Congratulations to Elizabeth on the grant she received from the City Artist Corps, a New York City group sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Elizabeth used the proceeds of the grant to publish NEW YORK: Give Me Your Best or Your Worst. The grant recognize the contributions of New York based artists. We couldn’t be happier for her!
You can see some of her Award Winning photography in her book Give Me Your Best or Your Worst: an Anthology and Celebration of the Big Apple, which is currently entered for competition in the Shorts Award (deadline 12/31/21).
Give Me Your Best or Your Worst features photos of and stories and writing from people such as Reed Farrel Coleman, Richie Narvaez, Barbara Krasnoff, Tom Straw, Steven Van Patten, Charles Salzberg, Marco Conelli, Randee Dawn, R.J. Koreto, Triss Stein, and, of course, Elizabeth Crowens. It’s a truly incredible portrait of Crowens’ vision of New York told in photos, fiction, and the perfect amount of poetry. You can find it here.
Crowens with Chanticleer
When not working on art photography books, Crowens writes Hollywood suspense and speculative Fiction, and her book, Silent Meridian, won first place in the Chanticleer Goethe Awards.
You can see her books reviewed by Chanticleer right here:
In addition to being a First Place Winner for the Goethe Awards, Crowens also took home a First Place Blue Ribbon for the 2020 Mark Twain Awards for her book Dear Bernie, I’m Glad You’re Dead.
Currently, she’s on the following Long Lists for the 2021 CIBAs:
Join our Newsletter and keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter as all authors continue to advance, and stay tuned to hear more about our Shorts Awards!
Thank you for reading this Chanticleer Spotlight Article on Elizabeth Crowens.
Have a Book that deserves to be discovered? See our 24 Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards Divisions here and Editorial Book Reviews here!
The 2020 Overall Grand Prize Winner was Rebecca Dwight Bruff for her book Trouble the Water
When you’re ready,did you know that Chanticleer offers editorial services?We do and have been doing so since 2011.
Our professional editors are top-notch and are experts in the Chicago Manual of Style. They have and are working for the top publishing houses (TOR, McMillian, Thomas Mercer, Penguin Random House, Simon Schuster, etc.).
If you would like more information, we invite you to email Kiffer or Sharon at KBrown@ChantiReviews.com or SAnderson@ChantiReviews.com for more information, testimonials, and fees.
We work with a small number of exclusive clients who want to collaborate with our team of top-editors on an on-going basis.Contact us today!
Chanticleer Editorial Services also offers writing craft sessions and masterclasses. Sign up to find out where, when, and how sessions being held.
A great way to get started is with our manuscript evaluation service, with more information availablehere.
And we do editorial consultations for $75. Learn morehere.
Our 10th Anniversary Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC22) will be June 23-26, 2022, where our 2021 CIBA winners will be announced. Space is limited and seats are already filling up, so sign up today! CAC22 and the CIBA Ceremonies will be hosted at the Hotel Bellwether in Beautiful Bellingham, Wash. Sign up and see the latest updates here!
And for those who know me know that it is rare when I’m at a loss for words. Hey! No comments from the peanut gallery.
If you want to know where the term Peanut Gallery comes from scroll down to the end of this article. Love the Muppets!
I have a lot of good news to share with you!
As the 2020 Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards Blue Ribbon Winners are aware of, the shipping of the coveted blue ribbons was delayed due to our supplier’s shortage of labor and materials because of the Covid effects on businesses. The owner contacted us to tell us that they are running behind. As with many small companies, they have found themselves short-handed and the staff they have are working longer days and weekends and are working around the clock to fill their custom ribbon orders.
We, like the Blue Ribbon Winners, were anxiously awaiting the beautiful handmade custom Chanticleer Blue Ribbons to be ready for pickup from our local pacific northwest supplier. It is a woman-owned company and they have created our beautiful ribbons since we began awarding them more than a decade ago. It is a great local company in a very niche market!
Hand made here in the PNW!
FINALLY, we got the call! The handmade ribbons (all 206 of them from the Shorts winners to the Overall Grand Prize winner for Best Book) were ready to pickup last Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 5th. We got into Sharon’s mini-van and made the drive to Blaine, Wash. to pick them up. The ribbons were counted, sorted, and inspected back at our office in Bellingham by David and Hayley. By the end of the business week, the packing process had begun. Each and every CIBA ribbon is mailed, tracked, and insured by U.S. Post Priority Mail. It is quite the process.
So, YAY! Because we are busy with judging rounds for the 2021 CIBAs that will be awarded at CAC 22! And now finally get to award the 2020 CIBAs. It is about time! Right? Right! All we can do is just keep moving forward.
I want to thank each and everyone on the 2020 CIBA winners for their patience and understanding in these continuing challenging times. It is appreciated and valued more than you know by Team Chanticleer as we head into the 20th month of of the Covid pandemic. Here at Chanticleer, we learned new technologies while working remotely, learned how to use new computer applications, and are trying to work in a very deadline oriented industry. Heck, we are even receiving entries now into the 2022 CIBAs that will be awarded in 2023. It is great to be busier than ever especially in these crazy unprecedented times.
Moving on. But, I am not complaining Universe, but it is my experience is that things tend to clump.
The same day that we got the anxiously awaited call to pick up the ribbons, I, of course, also received the email from our local printer that the sixth issue of the Chanticleer Reviews magazine copies were ready to pickup. The magazine was delayed because of the printer’s mechanism for stitching the pages together was broken. The owner said he had no idea when they would receive the parts needed to fix it. However, he could have it printed if we switched to a “perfect bound” magazine. I said, “Sure!” But, of course, (yes, using that term again!), it wasn’t that simple. The gutters, margins, spine design, and spacing had to be reworked in InDesign. So, we pivoted and reworked the layout. Our printer printed the pages but had to have another printer do the binding. Seven weeks later than scheduled, we have the magazine in hand.
The silver lining is that we really do like the perfect bound look even if it costs more. We love the new look! However, it does mean that we need to add twenty more pages to future issues. Below is a screen shot of the cover featuring the awesome author Ann Charles! I’ll do another post on the magazine and how you can get your copy—print or e-zine.
Next, there is the new perch for the Roost, a community for Chanticleer Authors to connect with each other. This one is much more interactive and way easier to use than the previous perch (ahem, application). We so appreciate each and every Chanticleer that supported us during the trial run and helped to get the new Roost up and running (two weeks ago). Did I mention clumping?
The new Roost can be accessed on your mobile phone, on tablets, laptops, and desk computers. AND all the videos from the VCAC 20 and VCAC 21 recordings of the live sessions are available at the new perch. We started the BETA Roost the summer of 2019. Trying out different things. Seeing how things work. Kicking the tires, so to speak. Argus Brown (the rooster who makes all the tech stuff happen at Chanticleer) was researching systems, writing code, and doing all of the other mysterious digital stuff that he does so that we could have an online community. Many Chanticleerians had requested the need for one. They want to keep the conversations going after gathering at conferences and book events.
The plan was to debut the Roost at CAC 20, but then Covid struck and the world changed. We were all trying to adjust, trying to pivot, trying to figure what we needed to do. Sharon and I are were hoping that by July 2020, we could host the Chanticleer Authors Conference in real life (IRL). Then, we thought perhaps Labor Day weekend in September. Alas, this was not to be with the rising Covid numbers.
