What are your current favorite top 2 picks from the Chanticleer Collection?
Chanticleer Reviews Staff Picks are books reviewed by Chanticleer and selected by Chanticleer team members as their current favorite reads.
First up,we have picks from Lacey Longpré. Lacey began as an intern for Chanticleer several years ago while attending Western Washington University. She has since become a valuable asset to the team as a proofreader, helping to organize our annual conference, staff reviewer, administrative assistant, social media pixie, and community relations.
Lacey picked 2 titles from among our many reviews and tells us why she liked them.
Fragments of Your Soul by E.S. Erbsland
I’ve always been a fan of alternative worlds with mysterious creatures. Erbsland does a fantastic job of building the world Arvid Bergen is thrusted into; there are shapeshifters, runes, and a mysterious god who seems untrustworthy. The universe is really strange and brilliant, and the vivid description guided me through the plot and kept me wanting more. I can’t wait for the next book in The Mirror Worlds Series!!
As an aspiring memorist, this narrative hit close to home for me. I’m not a sexual abuse survivor, but I can relate to using books and music as a way to escape from a problem, or if I just need to forget about my emotions. Books and writing have always been a safe place for me. The story is touching and courageous, and I felt a deep connection to the author as she took the reader through her journey of recovery. A beautiful narrative, highly recommended.
We will promote the top ten favorite books from the Chanticleer Reviews Collection, along with their covers and book links, that received the most recommendations on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 and send the list out to our entire e-news subscriber list and post to our social media platforms!
Don’t delay! Anyone can tag her/his favorite current top picks–just be sure to tag us so that we can include your pick in the tally.
“Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.” — President George Washington
“With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, an d for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.”— President Abraham Lincoln 1865
“Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.” — President Theodore Roosevelt
“Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official.” –President Theodore Roosevelt
“In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” — President Franklin D. Roosevelt
“Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.” —President Franklin D. Roosevelt
“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” — President John F. Kennedy
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States in remembrance of the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. It is observed the last Monday of May.
Originally, there were two different holidays celebrated by the North and the South to honor their Civil War dead in 1868. After World War One, the two holidays were combined to honor all Americans who died while in the military service.
Veterans Day, which honors all U.S. veterans, is celebrated annually on November 11th–the day that WWI officially ended. V-E Day (Victory in Europe), May 8th, 1945 is the date United States and Great Britain celebrated defeating the Nazi war machine.
We at Chanticleer Reviews are honored to present four excellent reads that exemplify the honor and courage of the men and women who serve in the U.S. military. For information about each book, please click on the link provided.
GySgt. Bussler served three tours of duty in Iraq in 2003. The last tour (2005 -2006) proves to be the most challenging when Bussler narrowly escapes an IED blast with his life and sent home with injuries. The year proved challenging not just for Bussler, but for his whole team and it leaves each one of them forever changed. After recovery, Bussler then served as a Mortuary Affairs officer.
Though now retired from the Marines, GySgt L. Christian Bussler is still active in the veteran community and acts as a mentor for other veterans. A truly magnificent and heartfelt memoir, No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor is a must-read for every American.
“I went away to war one person and came back another, and in my wildest dreams would never have chosen to be the one who came back.” – Christopher Oelerich
For those who suffer from PTSD, understanding that they are not alone and that they can help themselves is a huge step toward embracing a recovery program. Oelerich, as one who has experienced combat and traumatic events, wrote this book as a “How To” guide for combat soldiers, like himself, who suffer from PTSD.
Christopher Oelerich relates his own personal history, beginning from when he was drafted into the military during the Vietnam War, and continuing through his return to civilian life and his own rocky road to recovery.
GENERAL in COMMAND – The Life of Major General John B. Anderson by Michael M. Van Ness
A remarkable biography chronicling the adventures of a farm boy born in 1891 who rose high rank in the US military and served with distinction in two world wars as a combatant, officer, and sage observer. He served in the Mexican War, WWI, the Civilian Conservation Corps in the Great Depression, and WWII.
A farm boy from the hills of Coker Creek, Tennessee to driving tanks across France and into Germany as part of an initiative that ultimately saw the end of Hitler’s Third Reich. A heartfelt recollection of the sacrifices of America’s soldiers in WWII.
