Chanticleer Book Reviews

Tag: 2025

2025 Publishing Trends You Need to Know NOW

A new year is upon us, my writing friends!

We have the energy of a new year to propel us toward our writing resolutions and new trends in the publishing industry to consider as we achieve our writing goals.

You’ll get the opportunity to dive deeper into these publishing trends, learn more about emerging strategies, and connect with fellow writers at the Chanticleer Authors Conference (CAC25).

Sign up today to join us for a transformative event in Bellingham, WA, in April 3-6 2025!

Staying ahead of trends will put your book in the best position to succeed. We’ve compiled a list of trends that will be guiding the publishing industry in 2025. Buckle up, writers! We’re diving into what could be your best year yet!

AI, Copyright, and Collaboration

We’ve heard the drums beating for years—artificial intelligence (AI) will be used more widely in content creation, editing, and formatting. While we have heard much about the dangers of AI to authors in regard to copyright issues, AI tools can help with grammar, style, and structure and help publishers analyze reader data and predict market trends.

Author supported organizations are also working to create laws around the use of copyrighted material by AI services. Recently, congress introduced a bill called the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act in response to the issues unregulated generative AI has created for authors and publishing. The need for these laws were recently underscored by a lawsuit brought against Facebook’s Meta company due to their use of pirated content to build up their AI tool. Time will tell how the AI revolution will evolve, but it is a relief that it is finally being formally addressed by lawmakers.

Beyond issues of copyright, practically AI has shown itself to be a brilliant brainstorming tool for authors, providing fresh perspectives and helping to spark new ideas for content, structure, and marketing strategies. From suggestions for marketing copy, taglines, and promotional marketing schedules, AI has the power to simplify a part of the author experience that many writers struggle with.

Self-Publishing and Print on Demand

Print on Demand (POD) is a game-changer for self-published authors. By allowing authors to print smaller batches of books as orders come in, POD eliminates the need for large upfront investments and the overhead costs associated with keeping inventory in a warehouse. This flexibility means authors can stay liquid while avoiding the financial burden of mass printing. Additionally, POD offers the ability to create specialty editions of books, such as limited runs or custom covers, which can add a unique touch and enhance reader engagement.

This also connects to the higher percentage of royalties per book when self-publishing compared to traditionally published authors, often reaching 60-80% compared to 5-15%. Independent authors also maintain more creative control, but they downside is they pick up the publishing costs and are responsible for all marketing activities. Traditional publishers are also adapting POD to stay competitive in the ever-changing market.

Audiobooks

For years, audiobooks have slowly found their footing in the publishing market. It is predicted the trend will continue to grow in popularity, as people become more comfortable with listening to books online. In 2023, audiobook revenue grew 9% to $2 billion, and each year audiobooks move closer to the sales numbers seen with ebooks and print.

Digital Publishing

Digital publishing will continue to grow in 2025. Authors will be engaging with their readers through online journals, blogs, social media posts, interactive websites, audio and video content, virtual galleries, and interactive exhibitions. By publishing digital content readers get to know the author on a more personal level and their work in many different ways.

Social Media vs. Newsletters

Social media platforms continue to evolve, with major changes unfolding at Meta and X (formerly Twitter), and new players like BlueSky emerging. As the digital landscape shifts, many authors find it increasingly difficult to maintain a consistent connection with their audience through social media alone. Algorithm changes, privacy concerns, and the rise and fall of platforms like TikTok have contributed to what feels like a revolving door of social media strategies.

However, newsletters remain one of the most powerful tools for direct communication with your audience. Unlike social media, where posts can be hidden or lost in the noise of algorithms, newsletters give you control over your message and provide a guaranteed way to reach your readers. Exclusive content, updates, and personal insights, newsletters allow authors to build long-term relationships with their community.

In a time of constant change in the digital space, newsletters stand strong as a reliable, personal, and effective way to stay connected with your most loyal readers.