In late July, we decided that we would need to have the conference virtually and award the 2019 CIBA winners. September 8th, 2020 was determined to be the starting date since we knew no one would want to spend Labor Day weekend zooming. The learning of Zooming, Audio, recording, coordinating with presenters across multiple time zones commenced. VCAC 20 was deemed a great success with Robert Dugoni, Scott Steindorff, J.D. Barker, Paul Cutsinger, head of ALEXA (yes, that Alexa), and other stellar presenters and the wonderful interactive Chanticleerians participating and connecting. It was even written up in The WRITERmagazine as one of the best virtual conferences to have attended in 2020.
Back to the Roost. So, we moved the debut of the Roost to CAC 21. Certainly, we could have CAC 21 in April IRL (In Real Life). Alas, alas, it wasn’t to be. So, we pivoted again. Cathy Ace, international bestselling crime writer, was our featured presenter for VCAC 21. And she was outstanding! We have all the recordings of VCAC21 available to view on The Roost.
Back to the Roost! Our Roost Team kept trying to find a new and easier platform that will facilitate connection and interaction between members so that we all can learn from each other. And we did! It took a while and a lot of testing, but we all agreed on the new platform that is now hosting The Roost! We have Topics, Events, Interests, Groups, and Workshops on Writing Craft, Marketing Tips, Author Events, and Happy Hours and Coffee Klatches. There are even Write-Ins! Because every writer needs a place to perch!
We will post another article on The Roost soon! We’ve got Chanticleer Blue Ribbons to package and mail!
By the way, October 31st CIBA Submission Deadlines are for the OZMA Book Awards for Fantasy Fiction, the Paranormal Book Awards for Supernatural Fiction, and the Global Thriller Book Awards for High Stakes Thrillers.
More news to come. There is a lot more to share! Save the Dates for CAC 22 – our 10th conference! April 7 – 10, 2022.
Keep on Creating! Kiffer
As promised – the origins of the term Peanut Gallery – from Wikipedia –
A peanut gallery was, in the days of vaudeville, a nickname for the cheapest and ostensibly rowdiest seats in the theater, the occupants of which were often known to heckle the performers.[1] The least expensive snack served at the theatre would often be peanuts, which the patrons would sometimes throw at the performers on stage to convey their disapproval. Phrases such as “no comments from the peanut gallery” or “quiet in the peanut gallery” are extensions of the name.
CHANTICLEER 10 Question Author Interview Series with
Dr. Janice Ellis
Dr. Ellis has written columns for newspapers, magazines, radio commentary, presented internationally across the U.S., and now online. For the past 30 years she analyzes educational, political, social and economic issues across race, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status. She continues her important work in these challenging times.
Dr. Janice Ellis, columnist, author, journalist, radio commentator, and advocate of social justice and Women’s Rights.
Dr. Janice Ellis entered her book From Liberty to Magnolia In Search of the American Dreaminto the 2018 Journey Book Awards for Narrative Non-fiction, a division of the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs). Her stellar memoir was awarded the 2018 Journey Book Awards Grand Prize. The award winning memoir is a truly remarkable book telling what it is like to be Black in America.
We are honored that Dr. Ellis presented The Critical Role Authors Play in Fostering a Better Society at Chanticleer’s first virtual conference, VCAC20. Her presentation was inspirational and thought provoking. Janice S. Ellis has been an author for over 30 years and has written a column for newspapers and radio throughout her career about education, politics, race and socioeconomics. Janice Ellis holds a Ph.D. in Communication Arts, and two Master of Arts degrees, one in Communications Arts and a second in Political Science, all from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.
Dr. Ellis is one of our favorite authors—and truly a joy to get to know. She reminds us that the pen is mightier than the sword!
Now, let’s get better acquainted with Dr. Janice Ellis.
Chanticleer: Tell us a little about yourself: How did you start writing?
Dr. Ellis: A native daughter of Mississippi, I grew up and came of age during the height of the Civil Rights Movement and the Women’s Liberation Movement. Born and reared on a small cotton farm, I was influenced by two converging forces that would set the course of my life. The first was the fear and terror felt by blacks because of their seeking to exercise the right to vote along with other rights and privileges afforded whites. The second was my love of books, the power of words.
I began writing as a radio commentator for a large radio station right out of graduate school and continued to write commentary for newspapers and radio throughout my career. I also published articles professionally in trade journals. I began writing because I thought the need was great for a good political columnist to help the public better understand those issues that affected their daily lives. A good columnist can impact policy and help shape public opinion to support what Aristotle calls the “greater good.”
Chanticleer: When did you realize that you were an author?
Dr. Ellis: I gave it a fleeting thought when I was exempted from an English composition course as a freshman in College after writing some essays during a summer program. But the desire to become an author became more compelling in graduate school in my preparations to become a columnist/commentator. Personal and professional experiences inspired me to become an author of books. From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream is my first book.
Chanticleer: That book has won quite a few awards! In fact, it took home the CIBA 2018 Grand Prize in the Journey Awards for Memoir and Narrative Non-Fiction, From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream. I hear it is collecting other awards, as well. Congratulations!
Dr. Ellis: I wrote my book because there are lessons from my life journey through poverty, racism, sexism, and sexual harassment that I believe can directly benefit girls and women, blacks, and other minorities. It addresses many of the issues around racial and gender inequality that America continues to grapple with.
Chanticleer: Thank you for being a graceful and astute voice of authenticity in our world today. We need you! Do you find yourself following the rules or do you like to make up your own rules?
Dr. Ellis: I basically follow the rules. I have a strong sense of wanting to do the right thing. When that becomes difficult, I still figure out, follow my own path to achieve goals and desired results.
Chanticleer: What do you do when you’re not writing? Tells us a little about your hobbies.
Dr. Ellis: I love reading the Bible and religious commentary, and political and historical nonfiction. When not reading I like to play scrabble and other word games. I also enjoy watching cable news, dramas, thrillers, espionage and action films, some romance and comedy shows. Walking, gardening and fishing are rejuvenating hobbies that I find very fulfilling and satisfying.
Helpful Sources from Dr. Ellis:
* Dr. Ellis writes about her life experiences and enjoys sharing about how she navigated common challenges.
* The writing craft books that have helped her the most are William Zinsser, On Writing Well and Writing About Yourself * The books about the business of writing that have been most beneficial are Writer’s Digest, Literary Agents, How to Write a Book Proposal, and How to Market Your Book
Chanticleer: What are you working on now? What can we look forward to seeing next from you?
Dr. Ellis: I am working on two shorter books, Realizing Your Dream: A Handbook Based on Experience, and Overcoming Racism and Sexism During Your Lifetime. Hopefully, one of the above books to be released later this year.
Chanticleer Aside: Dr. Ellis won the Nellie Bly Grand Prize for her upcoming journalistic book, Shaping How Public Opinion: How Real Advocacy Journalism Should be Practiced.
Chanticleer: How structured are you in your writing work?
Dr. Ellis: I have always wanted to be able to write something every day but have yet to achieve that goal. The need to write fresh content on my website has helped the frequency of writing short pieces. In working on books, I usually write until I cannot write anymore, sometimes for 10-14 hours segments. What I have learned that if I stop in mid-sentence, it is easy for me to resume when I begin again.