The often-unknown role of women in wartime as travel nurses and pilots, as well as the use of herbs for natural healing, adds interesting and relative historical content to the story. The WASP pilots and their active role in the war effort was particularly fascinating reflecting Shawgo’s vigilance with her medical and military history research.
After the prologue shows Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, establishing the World War II setting, the story begins on September 23, 1940 in New York.
Readers may find it interesting that Shawgo, along with being an award winning novelist, is also a travel nurse who goes where and when she is needed for national disasters.
A riveting portrayal of the lives of children whose parents serve in the armed forces. Being a teenager is hard enough, but adding the constant uprooting and moving from base to base adds its own unique challenges as well as rewards.
The story focuses around young Stephen, a “military brat”—a term that these children use to distinguish themselves from their civilian counterparts. Stephen finds himself uprooted once again from his most recent home in California and moved across the country to Quantico Bay, Virginia. His father is a Marine and relocating often has become a part of Stephen’s life. However, becoming accustomed to something is not the same as liking it.
“Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.“ Mark Twain
“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” – Maya Angelou
“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” —Joseph Campbell
Remembering those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice….
As my father who passed in 1981 from 100% service-connected disabilities (a Marine Corps lifer with WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam conflict in his military service) repeated,
“May we never forget freedom isn’t free.” —Unknown
What Opens but Never Closes? The Opening Day of Boating Season
[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]Opening Day of Boating Season
Here are five of our favorite reads from authors who followed their dreams to sail away.
One couple (with two teenagers in tow – yikes!) started by building their boat in the backyard of their suburban home; two who started only with the love for each other, the support of friends and family, and a dilapidated hull and a three cylinder iron works engine; one whose true story will make you reconsider taking to the tall seas; one whose story will inspire you to look beyond society’s conventional solutions and rationalizations and to plot your own course; and one who shares how an everyday couple made their dream come true of sailing the Pacific Ocean on a 31-foot boat and a tight budget.
[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”0px” paddingright=”0px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]Boating season begins in the Pacific Northwest on the first Saturday in May, a tradition which goes back to the 1920’s. To celebrate, we thought we would offer you this superb reading list of true story boating adventures by local northwest authors.
After all, if you are going to be spending time boating this summer, or enjoy dreaming about boating from your lawn chair, stocking your library is just as important as stocking your galley!
More Faster Backwards: Rebuilding David B by Christine Smith
“Christine Smith and her husband Jeffrey race against time, money, and natural elements to save the David B—the vessel that they bet all of their resources on in hopes of making their dream of owning and operating a small expedition cruise boat in the Pacific Northwest come true.
“More Faster Backwards, Rebuilding David B” seamlessly mixes nautical terms with natural elements and boat builder’s craft. Those who enjoy cooking and baking will also discover it a delightful read. Seafaring people will sail through the narrative like soul mates, but landlubbers might appreciate a glossary of boating terms. The map provides great references and the photo albums heighten the pleasure.
More Faster Backwards, Rebuilding David B by Christine Smith won the Grand Prize of the Journey Awards for Narrative Non-fiction, a division of Chanticleer Book Reviews Blue Ribbon Writing Competitions.”Read full review…
Christine Smith started working on tour and whale watching boats in 2001. It combined her love for nature and her interest in helping others to enjoy it. She is also an avid birder, and has worked as a volunteer interpreter for the Eagle Watchers on the Skagit River from 1997 to 2008, she helps visitors observe the local eagle population. She is also a founding member of the Northwest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which became part of Whatcom Humane Society in 2014. She served for two years as a board member and Secretary for the North Cascades Audubon Society in Bellingham, Washington. When not watching birds or cooking on the David B, Christine enjoys running, ice skating and downhill skiing. [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”20px” paddingright=”20px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]
Cape Horn: One Man’s Dream, One Woman’s Nightmare by Réanne Hemingway-Douglass
“In Cape Horn: One Man’s Dream, One Woman’s Nightmare,” Réanne Hemingway-Douglass vividly recreates a sailing voyage in which she and her husband Don set out to round Cape Horn. As the reader discovers, they never quite got there. Meanwhile, Hemingway-Douglass shares the heady magic of starlit nights and breathtaking dawns, grueling and toilsome days, emotions ranging from joy to absolute terror, and a determination not to give up hope when all seems lost.” Read full review…
Réanne Hemingway-Douglass is a sailor, writer, cyclist and language teacher. Here articles have appeared in numerous outdoor magazines. Her best-selling book, Cape Horn: One Man’s Dream, One Woman’s Nightmare, has been published in French and Italian and is being translated into Spanish. In the 1980s, Réanne led the first women’s bicycling team to cross Tierra del Fuego at the tip of South America.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”#f8fafb” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”4px” bordercolor=”#4687bf” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”20px” paddingright=”20px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]
Home on the Waves by Patrick Hill
“Family, love, and adventure are all tied together in Patrick Hill’s alluring travel memoir “Home on the Waves.” It’s a story set in the 1970’s that provides remarkable insight into the lives of a family exploring the open ocean and discovering new cultures and people.
