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  • Quotes for MEMORIAL DAY and Suggested Books that remember the sacrifices of those who served their country – Kiffer Brown

    Quotes for MEMORIAL DAY and Suggested Books that remember the sacrifices of those who served their country – Kiffer Brown

    Quotes for Memorial Day

    “Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.” — President George Washington

    “With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, an d for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.”— President Abraham Lincoln 1865

    “Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.” — President Theodore Roosevelt

    “Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official.” –President Theodore Roosevelt

    “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” — President Franklin D. Roosevelt

    “Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.” —President Franklin D. Roosevelt

     “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” — President John F. Kennedy

    Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States in remembrance of the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. It is observed the last Monday of May.

    Originally, there were two different holidays celebrated by the North and the South to honor their Civil War dead in 1868. After World War One, the two holidays were combined to honor all Americans who died while in the military service.

    Veterans Day, which honors all U.S. veterans, is celebrated annually on November 11th–the day that WWI officially ended. V-E Day (Victory in Europe), May 8th, 1945 is the date United States and Great Britain celebrated defeating the Nazi war machine.

    We at Chanticleer Reviews are honored to present four excellent reads that exemplify the honor and courage of the men and women who serve in the U.S. military. For information about each book, please click on the link provided. 

    NON-FICTION

    NO TOUGHER DUTY, NO GREATER HONOR  by GySgt L. Christian Bussler

    GySgt. Bussler served three tours of duty in Iraq in 2003. The last tour (2005 -2006) proves to be the most challenging when Bussler narrowly escapes an IED blast with his life and sent home with injuries. The year proved challenging not just for Bussler, but for his whole team and it leaves each one of them forever changed. After recovery, Bussler then served as a Mortuary Affairs officer.

    Though now retired from the Marines, GySgt L. Christian Bussler is still active in the veteran community and acts as a mentor for other veterans. A truly magnificent and heartfelt memoir, No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor is a must-read for every American.

    Journey Book Awards, 1st Place award-winner.

    MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY PTSD  by Christopher Oelerich (non-fiction)

    “I went away to war one person and came back another, and in my wildest dreams would never have chosen to be the one who came back.” – Christopher Oelerich

    For those who suffer from PTSD, understanding that they are not alone and that they can help themselves is a huge step toward embracing a recovery program. Oelerich, as one who has experienced combat and traumatic events, wrote this book as a “How To” guide for combat soldiers, like himself, who suffer from PTSD.

    Christopher Oelerich relates his own personal history, beginning from when he was drafted into the military during the Vietnam War, and continuing through his return to civilian life and his own rocky road to recovery.

    GENERAL in COMMAND – The Life of Major General John B. Anderson by Michael M. Van Ness

     A remarkable biography chronicling the adventures of a farm boy born in 1891 who rose high rank in the US military and served with distinction in two world wars as a combatant, officer, and sage observer. He served in the Mexican War, WWI, the Civilian Conservation Corps in the Great Depression, and WWII. 

    HILLBILLIES to HEROES: Journey from the Black Hills of Tennessee to the Battlefields of World War II – The Memoir of James Quinton Kelley by S.L. Kelley.  

    A farm boy from the hills of Coker Creek, Tennessee to driving tanks across France and into Germany as part of an initiative that ultimately saw the end of Hitler’s Third Reich. A heartfelt recollection of the sacrifices of America’s soldiers in WWII.

    FICTION

    None of Us the Same by Jeffrey K. Walker 

    Love. Honor. Friendship. Exactly what we need from a historical fiction novel, at exactly the right time. WWI. 

     

    WAIT FOR ME

    Wait For Me by Janet K. Shawgo  –World War II  (historical fiction)

    The often-unknown role of women in wartime as travel nurses and pilots, as well as the use of herbs for natural healing, adds interesting and relative historical content to the story. The WASP pilots and their active role in the war effort was particularly fascinating reflecting Shawgo’s vigilance with her medical and military history research. 

    After the prologue shows Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, establishing the World War II setting, the story begins on September 23, 1940 in New York.

    Readers may find it interesting that Shawgo, along with being an award winning novelist, is also a travel nurse who goes where and when she is needed for national disasters.

     

     

     

     

     

    LIfe on Base: Quantico Cave review

    Life On Base:  Quantico Cave by Tom and Nancy Wise  (contemporary fiction)

    A riveting portrayal of the lives of children whose parents serve in the armed forces. Being a teenager is hard enough, but adding the constant uprooting and moving from base to base adds its own unique challenges as well as rewards.