Chanticleer: J.D. Barker does that, too. It’s good advice. How do you approach your writing day?
Dr. Ellis: For a long time, I would begin writing as soon as I awaken and get a cup of coffee. Happily, now, I write anytime during the day. I sit at my computer and open to a blank page, if I am beginning a new article or chapter, it motivates me to begin putting my thoughts down. If I am in the middle of a piece, I pick up where the incomplete sentence stops.
Chanticleer: Name five of your favorite authors and describe how they influence your work.
Dr. Ellis: Former President, Jimmy Carter. The simplicity, yet elegant way he writes about his life, his work, and his values in making things better for humanity. Former President, Barack Obama. His vivid way of writing about his life and the American experience and his vision, hope, and optimism for a better America. Maya Angelou. Her cinematic description and compelling call of attention to the not-so-flattering aspects of humanity and highlighting the need for us to change and move toward our higher selves. Robert Ludlum. His command of the intrigue and complexity of characters and storyline. Kings Solomon and David. For the power, poetry, and wisdom in their books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Psalms.
Chanticleer: Great choices! What areas in your writing are you most confident in? What advice would you give someone who is struggling in that area?
Dr. Ellis: I think I am most confident in my ability to analyze and assess a situation and put forth a thoughtful perspective; and the ability to help the reader see, feel, and experience what I am writing about as if they are there with me.
“You must love the craft of writing. It is a craft. You must be dedicated and believe that what you have to say will make a difference. Be willing to write, re-write, and re-write again and again until your words convey the meaning that is intended.” – Dr. Ellis
Chanticleer: Do you ever experience writer’s block? What do you do to overcome it?
Dr. Ellis: Yes, usually a few days after I have completed a writing project. If I must begin a new article or chapter, I pull up a blank page. Sooner or later, I feel compelled to fill the page with words that make sense, that are impactful. Sometimes, I do some activity totally unrelated to writing and find that something occurs to make me begin writing.
Chanticleer: What excites you most about writing?
Dr. Ellis: Sharing thoughts, ideas, experiences, and hopefully solutions that will enlighten, inspire, enable, and encourage someone.
Chanticleer: I admire how your motives are outward – helping others understand their world and how to navigate it. Well done! What do you do in your community to improve/promote literacy?
Dr. Ellis: I donate copies of my book to libraries, and give signed copies to individuals. I speak about the power of reading and try to encourage children and young people within my sphere of influence to read, encouraging them to read to others at every opportunity.
Chanticleer: I love that answer. Give us your best marketing tips, what’s worked to sell more books, gain notoriety, and expand your literary footprint.
Dr. Ellis: I think each author should do a book tour, with TV and radio appearances, if possible. Even if you cannot physically travel from city to city, technology today can allow you to do a lot from our home our local studios.
Also, make use of social media. Posting frequently on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and blog posts are a must. Speaking engagements are great to keep your book relevant.
Chanticleer: Especially true today in the face of a global pandemic. What are you working on now? What can we look forward to seeing next from you?
Dr. Ellis: I am working on two shorter books, Realizing Your Dream: A Handbook Based on Experience, and Overcoming Racism and Sexism During Your Lifetime. Hopefully, one of the above books to be released later this year.
Chanticleer: We will be looking for those! Who’s the perfect reader for your book?
Dr. Ellis: Teenage girls, women, minorities who are trying to navigate racism and sexism in reaching and fulfilling their purpose, goals, and dreams in life. And, for all who are concerned about America’s future and who want America’s children of all colors to realize their full potential. It will inform the racists and non-racists, the sexists and non-sexists. It will inspire and empower men and women who are in positions that can make a difference and have the will to do so—parents, teachers, policymakers, social and human rights activists, journalists, business leaders, faith leaders, and many others. Caring Americans, working together, can break the chains of racism and sexism that keep America bound.
Chanticleer: I believe it! What is the most important thing a reader can do for an author?
Dr. Ellis: Write a review and express what the book means to them. Recommend the book to family, friends, and colleagues.
Chanticleer: As always, it is a pleasure spending some time with you today. Be well and keep the good work coming!
If you would like to know more about Dr. Janice Ellis – make sure you pick up her memoir, From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream and her soon to be published ground- breaking work Shaping Public Opinion: How Real Advocacy Journalism Should Be Practiced at your local book store – or other retailers
Also, be sure to like and follow Dr. Ellis on her social media sites:
Let me introduce you to J.I. Rogers, one of our favorite authors here at Chanticleer Reviews!
In 2019, J.I. Rogers was awarded the 2018 GRAND PRIZE in the Chanticleer International Book Awards for CYNUS – our Science-Fiction Division for her Space Opera, The Korpes Files, a cyber-punk sci-fi, dystopian space opera, and nothing has been the same since.
We asked J.I. Rogers to take part in our 10-Question Author Interview series to share with us her journey of becoming a CYGNUS Grand Prize winner.
Chanticleer: Tell us a little about yourself, how did you start writing?
Rogers: Well, the biography on my website starts off like this: I am a green-eyed, ginger-haired, caffeine addict who is currently working on The Korpes File Series.
When not acting as a conduit for the voices in my head or pursuing something artistic, I’m a poster child for Generation X and the Queen of most boondoggles that lead to eye-strain and tinnitus.
Ancient History: I’ve always had a love of science fiction, mythological, and fantasy themes. I attended Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design back in the 80s, studying film animation when it was still a college, and I have been working as a professional artist for over thirty years. My love of writing dates back just as far as my artistic ventures. I even had a small Fantasy APA/Fanzine called “Northwest Passages.”
Recent History: The Korpes File Series is my first foray into writing science fiction. The core concept for the series came to me thirty years ago, and it was then that I began the process of world-building. In that time the idea behind my series has shifted from being hard science fiction to space opera, to finally come to rest in the middle as a hybrid between dystopian and science fiction.
How did I start writing? In 2012, I was working as a concept wrangler for a couple of game design studios and was put in charge of world development for one of the projects. I wrote two cut-scenes based on situations that the players would encounter as an experiment. When that project concluded, the short stories were released back to me, and the encouragement I received was what prompted me to continue writing. I decided to expand on what I’d created and that’s when the Muse struck. NaNoWriMo followed a week later, and at the end of that November I had enough core material to know where I was going with my story.
Chanticleer: Rock on #NaNoWriMo! When did you realize that you were an author?
Rogers: Honestly? The first time it sank in was when someone had purchased a paperback copy of The Korpes File then traveled to meet me and asked if I would sign it.
Chanti: That always feels good, right? And now, you have the second in series! Please tell us more about the genre shifts that your work has made and what led you to write in this genre?
Rogers: The closest definition I could come up with for The Korpes File Series would be that it’s a blend of dystopian and science fiction elements. As I said earlier, the series began as hardcore science fiction then transitioned to Space Opera and then into what is now dystopian with science fiction elements with a healthy dollop of space opera mixed in as well. I’m a fan of character-driven plot. What led me to write in this genre? My Muse kept sending me love notes in the form of characters quotes and world-building concepts.
Chanti: I love it when that happens. Do you find yourself following the rules or do you like to make up your own rules?
