Interviews

Narrator Interview: Rebecca H. Lee

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, Interviews, romance ,

Featured Book

Wired Love by Ella Cheever Thayer

What brought you to working on this project?

I had been a part time audiobook narrator before Covid, but then got laid off from my safety net jobs and suddenly had a lot of free time. I wanted to learn audiobook production from the rights holder side and I had recently read this story, which sounded like a fun, old-timey version of “You’ve Got Mail”. I love rom-coms and this was perfect!

What was the hardest part of bringing this story to life?

There is a lot of archaic language and old spellings that I had to almost translate. Also, many old authors, and this one in particular, used a lot of very long sentences, and seemed to under punctuate. I had to go through the script and add a lot of extra commas, and even parentheses in order to remind myself of the inflection that the author intended.

Do you have a favorite character voice from the project? Why/ why not?

Oh my gosh, there were three that I absolutely loved! Two of them because of their quirkiness, and one, named “Cyn”, who was the kind of best friend character, who was just really cool and optimistic. I wanted her to be MY best friend!

Do you have a favorite chapter from the project? Why/ why not?

Yes! I can’t remember whether it was “The Feast” or “Unexpected Visitors”, as they almost could have been one big chapter, and I don’t want to give too much away, but it was such a fun and quirky scene where you really get to know the characters’ unique personalities. 

Is there anything you’d like listeners to know about this work before they hear your performance?

The book was a best seller for 10 years and was the only novel by Ella Cheever Thayer.

Me: Cool. Thanks for sharing that.

About your other works:

What was the most challenging other work you’ve voiced? Easiest? Most fun? What made it hard, easy, fun??

I would say this (Wired Love) was the most challenging, for the reasons I said before. The most fun (other than this one) was probably another classic novel I did recently called “Patty Went to College” by Jean Webster. It is almost more like a series of vignettes than a single story, which meant I got a lot of closure all the way through, and I really loved playing the main character who kept getting herself into trouble. The characters were so well developed that I could clearly see and hear them in my mind.

What do you love about what you do?

I love getting to play all of the characters in a story. When I do theater, I am limited to just one (or a small handful if it is improv). I get to play characters of all different ages and genders, and I am responsible for telling the whole story, rather than just part of it which makes it so much more fulfilling than stage work.

Which work are you most proud to have been a part of? Why?

Whichever is my newest release is always what I am the most proud of. It is great to be able to say I contributed to a piece of art that is accessible to so many people, not just a couple hundred people in a theater.

Me: So, that was all about your work. Now, tell us more about Rebecca the person.

What drew you to voice acting?

I think it started when my family would play around with a tape recorder when I was a kid and do pretend radio shows and commercials. I always loved performing, and majored in Drama and Music in college. It was probably inevitable that I would eventually end up back in front of the “tape recorder”.

Me: What’s a tape recorder? (Kidding! They were around when I was a kid.)

Is this the only acting you do? If you do other forms of acting, which is your favorite and why?

I still do improv, even online improv currently during lockdown. I love to be able to play a wide range of characters, and comedy has always been my favorite genre of art. It also scratches a writing itch that I have, since you are simultaneously writing and acting. Other than that, I love performing musical theater, but it takes a huge commitment, and a LOT of memorization, which, to be honest, I am less enthusiastic about since having improv and audiobooks to fulfill me.

Me: That does sound like a lot of work.

Do you have a process when you approach a work? Please describe it for us. 

I always skim the entire book before accepting a project. Once we decide to go forward with it, I read it and highlight the dialogue in different colors for each character, underline and look up words I don’t know how to pronounce, and make bold any words I think need a bit more emphasis. I never italicise because I don’t want to confuse them with words that the author actually italicized. Same with punctuation. I may add an extra space or two in long sentences so that I know I should take a breath, but I never add extra commas.

I usually don’t plan ahead with character “voices” but I let my improv instincts do the work. I record the first line of dialogue of each character into my phone so that if they disappear for a few chapters, I can quickly refer to it to remind myself if they come back.

Me: That’s super interesting. Most narrators I know are like “I have 8 pages of notes on this character.” (At least in spirit, even if they haven’t told me that to my face.)

What’s one random thing people don’t really know about you?

I have had a lot of different jobs in entertainment, and people I meet always comment on that. I think they may believe that I change my mind about what I want to do with my life or something, but to me, everything is the next progression of my journey of storytelling. I developed a lot of acting skills from working as a theme park character performer. I learned public speaking and got to know people from all around the world while working as an emcee on cruise ships. I use all of the skills and experiences when I narrate audiobooks. One day, I might even write my own books, but for now, I find this work extremely fulfilling.

Do you get to read for fun? Do you have a favorite genre to read for fun?

I listen to audiobooks for fun. Mostly cozy mysteries, rom-coms, and non-fiction, but honestly, any genre as long as it is well written.
Me: You should get on the Audiobooks Edge Reader’s list. I’ve gotten a lot of cozies of ate.

