Tuesday 11 December 2018

Josiah Stubb - The Complete Set!

Pick up the complete set of Josiah Stubb novels for only $11.49 USD - from The Siege of Louisbourg, all the way through to the historic Battle of the Plains of Abraham!

"... To me, that is the difference between a really good book you re-read when you’re in the mood and a fantastic book that impacts your life, forever.
Josiah Stubb is a fantastic book." ~ Katie Kofemug

US: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JJGK8ZN/ref=series_rw_dp_sw
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07JJGK8ZN/ref=series_rw_dp_sw




Friday 30 November 2018

Josiah Stubb: The Plains of Abraham - Now Live!!

At long last, the third book of the Josiah Stubb Trilogy, "The Plains of Abraham," is now available in both kindle and paperback!

Click here to purchase your own copy!

 About "The Plains of Abraham": 

 From the best-selling author of The Adventures of Charlie Smithers … comes another action adventure in all out war.

With the fall of Louisbourg, at last the gateway to Quebec lies open to the British. As the summer of 1759 looms, one last push is required to topple the capital of New France, and the young officer, Josiah Stubb, and the grenadiers of the 51st, will be part of it.

However, unlike Louisbourg, the Citadel of Quebec is a natural fortress, and the might of New France has been concentrated to defend her. The British are outnumbered two to one, leaving the stage uncertain. Much depends upon courage and discipline…and of course, that most enigmatic factor of all, luck.

This is a tense melee without mercy and a riveting historical battle with far reaching consequences.

Click here to purchase your own copy!




Saturday 17 November 2018

"The Little Mouse" - Currently On Sale!

With Christmas approaching, the paperback for "The Little Mouse" is currently going for half price.
This #1 bestseller is beautifully illustrated by the talented Angel Rose, and would definitely look good under the tree. Trust me, your children will love it, and you will, too.

Click here to purchase your own copy.

"From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the smallest among us can change the world."



A delightfully satisfying story." ~ Book Reviewers Online

"This tale, which will appeal to all ages, carries not just one, but several important and poignant messages. Without being 'preachy,' the book lets the reader carry away a positive and life affirming precept." ~ The Review

#1 Bestseller!
"From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the least among us can change the world."

Click here to purchase your own copy.



Wednesday 14 November 2018

MY LINKS

With three new books released this year I thought it would be a good idea to revamp my LINKS file. It lists all my books, including my latest, "Josiah Stubb: The Plains of Abraham," (available for pre-order,) with links to every site I could find where they are available. Why not check it out?

                                                                        MY LINKS



Saturday 3 November 2018

Josiah Stubb: The Plains of Abraham - Now Available for Pre-order

Don't forget, the third book of the Josiah Stubb series, "The Plains of Abraham," will be released at the end of November.

Click here to pre-order your copy today!



Wednesday 17 October 2018

Josiah Stubb: The Plains of Abraham - Now Available For Pr-order!

My latest offering - the third and final book of the Josiah Stubb trilogy, "The Plains of Abraham."
Due to be released at the end of November, available to pre-order now!

"From the best-selling author of The Adventures of Charlie Smithers … comes another action adventure in all out war.
With the fall of Louisbourg, at last the gateway to Quebec lies open to the British. As the summer of 1759 looms, one last push is required to topple the capital of New France, and the young officer, Josiah Stubb, and the grenadiers of the 51st, will be part of it.
However, unlike Louisbourg, the Citadel of Quebec is a natural fortress, and the might of New France has been concentrated to defend her. The British are outnumbered two to one, leaving the stage uncertain. Much depends upon courage and discipline…and of course, that most enigmatic factor of all, luck.
This is a tense melee without mercy and a riveting historical battle with far reaching consequences."

 http://mybook.to/js3

Tuesday 9 October 2018

Podcast

Tune in to The Writers' Round Table today at 3:00 CDT (4:00 EDT - 9:00 PM GMT). For the next 90 minutes Marta Moran Bishop and I will be the guests of host Karen Vaughan. I'll be bragging - I mean discussing my last three releases: the second book of the Josiah Stubb series, "Interim," "The Little Mouse," which is a fairy tale for young and old alike, and "Never taken Road," a dark dystopian novella. Looking forward to it, Karen!