    The story focuses around young Stephen, a “military brat”—a term that these children use to distinguish themselves from their civilian counterparts. Stephen finds himself uprooted once again from his most recent home in California and moved across the country to Quantico Bay, Virginia. His father is a Marine and relocating often has become a part of Stephen’s life. However, becoming accustomed to something is not the same as liking it.

    “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.“
    Mark Twain

    “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” – Maya Angelou

    “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” —Joseph Campbell

    MemorialDay

    Remembering those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice….

    As my father who passed in 1981 from 100% service-connected disabilities (a Marine Corps lifer with WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam conflict in his military service) repeated,  

    “May we never forget freedom isn’t free.” —Unknown

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  • DAUGHTER OF DESTINY: BOOK 1 OF GUINEVERE’S TALE by Nicole Evelina, the Grand Prize Best Book

    DAUGHTER OF DESTINY: BOOK 1 OF GUINEVERE’S TALE by Nicole Evelina, the Grand Prize Best Book

    The Series 2021 Grand Prize Badge for The Guinevere's Tale TrilogyGuinevere asks us, the readers, to listen to her words in the prologue of Daughter of Destiny, book one in The Guinevere’s Tale Trilogy. She implores, “I will take back my voice and speak the truth of what happened.” So shall the lies be revealed and Camelot’s former glory restored.”

    Daughter of Destiny is the first of three historical fiction novels narrated by Guinevere in the series of Guinevere’s Tale, by Nicole Evelina. Her tale begins during her young turbulent childhood in fifth-century Britain. It is a time of struggling to come to grips with her special powers. She’s studying to become a priestess, competing against her future lifelong enemy Morgana, and coping with the politics and violence ravaging her homeland in England’s fifth century. The novel follows Guinevere as she is separated from her family in Northgallis, during her early years in Avalon. It follows her training in the magical arts and eventual return to her war-ravaged homeland.

    This is no amateur first attempt at writing a novel—Evelina’s writing is lyrical and powerful. Her natural talent for storytelling is obvious from the first page as she captivates the reader with her tale told from Guinevere’s engaging perspective.

    Even more impressive is the author’s extensive research behind the series. Her knowledge is evident as she constructs a richly-drawn fictional world of fantastical landscapes and sorcery. She immerses the reader in legend, magic, and tragic love, all set against the backdrop of misty Avalon. The author clearly loves her subject and passes on that passion through her telling of Guinevere’s story.

    What makes this series brilliant, however, is that Evelina takes Guinevere’s story far beyond its common historical re-telling. Guinevere is not merely a woman destroyed by her own weaknesses in loving the wrong man, as history would like us to believe. She is also a woman of power, intelligence, and special gifts who, from her early childhood and beyond, strives to use her talents to help her own people.

    Guinevere is an independent woman of strength and fortitude, who finds herself at odds with a world in which her gifts are a liability, and her passions put her and her homeland at great risk. Evelina’s account is a riveting and captivating page-turner. 

    This first offering by Evelina is rich and stunning, easily comparable to novels by other bestselling historical fiction authors. She has done her research and created a world that is compelling, historically accurate, and a realistic portrayal of the times balanced with the mystic and the magical. 

    This reviewer highly recommends Daughter of Destiny to fans of Arthurian and Avalonia tales, historical fiction, political intrigue, and heroic journeys. 

    The Guinevere’s Tale Trilogy won the 2021 Series Grand Prize Award for Best Fiction Book Series. 

    5 Stars! Best Book Chanticleer Book Reviews

  • Chanticleer Authors Conference 2016: A Photo Recap

    Chanticleer Authors Conference 2016: A Photo Recap

    The Chanticleer Authors Conference 2016 a weekend of Fun and Learning

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    The Book Fair sold a lot of books!

    Everyone wanted their picture taken with our “special guest”

     Things may have gotten a little crazy during the Big Hair Makeovers….

    We celebrated a lot of 1st place Category winners!

    And then we celebrated the Grand Prize winners from each genre:

    And then came the final announcement of our Overall Grand Prize Winner!

    And the best thing about #CAC16: we fooled you all into thinking we are tidy and organized!

    The #CAC16 Aftermath - Our Chanticleer office on Monday after you all went home!
    The #CAC16 Aftermath – Our Chanticleer office on Monday after you all went home!
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  • ICE MASSACRE: Mermaids of Eriana Kwai Book 1 by Tiana Warner – a killer twist on mermaid lore

    ICE MASSACRE: Mermaids of Eriana Kwai Book 1 by Tiana Warner – a killer twist on mermaid lore

    Action-packed battle scenes, complex, engaging characters and a “killer” twist on mermaid lore make this award-winning YA fantasy novel a captivating read.

