A Vietnam War veteran's writing has earned recognition from Dog Ear Publishing, which presented its Award of Literary Excellence to his second novel, "Poetic Justice." The book is just the second this year to earn the company's literary award. Dog Ear's editorial team decides which products qualify for the award, and the recommendations are then reviewed by the managing editor, editorial services manager, and the publisher.
"I was actually very surprised to have received the award," author Chris Stone said. "It is very much appreciated."
Although Stone modestly admits he's only a "novice novelist," he also admits he knows how to spin a good story. "My one goal in writing these books is to have each reader 'feel' the story and become part of its emotions and situations," he said. "I hope I have been successful thus far. The award makes me feel that I may have achieved this goal. It's a real shot in the arm for a new novelist."
Stone has been writing poetry and songs for many years, but he began writing novels in 2014, simply deciding one morning to start writing a story that had been in his thoughts. The result would be his first book, "Adoption," published in 2015 through a different publisher. ("We all make mistakes," Stone joked.) He had already completed the manuscript for "Poetic Justice" by then.
The southern Massachusetts resident finds that writing a novel is easier than writing poetry. "I open the valve in my head, and the stories just pour out like water form a faucet," he said. "Yes, I do have to go back and make corrections, but the stories just seem to flow naturally." In fact, he's almost finished his third book, "Consummate Darkness."
Having fun while writing is one of the reasons Stone continues to create new work. "I'm proud of this book because I had such a blast writing it!" he said. "It is a great story and the characters were fun to develop. I love twists and unexpected situations. I'm not a believer in long, drawn-out chapters but, rather, want to keep the pace moving and the reader captured by the storyline and action."
"So many people have said that they could not put my first novel down, and those who have read the sample copies of 'Poetic Justice' are saying the same thing."
The page-turning aspect of the book is one reason it was singled out for the excellence award. As Dog Ear editor Christina Guthrie wrote, "'Poetic Justice' is a fun and fast-paced read. The author does an excellent job setting the scene and describing characters, and with plenty of twists and turns in the story, you'll have a hard time putting this book down!"
In the novel, Douglas Pennington realizes after his latest mission in the Middle East that he's become a walking killing machine created by his own government. Even more sobering is the realization that he is just fine with that. His unfeeling approach to missions catches the eye of a secret group committed to getting justice when traditional judicial and legal systems fail.
When he's recruited to join The Council to assassinate chosen targets, Pennington becomes one of the world's most lethal men. A chance encounter with a woman changes his life, but The Council won't let go of one of its most valuable resources without a fight. The ensuing betrayals, twists and intrigue create an unforgettable story.
Dr. John Manhold of Sarasota, Fla., a good friend of Stone's, has been a source of support since his first book and influential in urging Stone to keep writing. The fellow novelist, textbook writer and retired professor has said he's impressed that "Poetic Justice" was given the award.
Stone's wife, Peggy, is his biggest supporter and has been helping market the books. "She was tickled pink that 'Poetic Justice' was recognized as an excellent work, and I think we both sit back and wonder why I waited so long to start writing novels," Stone said.
He added that Dog Ear Publishing has been a joy to work with and its team has been very supportive. "I only wish I had used Dog Ear for the release of my first book," he said. "My third and fourth books will be coming your way this year."
Stone, a grandfather, and great-grandfather, plans to keep writing as long as he can.
For additional information, please visit www.ChrisStoneBooks.com.
Poetic Justice
Chris Stone
Dog Ear Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-4575-4456-9 244 pages $12.95 US
Available at Ingram, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and fine bookstores everywhere.
