Chanticleer Book Reviews

Category: Marketing

On the 8th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me Cleaning Tips for my Writing Space| 12 Days of Christmas 2024!
Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

On the 8th Day of Christmas…

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

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

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Eight Maids A-Milking

Seven Swans A-Swimming

Six Geese A-Laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Tips to keep your workspace clean!

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

But how often do we think about maintaining it?

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

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

A Fresh Start for a New Year of Writing

Stay tuned for the 8th Day of Christmas!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seven Swans-a-Swimming

Six Geese-a-Laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

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

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

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

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

Seven Non-Fiction Divisions!

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

The Journey Awards for Overcoming Adversity in Non-Fiction

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

The Hearten Awards for Uplifting and Inspiring Non-Fiction

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

The Military and Front Line Awards for Service to Others

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

The Mind & Spirit Awards for Metaphysical Non-Fiction

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

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

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

The Nellie Bly Awards for Longform Journalism

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

The Harvey Chute Awards for Business and Finance

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

Stay tuned for the 8th Day of Christmas!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Six Geese a-laying

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

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

United States

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

Denmark

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

Brazil

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

Ireland

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

Philippines

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

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

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

Six newsletter tips!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for the 7th Day of Christmas!

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

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

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

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

On the 5th Day of Christmas…

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

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

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

Not one ring to bind them in this case.

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

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

Five publishing trends for 2025!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for the 6th Day of Christmas!

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

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

December 30, 2024
On the 4th Day of Christmas Chanticleer gave to me Four Podcasting Tips | The 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

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

Four podcasting tips and a fav podcast!

Podcasting has become a great way for writers to learn and network with other writers as they promote their work. It’s a great marketing tool because you have complete control over your presentation, providing what you think is valuable and highlighting the work you are doing. They offer their guests credibility, helps build community, encourages collaboration, builds brands and promotes work, and it expands your (and your guests’) “reach,” with 45% of podcast listeners also classifying themselves as avid readers.

Podcasting is a learning process, but when done well it can be a fun and valuable addition to your marketing. Here are four tips to get you started!

1. Concept and Niche

Find your focus. Ask yourself what sets your podcast apart from others within your niche. Choose a topic you are passionate about and can discuss in depth, allowing you to claim a clear niche. Define your audience to gain a better understand of who you are trying to reach and how to tailor your content to their interests and needs.

2. Content and Format

Decide on a format (solo host, interview style, panel discussion) and stick to it for predictability. Outline and/or script what you’ll be saying, no necessarily to read verbatim, but as a reference you can turn to if you find yourself lost in your conversation. This will help maintain focus and flow. Find engaging guests by researching and inviting guests who are experts in your niche and can provide valuable insights. You can find them writing events, through your connection on your social media platforms, and on your own bookshelf!

3. Promotion and Engagement

Publish your podcast on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, then utilize social media to share clips, promote new episodes, and interact with your audience. This will encourage listener feedback through reviews, comments, and Q&A sessions.

4. Technical Aspects & Production Quality

Choose a reliable podcast hosting platform to store and distribute your episodes. Use descriptive titles and summaries to attract listeners on podcast directories.Design visually appealing cover art that represents your podcast brand. Invest in a good quality microphone and recording environment to minimize background noise. Learn basic editing techniques to clean up audio, add transitions, and create a polished sound. Strive for a consistent audio level throughout each episode.

One of Chanticleer’s Favorite Podcast is “Author in the Headlights” by Chanticleerian STRIDER KLUSMAN

He interviews authors one on one. Each show will be discussing the author’s books, their goals, the methods, and often madness of writing, as well as the process and tools of their trade. So far, he has interviewed 66 authors such as Tessa Floreano, Kevin Chapman, Timothy Johnston, Dena Weigel, Rick Steinke, Mike Murphy, and many more.

Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

The 4th Day of Christmas

The Four Calling Birds are meant to represent the canonical gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Also, the Fourth Day of Christmas is the Feast of the Holy Innocents, and it is considered a day for children. The feast honors the male children who were killed by King Herod in his quest to find the potential usurper (Baby Jesus) to his throne. Today, the youngest member of the family is in charge for what to do, where to go, what to eat for the entire day. The day is also known as Childermas.

Some say Four Calling Birds (song birds). Some say Four Colly Birds (black birds). And then, there is this person’s interpretation of Four Calling Birds on Reddit:

Is this a conference call?