Hill’s memoir is an excellent read for everyone interested in reading about out-of-the-ordinary lifestyles and family adventures, even if they have never set foot on a boat.
“Home on the Waves” brings life to exotic cultures, sailing, and family life in 1970’s America. It’s a true story that will inspire readers to seek their own adventures and find ways of making dreams come true.”Read the full review…
Patrick Hill, with wife Heather and family, have been sailing out of Vancouver, B.C. for years. They’ve owned nine sailboats from a 17′ to a 42′ boat, Sky OneHundred which they built. They have cruised extensively, written articles for magazines, made presentations to yacht clubs, libraries, the Vancouver Aquarium, and a major Alaskan cruise line[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”20px” paddingright=”20px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]
Prepare to Come About by Christine Wallace
“Christine struggles with her loss of identity as a successful professional, a role model, a caring mother, and a supportive spouse while she battles with the economic recession, personal depression, and, worst of all, her own loss of trust in herself and her capabilities.
Her fractured family makes an unorthodox choice that pivots them all into unfamiliar waters. Their lifeline comes in the form of a tall ship named Zodiac and its enigmatic captain. Life or death challenges and unforeseen moments of wonder and awe await Christine and her family. As they venture forth together in this new venture, the family members reconnect and rebuild their lives.” Read full review…
Christine Wallace is the author of two books including The Pocket Doula and Prepare to Come About. Her work has appeared in the literary journal Clover (vol. 3, 2012, vol. 6, 2014). Christine was founder and CEO of “Gracewinds Perinatal”, a nationally award winning business. Christine currently resides in the Pacific Northwest onboard an ex-forestry boat with her husband, youngest daughter and a seaworthy tabby named Lucky Jack. [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”#f8fafb” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”4px” bordercolor=”#4687bf” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”20px” paddingright=”20px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]
Tightwads on the Loose by Wendy Hinman
“Tightwads on the Loose – A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey” opens with a map of the Pacific Ocean that showed the voyage of the sailing vessel Velella starting and ending in Seattle. Soon the reader is immersed in the plans of Wendy and her husband, Garth, to set sail on their open-ended adventure. And we wonder how long an introvert, whose motto is “always be prepared,” can live in tight quarters with an extrovert whose motto is “just wing it.”
This book will definitely appeal to those who are curious about sea voyaging. Armchair travelers will find a diversity of cultural experiences, historical details, and adventures for their entertainment and education. Come on board and sail away with the intrepid Wendy Hinman and her humorous and ingenious insights about life at sea.” Read full review…
Wendy Hinman, author, editor, and speaker, has shared her sailing adventures through emails and her blog. She is a regular contributor to the Magazines 48 North and Latitude 38. Wendy’s also been featured in Sail, Cruising World, Sailing, CYC Leadline, Hebe Jebees (Hong Kong) and Kazi Magazine (Japan).[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Enjoy getting to know these intrepid souls by visiting their websites for more information and the latest updates on their adventures.
[fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”0px” paddingright=”0px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]For some March Madness is basketball, for us at Chanticleer Reviews it’s that last minute rush, as Mystery Authors scramble to meet our March 31st deadline for the Mystery & Mayhem Awards (aka the M&M’s).
The M&M’s cozy mysteries is one of our favorite categories and we have many fond memories of amazing books and authors winning M&M’s. Some, like author Pamela Beason’s THE ONLY WITNESS–which answers the question: “What would happen if a signing gorilla was the only witness to a terrible crime?”–taking not just taking the M&M’s but also the top overall grand prize.