Rogers: Life rules? I’m unconventional, but I’ve managed to get away with things thus far by waving the ‘eccentric artist’ banner over my head. In writing? I follow the rules in non-dialogue portions of my writing, mostly (I do use Oxford commas, adjectives, and past tense when appropriate). The only place you’ll see me play fast and loose is in dialogue; this flexibility allows characters to sound unique.
Nash’s glasses
Chanti: How do you come up with your ideas for a story?
Rogers: I find inspiration via many portals. I’ve discovered that downtempo psy-bient electronica, industrial, and angsty bands from the late 90s and early 2000s inspire my dystopian Muse. My Pinterest folder is bursting with images on everything from flora and fauna to human culture, science, geology, tech, space… You get the idea. I also save links to new and emerging technology there. Even the characters in my story have suggested elements to me… when they go off-road.
(Chanti: I think Pyewacket and Tannith have to take some credit here, too, don’t you?!)
Chanti: Name five of your favorite authors and describe how they influence your work.
Rogers: My list is eclectic and includes artists: Jaime Hernandez – I’ve been a fan of Jaime for over thirty years. He and his brothers have demonstrated time and time again that you can tell a provocative, epic story with dimensional characters using both words and images. Love & Rockets is a masterpiece and I aspire to create something as beautiful.
Winner of the 2014 LA Times Book Prize! Image from the Publisher.
Barbara Hambly – While her storylines are great it was Barbara’s characters that spoke to me, and they grounded me into every event in the plot. I have re-read certain books just to re-experience these ‘old friends.’ When I finally decided to write, I made a point of finding the personality touchstones in all of my protagonists and antagonists.
Neil Gaiman – There’s a definite ‘other-worldly’ quality to his work; it’s like he exists somewhere between here and the twilight realm of Faerie and can translate that experience back. While I was designing aspects of Tamyrh and the aliens that hide in plain sight, I reflected on Mr. Gaiman’s “Sandman” series and allowed the ambiance to run its course.
James S.A. Corey – He recently displaced my favorite go-to for science fiction for the simple reason that he’s created a modern dystopian sci-fi epic that hasn’t fallen into the usual pitfalls of mocking itself or weighing itself down with unnecessary angst. If I want to escape my world but stay in the mood to write, I read Mr. Corey’s work or catch an episode of “The Expanse.” I don’t know if I’d call him an influence, rather a reminder that dystopian sci-fi can be done well.
Philip K. Dick – Our styles are different, but we definitely gravitate toward the same themes; his work lit a fire under my Muse back in high school. I’d like to add something about film here. I read Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep before I saw the film Blade Runner, but the latter was what firmly cemented the love of noir, dystopian sci-fi in my soul. It was one of the first sci-fi films I’d seen that didn’t inject ‘comic relief buffoonery’ or ‘cute fuzzy creatures’ in order to expand its appeal. Alien, Logan’s Run, and 2001: A Space Odyssey are other fine examples that inspire.
Chanti: Give us your best marketing tips, what’s worked to sell more books, gain notoriety, and expand your literary footprint.
Rogers: Honestly, I haven’t reached the point where I’m selling millions of books; part of that may be due to my advertising budget, which is microscopic. This advice is aimed at those like me. I maintain an active presence on social media (the usual free ones – Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) and I operate a Patreon page, where potential readers and fans can find out what I’m up to, ask me questions, get special offers and swag, etc. My Patreon page is now at the point where it covers my website fees as well as the production costs of book-related items like the limited-run character sketchbook.
I owe my modest notoriety as an author to the fantastic people who interact with me, both online and in real life. They have acted as my ‘street team’ and encouraged their friends to buy my books. I estimate that 70% of my sales are due to their efforts and I’m very grateful… now to find a way to get everyone to leave reviews too.
If you’re on a tight budget like me, my advice is:
Share posts with other authors and leave comments
Support your creative community
Create engaging content
Leave reviews
Shamelessly promote others
Chat with fans, and
Be positive without looking for direct evidence of karmic return. In other words, treat people the way you’d like to be treated. This seems to be working for me.
Also – treat your author time on social media like a job or it’ll become a time sink and you’ll not get any writing done.
Chanti: That’s great advice! What is the most important thing a reader can do for an author?
Rogers: I have two answers to this question.
A). If they enjoyed the book, then I’d encourage them to leave a review saying so. B) If they didn’t like the book, I’d ask that they offer some feedback via the author’s website. Simply saying it was bad isn’t helpful; no one improves without constructive criticism.
Chanti: Do you ever experience writers’ block? What do you do to overcome it?
“Emerging Words” (which is a 18″ x 24″ artwork made from a mold of my face, silk, and pages from the proof copy of The Korpes File).
Rogers: My writing Muse sometimes takes an impromptu vacation and leaves me home, staring at the screen. When that happens, I’ll swap over to another project – usually art. Right now, I’ve got two illustration commissions on the go as well as Patreon projects. If that fails, there’s always gardening or my secret vice… MMORPGs like World of Warcraft.
Chanti: I think dialogue is where it’s at as far as character development – for sure. What do you do when you’re not writing? Tells us a little about your hobbies.
Rogers: I think my hubby would argue that I’m always writing as my ‘office’ pins down territory around the house depending on my mood. I draw, paint, sculpt, and garden (weather dependent on that last one – we get a lot of snow in the winter).
Chanti: Thank you, J.I. Rogers, for sharing your author journey with us. I am looking forward to seeing you at the next Chanticleer Authors Conference.
J. I. Rogers won the CYGNUS 2018 Grand Prize because The Korpes Files rock! And also, because she dared to enter the work into the CYGNUS division of the Chanticleer International Book Awards…
In other words, if you don’t enter, you will never know how your work stacks up against the other entries.
If you want a shot at the HONOR of CYGNUS SciFi Book Awards for 2020, don’t delay, enter the CYGNUS B00k Awards today!
The Cygnus Book Awards recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in the genre of Science Fiction, Steampunk, Alternative History, and Speculative Fiction. The Cygnus Awards is a genre division of Chanticleer International Book Awards (The CIBAs).
Chanticleer International Book Awards is looking for the best books featuring space, time travel, life on other planets, parallel universes, alternate reality, and all the science, technology, major social or environmental changes of the future that author imaginations can dream up for the CYGNUS Book Awards division. Hard Science Fiction, Soft Science Fiction, Apocalyptic Fiction, Cyberpunk, Time Travel, Genetic Modification, Aliens, Super Humans, Interplanetary Travel, and Settlers on the Galactic Frontier, Dystopian, our judges from across North America and the U.K. will put them to the test and choose the best among them.
Chanticleer Book Reviews & Media, L.L.C. retains the right to not declare “default winners.” Winning works are decided upon merit only. Please visit our Contest Details page for more information about our writing contest guidelines.
CBR’s rigorous writing competition standards are why literary agencies seek out our winning manuscripts and self-published novels. Our high standards are also why our reviews are trusted among booksellers and book distributors.
Please do not hesitate to contact Info@ChantiReviews.com about any questions, concerns, or suggestions about the Chanticleer International Book Awards. Your input and suggestions are important to us.
Click here for more information about the Chanticleer Book Reviews International Book Awards.
I do hope that this email finds you well and safe during this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic that is presenting new challenges on many fronts: globally, nationally, and locally.
If you are like me, you found yourself this past week checking on loved ones, procuring supplies for self-isolation, reading the latest news and updates on the coronavirus, and scrambling around to try to batten down the hatches for the approaching storm along with trying to make some sort of sense out of what is happening on different fronts.