“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 are known as Advent.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry. Just get it done. Eight Days left until Three Kings Day!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the 4th day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

Stay tuned for the 5th Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and continuing to prepare the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference and the 2024 CIBA Banquet and Ceremony.

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

December 29, 2024
On the 3rd Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me | 12 Days of Christmas 2024!
Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas – One Day at a Time

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

Three Types of Edits!

Chanticleer is here for you! We offer three different types of editing services to help you get your book to the finish line.

Line Editing

If your story still has developmental issues (dialogue, plotting, character development, etc.), your work would benefit from a Line Edit. Line Editing is a line-by-line edit to make sure that each sentence pushes the story forward and creates just the right amount of pacing and tension. Each and every word should count! This is a collaborative edit that is done with the author in approximate chunks of seventy pages at a time.

Line Edit Review is a final check that all issues and concerns have been addressed by the author and that new problems have not been created in the reworking of the manuscript.

Copyediting includes Style Sheet Generation

Copyediting is a mechanical edit. It focuses on grammar, punctuation, spelling, typos, continuity errors, and timeline errors. A Style Sheet Guide is created that is the basis of your story-bible. The Style Sheet Guide will ensure that your characters’ names, place names, conventions (examples are: Happy Christmas instead of Merry Christmas or blond or blonde or using kilometers instead of miles), jargon, pet names, time frame, and more — the attention to detail that will set your work apart from the fray.

Proofreading

Proofreading with a third set of fresh eyes is the final reading to catch the inevitable typos and glitches. The Style Sheet generated by copyedit will used in the final proofing of the work. After proofreading, your manuscript is ready for formatting. Formatting is determined by the publishing platform.

And just for FUN, a humorous and clever YouTube video about Editing from Elle Cordova –

The Grammarian vs Errorist – A Supervillain Showdown

The Grammarian has an epic showdown with arch nemesis, The Errorist. Ink will spill.

For more information regarding Chanticleer’s Editing Services, click on the links below:
The Three French Hens gifted on this day represent Faith, Hope, and Love.

“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 24 days leading up to Christmas are known as Advent.

Some say that December 25th is the first day of Christmas, but we are going with the medieval date of the 26th because revelry could not take place on the 25th as it was a holy day. And the Twelve Days of Christmas are all about revelry!

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry. Just get it done—you’ve got nine days!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the 3rd day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Three French Hens

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

The Third Day of Christmas

The Third Day of Christmas celebrates the Feast of St. John who drank a glass of poisoned wine and didn’t get sick! Many EU countries celebrate the Feast of St. John during the longest days of Summer (June 24th) by dancing around a fire. The best way to celebrate? Drink a lot of wine! Of course, if you have a different preferred beverage, that’s totally alright. We’ve been enjoying TÖST, a non-alcoholic wine recently.

The Feast of Saint John, by Jules Breton, c. 1875

Stay tuned for the 4th Day of Christmas!

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

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!
December 28, 2024
On the 2nd Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me Two Ways to Link Your Selling Sites | 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Two ways to link to your selling sites!

Getting people to your online selling sites is a challenge every author faces. Readers want convenient, one-step actions that will take them straight to the place where they can purchase your book, and they want to be able to trust their purchase will be handled professionally. But how do we get them there?

Web Links—A tried and true path

Web links have been used to move people around the internet for as long as the internet has been available to the masses. By linking a URL to a clickable button, word, or phrase you will be opening the doors to your online store and welcoming in more readers with only a click! This process is seamless to the user, as they simply see the new page load.

To get the most out of your web links, always have easily accessible links that open in a NEW WINDOW. Once someone is visiting your site, you want to make sure that your site remains open in his/her browser. Visitors should never have to leave your site to check out your book’s page on Amazon or sign up for your newsletter.

Links should be easily recognizable as a way to access more information. Try to use highly visible and friendly “buttons” whenever possible.

And always make triple sure that your links work!

QR Codes—A new path for speedier and more convenient purchasing power

Because of their ability to be read by mobile phones, QR codes have emerged as a versatile and powerful tool for authors to promote and sell their books. These machine-readable codes consist of an array of black and white squares, typically used for storing URLs or other information for reading by the camera on a smartphone.