 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2018/10/09/writers-round-table-chats-with-chuck-marta

Friday 21 September 2018

I'm Somewhat Eclectic

Throughout my writing career my stories refuse to be pigeonholed into a certain genre. For example, these novellas are my last two releases. I think it all depends on how I wake up in the morning.
The Little Mouse:
 #1 Bestseller!

"From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the least among us can change the world."
Never Taken Road:
 The earth has been stricken by the Super Plague, eradicating humanity from the face of the planet … all except for one man, and one woman. In a now primitive world, will they be able to save our species from extinction? Should they?

Sunday 9 September 2018

My Links

Follow the link to where you'll find all my titles with more links to every site that I could find where they are sold. I've spent a fair amount of time compiling this list so be sure to check it out.

https://chuck-storyriver.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-links.html

Thursday 2 August 2018

New Release - Never Taken Road

When my friend, Diana Milne was in the hospital I sent her a story every day to keep her entertained. This novella was one of the last ones she read, and I think she liked it just a little more than any of the others. Sadly Diana passed away soon after. On that same day I asked Wild Wolf to take the story on, and they agreed. It's a way of saying, thank you for having been my friend, Diana, this one's for you.

 
"The earth has been stricken by the Super Plague, eradicating all humanity … all except for one man, and one woman. In a now primitive world, will they be able to save our species? Should they?"

 http://mybook.to/ntr

Saturday 30 June 2018

The Little Mouse - A Dedication

For the longest time Helen's granddaughters, Evie and Iris, had been asking to read some of my work. This prompted me to dig into my collection of stories to find something that was suitable, and I came up with "The Little Mouse." In turn, the interest that this generated on social media was so overwhelming that it prompted me to look into getting it published, and the rest is history. It seemed only natural to show my gratitude by dedicating the book to these fine young ladies, because it was they who had got the ball rolling in the first place. Yesterday, when the paperback was released, Evie's nan showed her the dedication page. Apparently she was pleased because, using Helen's Facebook account, she sent me a photo, and this endearing message:

"This is Evie typing! i love the book and i love my name being in the book and now I'm famous!!!!!"

 


 Moments like this don't come along every day, but when they do they make it all worthwhile. You could ask Evie I suppose, but, what with her new found fame and all, I'm afraid you'll have to call and make an appointment. ;)

Click here to purchase your own copy of "The Little Mouse."

 

"From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the least among us can change the world."

 






Thursday 28 June 2018

Sunday 3 June 2018

The Little Mouse - "A Thoroughly Charming Story"

The reviews continue to come in for my children's story, "The Little Mouse." Actually that should read, 'children of all ages.' The following are some vignettes of two of them.

Thank you, Frances, and Susan Watanabe. Reviews mean so much.

 "A thoroughly charming story. A book that can be enjoyed by all ages. Beautifully illustrated. I recommend it to everyone." ~ Frances

"An incredibly charming story that will be enjoyed by young and old for generations to come." ~ Susan Watanabe

http://mybook.to/tlm

 Click here to purchase your own copy of "The Little Mouse."







Friday 1 June 2018

The Little Mouse - A Classical Fairy Tale

"The Little Mouse" has often been described as a children's tale written along classical lines. Here are a few examples.

“It reminds me of the works of Hans Christian Anderson in its style.” ~ HPC.UK

“Superbly written and I would put this story up there with the greats of children's literature.” ~ tee gee

“The Little Mouse has a magic and charm that is rarely found and can only be likened to such well known classics as The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, delighting readers for almost a hundred years, and one of my favourite books, Prince Caspian by CS Lewis.” ~ d.arcadian



Click here to purchase your copy (now available in paperback, too!)