We want to extend our concern and support to you, dear Chanticleer Community. We consider you our friends and colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these trying times.
While Chanticleer Reviews is based out of a small corner in the great Pacific Northwest, in Bellingham, Wash., our community is indeed global. Chanticleerians hail from the fifty states and territories of the USA, Canada, England, Australia, Holland, Germany, Spain, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Africa, Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, Denmark, Hungary, Italy, and the list goes on. The Chanticleer Community is truly global. We are all in this together. And together we are strong.
Please know that the Chanticleer Team of professional reviewers, top-notch editors, picky book awards judges, bloggers, graphic artists, SEO and Meta-Data specialists, website masters, and others all have worked as telecommuters for years (as is now standard for many in the publishing industry) and we are ready to serve you.
As for our small admin team and student interns, we began working from our homes starting on Sunday, March 8th for the protection of our small staff and to do our part to prevent the spread of the virus. The university and the local college closed on Wednesday, March 11th sending most students back to their homes. Now that we are all working from our respective home offices for a while, the best way to reach us is by the emails listed at the close of this post.
By now, many of you know that the Chanticleer Authors Conference that was scheduled for mid-April has been rescheduled to be held on September 4-6, 2020 at the beautiful Hotel Bellwether, Bellingham. The good news is that ALL of the keynote presenters and faculty have confirmed to present and teach for the new dates. CAC20 is now a little more than five months in the future and we are looking forward to it immensely!
Meanwhile, the Spring edition of the Chanticleer Reviews magazine is about ready to publish. Our professional reviewers and editors are staying busy.
We have added new divisions to the 2020 Chanticleer International Book Awards to accommodate the increasing number of entries submitted. Judges are busy with the difficult responsibility of deciding which of the 2019 CIBA finalists will advance to the next level. We are shooting for early May to make announcements regarding the 2019 CIBAs. We will keep you posted and updated as soon as we hear anything. Promise!
Since 2010, Chanticleer has grown authentically and organically with your support and patronage. We will continue to post our informative blogs on writing craft, marketing tips and tools, the latest in publishing technology for authors and publishers in this new era of content creation for storytelling in all its forms.
We look forward to working with you on your writing projects in the 2020’s and beyond. Please look for our blog posts, emails, videos, podcasts, and social media postings. If you haven’t subscribed to our free e-news, we invite you to do so. Also, we are starting a column on the Chanticleer Reviews website to promote your good news, book launches, and promotions. We are currently reaching out to online Book Clubs and will have more news about that. So, please stay tuned!
We encourage you to stay in contact with each other and with us during this stint of practicing physical distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Let us know how you are doing, what is going on where you live, how are you progressing on your writing projects.
I invite each of you to join us at The Roost – a private online Chanticleer Community for writers and authors and publishing professionals.
We are active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can find us by using our social media handle @ChantiReviews
Minimize physical contact! Maximize social connecting!
Bookchain® is a brand-new platform bringing a refreshingly flexible way to publish and distribute ebooks, based on blockchain technology.
Through smart contracts, the platform enables the configuration of the security, trace ability, attribution, and distribution settings of an e-book.
Bookchain® was specifically designed to fit the different needs of all those involved in the digital publishing industry. They created it to be fully adaptable to the reality of publishers, indie publishers and self-publishing authors.
And now Bookchain publishes digital magazines on the blockchain!
Chanticleer Reviews magazine is the first magazine to be published on the blockchain!
What is so important about blockchain?
Blockchain is the foundation of a New Era of the Internet —
“Publishing is at the epicenter of digital disruption.”Paul Michelman, MIT & MIT Sloan.
Simon-Pierre Marion, CEO of Scenarex and its Bookchain division that is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, has reported to me that
The Chanticleer Reviews magazine is the very first magazine to be published on the blockchain and using blockchain technology.
An impromptu celebration for this historic news in publishing!
[Editorial Note: Even magazines published about the blockchain are not on the blockchain. They are available to download, but they are not available on different devices like our magazine is the one of Bookchain. – kb]
The Colibrio Reading System that is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, has made this possible with their new innovative Reading System SDK, built on the Modern Web Platform. It is a web first engine, developed using 2019 (and moving into 2020) technologies and practices and built to support new upcoming standards, as well as the current publishing formats. Bookchain uses the Colibrio Reading System.
“The Colibrio Reader focuses on preserving authors, publishers and designers original visual style. It is the only Digital Reading System which can configure detailed rules for pagination to avoid orphans, widows, split boxes and much more, regardless of document structure and semantics.”
We are going to have our past digital issues of the Chanticleer Reviews magazine published on Bookchain’s platform along with new issues.
Our advice? Set up your account today with Bookchain!
Don’t worry! Bookchain makes it easy.
What makes Bookchain’s e-pubs so different?
Their e-zines and e-pubs are downloadable on any device! You are not locked into a single device. You alternate devices. Read on your smart phone. Read on desktop. Read on your laptop when you are on the go. The freedom of reading your ebooks on different devices–because it is will be in YOUR LIBRARY that is stored in the super secure blockchain by Bookchain.
Your library — digitized and portable!
The first four things to know and understand about the Bookchain selling platform for digital publishing are:
You do NOT need cryptocurrency (aka Bitcoin, etc.) to sign up.
You will NOT be paid in cryptocurrency (unless you want to) if you sell your books on the Bookchain platform.
It is endorsed and underwritten by the Canada Media Fund, NRC, and the Canada Ministry of Economie.
It is secure!
As an author, the blockchain provides a way for you to securely publish your book andkeep control of your digital rights. It allows your published book to be treated more like a physical book, allowing your readers to own the digital book forever (as opposed to being allowed to checkout via Kindle).
Thank you, Simon-Pierre Marion and your team at Bookchain, for making this possible. We are excited to be a pioneer in this new age of digital publishing.
Chanticleer Reviews has always been steeped in technology—thanks to our technology wizard and COO, Argus Brown. Our “under-the-hood technology” has propelled Chanticleer Reviews “to the ranks of the premier, respected trade reviews in the industry” as quoted from award-winning author, Michael Hurley. Chanticleer Reviews has received the Technology Alliance Group award for our technology platform that helps to increase the digital footprint on the Internet of our reviews and of the Chanticleer International Book Awards winning titles and their authors.
And that is why we are honored to have Bookchain as an affiliate of Chanticleer Reviews & Media. It is a perfect pairing of content and technology!
Here are some handy links to articles that have been published on the Chanticleer website if you would like to read more about blockchain and the BookChain E-book and magazine distribution platform.
We are excited (thrilled to be truthful) to announce that the Chanticleer Reviews magazine Fall Issue 2019 has been printed and available for purchase in print and digital e-zine!
The first reviews are of the magazine are in!
“The new glossy Chanticleer Reviews magazine looks great—keep up the great work!” – Sarah Stamey, author of the award-winning Ariadne Connection.
“I just got my copies [Chanticleer Reviews magazine] today. They are fantastic!” –Peter Greene, author of The Adventures of Jonathan Moore historical fiction series.
“Ah, I think I am going to cry. Thank you. The review of The Jøssing Affair is amazing! Merci bien.” – J. L. Oakley, award-winning author of historical fiction.