With the help of a simple (and free) QR code generator, you can create as many QR codes as you need to get readers directly to your books’ purchasing sites, but there’s much more you can do with them, too!

Place a QR code on a tabletop sign to send potential readers at a book fair to your website or blog. You can link to a specific page, meaning you can give them trivia related to your story, images you’ve created, a sign up for your newsletter or blog, or just get them to your homepage and let them explore!

QR codes can also be attached to documents that live in the cloud, and therefore are not accessible to people without the code. This can be a useful tool for building a community, as readers will be excited to know they are receiving exclusive information.

Using a QR code will give you, and your readers, more power to easily connect and share and purchase! Check out this recent blog post about QR codes for a more in-depth look at how authors can benefit by adding them to their marketing. 🧰

Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas!

“But Jiminy Crickets, it is the 27th of December! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent. So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you’ve got an extra 11 days!

On the Second Day of Christmas, my True Love (or Chanticleer) brings to me… Two Turtle Doves

Two Turtle Doves represent love, loyalty, and friendship.

The Two Turtle Doves are symbols of Love and Fidelity. The turtle dove is monogamous and pairs for life. Males are actively involved in nesting (he will actually sit on the eggs during the day) and taking care of the young after they hatch so his mate can leave the nest to eat, exercise, and take care of herself. In Ancient Grecian stories, they are believed to be a favorite bird of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

Good King Wenceslas

Day 2 is also the day that the Christmas Carol ‘Good King Wenceslas” takes place (c. 907 – 935). He was known as the Good Prince of Bohemia. The story tells the tale of his journey through harsh weather to bring a gift of food and firewood to a poor man he noticed while looking out of his castle’s tower during the Feast of Stephen. The song reminds us each and everyone: “Ye, who now bless the poor, Shall yourselves find blessing.”

“King Wenceslas” Art made by Hudson, Scott & Sons for Huntley & Palmers, 1913. Victoria and Albert Museum no. M.367-1983. Image: Gryffindor

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

Stay tuned for the 3rd 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!

December 27, 2024
Yuletide, Boxing Day, and the 12 Days of Christmas! What does Chanticleer bring to you on the 1st Day of Christmas?
Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas with Chanticleer!

“But Jiminy Crickets, it is the 26th of December! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.

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

Although, we will note that some say the first day of the 12 Days of Christmas starts on Christmas Day and continues through January 5th with the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th.

So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you’ve got an extra 12 days!
- Some say the Twelve Days tradition is wishing good luck and cheer for each of the following months in the new year.
- Others say the first six of the days are to pay homage to the previous year and six of the days that are in the new year bringing hope and glad tidings for coming times.
- The Twelve Days of Christmas would be a welcome break for those who worked the land.
December 26th is also called Boxing Day in the Commonwealth Countries of Great Britain, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand where it also a bank holiday.

The tradition of boxing day (according to the Encyclopedia Britannica) originated in the Victorian era and late Georgian era. The servants worked on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so they were given the 26th off to be with their own families. The upper class would take leftover food, goods, or money and put them in boxes to give out to those less fortunate. It also said that the church would hand out alms boxes to the poor on St. Stephen’s Day, Dec. 26th, who was known for helping the poor.

In modern times, Boxing Day is the day of football (soccer), cricket, and boxing matches.

Singing the 12 Days of Christmas

If you are singing the song, and you miss or mess up a verse, you owe your opponent (the person singing the round before you a kiss or a sweet treat or grant a favor).

We at Chanticleer have our own way of celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas with our fellow Chanticleerians.

Yuletide

Yule (or Germanic Jol or Anglo-Saxon Geol) refers to the Winter Solstice.

Celebrating Yule-Tide, pen-and-pencil drawing by Richard Lovett in Norwegian Pictures (1885), based on the 1846 oil-on-canvas painting Juleskikk by Adolph Tidemand.

Yule is one of the oldest winter solstice festivals, with origins among the ancient Norse thousands of years ago. Its roots are complicated and difficult to trace, although there are several theories about how and why the festival was celebrated. It is generally agreed that Yule celebrations began as a Norse festival called jol, although assessments of the purpose and traditions vary. Like most winter solstice festivals, themes of light, fire, and feasting are common threads.