    For generations the people of Eriana Kwai have selected their best warriors for the “honor” of embarking upon an annual assault on the murderous creatures infesting the waters that surround their tiny island. Known as “The Massacres,” this ocean-bound tactical offensive pits 20 rigorously trained young men against the burgeoning army of mermaids that lay siege to the island’s fishing grounds, leaving starvation in their wake. But these are no ordinary mermaids, rather, they’re the Homeric sirens of Greek legend, handmaidens of death and destruction, hell-bent on annihilating the human population of Eriana Kwai.

    With the men failing to return home, a new, unconventional fighting force is ready to take its place in history – a band of 20 young women. Immune to the sensuous allure of the mermaids, the women combatants have a more level battlefield.

    Among the most promising of the new warriors is Meela, an intelligent, thoughtful eighteen year-old whose skills, when harnessed properly, are unsurpassed. But Meela has a secret locked deep within her heart, an Achilles’ Heel that threatens to undermine their “Massacre” and send her entire crew to a watery grave.

    “Ice Massacre,” the first installment of author Tiana Warner’s “Mermaids of Eriana Kwai” fantasy series, introduces a rich and engaging cast of characters. From her main character, Meela, brimming with the fire and passion of her youth to Meela’s arch rival Dani, a self-professed leader with an ax to grind, the author artfully delivers characters that reflect all of the excitement as well as the internal emotional conflicts that drive a woman-child of eighteen. These are characters with whom the YA and NA reader can easily identify. Make no mistake this is not a children’s tale, but a gritty and riveting story of strong female warriors who can be relentless and cold-hearted. Expect graphic violence and brutality. Betrayal, fear, anger, coming-of-age turmoil, and rivalry are portrayed as the story unfolds. 

    The author’s use of older world weaponry and sailing ships rather than our current weapons and communications capabilities creates an odd juxtaposition of technological eras that actually works. Armed with hand-forged iron weaponry and crossbows the women warriors are akin to modern day vampire hunters, straddling two worlds, challenging the reader to step on board “The Bloodhound” and join Meela on her hunt.

    In the tradition of “The Hunger Games,” bestselling author Tiana Warner weaves a clever story of resilience and determination in the face of deadly odds. With riveting battle scenes, complex, enduring characters and “killer” twist on mermaid lore this award-winning, action-packed fantasy novel that is sure to captivate. 

  • AN OUTCAST STATE by Scott D. Smith, a YA dystopian novel

    AN OUTCAST STATE by Scott D. Smith, a YA dystopian novel

    One of the most popular genres out there today is “the zombie apocalypse.” You can find it on TV, in books, in graphic novels, and just about any other media format you can think of. Author Scott D. Smith brings his voice to the genre in his award winning book An Outcast State. It is a fast paced, imaginative, riveting read.  

    Written in the first person, you’ll quickly find out that the world is a different place than it was a few short months prior to the story. The book’s main character, Corbin, is a loner who has honed his survival skills and survived long enough to “live to tell tale.”

    He tells us in the beginning of the book, “In fact, as I write this, an entire herd of them is outside this building trying to claw its way in. The door to this place is reasonably solid, but it won’t hold forever. Doesn’t really matter I guess since I’m planning on opening it soon anyway.”

    The herd he is referring to are the zombies or as they are called in this book “eaters.” Corbin continues:

    “The only comforting thought I have is that I don’t imagine the eaters are going to have any interest in this book. That means there’ll be some kind of record of my having been here, something that could give my death a little meaning. Assuming it even gets found. It’s better not to think about it. I have enough problems for today.”

    Early in the book the loner status was soon to change for Corbin as he obtains a traveling partner. One of the realities of life in this current state of the world is the fact that to survive, one must explore the now empty homes of others. This quest is to gather usable supplies including such treasures as non-perishable good, batteries, and weapons.

    On one such exploration, our main character meets Molly. Inside the home when Corbin arrives, we quickly learn that Molly is searching for her parents and this particular home Corbin chose to explore was hers. This sets off a quest to help Molly find her family, one that leads the duo via bicycle from Texas to Louisiana. This journey is filled with harrowing complications that build suspense.  It is engrossing to see how our main character handles the new partner as this greatly impacts his ability to travel, seek food and defend himself.

