of our volunteer librarians or a staff member.” For assistance, post in the Goodreads Librarians Group.

    Always double check that you’ve written everything correctly before posting it. The search function for Awards on Goodreads is both case and punctuation sensitive.


    The Overall Grand Prize Winner for the 2022 CIBAs was Michelle Cox’s book A Spying Eye

    A Spying Eye Cover

    The 2022 Overall Grand Prize Winner Badge for Michelle Cox and her book A Spying Eye

    Remember, you don’t have to be present to win, but it sure is a lot more fun!

    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.

     

  • The 2023 Chanticleer Int’l Book Award Finalists for Non-Fiction!

    The 2023 Chanticleer Int’l Book Award Finalists for Non-Fiction!

    Three Cheers for for the CIBAs 2023 Non-Fiction Book Awards Finalists!

    CIBAs Badge general

    Every tier of the CIBAs is an important one, though few manage to rise this far in the ranks.

    For our Non-Fiction Authors, this post has links to all of the Finalist Awards for the 7 CIBA Divisions we have for Non-Fiction. We will have a separate post for Fiction and one more post for the Shorts Awards and Series Awards.

    All Finalists in attendance will be recognized at the Chanticleer Authors Conference, and we will announce the Winners at the CIBAs Ceremonies on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 at the Chanticleer Banquet.

    Now let’s take a step back and look at where we came from to make this happen.

    A pyramid showing the different levels of CIBA Achievement

    The remaining tiers are the First Place Winner, the Grand Prize Winners, and finally, the coveted Overall Grand Prize Winners. The Overall Grand Prize Winner takes home the $1000 and more! See the Book Award details here.

    Blue and gold finalist badge for the CIBAs

    Now, presenting the links to the Non-Fiction Awards Finalists

    The Official 2023 CIBA Lists of the First Place and Grand Prize Winners for all Divisions of the CIBAs will start to be posted after April 21st, 2024.

    We have badges available starting with the Short List. If you need a digital badge reflecting your tier level, please email info@ChantiReviews.com with your division and rank, and we will send you one as soon as possible.

     

    The 12th Anniversary Chanticleer Authors Conference is April 19-21, 2024

    Don’t Delay, Register Today!


    Goodreads Icon

    Make sure your Award gets the attention it deserves on Goodreads.com 

    In the Librarian Manual on Goodreads, you can go to your Book Edit Page — Literary Awards.

    You want to list the Award for Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBA) Winners, and be sure to include the year and what place you received. For example:

    The year Long List, Short List, Semi-Finalist, or Finalist.

    Note from Goodreads: “To add a new award or edit an existing award, you’ll need help from one of our volunteer librarians or a staff member.” For assistance, post in the Goodreads Librarians Group.

    Always double check that you’ve written everything correctly before posting it. The search function for Awards on Goodreads is both case and punctuation sensitive.


    The Overall Grand Prize Winner for the 2023 CIBAs was Michelle Cox’s book A Spying Eye

    A Spying Eye Cover

    The 2022 Overall Grand Prize Winner Badge for Michelle Cox and her book A Spying Eye

    Remember, you don’t have to be present to win, but it sure is a lot more fun!

    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.

  • Working with Ingram, Selling on Amazon, Pitching, the Art of Subtext, Podcasting, and more! Learn from the Best at CAC24!

    Working with Ingram, Selling on Amazon, Pitching, the Art of Subtext, Podcasting, and more! Learn from the Best at CAC24!

    🌷 Happy Spring to our Northern Hemisphere Chanticleerians! 🌷

    🍂Happy Fall to our Southern Hemisphere Chanticleerians! 🍁

    This time of year is the time for the

    Annual Chanticleer Authors Conference

    CAC24!

    CAC24 Deck Cover with pictures of ribbons, winners, and amazing presenters!

    and the highly anticipated 

    Chanticleer International Book Awards Banquet and Ceremony! 

    The 2022 Overall Grand Prize Winner Badge for Michelle Cox and her book A Spying Eye

    When we start seeing tulips and daffodils coming up with snow geese and Trumpeter swans flying across the sky, we know that it is time for the annual Chanticleer Authors Conference here in Bellingham, Wash.  Did I tell you how much I love this time of year in the Pacific Northwest? These photos were taken about a 15 minute drive south from here. 

    Skagit Valley Daffodils and GeeseSkagit Valley Winter Birding At Its Best

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    But I digress.

    We are here to discuss Working with Ingram, Selling on Amazon, Pitching, the Art of Subtext, Podcasting, and more for #seriousAuthors!

    These are just a few of the sessions that CAC 24 is offering in just a few short weeks!

    Be sure to check out CAC’s Master Classes! 