Monday 28 May 2018

The Little Mouse - From D.arcadian's Review

"I can well see this book being read a hundred years from now. It deserves to be." ~ d.arcadian
http://mybook.to/tlm


Sunday 27 May 2018

The Little Mouse - Reviews - A Common Theme

The reviews have begun to come in for "The Little Mouse." It's gratifying that, so far, they all have a common theme:

“…Lovatt ensures that we have a tale that can be read on many different levels, making it suitable for the very young to the very old…” ~ d.arcadian



“It is a story that can be read…by our children…and is also a story that can be enjoyed by an adult audience too” ~ HPC.UK



“There were times when I forgot that I was reading a children's story as it is perfectly suitable for all age groups…” ~ tee gee



“C.W.Lovatt has written a wonderfully enchanting tale that will captivate young and old alike.” ~ Miss Lyn


Click here to purchase your own copy!

 

 


Saturday 26 May 2018

The Little Mouse - #1 Hot New Release!!

"The Little Mouse" had a pretty good day yesterday. I was cudgeling my brain for today's promotion when I saw this post on Facebook and thought that this said it all.

"Number 1 in Hot New Releases!! It is good. It is very good... but don't just take my word for it, read it yourself!" ~ d.arcadian

Click here to purchase your copy!



Friday 25 May 2018

The Little Mouse - Release Day!

The day has finally arrived, "The Little Mouse" is now available as an ebook! The paperback will be released June 28, soon to be available to pre-order.

Click here to purchase your copy today!



"A delightfully satisfying story." ~ Book Reviewers Online

"This tale, which will appeal to all ages, carries not just one, but several important and poignant messages. Without being 'preachy,' the book lets the reader carry away a positive and life affirming precept." ~ The Review

From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the smallest among us can change the world.

Sunday 20 May 2018

"The Little Mouse" & "Diana Talks"

There is a segment of the blog for "The Review" called "Diana Talks," hosted by the superlative Diana Milne, a good friend of mine. The purpose of the segment is to interview writers and is, without fail, interesting to read what makes so many of those talented people click. With the release of my next book, a story for all ages entitled "The Little Mouse," due to be released this Friday, today it was my turn in Diana's visitor's chair.

It's always good fun to talk with Diana, but you have to be on your toes, otherwise her quick whit will have you feeling like the 'straight man' in a comedy duo that you had neither expected, or were prepared for.

The following is the interview. If you want to read it in its entirety, click here, and don't forget to leave a comment at the end.



Today I welcome C. W. Lovatt to *Diana Talks... *

Today I welcome C. W. Lovatt to *Diana Talks... *

On 25th May,  C W Lovatt is releasing a new book, The Little Mouse, a complete change from his usual genre, with illustrations by Angel Rose. Two days before, on Wednesday 23rd May, the Review is hosting my in depth review of this charming and life affirming book. I won't give any spoilers now, but watch the Review Blog for the post on Wednesday.




*

The Hi Chuck. It is a real pleasure to talk to you here. Not only do I consider you a friend, I consider you an exceptionally talented writer. I am delighted to have the opportunity to see  a little of what goes on inside that formidably intelligent brain of yours ...

Are you sitting comfortably.

No??

Well, never mind... (sigh) ... wriggle around a bit then and let's just get on with the talk ...

First things first I am sure there is a question that you have always longed to be asked. Now is the chance. Ask your own question and answer it!


My own question, eh? Hmm, that is different! Let’s see, I’m going to go with ‘what’s it like being a writer?’

Well, it’s not as glamorous as I thought it would be, but remember I’ve dreamed of becoming a writer almost as soon as I learned how to read. As a consequence, there’s been plenty of time for that dream to grow to surpass all reason. For instance, I was going to own a tropical island and live in a house that opened up like a clam shell – you know, glamorous stuff like that. It’s laughable now, even risible, but that dream stood me in good stead over the years, through some really bleak times. When others (ie sane people) had nothing at all, I would always have that dream to sustain me. So when that long awaited first royalty cheque arrived and that dream vanished with an almost audible ‘pop,’ I couldn’t really begrudge its leaving, because it had already served me so well.