“The magazine looks great!” – J.D. Barker, Master of Suspense and international best-selling author of the Fourth Monkee Thriller series
“I got my magazines…the magazine looks great!” – Ron Yates, CIBA Grand Prize winner for his Bill Battles series and Dean of the College of Media and Professor Emeritus of Journalism at the University of Illinois.
“This is so exciting to see the Chanticleer review of The Last Outrageous Woman in print in such a gorgeous magazine. Thank you! – Jessica H. Stone
The magazine is a glossy full vivid color publication that is locally printed here in Washington State with the latest in printing technology.
The Fall Issue features:
A “tells all” interview with J.D. Barker, the international bestselling suspense author
Tips for Potent Dialogue by Jessica Page Morrell, Top-tiered Editor
Horoscopes for Authors by Carolyn Leeper
Photos from Chanticleer Authors Conference 2019
Showcasing of the 2018 CIBA Grand Prize Winners and First Place Winners for all 16 divisions
An in-depth interview with Ronald Yates, a former foreign correspondent for theChicago Tribuneand Professor Emeritus of Journalism at the University of Illinois where he was also the Dean of the College of Media and 2018 CIBA Grand Prize winner for Best Book (and series), The Billy Battles series.
BEST INTRODUCTORY DEAL – Subscribe for ALL FOUR ISSUES (the current Fall Issue, Winter, Spring, and Summer issues) and you will also receive the digital access codes for each of the quarterly e-zines for only $48 dollars – including postage for shipping within the USA and remember FREE access to the digital editions.
We will email you the code once we receive your annual subscription order for $48 for 4 quarterly issues starting with FALL 2019 (The special introductory rate includes postage within the USA and Free Digital Downloads).
Don’t miss an issue! Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer issues of the Chanticleer Reviews magazine! Subscribe today!
This introductory offer will end soon…Don’t delay!
Each issue of the Chanticleer Reviews Quarterly magazine will have a section dedicated to the Chanticleer Author Event Calendar! Each event listed will also be promoted on Facebook and Twitter prior to the listed event date.
These special ad rates are for Chanticleer AUTHORS only so they can promote their:
Books & Author Brand
Launch Dates of Titles
Author Events & Book Signings
Virtual Social Media Events
Promotions and Sales Events for Titles
New Releases with COVER and Order Info
Non-profit Book Events Participation
Sneak Previews
The Author Event ads in the magazine are 1/6 of a page and Horizontal Format 4.75” w x 2.25” h and may include covers, logo, or graphic. Full Color.
These Author Event Calendar Spots are $50 without links in the digital format or $75 with links in the Digital Format. The spots are limited. Don’t Delay.
Get Your Chanticleer Reviews magazine in time for the Holidays!
You know you want one for your coffee table, your writing lair, and buy five copies for your mother (hat-tip to Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show’s “Cover of the Rolling Stone”).
The clock is ticking… you’re working on a deadline while your husband is across town, picking up the kids. You’ve taken the day off and gone to the cabin. You have to write that last chapter … the one that will get your work noticed, like J.D. Barker or Stephen King kind of noticed.
Then the inexplicable happens, as you type in the very last line and hit return, your screen goes black. You reach to plug in your computer, but it’s already plugged in… You jiggle the cords. You hit ESC. You hit RETURN. You unplug the thing and plug it back in again. Nothing. You do a hard reset…
This time the screen powers on and a thin line travels across the middle of it. Then words appear…
Don’t let this happen to you! Turn in your High-Stakes Thriller, your Chillers, your multiple Killers for a chance at the prize! But one thing is certain, if you don’t enter, you won’t have a chance of winning!
We also had Cybertech Thrillers and Political Thrillers such as John Trudel’sRaven’s Resurrectionand the Raven’s Series.
Here’s your assignment, if you choose to accept it…
Submit your Thrillers in the following categories by November 30, 2019, for a chance to bring home a First in Category WIN the 2019 CIBAs in Global Thrillers – or a Grand Prize – or maybe even the Overall Grand Prize!
Meet Peter Greene, CIBA Award-Winning author of High-Seas Action Adventure novels that appeals to all ages!
If you’ve ever been to a CAC (Chanticleer Authors Conference), you might recognize author Peter Greene. He’s the one that sits on the outside aisle, quiet and unassuming. Well kids, don’t be fooled! Peter has one of the best imaginations I know of—and there is a reason for his works are award-winning! You’ll just have to read on to discover it yourself!
Peter Greene took home the Goethe Book Awards Grand Prize in the 2017 CIBAs for Historical Fiction for Paladin’s War.
CIBA 2017 Goethe Book Awards Winners Joe Vitovic & Peter Greene
Chanticleer: Tell us a little about yourself: How did you start writing?
Greene: My parents were both prolific storytellers, and they were amazingly descriptive, especially my Father. He would act out the voices and mannerisms of all the people. I learned a lot from trying to outdo them. Then in high school, when I took a creative writing class, my teacher, Mrs. Beem, would just yell out something like “a story with lots of movement” or “use the words ‘freedom’ and ‘cheesecake’ in a short story” and I would just go. The other kids sat and struggled, but I already had a plot, characters, and all that in seconds. She gave me A’s all the way through.
Structure: Pantzer or Plotter?
Chanti: That sounds like a great way to be introduced to storytelling!
So just how structured are you in your writing work?
Greene: Very structured, but only in the process, not in the structure of the piece.
I first list “essentials” – just the essential things I want in the story, in no order, and some may make it in there, some may not. This way I get ideas out of my head before they are lost in the ether!
Then comes some basic research, which is ongoing through the process of course, but I just want to make sure I’m building my fiction on a solid, believable foundation.
I then outline like a madman, very detailed at times, sometimes with partial chapters written out, sometimes with crude drawings! These outlines are dozens of pages long, and I print them and literally wallpaper my office with them! The outline for Paladin’s War covered three walls in my office!
Finally, I start the actual writing, usually in chronological order, but that is a rule I break depending on my mood.
When I’m done, I have my wife read the book out loud to me so I can hear the rough spots-that is critical— I find so much that makes me cringe: from unnatural dialogue to foggy descriptions to just clunky passages. I judge a competition and this is the advice that I tell almost every beginning author who enters the contest.
Then, I send to the editor for evaluation. But all of these steps are ‘writing’ to me. And I love all of it.
Authors Who Have Influenced Your Work
Chanti: That’s a good way to approach your writing! I like the Madman Outliner… sounds like the title of your next book! Name five of your favorite authors and describe how they influence your work.
1) Kurt Vonnegut, mostly his later stuff, like Breakfast of Champions because he became so irreverent after his ‘mainstream’ success. He taught me that style can change, and be ANYTHING as long as it has something valuable to say.
2) Erma Bombeck, again showing that style, if it is true, can let you do anything. I would read her columns, and even though I was about twenty-two years old and a single man in Los Angeles when I discovered her, I identified with her message and I laughed. Her writing seems so effortless! I miss her.
4) David McCullough. This is cliché, but he makes history come alive, and his writing voice (as well as his speaking voice), is so crystal clear. No extra stuff, just the best, most important things are covered in a wonderful manner that intrigues us. He never put his opinion in his works, because he doesn’t have to. History is history, and it is interesting enough.
