This is not an easy task.
Some of these guys are good so there’s added pressure to pick the right one. And I have a bias for theatrical reads. Partly because many moons ago I studied acting, and partly because my last audiobook was presented by a trained British actor.
All of this is being organised by my publisher, so every couple of days a new batch of recorded files are emailed to me. I’m surprised so many are interested in recording my Urban Fantasy, The Midnight Man.
The last time I did this, I was able to access the ACX site.
This is the site where narrators have their profile page and samples of their work. The service is only available to Americans, Canadians, those in the UK, and the Irish. As my publisher is American, they can access it, while this time around, I can’t.
So when we were finding someone to narrate Winter Masquerade, I actively encouraged people to audition from my list of favourite voices on that site. This time I can’t for some reason. Still, this doesn’t mean there haven’t been some great reads this time around.
One audition featured various voices.
It came from an editor who used different actors for the various parts. Adelaide, Stanley’s overbearing mother in the book, was voiced by a middle aged actress. I really was impressed but as I’m not a regular audiobook consumer, I’m not sure if this is what listeners want.
At this point in time, there are four clear favourites.
I’ve visited the Audible site to hear samples of what else they’ve done, just to see how versatile they are. Again, I’m impressed.
I think in the end it has to come down to my gut feeling. Otherwise I’ll never make my decision, and my publisher is waiting for my pick.
FYI, the audiobook these auditions were for, has been released now. Details can be found by CLICKING HERE.
kevin klehr 