    Soon the pair encounters yet another challenging, but unexpected twist in their young lives. The following excerpt is a fine example of an important aspect about this book, the very real human concerns that play out in each of the scenes. Zombies are only the tip of the iceberg in this book. The real depth of the story lies in the interactions of the main characters to each other and those whom they encounter. It is through these interactions and encounters that Scott’s writing skills shine.

    “Some combination of intelligence, intuition, and luck has kept me alive on my own all these years. I’ve learned to trust in each of them, but I usually count on all three working together. Unfortunately, intelligence and intuition had apparently called in sick that day.”

    Luck was going to have to get some overtime, so one spot out in the middle of nowhere being as good as any other for chance to intervene on our behalf, I signaled Molly to follow me, turned my bike off the pavement, and headed for the woods that grew thick and dark just a few feet from the old highway……I have never believed in karma. I have never thought the universe was in favor of my success or my failure.

    Things simply unfolded as they did, and that was that; however, as the events of the next few seconds played out, I was certain that I must have been paying for the accumulated sins of my lifetime.”

    An Outcast State is one of those books that once you finish it, you are left with a desire to return to the world you just left and will want to hang out a little longer with the main characters. Filled with suspense and backed by a solid storyline, this novel is one that is hard to put down. Scott D. Smith has taken a popular modern genre, made it his own, and gives readers a thrilling tale to behold. An Outcast State received the Dante Rossetti Award for YA Dystopian Novel.

  • What is the Single Most Important Publishing Tool for Indie Authors?

    What is the Single Most Important Publishing Tool for Indie Authors?

    The 2nd Must-Have for Independent Authors:

    What is the single most important publishing tool for first-time authors?

    IMG_20160513_115410I was asked by Orna Ross of Alliance of Independent Authors to share what I consider to be the “Seven Must-Haves for Independent Authors” at  UPublishU event that was held at the Book Expo of America 2016 held in Chicago. Of course, I agreed!

    However, the Seven Must-Haves are applicable for all authors whether they are self-published, small press published, traditionally published, or hybrid published. Today, I am addressing the second of the Seven Must-Haves for Authors. 

    What could be almost or maybe more important than the content of a book? THE COVER!

    Now don’t get me wrong—content is KING/QUEEN. However, when it comes to selling books, especially for Indie published authors, it is the cover that will rule.

    Why is the cover the most important publishing tool for first-time authors? 

    The cover is what makes a reader who has never heard of you or read your other works pick up your book, or click on the link, or choose your book’s digital thumbprint on Amazon’s  Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought carousel of book covers.

    Book covers are so important that major booksellers demand having the final decision in the cover designs of books that they decide to carry so that the covers will appeal to their particular customer demographics.

    Key Concepts in Book Cover Design (digital and print)

    1. Genre placement – the cover should immediately (less than 3 seconds) convey the genre of the book. Is it an intense suspense/thriller novel? or Historical Fiction? Or How-To?
    2. Category within genre – is it Regency Romance? or Contemporary Women’s Fiction with Southern elements?
    3. Does the color scheme work with the genre?
    4. Do the design elements convey an idea of what the story is about?
    5. Is the cover appealing to the readership that you are targeting?
    6. Is it dated? Covers can and should be refreshed and tweaked at least every five years.
    7. Covers should work whether they are enlarged to be 50 feet tall to hang from scaffolding at tradeshows or whether they are reduced to the size of a thumbnail. Keep in mind that cover design may be slightly different for digital and for print. Slightly.
    8. A book cover is its must important piece of retail real estate. Every inch should be considered for maximum visual and emotional impact.
    9. Make sure that the entire book’s “packaging” (typography, formatting, fonts, and layout) is co-cohesive and that all of the elements are complementary to each other.
    10. Color—use color to convey emotion, time period, genre, theme, etc.

    IMG_20160512_161055

    Key Elements in Book Cover Design (digital and print)

    1. Many authors/publishers overlook the spine of their books as a prime selling tool. Since most first time authors’ books will be shelved spine-out instead of front cover out, it is very important to make the spine of your books as appealing as possible to your targeted audience. I recommend that first time authors start the design process from the spine and then move forward to front cover and then the back cover.
    2. Each design element should convey the story within.
    3. Typography is part of the cover design and should not be an afterthought. It should enhance the design image of the book and be legible. Resist using the latest curly cues fonts or “urban decay” fonts UNLESS they are easily readable. Do not ever use more than three fonts. If you use one font with a “serif” then you should use a complementary font without a serif.
      1. Here is an example of a font with serifs (extra flourish): Georgian
      2. Here is an example of a font that is sans serif.
    4. Note – interior copy (the story) should always be printed (digitally or print) with a serif font for ease of readability.
      1. Here is a link to a Huffington Post  on  Type Fonts: A Totally Definitive Ranking of Fonts
      2. A post by Joel Friedlander about picking fonts for self-published books. 