“Yule” became a name for Christmas about the 9th century, and in many languages yule and its cognates are still used to describe that holiday—jul in Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish; joulud in Estonian; joulu in Finnish; and jol in Icelandic. The Christmas holiday is still referred to as Yule in the Scots language. According to the saga of King Haakon Haraldsson (also known as Haakon I Adalsteinsfostre or Haakon the Good) of Norway, who ruled in the 10th century, the Norse Yule celebration and Christian Christmas celebration were merged during his reign. Haakon became Christian after a visit to England, and after his return to Norway he put into law that Yule should be celebrated at the same time as Christmas. Everyone was required to have ale from a measure of grain and keep the holiday while the ale lasted or else be subject to a fine.[Encyclopedia Britannica]

Get ready for 12 days of ideas for your new year of writing, along with lots of good cheer!

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

On the First Day of Christmas, my true love sent to me—a Rooster in a pear tree!

What are the 12 Days of Christmas?

The 12 Days of Christmas historically mark the time from the birth of Christ until the day the Three Magi (or the Three Wise Men) arrived in Bethlehem with their gifts for the Epiphany, (also known as Three Kings’ Day). According to the Western calendar, the 12 days start with Christmas on December 26th and end with the Epiphany on January 6th. However, there are numerous other ways of celebrating from around the world.

But what do rings, geese, and drummers have to do with Christmas?

“The 12 Days of Christmas” song uses Christian lore as guidelines but is considered to be a secular song. Instead, the song is historically thought to be a cumulative group memory game as the verses build on each other and the catchy tune make it easy to join in. Imagine a family-friendly version of “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall” and you’ve got the right idea.

The 12 Days of Christmas are traditionally associated with gifting and generosity starting with St. Stephen’s Day, or Boxing Day, where historically servants or help in households were gifted bonuses, trinkets, and modest feasts by their employers. Some people hold fast to the Twelve Nights celebrations gift something to friends and family each day of the holiday period rather than all on Christmas Day. This is where the pear tree comes in.

“The 12 Days of Christmas” harks the piles of gifts received from “a true love” daily during the long holiday. The lyrics and melody can differ with country and church but the well-known version of today is thought to be popularized in 1909 by English composer Frederic Austin.

On the 1st Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree.

The meaning of the lyrics have long been debated with theories ranging from a betrothal tune illuminating courting gifts to being coded lessons on the tenants of Christianity.

The partridge represents the ultimate love, a true love. The pear tree is where the partridge perches to protect its loved one.

A modern examination however, has revealed the possibility that all the “gifts” are actually types of fowl commonly eaten and served during feasts in the High Middle Ages in Europe. Partridges, birds in the pigeon family like doves, and geese are more commonly known to be eaten both then and now, but the other gifted birds are harder to figure out.

More details about how the birds of the 12 Days of Christmas were possibly identified, cooked, and eaten can be found here.

On the 1st Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…

An invitation to join our curated online community The Roost!

We are so proud of the community we have on The Roost! It is great perch for writers and publishers to hang out in and connect.

We host weekly write-ins, discussions of writing craft books, genre specific writing groups, and advice on the author’s journey. With authors in all stages of the writing process joining us, there is always something to learn on this independent PRIVATE social media site. You will find your community on The Roost!

Writing may seem like a solitary activity, but stories are told in community. Whether you find that on The Roost or elsewhere, we’re happy that you are a part of our community here at Chanticleer.

Stay tuned for the 2nd Day of Christmas!

Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we get the time we need to celebrate BIG with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping our presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and setting ourselves up for success with the Chanticleer Authors Conference (April 3-6, 2025 in Bellingham, WA) As always, please email us at Chanticleer@ChantiReviews.com with any questions!

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Team Chanticleer: Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!
December 26, 2024
Sharing Beloved Holiday Traditions here at Chanticleer! Happy JOLABOKAFLOD 2024 and Le Reveillon de Noel
At Chanticleer, we love celebrating the holidays!

We love the sparkle, the singing, the presents—and we especially love celebrating the books!

Jolabokaflod, a Bookish Holiday

Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition of gifting and reading books on Christmas Eve, began in 1944 when Iceland gained its independence from Denmark during World War II. Paper was one of the few products under rationed during the war, so bookish friends and family began sharing their love of books as a substitute for traditional gifts. Known as a nation of “bookaholics,” Iceland has a great reading culture, with over half the population being avid readers of at least eight books a year, according to a study conducted by Bifröst University in 2013.