If your latest book, “Interim,” the second book of the Josiah Stubb trilogy, was adapted into a TV show or a film, who would you like to play the lead role?

I had to get some help with this one as I’m not as up on film actors as I used to be. A friend suggested Tom Hardy, so let’s go with him to play Josiah Stubb.


What made you choose this genre?

Historical Fiction appeals to me, so I figured that, if I’m going to sit down and write something as lengthy as a novel – to dedicate so much of myself, pouring my heart and guts out onto the page - it had better be about something that I’m interested in.

How do you get ideas for plots and characters?

Plots and characters are what make writing such a joy. Plots are usually the product of a ‘eureka’ moment I often have when something triggers the kernel of an idea. As far as characters go, I’ve never written any with a preconceived idea in mind, just as I’ve never had a preconceived idea about meeting a person. We introduce ourselves as would anyone else, and get to know one another over the course of time.

If, as a one off, (and you could guarantee publication!)  you could write anything you wanted, is there another genre you would love to work with and do you already have a budding plot line in mind?

I began my career writing short stories, with some success, winning awards and so on. During that time there can’t have been too many genres that I didn’t explore. In that light, I’m not afraid of other genres, in fact we’re old friends, and many examples can be found in in an eclectic anthology I’m very proud of entitled “And Then It Rained.”  (Note from Diana: If "And Then It Rained" is not my favourite book of all time, it certainly is there in the top three. Heck! What am I saying?? Thinking of the title story again and others that I love with a passion bordering on insanity for a story, yep, it has just been promoted to definitely my favourite book of all time!)

Was becoming a writer a conscious decision or something that you drifted into (or even something so compelling that it could not be denied?) How old were you when you first started to write seriously.

I would have to say that it was compelling. Why, I’ve no idea, it’s just something that I’ve come to accept over time. I wrote my first novel, longhand, back in my mid to late twenties, and you have to be serious to tackle a project like that.

Marmite? Love it or hate it?
Erm...it's an acquired taste...

Do you have any rituals and routines when writing? Your favourite cup for example or ‘that’ piece of music...??

I suppose my greatest ritual is to try to clear my desk before starting a new project. I need to keep distractions to a minimum, so that finding that ‘centre’ is more achievable. After that, it’s pretty much whatever works. I’ve written with the music on and with it off, in my office, in front of the television, out on my deck at night, or in the morning (summer and winter,) and out under the giant cottonwoods in my yard. Each novel has had its own routine, and I’m rather curious what it will be for my next one. Really, I’m a bit like a cat before taking a nap, turning and turning, before finally finding the place where I’m most comfortable.
(Note from Diana: Hmm. Clear? Desk? Clear desk?  Nope. I don't understand those words put together in that format!)

I promise I won’t tell them the answer to this, but when you are writing, who is more important, your family or your characters?

That’s a very good question and I’m glad you asked it! Next question, please…
((Laughing. Loudly!!))

Other than writing full time, what would be your dream job?

I always wanted to be the next Neil Young.
(Note from Diana: Well, you can't. End of.)

Coffee or tea? Red or white?

Ooo, herbal tea, please (don’t judge,) and red.

How much of your work is planned before you start? Do you have a full draft or let it find its way?

I don’t have a plan, and that includes not having a plan to not having a plan. Sometimes I’ll write at least a partial outline, and sometimes I won’t write one at all. It depends on the project and (I’m coming to suspect) the phase of the moon.  😂

If you had free choice over the font your book is printed in, what font/fonts would you choose?