Pam is working on creating a dynasty as she won again with her sequel THE ONLY CLUE, taking the M&M Grand Prize for 2014. And for 2015 her RACE WITH DANGER is a contender in in our Dante Rossetti awards!
Our 2013 M&M Grand Prize winner Bernadette Pajer’s FATAL INDUCTION: A PROFESSOR BRADSHAW MYSTERY is another favorite here in the Chanticleer office. Revolving around a race to win an electrical engineering competition in Seattle 1901, the time of Tesla!
Bernadette has gone on to write four book in the series and we couldn’t be happier to see the witty and entertaining Professor Bradshaw continue his escapades of electrical engineering and solving mysteries with science.
Your book could earn a place in our M&M hall of fame for 2016.
All you have to do is enter.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” video_webm=”” video_mp4=”” video_ogv=”” video_preview_image=”” overlay_color=”” overlay_opacity=”0.5″ video_mute=”yes” video_loop=”yes” fade=”no” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” paddingleft=”0px” paddingright=”0px” menu_anchor=”” equal_height_columns=”no” hundred_percent=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_title size=”2″ content_align=”left” style_type=”single solid” sep_color=”transparent” class=”” id=””]What are the M&M’s?[/fusion_title][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”3_5″ last=”no” spacing=”yes” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_position=”left top” border_size=”0px” border_color=”” border_style=”” padding=”” class=”” id=””][fusion_text]Our Mystery & Mayhem Awards are the Chanticleer Reviews search for the best cozy mystery fiction books of 2016!
We are looking for the best books featuring “mystery and mayhem”, amateur sleuthing, romantic suspense, light suspense, travel mystery, classic mystery, British cozy, hobby sleuths, senior sleuths, or historical mystery. We will put them to the test and choose the best among them. (For thriller, action suspense, detective, crime fiction see our Clue Awards).[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”2_5″ last=”yes” spacing=”yes” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_position=”left top” border_size=”1px” border_color=”#606060″ border_style=”solid” padding=”10px” class=”” id=””][fusion_text]
Our Chanticleer Review Writing Contests feature more than $30,000.00 worth of cash and prizes each year!
~$1000 Overall Grand Prize Winner
~$2800 in Genre Grand Prizes
~$28,980 in reviews, prizes, and promotional opportunities awarded to Category Winners
In honor of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good, we are suggesting these three titles from among authors who are Veterans.
Dog Soldier Moon by McKendree Long
“Long goes far beyond the simplistic notion of the Civil War as told in American history texts to accurately portray the daily challenges faced by homesteading families, freed slaves, American Indians robbed of their ancestral lands, and ex-soldiers who face the disrespect of the Union army. Heart-warming and at times hilarious adventures are juxtaposed with gritty and emotionally wrenching moments such as Custer’s 1868 attack on Chief Black Kettle’s Cheyenne camp at Washita… Author McKendree Long displays a natural gift for storytelling.” Click here to read the full review.
McKendree R. (Mike) Long III is a former soldier whose awards and decorations include the Parachutist’s Badge, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Silver Star, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (Gold and Silver Stars).
Tarnished Hero by Jim Gilliam
“It is when Kelly accepts an open invitation to spend some time in Guzman’s drug palace in Northern Mexico that his code of “trusting friends first” will force him to face not only the dilemma of a loyalty to be divided between Guzman and Dave Holt, but also of being thrust into a senseless and bloody border war that has more than a few parallels to the Vietnam conflict. As such, Gilliam’s novel stands not only as a complex and intriguing “band of brothers” romp, but also as a reflection on the evils of unquestioned authority and corruption.” Click here to read the full review.
Jim Gilliam served on active duty with the Coast Guard from January 1957 until June 1966. In June 1978 he joined the Army as an airborne combat physician assistant. May 2001 he joined the Navy’s Military Sealift Command as a civilian mariner physician assistant. He is a veteran of multiple deployments to the Persian Gulf in support of operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.
Measure of Danger by Jay Klages
“Kade Sims feels he has been unfairly dumped from his former position in Army Intelligence because of out-of-control behavior due to a condition called hypomania. He’s bored, out of shape, and stuck working part-time at Home Depot instead of at the Pentagon. So when the FBI knocks on his door of his Virginia apartment and asks him to go undercover in Oregon to infiltrate a mysterious quasi-militia group called The Chapter, he’s eager to go to work for his country again….Klages experience and expertise is revealed with his believable dialog, details, and operative descriptions. The work features military trained Kade Sims, and his accountant sidekick, Alex Pace; we can’t wait to read what other dangerous puzzles this unlikely dynamic duo will be called on to solve.” Click here to read the full review.