5) J.R.R. Tolkien because he is the best at everything: plot, character, situation, excitement, humanity, emotion, poetry, prose and adventure. I have read the Silmarillion at least ten times and Lord of Rings each year since I was fourteen. I am always amazed at the scope of his stories, and the languages – truly amazing. I have learned from him that no matter how good I think I can be at times, I am no master. He is the true master. I would never try epic fantasy because the bar has been raised so high.
About Dialogue
Chanti: Great insights – and choices! You’ve given us something to chew on. What areas in your writing are you most confident in? What advice would you give someone who is struggling in that area?
Greene: Dialogue is pretty easy and natural for me, maybe because of my theatre training. As far as advice for others who struggle with dialogue, I’d say this: if you are always looking for a witty, snappy, clever, smart ways for your characters to speak, STOP! It will all come out cliché, and no one talks in clichés. It will read like an episode of some seventies, low-budget television series. J.D. Barker said at the last CAC19 that he sits in a Starbucks, has a cup of coffee and listens to what the people around him say, and he types it into his laptop! That is brilliant. It’s natural. I tried it. It was a blast!
JD Barker presented at CAC19!
Expanding Readership and Promoting Literacy
Chanti: Ah, that’s my favorite thing to do! What do you do in your community to improve/promote literacy?
Greene: For the Adventures of Jonathan Moore series, I specifically targeted YA readers. I consciously write each book to graduate the reader from the fourth-fifth grade reading level with Warship Poseidon, to the sixth-seventh grade level with Castle of Fire, then Paladin’s War finishes on the ninth-tenth grade level. If a youngster reads all three, he jumps several reading levels! I also donate books to schools and libraries in the area and have done a few talks to writing classes.
Honestly, my book reviews from Chanticleer after my winning the Goethe award in 2018 and the (Chanticleer) review of Paladin’s War exploded my sales. I increased my sales by over 400%, so that worked for me! – Peter Greene
Marketing and Sales Tips
Chanti: That’s awesome! So, you give away books and present writing classes, what else do you do to market your books? What’s worked to sell more books, gain notoriety, and expand your literary footprint?
Greene: I don’t do enough, but when I learn something, I do it. I enter contests that are legit. Advertising can work, it just depends on finding what works for you. Honestly, my book reviews from Chanticleer after my winning the Goethe award in 2018 and the (Chanticleer) review of Paladin’s War exploded my sales. I increased my sales by over 400%, so that worked for me! You just have to try everything, meet people, and spread the word – without saying “Hey, I wrote this great book, you should read it.” Let others speak for you, and most of all, let your writing speak for you.
Let others speak for you, and most of all, let your writing speak for you. – Peter Greene
How do you separate your books in a crowded marketplace?
Chanti: That is incredible! I love that – especially how Chanticleer Reviews helped to boost your book sales by 400%! I think we need that on a t-shirt…
What is different about your series from other YA books out there?
Greene: Two things: I avoided all magic, superpowers and paranormal material. That’s all fun – but there is too much of it out there already. None of us will ever discover we have wizards or Olympians for parents or have a mystical ability. For this series, I wanted to point out that real heroes do exist, and they have throughout history.
I also decided to take it easy on the terminology and more unsavory aspects of life at sea. I’ve always loved the classic sea stories in Stevenson’s Treasure Island, Forester’s Horatio Hornblower, and O’Brian’sJack Aubrey series, but I couldn’t help thinking that for most of us, unless one had supporting texts and companion guides to get through all the jargon and technicalities, one could easily become lost-and maybe surrender to something easier to read. That would be too bad. And the things you do really need to know, well, wouldn’t it be best to learn that along with the characters? The ones that started out as land-lubbers just like you and your kids?
The Adventures of Jonathan Moore books are about one would-be hero and his friends who try to succeed using only their courage, their wits and industry alone – no magic necessary. And though I will never fill the shoes of Stevenson, Forester or O’Brian, I can attempt to follow in their footsteps.
Chanticleer: That’s great! But you never know…you may be the one to fill their shoes if “Adventures of Jonathan Moore” are any indication!
Now we would really do need to know a little bit more about when did you realize you that you were an author?
Greene: I got my degree in Theatre from Illinois State, and a playwriting professor said I had a “knack for dialogue and physical humor.” That made me continue writing. I wrote screenplays after college, and a studio exec at 20th Century Fox pulled me aside and said “you really can write, keep it up” – then years later, my first novel, Warship Poseidon won the Adventure Writers Competition’s Grandmaster award, and Clive and Dirk Cussler chose the winner. When Clive announced my name, he said “I read your book, you know. Beautifully written.” THAT made me think that maybe I have a little writing ability. So when I write, I always think “maybe Clive and Dirk will read this so it better be my best effort.”
Editor’s Note: Clive Cussler’s books have been published in more than 40 languages in more than 100 countries. They are New York Timesand international bestsellers. He has written 17 books in a row that reached the New York Times’ fiction best selling list. He is of a select group of authors to achieve this status. Cussler has also published more than 50 novels—quite the back list that keeps him on the list of richest authors in the world.
Chanticleer: Holy Moley, man! That’s Clive & Dirk Cussler! I can’t… I just need a moment… Okay then, what led you to write what you write?
Greene: I write a lot of different stuff in different genres, because, why not? The Adventures of Jonathan Moore series is YA historical fiction, and it all happened by accident. One night, as I was putting my children to bed, I realized that I was tired of reading the books available on our bookshelf. Knowing they were crazy about the Pirates of the Caribbean movie, I just said, “Tonight I’m going to tell you a story about twelve-year-old Jonathan Moore who lived in a dark and filthy alley, and how he ended up a hero on a tall sailing ship.” I kept telling a little bit each night, making it up as I went. My wife, who was listening to the stories each night, suggested that I write it as a novel. Ten years later I have three books in the series!
Chanti: And so the magic began… How do you come up with your ideas for a story?
Greene: Good question! Usually, something just clicks that I observe or realize, and off I go. For example, I was thinking about hidden social casts in America and I thought “Wow. People don’t see it, do they?” So BAM! This Sci-Fi idea hits me for a novel, the characters came quickly and then a plot and now the outline is almost finished. I’m starting it now. It’s a strong female character who uses history and propaganda to, well, you will have to read it!
Chanti: A SciFi novel! We can’t wait to read it! Are you going to enter it into the Cynus Book Awards?
Greene: Definitely!
Chanti: Thank you, Peter Greene with an “e,” and we look forward to seeing you at CAC20!
UPDATE: Dragon Speaker WON GRAND PRIZE in the CIBA 2018 OZMA Awards for Fantasy Fiction!
You may have heard of her. Elana Mugdan, author, director, channeler of all things fabulous – and most recently, the winner in Vitamin Water’s Challenge! What you may not know, Elana is also a Chanticleer-ian! We love her work as much as we love her. And we thought you might like a chance to get to know her a little more, as well. Click here to follow the link from the Today Show – Alana explaining how the Vitamin Water Challenge works.
Please enjoy and share our 10 Question Author Interview!
Chanticleer: Tell us a little about yourself: How did you start writing?
Mugdan: I started writing at a very young age. I always had a wild imagination, and there was always a story to tell. Some of my earliest – and fondest – memories are of me dictating epic fantasy adventures to my father, and him typing them out on the old family computer in the basement (while he was supposed to be doing his own work, no less). I actually wrote my first “novel” when I was just five years old. It was a story about a girl and a dragon going on a quest . . . two decades later, the story hasn’t changed. At least I’m consistent!