Trust YOU to ask this one! Okay then, let’s see: so far Times New Roman is working for me, but you never know what the future holds. What I can tell you is that I’m not a fan of Helvetica.
(Everyone hates Helvetica! Printers hated Helvetica. It was the 'new big thing and everyone wanted it', but it was expensive and hard to get hold of.)

Imagine that you could get hold of any original source document. What would it be?

The note that Lord Raglan scribbled to Lord Lucan, that caused the The Charge of the Light Brigade.

Have any of your characters ever shocked you and gone off on their own adventure leaving you scratching your head??? If so how did you cope with that!?

Oh those characters! When haven’t they shocked me? But the thing to remember about writing is that it’s not about you, it’s about the story – always the story – and the thing to remember about the story is that it’s the characters who are telling it, the writer is merely the chronicler. So in answer to your question I pretty much give them their head, and try to keep up.

How much research do you do and do you ever go on research trips?

Writing Historical Fiction requires extensive research…that is if you don’t want to look like an absolute fool. Nothing drives me around the bend more than to read such a work and find that it is riddled with inaccuracies. Further, I feel strongly that a work of Historical Fiction should be seen as an alternate reference book – something that takes those dry old textbooks, that we’ve all had to endure in school, and makes them interesting by weaving a tale through the facts.

As for research trips, I often travel to where the story is taking place, but not always. For the first book of the Josiah Stubb trilogy I went to see the fortress of Louisbourg for myself, and then on to St. John’s Newfoundland. For the second and third books, I travelled to Quebec City, and then drove the length of the Gaspé Peninsula. In 2015 I flew down to Australia and drove across the Nullarbor Plain while researching for “Adventures Downunder” – the latest in the Charlie Smithers Collection.

Fiction authors have to contend with real characters invading our stories. Are there any ‘real’ characters you have been tempted to prematurely kill off or ignore because you just don’t like them or they spoil the plot?

Good lord no! If they spoil the plot, then it’s the plot that’s at fault. Create another one, by all means, but if you value your credibility, don’t alter the facts by one iota.

Are you prepared to go away from the known facts for the sake of the story and if so how do you get around this?

See above. Blasphemy!

Do you find that the lines between fact and fiction sometimes become blurred?

I certainly hope so; it’s my business to do just that.

Have you ever totally hated or fallen in love with one of your characters?
Loiyan, my first leading lady, I loved her desperately.

(Note from Diana: We, the readers, could tell the depth of feeling with which this wonderful woman was written. It shone throughout the pages of not just the first book, but the second and third. I will never forget her plaintive cry of Charleeeee.)


What do you enjoy reading for pleasure?
Anything, as long as it’s well written.

What drink would you recommend drinking whilst reading your latest book?

A good stiff tot of something distilled. The action gets a bit intense at times.

Last but not least... favourite author?

My idol, George MacDonald Fraser, the author of the Flashman books.

Thank you, Chuck. That was a wonderful talk. 

You can read C W Lovatt's blog and find out more about him at Story River

He lives in Canada, where it is cold, and is the self-appointed Writer-In-Residence of Carroll, Manitoba, (population +/- 20).


If you wish to pre-order "The Little Mouse," click here.



Saturday 19 May 2018

The Little Mouse

Release date May 25. Available to pre-order now!

A delightfully satisfying story." ~ Book Reviewers Online

"This tale, which will appeal to all ages, carries not just one, but several important and poignant messages. Without being 'preachy,' the book lets the reader carry away a positive and life affirming precept." ~ The Review

http://mybook.to/tlm


Tuesday 15 May 2018

"The Little Mouse" - A Review From 'Book Reviewers International'

The following is an editorial review from Book Reviewers International, for my children's story, "The Little Mouse,"release date May 25. Available to pre-order now. Many thanks to Celine Lai for her kind words.

Just a note further: While Celine states that the book is suitable for twelve years and up, that's her opinion. While each child develops differently, after consulting with someone who has studied child development, and worked with children for twenty-five years (not to mention having children and grandchildren of her own,) Wild Wolf and myself still maintain that it's suitable for five years and up.