    • Incorporating Mystery and Suspense Techniques Into Any Genre–Fiction OR Memoir with D.D. Black
    • Writing the Hollywood Adaptation Master Class Workshop with Kim Hornsby

    Story Telling / Writing Craft

    • Dynamic Dialogue: The Art of Subtext 
    • Grabbing the Reader’s Interest and Not Letting Go – Techniques and Strategies
    • Writing the Short Story
    • Look Out! He’s Behind You! 
    • Power Moves to Make Your Story UNDENIABLE
    • Women’s Fiction Writing
    • Get to Know Your Characters – A new perspective 
    • Incorporating the Mystery Genre Into Any Genre – Master Class
    • Pacing and Plotting
    • Series Planning

    AI, ChatGPT, Alphabet Soup, and the Future of Publishing

    • CHAT GPT
    • AI intro Visuals – Creating Cover Ideations & Story Telling Collateral
    • Alphabet Soup – SEO, Metadata, Tagging, ISBNs, and more

    Marketing

    • Working with Ingram 
    • Marketing for Indie Authors 
    • Multi-Author Anthologies – the Why and How You Should Do Them
    • How to market your work, yourself, be seen by producers, execs, studios. How to get a Lit Manager or Agent and if you need one.
    • Pitching
    • How to Promote Your Works like a Book Publicist
    • Series:  Creating and Developing a Series. Why You Should and How Panel
    • Going Wide—Selling Your Books Internationally
    • Selling On Amazon – How to Up Your Game
    • Getting Your Books into Libraries – Panel
    • Multi-Author Anthologies – the WHY and HOW for your Book Marketing Strategy

    Book to Film Sessions

    • Writing the Hollywood Adaption – Masterclass – Thursday
    • Learn the Power of Pitch Decks, Log Lines, and Quick Pitches
    • From Novel to Production – The Story of Dream Jumper’s Promise
    • How to Write the “TV Movie”
    • Marketing for Screen Writers 
    • How to Read a Film (so you can write a Book to Film work)
    • How to Design a Smashing Screenplay:  The Importance of Planning and Outlining a Story Before Your Write

    Writing Life

    • The Five Best Pieces of Advice I Ignored  D.D. Black
    • Healthy Habits for the Writing Life – Tana Hope
    • Do’s and Don’ts for Book Events – Paul Hanson & Chloe Hovind

    Social Media Platforms and Expanding Your Readership and Building Your Author Brand

    • Intro to TikTok
    • Intro to REELS
    • Podcasting
    • Audiobooks
    • Crowdsourcing as a Marketing Tool
    • LIVE Podcast Interview with Kim Hornsby on the True Fiction Podcast hosted by Reenita Malhotra Hora
    • LIVE Podcast Interview with D.D. Black on Author in the Headlights hosted by Strider Klusman
    •  Increasing Your Email List and Expanding Your Readership – Tips and Tools that Work! 

    With more sessions added weekly.

    Learn from the Best 

    Below are just a few members of CAC24’s faculty. For the most up-to-date list with more information on each faculty member, please visit this page: https://test.chantireviews.com/chanticleer-conference/chanticleer-authors-conference-presenters-and-faculty/

    Please check back often as we continuously update the CAC pages.

    Susan V. Meyers – Creative Writing Program Director at Seattle University and Pushcart Prize and Best American Series Nominee. Her novel Failing the Trapeze won the Nilsen Award.


    Nicole J. Persun is an award-winning and internationally bestselling author with a master’s degree in Creative Writing & Instruction. Nicole has written and published in multiple genres, most recently book club fiction under the pen name Jennifer Gold.


    Kim Hornsby is a USA Today and Amazon Bestselling Author along with being a sold, multi-optioned, and produced screenwriter. Her Chanticleer Paranormal Book Awards winning novel, The Dream Jumper’s Promise, is in development with plans to film in late 2024. We are excited for her Romcom Christmas movie, Christmas in Crystal Creek, that is slated for filming in 24/25.

    Kim Hornsby, a young white woman with blonde hair and glasses wearing a stylish yellow jacket with a blue scarf


    D.D. Black’s Thomas Austin Crime Thrillers series has garnered more than 30,000 Amazon reviews and have earned the #1 Best Seller in Mystery Series. Ranked #1 in Traditional Detective Mysteries in Books and Kindle Store. Previously, he wrote thrillers under the name A.C. Fuller, including The Alex Vane Media ThrillersThe Ameritocracy Series, and The Crime BeatAltogether, he’s written and published over thirty books. 


    Reenita Malhotra Hora is the CEO of Chapter by Episode Productions. She has years of experience growing organizations from startups to medium-sized businesses through storytelling, creative marketing and business strategy. Hora has also written seven books.

    She has contributed to Reuters, the South China Morning Post family section, the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, CNN, Asian Investor, Times of India, Business Line, Bloomberg on-air news reporter, writer, and producer,  Rolling Stone,  and the Economic Times.

    Please visit our CAC page for more information! 

    Don’t delay! Register TODAY for the 2024 Chanticleer Authors Conference! 

    Multiple Registration Options are Available!