    Here is a great link to examples of fonts for book covers that will inspire you.

    My advice to authors is to begin thinking of your cover concept long before you type The END to your manuscript.

    Here are some before and after covers for your consideration. What do you think:

    The Great Symmetry by James R WellsThe Great Symmetry by James Wells before cover

    Now ask yourself:

    What is the genre of this book? 

    What is the story about? Is it fiction or non-fiction? 

    Are you compelled to find out more about what is inside? 

     

    great symmetry james wells

    The Great Symmetry by James Wells after cover

    In less than three seconds, a potential reader can see:

    That this is a science fiction novel and the story is action based — the spaceship looks like it is fleeing something and heading into a dangerous place that must be less scary than what it is escaping from.

    The primary color is “tech-blue.”  Notice how much more pleasing the alignment of the title is and what a difference the typography makes–all caps with a more techie type font. I like how the author’s name and and the book title work together to make a singular visual impression.

     

    Now you pick, which is the before and which cover is the after for The Only Witness by Pamela Beason

    TheOnlyWitness_updated200tallOnlyWitnessCvr-New-copy-e1426269259568.jpg

     

    Another example

    virtues-of-war-image1.jpg
    virtues-of-war-e14221387917351.jpg

     

    Here are some photos of book spines to drive the point home about their importance and the 3 second rule of thumb.

    BOOK SPINES MATTER!

    BOOK SPINES MATTER!       Legacy-Cover-w-Spine

                                       

       How will your book standout? How to Increase Book Sales in Book Stores

     

    More exceptional cover designs:

    The Girl and the Clock WOrk Cat - Nikki McCormackNotice  that the reader can immediately tell that this is a steampunk young adult novel that takes place in London,  with a young adult female protagonist and a cat. All of this information is conveyed by the cover design.

    There's Something About MartyCozy mystery readers who like a humorous edge  to their stories can tell immediately that this book may be of interest to them.

    The Treasure of Ching Shih by John GillgrenNo mistaking that this is a children’s book about sea adventures and pirates!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Farewell to a QUeen

     Yep, I read this book to find out what happened to the Queen of the North!

      Your cover should incorporate your author brand along with some 3rd party P/R.

    STRAIGHT-INTO-DARKNESS-front Award

     

    Notice how tastefully that this author differentiates himself from the other millions of authors with his designation of being an award winning author.

     

     

     

     

    Higher Ground by McKendree Long You are probably starting to get the concept….of just how much information a cover is able to convey. Help readers discover your books by using your book’s cover real estate as effectively as possible. Make every little detail work for you. Imagine that your cover is a commercial for your book and make each everyone on those three seconds that you have to hook the potential reader into picking up your book instead of someone else’s or to click on your digital cover instead of someone else’s.

    Covers can sell readers on your first work, but it is the content that will make them come back for book two and three….

     

     

     

     

     

    It is the COVER that will sell your books at industry trade shows when book buying professionals pick up your books’ Sell Sheets.  Make your books standout and get noticed. Start working on the cover concept almost as soon as you start working on the story concept. Use it start finding Beta readers, on your website, with your author platform to start lining up book signings for your book launch, and planning promotional materials BEFORE your launch date. Keep in mind hour your cover will influence your marketing materials and web promotions.

    Remember that it doesn’t matter how much time and money that you spend on getting your book in front of potential readers. If the cover isn’t  engaging to the reader, the reader will not pick it up to look at the inside or read the back cover blurb, or click on the image to for more information and all of your time, money, and effort will be for naught.

    Covers should convey an emotion first. The cover should have a visual impact that grabs the potential reader and makes him/her want to know more about what is inside. The cover must be enticing! 

    milkyway-galaxy.jpg

    This is the second blogpost in the Seven Must-Haves for Author series.

    The first article addresses:

    What is the traditional publishing tool that authors can implement to propel their writing careers to new levels and to earn an income from selling their books? Click here to read. 

    The third article in the series asks: What is the corner stone of any author platform?

