The gleaming silver seal stops them in their tracks.
Standing out on a crowded bookshelf is what every author wants for their book covers. Great cover art and clear fonts help, but what makes a reader walk across a busy store to pick up your book? Professional recognition they can see at a glance.
Why Stickers Work
Promotional book stickers are your book’s instant credibility. In a bookstore filled with hundreds of novels, all with covers designed to get noticed, stickers deliver that important third-party endorsement clearly and immediately. “Grand Prize Winner,” “Bestseller,” “Editorial Choice” – these messages tell browsing readers that your book has been professionally recognized as outstanding storytelling worth their time.
Chanticleer’s Foil Advantage
Of course, it’s not all about flash. It’s also about a message that tells the bookstore customer why they should stop and consider your book. This is your turn to crow! Get stickers that will tell the reader why they should buy your book. Awards and recognition, such as “Grand Prize Winner” or “Bestseller!” lets people know that your book has been put to the test and come out with a good review or even won a contest! It’s one more push to get them to pick your book over the others.
Of course, not all stickers are the same. At Chanticleer, we believe our foil adhesive stickers give authors an extra boost of promotional power with their built-in ability to catch the light and clear message. With the seal of approval from a respected industry partner, you’ll be making a clear statement about the quality of your storytelling. A shiny foil sticker on your book cover can make all the difference in hand sales, whether at bookstores, conferences, or local events. We’ve seen it work time and time again for our authors!
Final Hours: 10% Off Through Saturday!
Sticker Sale ends May 31st at midnight!
Whether you’re preparing for summer book events, conference season, or just want professional promotional materials on hand, this is your last chance to stock up and save.
First off, congratulations again to all the winners of the 2024 CIBAs! Those who entered received regular promotion throughout the year as they advanced from the Long List all the way through the Tiers of Achievement to become First Place Category Winners, Division Grand Prize Winners, and, of course, the honor only afforded one author, our Overall Grand Prize Winner Reenita Malhotra Hora, who took home the $1,000 cash grand prize!
In addition to the promotion on our high traffic website, social media, and newsletter blasts, all winners will be receiving the coveted Chanticleer Blue Ribbon. Division Grand Prize winners receive, on top of all this, a Chanticleer Editorial Review and an opportunity to participate in a Chanticleer interview. The Grand Prize Winners will have their books featured year-round on their division awards page, and they will be featured for the next five years in their respective Hall of Fame posts. Congratulations again to all winners and all who participated in the 2024 CIBAs!
Who will be the next winners in the Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards?
Does your book have what it takes? Join the authors who have taken the leap to have their work professionally vetted by one of the industry’s most respected awards programs. Each stage of the CIBA journey—from entering the Award to finding your eventual tier of achievement—is worth crowing about and celebrating with your following.
Whether you’re an established author with a dedicated readership or a writer with a manuscript hoping to improve your chances of catching the right publisher’s eye, the CIBAs are well-worth the effort! Our multi-tiered advancement system ensures that every qualified entry receives multiple opportunities for recognition and promotion throughout the year.
The CIBA Difference: Real Impact on Author Success
What sets the Chanticleer International Book Awards apart is our commitment to creating genuine, lasting promotional opportunities for authors. When we say we help increase your digital footprint, we mean it!
Authors who have participated in our awards program consistently report:
Increased visibility on retail platforms
Higher conversion rates when potential readers discover their CIBA achievement
Enhanced credibility with readers, reviewers, and industry professionals
Valuable connections within the Chanticleer community of authors
Improved confidence in their writing career
More Than Just Book Awards
At Chanticleer, we understand that every author’s journey is unique. That’s why we go beyond the standard awards process to provide personalized attention and support. Our dedication to authors includes:
Individual consideration of each submission, with options to move books to more appropriate divisions when it could improve your chances of winning
Free judging notes by request for finalists and above, providing valuable feedback directly from our expert readers
Open communication throughout the process, ensuring you’re never left wondering about your book’s status
Certificates upon request to celebrate your achievement
Generous deadline flexibility when authors need a little extra time
This commitment to personal attention is what truly distinguishes the CIBAs from other book awards. We don’t just evaluate your book—we champion its success.