Jay Klages is a former military intelligence officer and West Point graduate. He attended the MBA program at Arizona State University, where he successfully deprogrammed himself for service in corporate America. He enjoys desert trail running and is particularly good at falling down.
Three page-turning thriller novels with unlikely heroes that make for great reads –all authored by Veterans!
Three spine-tingling, psychological thriller novels reviewed by Chanticleer Reviews. (Warning: Each one of these novels was assigned to more than two reviewers due to their intensity.)
Check the locks and turn on the lights when you read these selections:
Poe: Nevermore by Rachel Martens
Be warned; Poe: Nevermore is not a cozy mystery. Ms. Martens succeeds at painting dark, suspenseful, sometimes horrific pictures. It is the type of psychological horror that locking the doors and windows and reading with the lights on will not keep out.
I highly recommend this book for my fellow edge-of-our-seat junkies—those of us who are constantly seeking the book we ever so briefly fear picking up, then can’t put it down in the relentless pursuit of discovering whatever comes next! Martens’ Poe: Nevermore deliciously feeds these cravings along with satisfying those with classical literary interests. – Chanticleer Reviews
The Grave Blogger by Donna Fontenot
The Grave Blogger is a murder mystery that is not for the faint-hearted. The horrors of the torturings and killings detailed within its pages are definitely not for those who prefer their mysteries to be the cozy kind. This story, complete with a psychotic psychiatrist, takes place in the Deep South where a special kind of macabre is required to send chills up your spine….Fontenot’s style allows the reader to see through the eyes of the main characters, which is especially chilling from the killer’s perspective. Readers’ hearts will be racing as the story twists and turns and the suspense rapidly intensifies in this creepy “OMG-this could really happen” page-turner. Prepare to devour this fast-paced thriller in one sitting with the lights on and the doors locked. – Chanticleer Reviews
Anonymous by Christine Benedict
“No one suspected the things her mother had done,” but Debra Hamilton knows full well what skeletons lurk in her past, and she’s spent a lifetime putting distance between herself and the crimes of her schizophrenic mother.”
With a new plot twist around every corner, the author delivers a complex story of obsession and jealousy that will keep the reader turning page after satisfying page of this psychological thriller….As to the genesis of the anonymous stalker, his history will leave readers wondering about things that go bump in the night. It’s chilling to know that all the letters in the novel are from the man who stalked the author, Christine Benedict, twenty-plus years ago, and he still remains anonymous as of today.
Read and share reviews from your favorite Chanticleer Authors!
2014 Chanticleer Award Winners’ Listing!
The award winning short story by Sharon Anderson, The Stone God’s Wife.
And much more!
Sean Dwyer, award winning author of literary works, interviews Michael Hurley, attorney and author of The Prodigal, overall grand prize winner of the 2013 Chanticleer Writing Competitions for the Author Spotlight in this issue of Chanticleer Reviews!
If you are an author whose work’s review is published in the magazine, then you can use Issuu’s “Clipping Tool” to promote your book.
Chanticleer Reviews online magazine is mobile friendly, also!
NOTE: The 2014 M&M Award Winners and the 2014 Paranormal Award Winners will be listed in the Holiday issue. So stay tuned for Issue #3 of the Chanticleer Reviews magazine!
In less than 3 weeks, the Chanticleer Authors Conference, with Awards Banquet, and the 3 Day Book Fair will begin (CAC15)! It is an exciting and busy time here at Chanticleer Reviews!
We’ve had requests for more information about the annual 4 day CAC15 event that will take place on September 26, 27, 28, & 29, (Saturday through Tuesday Evening) 2015 in Bellingham, Wash. Of course, there is more detailed information on the Chanticleer Reviews website.
Here is a quick synopsis of what to expect at CAC15.
First of all, attendees may register for the complete four days, three days, two days, one day, or just the Awards Banquet day. There are many options to choose from to accommodate most schedules.
Lodging is available at the Hotel Bellwether, rates starting at $189 per evening OR the Lakeway Best Western, rates starting at $118 per night including shuttle service to and from the Lakeway.