    Stay tuned! – Kiffer Brown, Head Hen at Chanticleer Book Reviews

     

  • I, Mary: Book 3 of the Crofter Family Saga by Mike Hartner, an historical fiction middle grade book

    I, Mary: Book 3 of the Crofter Family Saga by Mike Hartner, an historical fiction middle grade book

    Heartwarming and inspirational, Mike Hartner’s novel I, Mary is a beautifully-written middle grade children’s novel that captures a young girl’s dreams of becoming a sailor. A fantastic read for children and their families who enjoy fiction set to the background of sailing and historical times. If your middle grade reader loves The Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder, then she will love reading I, Mary by Mike Hartner, the third book in the Eternity Crofter Family Saga series.

    The tale takes a reader into a turbulent time in England’s history, when Oliver Cromwell usurps power from the monarchy and plunged England into a civil war. Readers are introduced to the protagonist Mary as a toddler aboard one of her father’s ships. She shows an innate love and connection with the sea. At age eleven, she pleads with her father to allow her to become a sailor. A caring man, he yields. He urges one of his captains to take her on, even though she is still a young girl. Her superior intelligence, reliability, and hard work earns the respect of sailors and their captains who, along with the readers, watch Mary learn and excel in seamanship.

    Mary is a unique, strong, and kind girl existing during a time in history when females were considered by many to be chattel without rights. Readers admire her from the start as they watch her navigate through calm waters and stormy seas. She is a praiseworthy character for her courage and the way she helped or touched so many other characters .

    When the first person narrator changes, a line of three stars above the passage marks the switch. Intimate content is limited to hand holding and kissing, but the growing love story carries emotional impact throughout. The dialogue, though, is still written using some of the authentic dialect of Highland Scotland, such as lass, laddie, and bairn. Hartner’s novel is also an easy, smooth read for children and to read aloud to children.

    Children can also get a history lesson as well, or be inspired to learn more Highland Scotland and clan life. In the author’s note to his readers, Mike Hartner says, “My goal is to provide an enjoyable reading experience and not a historical map.” But admits he’d be pleased if a youngster got motivated to check the book’s historical accuracy regarding the British Crown Hierarchy, the ‘Rump’ parliament, the Great Plague, and the Great Fire in London, all of which are mentioned in the story.

    This reviewer rarely cries during the emotional hits in a story, but Hartner’s ending stirred powerful feelings and brought forth tears. Readers will resonate with Mary from start to finish over the poignancy of her life. An inspiring read that pulls at your heartstrings, I Mary is a brilliant novel that sets the dreams of a young girl to the historical backdrop of a time that was most difficult for women. 

  • Contest Spotlight: The youthful blush of May brings us TWO writing competitions seeking books for young readers

    Contest Spotlight: The youthful blush of May brings us TWO writing competitions seeking books for young readers

    [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]Everyone knows April showers bring May flowers, and what better way to celebrate the blossoming of the year than by seeking submissions of books intended for young readers. This year we also celebrate the birth of a brand new award. The Dante Rossetti awards for young adult fiction have grown so large, that we had to create the new Gertrude Warner awards for middle grade fiction. Don’t miss our May 31st Deadline!

    Dante Rossetti Awards

    The Girl and the Clock WOrk Cat - Nikki McCormackThe Dante Rossetti awards have a long and proud tradition of winners. Most recently at our Chanticleer Author Conference Awards Banquet (a Gala event held every year in April) we awarded the 2015 Dante Rossetti Grand Prize to Nikki McCormack, author of The Girl and the Clockwork Cat, a young adult steampunk novel about a feisty teenage thief thrust into a murder mystery involving a clockwork cat. We are so thrilled to award this obviously talented author at the beginning of her, no doubt, successful future in publishing.

    Legacy Jesikah SundinLast year, our Dante Rossetti Grand Prize was also handed out to an author at the beginning of a successful dynasty. Jesikah Sundin and her young adult cyberpunk novel Legacy: Biodome Chronicles, Book One. Jesikah not only wrote a compelling story, but also painted a picture that swept us away into this marriage of two worlds: one a “back to basics” group of pioneers living inside an experimental biodome community, and the other a futuristic world world of high tech and computers.

    Both of these books are part of a series and we look forward to seeing their book two’s in our future competitions!

    Gertrude Warner Awards

    This is the first year that we have been running our Gertrude Warner awards, so we do not have any past winners, but we are looking forward to putting Middle Grade novels into their own contest where they can really shine! Manuscripts and Recently Published Books accepted.

    Your book could earn a place in our hall of fame for 2016.