Chanti: That’s pretty sweet! I bet your family is very proud of you. When did you realize you that you were an author?
Mugdan: Surprisingly, it took me a long time to realize writing was my preferred method of storytelling. I floated through a number of artistic fields when I was younger, including the film industry. I focused my energy on production and worked myself to the bone for years before I realized that every time I stepped foot on someone else’s set, I was really living someone else’s dream. This wasn’t what made my heart beat – I had my own stories to tell. So I redirected my attention to my novels, and that’s when the series really took off. I’m so glad I had that moment of clarity and realized that I wanted to focus on what I truly love, which is writing.
Chanti: What led you to write in this genre?
“Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Pablo Picasso
Mugdan: Fantasy. All day, every day. I’ve loved fantasy, magic, and dragons for as long as I can remember. During my formative reading years, all my favorite series were meaty epic fantasy tales. I actually got into the Wheel of Time series even before I discovered Lord of the Rings, and that shaped my style both as a reader and a writer. There’s something beautiful about diving headlong into another world, getting lost there, going on adventures there. Those are the stories I love, and those are the stories I want to tell.
Chanti: Do you find yourself following the rules or do you like to make up your own rules?
Mugdan: I’ve never been one for rules. Picasso said it best: “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Rules exist for good reason, but it’s an artist’s job to think outside the box. If you try too hard to conform to others’ ideas of what your work should be, then you stifle your creativity and your truth. There will always be people who tell you your book is too long, or your vocabulary is too advanced for your readers, or your characters should change for the sake of marketability, or something similarly silly. Some of the best and most magical stories were ones that broke traditional boundaries, and I believe you shouldn’t be afraid to tell your tale the way it deserves to be told.
Chanti: That’s really good advice. How does being an author affect your involvement in your community?
Mugdan: It has given me a great opportunity to get out and meet new people, not only in my immediate community but across the country. I’ve made so many connections by reading excerpts from my books at local open mic nights, giving presentations at schools, and hosting events at indie bookstores and libraries. Just this past December I was lucky enough to have a stand at my town’s Winter Festival, which was an incredible experience. They invited me to read an excerpt on stage, and I met so many bright, inquisitive young readers who spoke to me about my work. I think I made a good impression on them because I actually sold out of books while there!
Chanti: Congratulations! Give us your best marketing tips, what’s worked to sell more books, gain notoriety, and expand your literary footprint.
Mugdan: I wouldn’t call myself a marketing guru by any stretch of the imagination, but I’ve learned a lot on my journey. I think the most important thing an author can do to gain notoriety is to network. Don’t be afraid to contact your local bookstore or library to see if they want to co-host an event with you – chances are they’ll be thrilled! By putting yourself out there, you get to meet new readers and allies. Try things that are beyond your comfort zone, like offering to speak about writing or publishing at a nearby school.
You can connect to young audience members this way, and inspire them to keep reading, writing, and dreaming. If you build your foundation brick by brick, one person at a time, soon you’ll start to see the fruits of your labor.
Of course, once you make these connections, you’ll need to stay in touch! Don’t discount the power of a strong, active social media presence – if people like your work, they want to know what you’re up to. Make sure you have a clean, presentable, informative website and a monthly newsletter to keep your audience up-to-date.
Chanti: I like what you’re saying. Many of us are self-described introverts. It is a challenge to get ourselves out there. But once we do, it’s so easy to let that slide. Thank you for reminding us that followup is key – and newsletters do make a difference! What are you working on now? What can we look forward to seeing next from you?
Mugdan: I’m currently putting the finishing touches on Dragon Child, Book II of The Shadow War Saga, so it’s ready for its release on May 21st of this year. Now that it’s so close to being done, I’ve also set my sights on completing the final round of edits for Book III, Dragon Blood, which will be out in February 2020. And of course, once that’s done I’ll be starting a major round of revisions on Book IV, Dragon War (slated for a tentative release date of April 2021).
While I’m not writing and editing, I’m organizing my ongoing book tour for my debut novel, Dragon Speaker. So far I’ve held events in Pennsylvania, Vermont, Kansas, Maryland, and my home state of New York. I have a number of events coming up, and I’m hoping that I can continue to gain momentum over the coming months and turn it into a trans-continental adventure!
This is what we had to say about Dragon Speaker “High fantasy that hits all the marks.” Read the review in its entirety here.
Dragon Child, Elana’s newest book due out in May has already been reviewed and ready for pre-orders. Here’s a wee glimpse “Mugdan hooks readers and does not let them go! Fantasy brilliantly told, will delight readers in the second book of The Shadow War Saga.” Read the review right here.
Chanti: Who’s the perfect reader for your book?
Mugdan: I’d recommend my series for anyone who likes epic fantasy and dragons, obviously; but beyond that, anyone who enjoys strong, spirited, and oftentimes deeply flawed characters. One of the things that irks me about traditional fantasy stories is that we see all these beautiful, perfect heroes who effortlessly triumph over their evil foes because they are so Brave and Good. To me, that doesn’t make a relatable – or interesting – character. Our flaws make us interesting, and the way we overcome our flaws is what makes a great story. Many of my characters struggle with self-image, fear, even their own morality. During the course of the series, we see them grow and we see their worldview change as they learn about acceptance, self-love, and forgiveness. These are books for people who love fantasy, but who are tired of the usual fantasy tropes we so often encounter.
Chanti: And that’s exactly why your books are so highly rated! What is the most important thing a reader can do for an author?
Mugdan: The most important thing? Buy our books! Show your support for artists and their art. The second most important thing? Rate and review! Seriously, you don’t know how much of a difference it makes. Even if it’s a short review, just a couple sentences about what you liked (or didn’t like), it helps us in terms of visibility and credibility. Reviews can be the deciding factor when a reader is deciding to take a chance on a new book. Let the world know what you thought, so you can help others discover something wonderful which they otherwise might never have found!
Chanti: Well said! What excites you most about writing?
Mudgan: I love losing myself in my own little world. In writing, you are limited only by your imagination. You can create the most beautiful places and go on the adventures you’ve always wanted to take. If reading is a personal experience, writing is even more so – you pour your heart into your work, and you discover answers to questions you weren’t even aware you’d asked. When things come together and everything in your story finally falls into place, when you finish an action-packed or emotional chapter, or when you unearth a great truth in your writing, then there’s this brilliant moment of clarity. You’re filled with a sense of achievement that you have created something unique and magnificent. And that’s a feeling worth living for.
Chanti: Elana, it’s been a pleasure. Thank you for sharing your journey and wisdom with us!
Now it’s our turn. Do you like what you’ve read? Would you like to follow Elana Mugdan and see how she completes her Vitamin Water Challenge? Or where she’ll be next in her book tour? Please follow these link and sign up for her newsletter.
Dr. Ellis: I donate copies of my book to libraries, and give signed copies to individuals. I speak about the power of reading and try to encourage children and young people within my sphere of influence to read, encouraging them to read to others at every opportunity.
The clock is ticking… you’re working on a deadline while your husband is across town, picking up the kids. You’ve taken the day off and gone to the cabin. You have to write that last chapter … the one that will get your work noticed, like 