 Click here to pre-order your own copy of "The Little Mouse" - a #1 best-seller the first day it went on pre-order.

 



The Little Mouse

The Little Mouse by C.W. Lovatt reviewed by Celine
Published by:  Wild Wolf Publishing
Format:   Kindle 79 pages
Date of publication:  25 May 2018 –   pre-order through Amazon
Genres:   Fiction, spiritual, animals, fantasy, children’s book
REVIEW
A well written and well-crafted memorable fantasy story for ages 12 and above, with an exciting and colorful narrative that keeps the reader on their toes and wondering what will happen.  This wonderful story is sprinkled with amazing forest creatures, with whom you feel as though you are right there with them as this gripping tale un-folds.
Magic is seamlessly woven into the story in a believable fashion, and as I read, I felt that I was traveling with a Jedi Mouse who performed great feats of hands on healing.  The themes are quite apparent – that no-one is too small to achieve something, to believe in oneself, people can change, and that we are all inter-connected.
Above all, the Little Mouse shows one never to give up but to trust in one’s inner resources or higher guidance, as the story takes you through rather stressful or unpleasant scenarios, akin a little to the original story of Bambi where Bambi’s father is shot and taken from him.
Some of the expressions or sentences are at a reading comprehension level for the older child, and the story may enhance a child’s vocabulary because a few words in the story may be unknown to them.  There were 2 words which I had to look up in the dictionary, indicating the breadth of the vocabulary in this story; but I didn’t mind doing that at all, and when I was quite young I read a lot of books for which I did just that.
Toward the end of the story there are quite graphic descriptions of violence toward animals of which a parent should judge whether this would be suitable for the tender thoughts of children younger than 12.   This part of the story is integral to the themes however, and any discomfort to the reader serves to bolster the intent of the tale, which to me is multi-layered, being not to treat animals as objects for the pleasure of sport, and to believe in and use all of your natural resources and a combination of will-power to get what you want, if it is ethical.
Altogether a delightfully satisfying story for an adult or mature young person to read, and definitely I can see this story a movie taking its place alongside the classics.
Very exact and descriptive words are used which immediately paint a magical tale where all the characters, both of the animal and human type, come to life, as unique beings; whose fates you are gripped by.
I really enjoyed reading this story because even though it described unpleasant real-life situations, it has a happy ending, and it is a metaphorical story that firmly encourages us to think about what we do from all vantage points, and to respect, understand and care for each other, and to work together, woven into a story of warmth and courage and companionship.



Click here to read Celine's review on her blog page.


Click here to pre-order your own copy of "The Little Mouse" - a #1 best-seller the first day it went on pre-order.


Friday 27 April 2018

"The Little Mouse" - Available to Pre-Order!

I'm very proud of my next book, to be released on May 25. Appropriate for 5 years and up, "The Little Mouse," combined with the exquisite cover and illustrations, by the gifted artist, Angel Rose, is a story that is sure to appeal to all ages. In just its first day to pre-order, it did quite well, shooting up to #1 in both Canada and the UK in their leading categories.

To titillate your mind even further, here is the blurb: 

"From the creator of Charlie Smithers comes an endearing story, reminiscent of fairy tale classics of yesteryear. Filled with enchantment and meaning, this charming tale appeals to young and old alike, portraying how even the least among us can change the world."


Click here to pre-order your copy today!


Now here's a real treat: the following are the cover and illustrations by the extremely talented Angel Rose (you're welcome!):













CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!


Saturday 13 January 2018

"And Then It Rained_ - A Review - "In One Word: Superb!"

Sorry folks, I'm having trouble with my touch pad so couldn't copy and paste, but posted the link instead.

Thank you, HC, UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/customer-reviews/RB6UUQRD1RB9V/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B01DCNN4ZE

Follow this link to purchase your own copy of "And Then It Rained": http://myBook.to/atr