Saturday, Sept. 26th sessions and events will take place at the Bellingham Yacht Club, at Squalicum Harbor on beautiful Bellingham Bay.
Registrations open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Coffee, tea, and soda will be available along with snacks (included with registration)
Sessions begin at 9:30
Casual Luncheon (included with registration)12:30
Sessions restart at 1:30
Last session ends at 4:45 p.m.
“Appy Hours” sponsored by Books I Love will begin at 5 p.m.
BYC opens doors to membership
Cash (no host) Bar available
Appetizers will be provided
Casual dinner buffet begins at 6:15 (included with registration)
The Penny Stinkers Band (live music and dancing) starts at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 27th we move to the luxurious Hotel Bellwether located on beautiful Bellingham Bay and the BOOKS By the BAY BOOK FESTIVAL begins!
Registration open from 8:30 until 5 p.m. at the Hotel Ballroom Foyer.
Book Room Manager will be available for Book Drop-off beginning at 9 a.m. at the Hotel Ballroom Foyer.
Coffee and Tea will be available adjacent to the Book Room and Exhibitor’s Hall
Sessions begin at 9 a.m.
Book Room open from 11 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.
Keynote Luncheon Presentation begins at 12:30
Sessions begin at 1:30
Author Panel Discussions (open to the public) 4 p.m.
“Appy Hours” presented by Books I Love begins at 5 p.m.
Cash No-host bar
Appetizers available at 6 p.m. (included)
Book Room closes at ~6:30 p.m.
Buffet Dinner with Announcements and Keynote Speakers 7:00 p.m.
The party continues at the Lighthouse Bar at the Hotel Bellwether
Monday, Sept. 28th the conference continues at the luxurious Hotel Bellwether located on beautiful Bellingham Bay.
Registration open from 8:30 until 5 p.m. at the Hotel Ballroom Foyer.
Coffee and Tea will be available adjacent to the Book Room and Exhibitor’s Hall
Be sure to sign up for reserved spaces at local restaurants. Sign-up sheets will be located at the registration table. Each restaurant group will have a Dinner Diva or Divo to lead the way. All are with walking distance.
Sessions begin at 9 a.m.
Book Room open from 11 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.
Keynote Luncheon Presentation begins at 12:30
Sessions begin at 1:30
Author Panel Discussions (open to the public)
“Appy Hours” cocktail networking presented by Books I Love begins at 5 p.m.
Cash No-host bar
Appetizers available at 6 p.m. (included–adjacent to Book Room and Open Bar)
Book Room closes at ~6:30 p.m.
Dinner Time: Reservations with Chanticleer’s Dinner Divas and Divos at begin 7:15 – 7:30
The Hearthfire
Giuseppe’s Al Porto
Kiru Kiru Sushi
Anthony’s Seafood
The Lighthouse at the Hotel Bellwether
The Loft (casual dining)
Nicky’s Bella Marina (the best Fish and Chips in town/Burgers/fresh salmon ) located near the BYC — very casual.
The party continues at the Lighthouse Bar at the Hotel Bellwether
Tuesday, Sept. 29th Tonight is the Awards Banquet at the Hotel Bellwether Ballroom
Registration open from 8:30 until 6:30 p.m. at the Hotel Ballroom Foyer.
Coffee and Tea will be available adjacent to the Book Room and Exhibitor’s Hall
Sessions begin at 9 a.m.
Book Room open from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Keynote Luncheon Presentation begins at 12:30
Sessions begin at 1:30
“Appy Hours” cocktail networking time presented by Books I Love begins at 5 p.m.
Author Panel Discussions (open to the public)
Cash No-host bar
Appetizers available at 6 p.m. (included)
Book Room closes at ~7 p.m.
The Annual Chanticleer Awards Dinner with Announcements followed by the Chanticleer Awards Ceremony 7:15 p.m.
The celebration party continues at the Lighthouse Bar at the Hotel Bellwether
What May First Place Award Winners Expect at CAC15:
First Place Awards Designation on Name-tag
Gold Award Seals for books (seals will be placed on award winning books that will be for sale in the book room) and will be given to First Place Award Winners upon picking up registration packets.