The holiday, which translates roughly into English as ‘the Christmas book flood’, coincides with the retail cycle each year during the Christmas season.

Ever since Jolabakaflod was first celebrated the Icelandic book trade has published a catalogue called Bókatíðindi, or ‘Book Bulletin,’ in English. It is sent to every household in the country in mid-November during the Reykjavik Book Fair, and people use the catalogue to order books for their favorite people.

These gifts of books are given on December 24th and, by tradition, everyone begins reading the books they receive almost as soon as they are given, often while drinking hot chocolate or alcohol-free Christmas ale called jólabland. There is also a blend of two of Iceland’s most beloved drinks: Malt (a malty sweet soda) and Appelsin (orangeade). First pour the Appelsin into a a glass and add the Malt for a fizzy, festive non-alcoholic drink. If you pour the Malt first, then the foam from it will overflow the glass when the orangeade is poured in. Some consider this the most proper drink to celebrate Christmas in Iceland.

A Book You Love is The Perfect Gift for Jolabokaflod

How can you make Jolabokaflod a Christmas Eve tradition?

Christmas is such a busy time, and you may think, “I don’t have time for one more tradition!” Don’t worry—You’ve got an extra 12 days!

Design your Jolabokaflod tradition to fit your schedule. You can choose a different night to celebrate with a new book and hot chocolate! We like to crack open the spine of a new book during the 12 days of Christmas that follow Christmas day, giving us a reason to keep that holiday spirit alive until well into the New Year!

The Twelve Days of Christmas & Celebrations Around the World
- The twelve days of Christmas run from December 26th until January 6th (Three Kings Day).
- Some say the Twelve Days tradition is wishing good luck and cheer for each of the following months in the new year.
- Others say the first six of the days are to pay homage to the previous year and six of the days that are in the new year bringing hope and glad tidings for coming times.
- The Twelve Days of Christmas would be a welcome break for those who worked the land.
In Portugal, the 12 Days of Christmas is a tradition that starts on the 26th until Epiphany. Small groups of people go door to door in their neighborhoods singing songs, usually accompanied by instruments. Sometimes they are in traditional dress, sometimes not. They typically open with a song to ask the resident for food and/or drink, then continue singing about the birth of Jesus and sending good wishes for a happy new year. If a resident doesn’t treat the singers well or refuses to open his door, they may sing songs jokingly mocking them. If the singers are treated well, they will sing about how handsome and beautiful the hosts are and how generous and nice they are. (A great way to start the New Year!)

The Portuguese troubadouring does not take place until after Christmas Day and continues on to Three Kings Day also known as Epiphany. In Spain and many Latin American countries, gift giving is done on January 6th, while the gifts Santa Claus brings to children are opened on Christmas Day. In Italy, La Befana visits their homes on January 5th. She likes to be left a glass of wine and some antipasto, instead of Santa’s cookies and milk and the children find her gifts the next day.

I’d love to hear about your Yuletide Traditions!

Le Réveillon is our family’s (Kiffer & Argus) Christmas Tradition where we stay up on Christmas Eve way past midnight for the arrival of Père Noël” (Santa Claus) with a Christmas Eve Dinner that consists of a pretty table and multiple courses fancy meal (typically 8 courses), friends and family, and good times to make precious memories.

As always, there is much to do. And, I have given myself permission not to worry about the unwrapped presents, cookies that need to be made, and calling on friends and family. I have more than twelve more days! And sometime in the new year of 2025, I am going to celebrate Jolabokaflod. – Kiffer

We would love to hear about your holiday traditions!

Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays and Yuletide Greetings!

We will start posting our Twelve Days of Christmas articles starting on December 26th.
December 23, 2024
Cover Design and the new Chanticleer Cover Design Awards (CCDAs) are open now!

Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover—Or Do!

Your Cover Deserves Recognition

Make your book *POP* and succeed in the CCDAs!

We’ve all heard the saying, but those of us in the industry know the truth: your cover only has three seconds to catch the eye of a reader. That’s right – three seconds. The cover sells the first book, but it’s the content that keeps readers coming back for more.

The Power of a Great Book Cover Design

Imagine you’re in a bookstore. You’re looking for a thriller that’ll keep you turning pages late into the night. Do you pick the book with a woman walking down a shadowy alley, or the one with a serene beach scene under a vibrant sky?