As Levar Burton says, you don’t have to take our word for it:
Thank you for this exciting news! I really appreciate all the hard work you and your team put into the awards! – D.V. Chernov, author of Commissar: A Novel of Civil War Russia
I am so excited and honored to be included as a finalist with this amazing group of authors. Thank you Chanticleer Book Reviews & Media! – Tracy Cram Perkins, I&I 1st Place Winner of Dementia Home Care
To Everyone at Chanticleer,
Your passion for storytelling and your dedication to those that tell them is second to none! Not even a global pandemic could stop you. Thank you for all that you do to promote and support independent authors, such as myself.
–Ryan Young, author of The Shepherd’s Burden, a First Place Winner in Paranormal Awards
Thank you for all the hard work you put in. This is such a great contest, and the support you provide to authors is incredible. – E. E. Burke, Laramie Grand Prize Author of Tom Sawyer Returns
Tangible Benefits That Make a Difference
The CIBAs aren’t just about prestige—they provide concrete benefits that help authors succeed:
$1,000 Cash Prize for the Overall Grand Prize Winner
Promotional Stickers that catch readers’ eyes and boost sales at book events
Digital Badges for your website, social media, and marketing materials
Blue Ribbon Packages to display proudly
Editorial Reviews and Featured Interviews for Division Grand Prize Winners
Five Years of Promotion in our Hall of Fame for Grand Prize Winners
These tangible benefits translate directly into increased visibility, credibility, and sales opportunities for authors at every level of recognition.
2025 CIBA Calendar: Key Dates to Remember
Don’t miss your opportunity to participate in these prestigious awards! Here’s the complete calendar of upcoming CIBA deadlines for 2025:
Keep in mind that these deadlines can be flexible. If enough authors reach out for an extension, we are happy to move them or make an exception. Please reach out to info@ChantiReviews.com with any questions related to deadlines or submission guidelines.
With 28 divisions, there’s something for everyone!
The CIBAs are a labor of love carefully organized for maximum breadth while staying focused and competitive. Our judges come from all around the world, hold degrees in higher education, have worked in the publishing industry for years, and love great books.
What truly sets the CIBAs apart is our commitment to authors at every stage. Unlike many other contests, we provide:
Multiple tiers of advancement with promotional opportunities at each level
Digital badges for your marketing materials
Professional foil stickers for your book covers
Personalized judging notes (by request for finalists and above)
A supportive community through The Roost platform
Year-round promotion for winners across multiple channels
Why Choose the CIBAs?
The 2024 CIBA Grand Prize Winners who attended CAC25! Congratulations to all!
In an increasingly crowded book marketplace, professional vetting and third-party recognition have never been more important. The Chanticleer International Book Awards have established themselves as a trusted source for identifying excellence in independent and traditionally published books across genres.
When readers, bookstore owners, and industry professionals see the CIBA seal on your book, they know it has been thoroughly evaluated and stands among the best in its category.
Your book deserves to be discovered. Enter the Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards today!
Have questions about which division is right for your book? Contact us at info@ChantiReviews.com, and our team will be happy to help guide you to the perfect match for your work.
Celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas! – One Day at a Time
The Tenth Day of Christmas gift of Ten Lords a’Leaping represents the 10 Commandments of the Old Testament that guide the faithful. We could use a lot of rules of ten for different writing practices!
On the Tenth Day of Christmas, Chanticleer brings to me…
Best Practices for Marketing your Book by Maximizing your Services!
On the 11th Day of Christmas, we’re focusing on how you can get your book the recognition it deserves in 2025. Whether you’re an indie author or a seasoned pro, marketing your book effectively is key to connecting with readers. That’s where Chanticleer comes in! From the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs) to our Editorial Book Reviews, we provide tools and services to help your book shine and grow its audience.
Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs): Boost Your Book’s Visibility
One of the best ways to promote your book is by entering it into the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBAs). As one of the most prestigious book awards programs for indie authors, the CIBAs offer incredible visibility for your work. Winning or placing in the CIBAs can propel your book onto readers’ radar, and with the exclusive badges and stickers we provide, you’ll be able to showcase your achievement wherever you promote your book!
Winning an award is great, but CIBAs also offer much more than just recognition. Each entry includes SEO-optimized technology, enhancing your book’s performance on our website and boosting its visibility online. With our dedicated SEO efforts, your book will be more discoverable by readers and search engines alike.
Whether it’s sharing your award badge on your Amazon author page, website, or across your social media platforms, the CIBAs provide the resources you need to amplify your book’s success. And with the white-glove service Chanticleer is known for, we’re always here to support you every step of the way.
In addition to awards, one of the most powerful ways to promote your book is with a Chanticleer Editorial Book Review. Not only do we provide in-depth, professional reviews for your work, but each review is packed with blurbs that you can use across various platforms. From social media posts and Amazon descriptions to website content and in-store shelf talkers, the blurbs we provide will help capture attention and intrigue potential readers.
Beyond the blurbs, our Editorial Reviews also come with comprehensive SEO optimization. This gives your book greater exposure on Chanticleer’s website and makes it more likely to be discovered through search engines. A great review helps you stand out, but the behind-the-scenes work ensures that your book gets the recognition it deserves.
Our team is committed to giving each author a white-glove experience, whether it’s crafting a tailored review or helping you optimize your marketing strategy post-review. We’re here to make sure your book gets the attention it needs to thrive.
The Power of a Badge and a Blurb
You know you want it…
Badges and blurbs are more than just accolades—they’re tools that can help you market your book and connect with readers. Whether it’s an award-winning badge from the CIBAs or a glowing editorial review blurb, these elements give you a professional edge that resonates with readers. Display them proudly on your book’s page, share them across social media, and use them to highlight your success.
At Chanticleer, we know how much effort goes into writing, publishing, and promoting a book. That’s why we’re here to support you with services that enhance your book’s visibility and marketability.
Get Ready for 2025: Make Your Book Stand Out!
This holiday season, take the opportunity to set yourself up for success in the new year. Whether it’s through the CIBAs or an Editorial Book Review, Chanticleer’s services are designed to give your book the recognition it deserves.
On the 10th Day of Christmas…
“But Jiminy Crickets, it’s after December 25th! Is it not too late for the 12 Days of Christmas?” you say.
Not to fear, Chanticleerians! The 12 Days of Christmas begins on December 26th! And it continues to the 6th of January – Three Kings Day. The four weeks leading up to Christmas is known as the Advent.
So if you haven’t finished wrapping presents, sending out those cards, and baking cookies—don’t worry—you still have time! Well, a couple more days.
Happy Holidays to You from the Chanticleer Team!
On the Tenth Day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Ten Lord’s a’Leaping
Nine Ladies Dancing
Eight Maids A-Milking
Seven Swans A-Swimming
Six Geese A-Laying
Five Golden Rings
Four Calling Birds
Three French Hens (Chanticleer’s favorite #justsaying)
Two Turtle Doves
And a Partridge in a Pear Tree
We’re not sure why the lords are a’leaping over the 10 Commandments, but they sure do look happy.
Stay tuned for the 11th Day of Christmas!
Our favorite part about having the 12 Days of Christmas is that we can have the time we need to celebrate with our loved ones. We have time for wrapping our presents, meeting with friends for hot cocoa, and setting ourselves up in the New Year for publishing success (with Chanticleer Professional Services and the Chanticleer Authors Conference).
Wishing you Happy Holidays from Chanticleer from Kiffer, David, Dena, Scott, Anya, and Argus!
Ashton Kutcher and Seann William Scott in the 2000 film Dude, Where’s my Car?
A Frequently Asked Question
With the 2023 CIBAs all wrapped up and the winners having been announced at the Four Points by Sheraton in beautiful Bellingham, WA on April 20, 2024, many people have the very reasonable question: Where are the official announcements, and why didn’t they all come out on that Saturday or on Sunday-the next day? (We are staffing the Books By the Bay Book Fair on Sunday).