Priority for Book Signing Events at Books By the Bay
Recognition at the Awards Banquet (on screen)
Presentation of Chanticleer Blue Ribbons at Awards Ceremony – on stage
Group photo with other 1st Place Award Winners of the related genre
All First Place Category Winners will compete for the Overall Genre Grand Prize (i.e., CLUE, CYGNUS, Chatelaine, etc.)
The Grand Prize GENRE Award Winners will be announced after all First Place Category Winners (in attendance) for all genres have been recognized.
The Overall Genre Winners will compete for the CHANTICLEER BEST BOOK GRAND PRIZE of $1,000 will be the last award announced
Any Finalists attending will be asked to stand and be recognized at the Chanticleer Awards Banquet.
The Books By the Bay Book Fair will be held at the Hotel Bellwether on Sun., Mon., & Tues. from 11 a..m. until 6:30 p.m. The book room will be open to the general public for3 days. Parking and admission is free.
Upon picking up your name badge and program, you will receive your gold stickers to put on your books in the book room. If your books were shipped ahead, we will adhere the stickers to the winning titles.
And then a few weeks later, you will receive your digital badges to use for websites, digital media, Internet and Social Media, and your winning title will be placed in the queue for receiving its Chanticleer Book Review package. And, of course, there will be more goodies to come!
Each 2014 First in Category winner of each genre competition will receive a 6-month subscription to Bublish’s Authorpreneur Dashboard. Winners will be contacted by email after the Genre’s Official List of First in Category Winners has been posted on the Chanticleer Reviews website.
Each of the Ten Genre Grand Prize winners will receive a 1-year subscription to Bublish’s Authorpreneur Dashboard and a one-hour social media intensive session with Bublish professional social media experts (a $370 value for each of the Ten Genre Grand Prize Winners). Prize to be awarded at the 2015 Chanticleer Authors Conference Awards Banquet for Best Books 2014.
The Chanticleer Overall Grand prize winner will receive one-week of social promotions of their book through all Bublish social outlets (Twitter, Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn and Pinterest) AND an email blast to all Bublish readers. This is valued at $500 for the week of social promotions and $225 for the email blast. Prize to be awarded at the 2015 Chanticleer Authors Conference Awards Banquet for Best Books 2014.
IF you are attending Book Expo America 2015 or BookCon NYC and would like to connect with Kiffer Brown, she will be in attendance from Wed. May 27 – Sat. May 30.
If you are exhibiting or attending the shows and would like to connect with Chanticleer Reviews or Kiffer Brown, you can reach her at by direct messaging her at @KifferBrown or @ChantiReviews via Twitter or email her at: KBrown@ChantiReviews.com
#BEA15
Kiffer has been given a press badge/pass courtesy of BEA15 and BookCon. She will be covering both expos (including Digital World) to post to social media and Chanticleer Reviews E-News. She would love to promote Chanticleer Community Authors and Readers in attendance.
CBR to Attend BEA and BookCon, May 27, 28, 29, & 30!
Book Expo of America NYC – It’s the leading book and author event in the North American publishing industry.
It is the largest gathering of booksellers, publishers, librarians, retailers, and book industry professionals of the year—making it the best place to learn about the latest trends and technologies in the biz.
BookCon is an immersive experience that features interactive, forward thinking content including Q+A’s with the hottest talent, autographing sessions, storytelling podcasts, special screenings, literary quiz shows and so much more.
Kiffer Brown, publisher of Chanticleer Reviews, has been given a BEA press pass and a BookCon Editorial Media Badge. She will report back to the Chanticleer Community of Authors and Writers. Look for her blog posts and tweets! @ChantiReviews and @KifferBrown.
The BEA Expo takes place on May 27, 28, & 29th at the Jacob Javitz Center, NYC. Click on the link for more information about BEA. BookCon takes place on Saturday and Sunday, May 30 & 31, at the Jacob Javitz Center, NYC. Click on the link for more information about BookCon NYC.
Historical Novel Society Affiliation
It’s OFFICIAL — The Historical Novel Society is a sponsor of the Chanticleer Authors Conference 2015 and Chanticleer Reviews is a sponsor of the HNS 2015 North American conference in Denver, Colorado.
The Historical Novel Society conference will take place on June 26, 27, & 28, Denver Colorado. If you are attending HNS, please stop by our exhibit table and say hello.
UPDATED INFORMATION as of May 14th — this just in!