If you love suspense and intrigue, you know which one you’re looking for. If you prefer travelogues or romances, the other choice is obvious. A great book cover doesn’t just look nice – it taps into the emotions and expectations of the reader. It’s a visual cue that signals what lies within.

In today’s competitive market, first impressions matter more than ever, especially with the rapid rise of digital books. A book’s cover is the first thing potential readers see, and it’s often what makes them decide whether or not to pick up your book, click on it, or share it with others.

Best Practices for Designing an Effective Book Cover

Your cover is a visual ambassador, capturing the essence of your story and compelling potential readers to pick it up, click on it, or share it with others. A well-designed cover signals professionalism, sets expectations for your genre, and serves as a powerful marketing tool to stand out in both digital and physical spaces.

It’s not just a cover – it’s your book’s first opportunity to shine!

Consider the Genre

The first step in designing a great book cover is getting to know what your readers will be expecting. Your cover should have it’s own distinct look, but don’t be a rebel and put a cute kitten on a horror book (unless there’s blood splattered all around, of course). The cover should accurately represent the book’s content and genre to resonate with the intended audience. Pay attention to details and find elements that make clear what genre your book belong sin.

Think About the Future

If your book is the first in a series, design a cover that can be act as a template for future books. Use different colors or features that stay within the norms of the genre and connect all the books to one visual theme. The James Bond series is a great example of carrying the cover’s theme across several books. Several editions have been published, and each time the books carry a strong theme with little adjustments that hint at the plot of the book. Readers can easily see that each book belongs with the other, but they retain their individualism at the same time because the style retains a similar book.

Typography Matters

Typography can be a focal point that you can use to visually communicate emotion. Light, fluid script will be a clue for the reader that the plot will reflect the same tone. Heavy, bold script conveys a serious tone that is appropriate for stories with dangerous or important themes. And if your story takes place in a foreign land, there are several fonts that depict the writing associated with their culture. You can try using up to two different typefaces, such as a serif and sans-serif, to separate the title from the the other information on the book—the blurb, reviews, or the author name. More than that can look messy.

Avoid Clutter

Too many images, typefaces, and other information can make it difficult for the viewer to understand the cover’s core message. You want your design to immediately be understandable when someone sees the book. Clear images, readable text, and a strong layout will keep the look of your cover accessible for readers.

Use Contrast

Style can profoundly affect the effectiveness of your book cover. Using contrasting colors between the background, the imagery, and the typography will catch the attention of people looking at a row of books more effectively than a flat look with monochromatic color combinations. In the case of The Hunger Games series, the mockingbird medallion is made a stronger element by using yellow-gold, either as a background color or as the color of the medallion itself, makes the key message of the cover stand out. Mockingjay’s cover shows how a strong contrast between light and shadow cast upon the bird in flight can carry that same theme using unexpected colors that suggests a different theme for this specific book, but using the same elements lets readers know it’s part of the series.

Consider the Size

Books come in all shapes and sizes, and size matters when it comes to cover design. Your book will probably need to look good as a full size cover, a digital thumbnail, and ideally as a square or banner. Whether your book will be sold in digital, print, or audiobook formats, consider how the cover will look in different sizes and whether it’ll stand out on the shelf next to similar books in your genre. The right size can help your book feel approachable and accessible to readers.

Your book cover has three seconds to attract its reader. Three Seconds!

Capture readers with a cover that jumps out at them, intrigues them, and makes it impossible to pass by your book with these tips and you’ll find more readers pausing as they peruse the shelves. With an intriguing cover you have already gotten your foot in the door of your next committed reader!

Chanticleer Book Cover Design Awards celebrates the visual art of storytelling with

TWO NEW CIBA Award Divisions

Chanticleer is proud to announce two new CIBA Awards for Cover Design in the Fiction and Non-Fiction genres!

The first awards will be announced at the 2024 CIBA Ceremony and Banquet that will hosted on Saturday, April 5th, at the 2025 Chanticleer Authors Conference.

Click here for more information on the COVER DESIGN AWARDS for NON-FICTION works.

Click here for more information on the COVER DESIGN AWARDS for FICTION works.

Click here for more information about the Chanticleer International Book Awards program.

As always, please email info@ChantiReviews.com with any questions or suggestions!

December 17, 2024