    All you have to do is enter.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”0px” paddingright=”0px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_title size=”2″ content_align=”left” style_type=”single solid” sep_color=”transparent” class=”” id=””]What are the Dante Rossetti & Gertrude Warner Awards?[/fusion_title][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”3_5″ last=”no” spacing=”yes” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_position=”left top” border_size=”0px” border_color=”” border_style=”” padding=”” class=”” id=””][fusion_text]Dante Rossetti Awards for YA FictionOur Dante Rossetti awards are the Chanticleer Reviews search for the best young adult fiction books of 2016!

    We are looking for the best books featuring young adult characters & themes in the categories: Contemporary, SFF & Paranormal, Dystopian, Mystery, Historical, Adventure Romance. We will put them to the test and choose the best among them.

    Manuscripts and Recently Published Books (books must be published after Jan. 1, 2013) are accepted into these writing competitions.

    gertrude warner awards 2015Our Gertrude Warner awards, named for the famous author of The Box Car Children Series, are the Chanticleer Reviews search for the best middle grade fiction books of 2016!

    We are looking for the best books featuring young characters & stories appealing to the middle grade audience in the categories: Contemporary, SFF & Paranormal, Mystery, Historical, Adventure. We will put them to the test and choose the best among them.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”2_5″ last=”yes” spacing=”yes” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_position=”left top” border_size=”1px” border_color=”#606060″ border_style=”solid” padding=”10px” class=”” id=””][fusion_text]

    Our Chanticleer Review Writing Contests feature more than $30,000.00 worth of cash and prizes each year! 

    ~$1000 Overall Grand Prize Winner
    ~$2800 in Genre Grand Prizes
    ~$28,980 in reviews, prizes, and promotional opportunities awarded to Category Winners

    [/fusion_text][fusion_button link=”/services#!/Young-Adult-Novels-Writing-Contest/p/21521206/category=5193080″ color=”darkgray” size=”” type=”” shape=”” target=”_blank” title=”” gradient_colors=”|” gradient_hover_colors=”|” accent_color=”” accent_hover_color=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”1px” shadow=”” icon=”” icon_position=”left” icon_divider=”no” modal=”” animation_type=”0″ animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”1″ alignment=”center” class=”” id=””]Enter Your YA Fiction[/fusion_button][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”” sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][fusion_button link=”/services#!/Middle-Grade-Fiction-Writing-Contests-Chanticleer-Book-Reviews/p/58078131/category=5193080″ color=”darkgray” size=”” type=”” shape=”” target=”_blank” title=”” gradient_colors=”|” gradient_hover_colors=”|” accent_color=”” accent_hover_color=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”1px” shadow=”” icon=”” icon_position=”left” icon_divider=”no” modal=”” animation_type=”0″ animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”1″ alignment=”center” class=”” id=””]Enter Your MG Fiction[/fusion_button][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • THE COMPASSIONATE CONSPIRACY by Dr. Phil Johnson, a practical guide to connect the world

    THE COMPASSIONATE CONSPIRACY by Dr. Phil Johnson, a practical guide to connect the world

    With all of the texting, tweeting, and tapping we do on our smartphones, it’s easy to get distracted from life’s true meaning. Thankfully, to help us find our way, Dr. Phil Johnson has published, The Compassionate Conspiracy: A Field Guide to Changing the World – an inspirational guide to a purposeful existence.

    A lovely mix of his personal stories, along with well-known song lyrics, quotes, and research on world poverty and hunger, the book helps us answer the age-old question: “Why am I here?” Dr. Johnson also includes writing exercises and quizzes for reflection.

    The impetus for the book came from childhood. With a “calm wisdom” and realist world view, Dr. Johnson’s mother, who coordinated a food pantry for families in need, would spin a globe and pose, “Philip, where shall we go today?” As he took “voyages” around the world to places like Bolivia, Brazil, and Greenland, Philip soon realized he was most fascinated by Africa. Eventually in 2005, he traveled with his wife to Kenya where he contracted malaria and typhoid fever. Fortunately, he was quickly cured, but witnessing thousands of Africans suffering from famine and illness, he asked: “What can I do to make a difference?”

    The Compassionate Conspiracy is his answer to helping us all discover our passions and develop a personal plan to help those less fortunate. Dr. Johnson crafted this practical guide to connect the world. Did you know that the Latin origin of “conspiracy” is conspirare, which means “to breathe together.” He wanted to write a book so people could help others by “learning to breathe together for the common good, to breathe life into a suffocating world.”

    In the Conclusion, he states: “My singular purpose in writing The Compassionate Conspiracy is to spark a movement to achieve that compelling vision. At the beginning of the twenty-first century, I believe we have the wealth, the wisdom, and the will to breathe hope into the global family.”

