Audio isn’t exactly a new thing in fiction/romance. I remember borrowing books on tape from the local town library as a kid (showing my age LOL) but it is relatively unknown, untapped, and in my opinion, undermined.
I love audio. I love having a book read to me when I’m driving, grocery shopping, or waiting at some sports training or game. I find it gives my eyes some downtime from staring at screens, and my wrist and hands from having to hold and operate a reading device or book. Doesn’t sound like much, but after spending eight hours a day, almost every day, in front of a computer or laptop or phone screen, typing, editing, scrolling, my eyes and hands hurt, and I find the reprieve most welcome.
For authors who self-publish, getting into the audio market isn’t easy. First and foremost, it’s expensive. For novels between 60,000 and 90,000 words, prices for production can range from one thousand to two thousand dollars, sometimes even more. It’s not feasible for a lot of authors. Hell, it’s not feasible for most authors. I view it as a long-term investment. It’s going to take time to recoup costs. I know that going in. But as a creative person, I do love having my work available in varying mediums.
I’ve been very blessed that Tantor Audio have picked up the majority of my titles. They’re an audio publisher, much like an ebook publisher. There are no costs to outlay; they work on a set percentage/royalty basis on sales. And that works for me.
I do have some titles self-published on audio, and as an Australian author, that’s not easy. ACX (the Audio division of Amazon) doesn’t recognise Australia. At all. So if you live outside of the US and UK, you’re not a viable artist, apparently. I’m very blessed that I have a friend (RJ Scott) with a small press house in the UK who allows me to use her platform to get into the self-publishing audio market.
If you’re curious about audio but still not sure, you can sign up and use a free credit to try your first audio book! You can sign up at Audible, and they give you a credit for one book per month. You literally have nothing to lose! Be sure to check out the ‘sample’ feature to listen before you buy.
In just over four weeks, I’ve had three audio releases! It’s been craaaaazy!
Narrated by Sean Crisden
Narrated by Joel Leslie Froomkin
Narrated by Joel Leslie Froomkin
So if you’re new to audio, I recommend you give it a try! It can really bring a book to life!
Until next month!
For more about N.R. Walker you can find her at:
Email:
nrwalker@nrwalker.net