First off, you can see all CIBA Winner Lists as they come out on our website here!
On our home page, these are all under the top center section labeled Book Awards News – CIBAs.
Playing the Social Media Game
While a PDF with a list of the winners could easily be posted, that wouldn’t uphold our promise to help with long-tail marketing and increasing our authors’ digital footprints. We are committed to maximizing promotion for authors.
How do we maximize your promotion?
Our normal posts, when not during our conference season, tend to have double the response and interaction rate of comparable businesses. During the Chanticleer Int’l Book Awards, these rates rise to seven times the standard engagement of those other posts, and is still double the posts during similarly busy times at other companies. And that is for each Awards post that goes out. The way we do this is simple.
First, we give each division breathing room on Social Media, on our high traffic Website, and our e-Newsletter in our flurry of daily email blasts that are sent out until all the lists have been posted. The consistent promotion over the course of two weeks allows for each set of winners to have their moment in the sun, and it keeps every post prioritized instead of being devalued by search engines for over-posting.
We also try to tag each winner on Facebook per CIBA division. Again, if we post more than three posts per day, FB devalues the posts which means less exposure.
Under the Hood with SEO
One of the best parts of Chanticleer is our emphasis on being ahead of the technological curve. The main way we do this is through a robust SEO package that we usually talk about with regards to our Editorial Reviews, but we use all those same tools to promote the authors who advance in our Book Awards as well.
You can see the article we put out specifically about the All In One Search Engine Optimization tool (AIOSEO) we use here.
Argus Brown and David Beaumier presented a coffee klatch on this at CAC24 to help explain the ins and outs of promotion, specifically looking at different author websites and giving feedback right there in the moment!
While most SEO tools recommend a score between 60-80, we always strive to exceed that, with many of our Book Award posts receiving a AIOSEO score above 90. We do this through our usual rigorous attention to detail surrounding the optimization of heading distribution, sentence length, alternative text, key phrases, meta data, tagging, and much more. There’s no replacement for basic elbow grease (or clicking away?) when it comes to maximizing our posts so that web crawlers love them and promote our authors writing as much as possible. We know from client feedback that it really makes a difference!
Human Beings at Work
A rare photo of the Chanticleer staff all in one place and, yes, that is a bagpipe under the Chanticleer table’s banner.
Of course, it’s important to remember that we are a small business with huge reach that works hard to address every question, email, and comment we receive directly with care, empathy, and expertise. Putting together an internationally attended conference with authors from India, Australia, and the UK takes hours of dedication and careful planning. As we move into the follow up phase, we are just as determined to provide the excellent service that is a hallmark of Chanticleer. We double-check our work before putting the lists out, maximizing SEO, looking to see that names and titles are written correctly, and scheduling out posts to have the strongest online impact.
Then, we promote all the CIBA winners again with our Overall Posts for the CIBA Fiction Book Awards, the CIBA Non-Fiction Book Awards, and the SERIES, SHORTS, and COLLECTIONS Awards.
And then, the CIBA lists are kept on the HOMEPAGE of the Chanticleer Website for a year with all those links!
And then, we recognize the Division Winners in periodic SPOTLIGHT posts with links!
And then, well we could go on, but I think you are getting the picture.
Most of all the Chanticleer International Book Awards is a labor of love!
Love of books, love of words, love of storytelling, love of authors,
and love of the writing community!
We are passionate about what we do!
Finally, Thank You
Thank you so much to everyone who submitted to the 2023 CIBAs and to the hundreds who have already submitted to the 2024 CIBAs. Every year, the quality and intensity of the competition is better than the year before, and we are always blown away by the incredible work you send our way. We will do everything we can to wrap up the 2023 CIBAs in the best way possible and get the ribbons and rewards out to all the winners before we dive into another year of Discovering Today’s Best Books.
Thank you for making Chanticleer possible and for trusting us with your work!