    With more than 40 years working with corporations like Ford and IBM and with nonprofits like the United Way and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Dr. Johnson is no stranger to helping people around the world. On top of that, he is an ordained minister and practicing pastor at the New Day Community Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dr. Johnson participated in major international events, including the United Nations World Peace Conference in Israel in 1999.

    You will see the book is organized into four parts: 1) Our World is in Critical Condition, 2) The Compassionate Conspiracy, 3) the Compassionate Conspirators, 4)  and A Guide to Becoming a Compassionate Conspirator.

    The foreword, aptly written by Dr. Nido Qubein, a motivational speaker, author, and chairman of the Great Harvest Bread Co., starts us off:

    “Remember, life is about choices. Decide here and now that you want to make the world a better place, and build a plan that will take you there!”

    Qubein is also President of High Point University in North Carolina. It would be difficult to put the book down at this point.

    As the author of six previous books, Dr. Johnson is familiar with writing and publishing,  so be sure to get The Compassionate Conspiracy on your bookshelf too.

    Dr. Johnson’s other titles include: Time-Out! Restoring Your Passion for Life, Love and Work (Stoddart, 1992); Celebrating the Seasons with Children (Pilgrim Press, 1984); More Celebrating the Seasons with Children (Pilgrim Press, 1985); And More Celebrating the Seasons with Children (Pilgrim Press, 1986); Goodbye Mom, Goodbye (Welch Publishing, 1987); and The Great Canadian Alphabet Book (Hounslow Press, 1981).

  • LIVE LIFE WITH EASE by Dr. Harish Malhotra, a practical self-help guide on self-healing

    LIVE LIFE WITH EASE by Dr. Harish Malhotra, a practical self-help guide on self-healing

    Readers of Dr. Harish Malhotra’s two previous books (Metaphors of Healing: Playful Language in Psychotherapy and Everyday Life and Pathways to Hope: Innovative Insights for Therapists and Patients) are in for a treat as his third title continues us on the healing path paved with entertaining metaphors. New readers too will enjoy holding Dr. Malhotra’s hand through life’s ups and downs as he takes us on a journey with 55 stories in Live Life with Ease: Everyday Paths to Self-Worth, each tale replete with his amusing touch.

    In chapters like, “Settle Into Your Ideal Lifestyle,” “Pain, Pain, Go Away,” “Overthrowing Fear,” and “The Weight of Eating,” Dr. Malhotra tackles universal themes in a lighthearted, yet practical way. By weaving these humorous metaphors, he blesses us with the way he sees life as we confront fear, worry, addiction, lack of self-worth, sleeplessness, and unhealthy eating.

    Take for example, the chapter “Infatuation,” where Dr. Malhotra advises us to employ the “Sleep on it/24-hour rule.” He compares decision-making to buying a new house – one that seems to boast a gorgeous skyline but is located on a dangerous street. “Let your excitement simmer down before making decisions. Reason may replace infatuation,” he counsels.

    In one of the more playful stories, Dr. Malhotra poses to the reader: “Are you like a fart or a flower?” Despite the silliness, he raises a sincere dilemma: why would we surround ourselves with people who are “toxic” and “seething with resentment,”  rather than those who are “fragrant” with a “pleasant demeanor and gracious words.” Point well taken, Dr. Malhotra, with a nod to our olfactory.

    We have to assume that Dr. Malhotra, a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Summit, NJ, pulls from his more than 40 years in a white lab coat as many of the sketches include (imaginary?) dialogue between doctor and patient. “Don’t fight the smoke with a sword of worry,” he says to a patient who is anxious about the future.

    Throughout the book’s 304 pages (or 364 pages via e-reader), we feel like he is our own personal guru and we are a better person for it.

    In one of my favorites, “Dating, Inc.” he likens relationships to “Hair Softener or Chewing Gum.” Holding on too tight is like getting chewing gum balled up in your partner’s hair,” he says. “Some hair has to be cut off to get rid of the gum… Some problems in relationships stem from too much contact.”

    Perhaps the book, which makes a delightful gift for a college graduate or a loved one needing inspiration, can best be enjoyed as a bedside reader, referring nightly to the index to locate specific passages in times of stress: “Reframing Problems,” “Risk Taking,” “Welcoming Attitude,” and “Unlearning Habits.”

    For further inspiration, you can see Dr. Malhotra on his YouTube channel, “Helpful Hints for Hangups,” where he acts out the rousing metaphors with members of his family.

Chanticleer Book Reviews