Subscription Models

Subscription models have evolved, and today they provide an incredible opportunity for authors to build and sustain niche communities around their work. Platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter offer authors the chance to create exclusive content, foster deeper connections with their readers, and secure ongoing financial support. These models allow authors to engage directly with their fans, whether it’s through behind-the-scenes access, early drafts, or even running role-playing games based on their books.

A growing number of authors are finding success by leveraging subscription platforms to finance projects, such as crowdfunding a novel’s next chapter or funding an audiobook production. It’s about more than just direct sales—it’s about building a community that feels personally connected to your creative process.

Chanticleer’s Roost, for example, is an excellent subscription-based model that brings together writers and readers in a private, engaging online space. Subscription models like this foster close-knit communities, where authors can receive real-time feedback, share updates, and involve their audience in the creative journey. Whether you’re offering exclusive content or utilizing platforms like Kickstarter to support a new book launch, these models help authors maintain direct connections with readers and build lasting, engaged fanbases.

Sustainability

More authors and publishers are looking for ways to support efforts to combat climate change than ever before. In the coming year, this trend will continue as everyone, readers, writers, publishers, and booksellers, work to create a more sustainable world.

Blockchain

Blockchain will play a role in publishing. Blockchain is a decentralized database that stores and verifies transactions in a secure, transparent, and immutable ledger. It’s also known as Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT). The appeal of blockchain technology is it reduces risk and cuts cost by cutting out the middle man—the banks—and allowing transactions to be a seamless process between the author and the book’s purchaser.

Direct Sales

Direct sales are becoming an increasingly prominent strategy for authors looking to take control of their business and increase their profits. With the rise of self-publishing and the continued dominance of digital platforms, authors now have more tools than ever to sell their books directly to readers without relying on traditional distribution channels.

In addition to selling books, authors can leverage direct sales to offer additional products and experiences. This could include personalized merchandise, bundled offers, or access to exclusive content. Authors who build a strong brand can turn direct sales into a long-term, sustainable business model.

Genre Fiction

Readers are dedicate to the stories they love! That’s reflected in the 2025 trend that predicts genre fiction will be hot in bookstores again this year. This is true whether they are shopping online for their next book, or if they step into a bookstore and head straight to the shelves containing their favorite genre.

As we look ahead, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for the publishing industry.

The publishing industry in flux, undergoing major changes right now. Readers are increasingly seeking authentic, inclusive stories, and authors are seeking out better business tools and sustainable publishing practices. Whether embracing cutting-edge technology or doubling down on community-building and niche markets, publishers and authors alike must stay adaptable to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Chanticleer predicts the future of publishing lies in balancing tradition with innovation to find the right audience that will make your next book a best seller!

Don’t miss out on these upcoming trends!

Register for the Chanticleer Authors Conference

Stay on top of Publishing as the Hub of Technology

Chanticleer is committed to stay on top of trends and help our authors from Manuscript to Market. Whether embracing cutting-edge technology or doubling down on community-building and niche markets, publishers and authors alike must stay adaptable to thrive in this evolving landscape.

All this and more will be at CAC25!

Sign up today for the Chanticleer Authors Conference and get ready to connect, learn, and grow as you take your publishing journey to the next level!

February 20, 2025
On the 5th Day of Christmas, Chanticleer Brings to Me Five 2025 Publishing Trends | 12 Days of Christmas 2024!

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

On the 5th Day of Christmas…

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

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

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

Five Golden Rings

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)

Two Turtle Doves

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree

Not one ring to bind them in this case.

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

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

Five publishing trends for 2025!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for the 6th Day of Christmas!

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

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

December 30, 2024
Yuletide, Boxing Day, and the 12 Days of Christmas! What does Chanticleer bring to you on the 1st Day of Christmas?
Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas with Chanticleer!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Singing the 12 Days of Christmas

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

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

Yuletide

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!

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

What are the 12 Days of Christmas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An invitation to join our curated online community The Roost!

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

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

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

Stay tuned for the 2nd Day of Christmas!

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

Wishing you Happy Holidays from Team Chanticleer: Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!
December 26, 2024