The Chaucer Awards winners and The Laramie Awards winners will be recognized at the HNS Saturday Awards and Costume Banquet that will feature Special Guest Diana Gabaldon–the author of the acclaimed Outlander book series as well as the TV series on Starz. Janet Oakley, who won the Chanticleer Grand Prize for her historical novel Tree Soldier and Sean Curley, the Chaucer Awards grand prize winner for his novel Propositum will be recognized along with other First In Category award winners for these two Chanticleer Writing Competitions divisions.
If you are attending HNS and are a First in Category Award Winner or Finalist in the Chaucer or Laramie Awards, please contact Kiffer Brown immediately at KBrown@Chanticleer Reviews.com. Thank you!
We are excited to have the Historical Novel Society as an affiliate of Chanticleer Reviews and Writing Competitions. And we are proud to be an affiliate of the venerable HNS!
Chanticleer Reviews is a Supporter Chuckanut Writers Conference.
We are proud to support this local pacific northwest writers conference for four years in a row.
The conference takes place on June 26 & 27 at the Whatcom Community College located in Bellingham, Washington. Chanticleer Reviews will have a table at the Syre Student Center, so please stop by and say hi to Paulina! We will have candy!
Don’t Forget to Register for Chanticleer Authors Conference and Awards Gala 2015!
Saturday, Sept. 26: CAC15 sessions and master workshops will take place at Bellingham Yacht Club. That evening we will kick things off with a BBQ and dancing to live music at the BYC.
Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday, Sept. 27, 28, & 29 will feature sessions, presentations, and panels during the day with daily featured keynote luncheons, “Appy Hours” sponsored by Books I Love, a staffed Book Room open to the public, and evening dinners. The conference culminates on Tuesday evening with the Chanticleer Awards Banquet and Gala.
Be sure to visit www.ChanticleerReviews.com for the latest information and the growing list of presenters.
PREMIUM ONLINE SECURITY on the Chanticleer Reviews website
You asked for it! You got it!
Chanticleer’s online website store now has been verified a “Premium EV SSL Secure Site.”
We have been audited, notarized, sanctified, and encrypted by Starfield SSL certification, the highest level of protection that is available for internet transfer of data.
How SSL works: Secure Socket Layer certificates encrypt all the information going to and coming from Chanticleer Reviews, L.L.C. website, securing it from unauthorized interception and making sure that your information remains private.
You can have peace of mind when you see that the URL address bar turns green with the padlock symbol on the left. There is also a blue Verified and Secured badge with a pop out window for further information about Chanticleer’s SSL blue certification on the left hand side of the menu bar–just under the Chanticleer logo. This premium (EV) SSL certificate assurance comes with a $1,000,000 warranty.
Thank you for your continued support of Chanticleer Reviews and Writing Competitions!
First up,we have picks from Lacey Longpré. Lacey began as an intern for Chanticleer several years ago while attending Western Washington University. She has since become a valuable asset to the team as a proofreader, helping to organize our annual conference, staff reviewer, administrative assistant, social media pixie, and community relations.
Fragments of Your Soul by E.S. Erbsland
Broken Places by Rachel Thompson
Our Mystery & Mayhem Awards are the Chanticleer Reviews search for the best cozy mystery fiction books of 2016!
“Long goes far beyond the simplistic notion of the Civil War as told in American history texts to accurately portray the daily challenges faced by homesteading families, freed slaves, American Indians robbed of their ancestral lands, and ex-soldiers who face the disrespect of the Union army. Heart-warming and at times hilarious adventures are juxtaposed with gritty and emotionally wrenching moments such as Custer’s 1868 attack on Chief Black Kettle’s Cheyenne camp at Washita… Author McKendree Long displays a natural gift for storytelling.” 
“It is when Kelly accepts an open invitation to spend some time in Guzman’s drug palace in Northern Mexico that his code of “trusting friends first” will force him to face not only the dilemma of a loyalty to be divided between Guzman and Dave Holt, but also of being thrust into a senseless and bloody border war that has more than a few parallels to the Vietnam conflict. As such, Gilliam’s novel stands not only as a complex and intriguing “band of brothers” romp, but also as a reflection on the evils of unquestioned authority and corruption.” 
Be warned; 
“No one suspected the things her mother had done,” but Debra Hamilton knows full well what skeletons lurk in her past, and she’s spent a lifetime putting distance between herself and the crimes of her schizophrenic mother.”
