Where awesome book readers meet awesome writers.
Today, we’re honored to feature Joel Chanaca, a two-time Global Book Awards winner whose storytelling blends adventure, faith, and purpose. Known for his works Humor & Heart and Hunter, the English Setter, Joel writes with a sense of mission crafting stories that uplift, inspire, and challenge the imagination.
With over 25 years of experience as a game warden, Joel brings authenticity to his writing through a deep respect for nature, discipline, and the values that shape real heroism. His books such as Patches the Cat is a Thief, Hunter the Setter, A Kitty Named Cricket, and Frogman Puck Origins: The Rising Tides reflect his passion for storytelling that resonates with both heart and purpose.
Meet Joel Chanaca
Joel Chanaca’s life is rooted in adventure and service. As a lifelong outdoorsman camping, fishing, canoeing, and scuba diving he draws creative inspiration from the world around him. “My love for God’s creation has shaped how I see everything,” he shares. “It also fuels the worlds I build in my stories.”
Through his writing, Joel combines faith, mystery, and high-stakes action, creating novels where design meets destiny and good always stands its ground.
About His Latest Book: Frogman Puck Origins – The Rising Tides
Frogman Puck Origins: The Rising Tides began as a vision for heroes who stand for truth in a morally grey world. “I wanted young readers to have role models who are actively good,” Joel explains. “Characters whose powers reflect intelligent design rather than luck or chaos.”
Every ability in Frogman Puck from Rainforest Gripper Mode to Echo Sync, flight, and amphibious gear symbolizes purpose and divine order. These elements are not just creative concepts; they’re spiritual metaphors about courage, design, and service.
“Writing this story was about giving families and youth something clean, exciting, and spiritually grounding,” Joel says. “It’s my way of offering readers an adventure that inspires faith as much as it entertains.”
Inside His Writing Process
Joel’s writing routine is as unconventional as it is endearing. “You’ll often find me writing sideways in bed,” he laughs. “Laptop on a pillow, dog on one leg, cat on my lap, and another cat curled under my cheek.”
The quiet hours of night are when his imagination comes alive. “The house is silent, but my mind is a wild place,” he says. “That chaos is where my best ideas are born.”
Authors Who Inspire Him
Joel’s literary influences include timeless masters like C. S. Lewis, Jules Verne, and J. R. R. Tolkien. “They showed me that imagination and truth can coexist beautifully,” he reflects. “Their stories teach courage, faith, and wonder values I want to carry forward in my own work.”
He also grew up reading clean, adventure-filled comics that celebrated goodness and bravery. “Those stories shaped my idea of what heroes should be approachable, courageous, and morally grounded.”
What He’s Working on Now
Joel is currently putting the finishing touches on the next book in his exciting series:
Frogman Puck Resurgent: Turn of the Tides – Unveiling of Shadows: A Quest for Truth.
“This sequel dives deeper into the spiritual conflict that began in the first book,” he says. “There will be more missions, new artifacts, and greater challenges for the heroes. It’s going to be bigger in every way.”
Promoting His Books
When it comes to book marketing, Joel approaches it with strategy and passion. “We use a mix of platforms Awesome Gang, BookBub, social media, video content, and paid ads,” he explains. “Every platform has its strengths, so you have to adapt.”
He emphasizes that cover design, categories, and keywords can make or break visibility. “Tools like Publisher Rocket have been game-changers for me,” he says. “Choosing accurate, relevant categories matters more than people realize.”
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Joel’s guidance for new writers comes from years of experience and trial:
- Keep learning. Study great authors, analyze structure, and understand why their stories work.
- Use tools wisely. Programs like Publisher Rocket, Amazon KDP Select, and BookBub can elevate your reach.
- Invest in your presentation. Covers, titles, and categories are crucial for discoverability.
- Build community. Connect with readers, create launch teams, and value your ARC reviewers.
- Fail forward. Every mistake teaches you something essential.
“Writing is both art and discipline,” Joel says. “Embrace the process, and never stop improving.”
The Best Advice He’s Ever Received
Joel carries with him a timeless lesson from his grandfather:
“Nobody’s coming out of this life alive make sure you’re ready and make sure that your life counts.”
He interprets it not as morbid, but as a mission statement. “We’re here for a reason to make an impact, to bless others, and to use our gifts for something greater. For me, that means following Christ and dedicating my work to Him.”
What He’s Reading Now
Between his full-time duties as a game warden and his writing schedule, Joel admits he’s focused on his own creative work right now. “I’m dedicating all my free time to finishing Frogman Puck Resurgent. It’s an all-consuming but fulfilling process.”
What’s Next for Joel Chanaca
Joel has several completed projects waiting for release. “There’s a game warden story, a cyber warriors series, a property protection book, and a mystery called A Cat in the Quiet Valley,” he says. “But for now, Frogman Puck has my full attention it’s been such an exciting ride.”
If Stranded on a Desert Island
If he could bring only a few books to a deserted island, Joel’s choices reflect his values:
- The Bible
- 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne
- Frogman Puck (his own creation, of course)
“These books remind me of faith, imagination, and purpose everything I need to stay inspired.”
Connect with Joel Chanaca
Follow Joel and explore his growing universe of faith-based adventure:
- Website: Joel Chanaca Official Site
Stay tuned for updates on Frogman Puck Resurgent and future releases designed to inspire courage, creativity, and conviction.
Final Thoughts
Joel Chanaca’s storytelling proves that faith and imagination can coexist beautifully. Through his Frogman Puck series and other works, he invites readers to believe in purpose-driven heroism and the power of goodness in a chaotic world.
Whether protecting wildlife by day or writing about valor by night, Joel lives his message: serve with courage, create with heart, and make your life count.