Do you have other hobbies? What do you do to relax? 

I love hiking (in the woods). I tried hiking in the desert when I lived in LA and I was not a fan! To relax, I do yoga, and spend time with my husband-figure and my pets.

What kind of movies do you enjoy?

Comedies, currently I’m on a Taika Waitiii kick.

If you could meet one person from history or present time, who would it be and why?

Robin Williams. He was such a unique individual and a comedy legend. Also, I used to have dreams that he was my uncle for some reason.

How can readers and prospective clients reach you?

Website: becksvoice.com

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisisrebeccahlee

Twitter: https://twitter.com/beckcentric

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Innova, The Golden City Captives, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Narrator Interview: Shamaan Casey – A Lovely, Deep Voice

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, historical, Interviews , ,
Note: This isn’t the featured book, but it does have the same dynamic duo behind it.

Featured work:

The Siege: Tales from a Revolution- Virginia

What brought you to working on this project?

I have worked with Lars D.H. Hedbor on nearly all of his audiobooks. With this being his latest release in the series, he offered to have me once again bring his characters into the world of audio, and of course I couldn’t refuse.

What was the hardest part of bringing this story to life?

The hardest part for me is trying to get into the headspace of the main character, Nathaniel. In the opening of the story he goes through a disastrous battle and comes home a changed man. Trying to get that sense of weariness and sense of self pity is certainly challenging, while still keeping the story moving forward.

Do you have a favorite character voice from the project?

I like voicing Nathaniel the most, though not just because he’s the main character. He goes through moments where he’s in pain, where he’s frightened, frustrated, depressed, friendly, and trying to get a girl. I like the scenes making me change of his inflection a bit more than other characters going about their daily lives, since he certainly goes through a roller coaster of events.

Do you have a favorite chapter from the project? Why/ why not?

I personally prefer the opening chapter of the book, because usually Lars doesn’t involve the direct action of the historical battles that often in his series (his characters certainly talk about them or get caught in the crossfire, but are not actively participating in many books). With this one, the battle feels horrifying as the main character gets taken out of the fight fairly quickly once the guns start going off, and Lars brings a sense of grim reality that doesn’t glorify the violence, but adds a sense of trauma that haunts the main character throughout the book. Also dealing with the aftermath of the battle, and how different characters react to stories about the battle later on was fun, as many often get caught in the sensational details and neglect the more humane side of enemy forces.

Is there anything you’d like listeners to know about this work before they hear your performance?

If you like deep voices, I’m your guy.

What else are you working on?

How many other works have you narrated?  

I have narrated more than 25 titles, some still on their way to stores like Audible.

What was the most challenging other work you’ve voiced? Easiest? Most fun? What made it hard, easy, fun??  

I think the most challenging work I’ve voiced was doing another book by Lars, “The Prize” which features two main characters who have French accents. That was certainly new for me, so I had to brush up on the French accent and voice an older man and a young girl while still trying to sound credible. Once I got used to it, the process became smoother, but initially voicing those characters felt like an uphill battle of doubt and uncertainty. The most fun I had voicing characters came in “The Siege” where I got to voice two of my favorite characters in the series, Nichiwake and Tanarou. Both were older Native Americans, so I got to rely more on my lower tones and add a bit more roughness in my voice, and I had a blast voicing them.

Can you recommend any of your other titles for us? What about the work is appealing?

If you like short and quick sports biographies, I have done a few of those, so you can learn the basics on a few of the more popular NBA players. I also have done two sci-fi stories (more of the pg-13 rating), so if you want a more action-packed story, I have those. I also did an as-of-yet unreleased clean romance, so maybe one day that’ll be out and tickle the fancies of anyone interested.

Me: The romance genre isn’t my thing, but I do like sci-fi.

Which work are you most proud to have been a part of? Why?

I’m proud to have been a part of the Tales from a Revolution series. The main draw is that each book takes place in a different colony, and focuses on a group of people not often discussed in the history books concerning the American Revolution. With The Siege, the main character is a disabled veteran. In The Freedman, a freed slave has to fight for his family’s freedom while the nation fights for it’s own. In The Smoke, the Haudenosaunee are forced to choose sides in a war that isn’t theirs, but threatens to destroy them anyway. Every time I do one of these books, I walk away learning something new, and I’m proud to have my name attached to them.

Me: Always good to learn something along the way.

Shaaman in his natural habitat. (And a lovely looking booth it is.)

Tell us more about yourself.

What drew you to voice acting?  

All my life, people have told me I should get into radio because of my deep voice, often comparing me to Morgan Freeman or James Earl Jones. However, I decided to pursue a career in culinary arts, getting my Associates Degree in that and Restaurant Management. However, while working my day job as a food demo rep for my grocery store, a customer suggested that I get into audiobooks, mentioning that he records them himself in his home. While I kind of brushed off the idea initially, over time the idea of being my own business and capitalizing on my voice became appealing. So, roughly a year later, I bought a usb mic during a Black Friday sale and threw my hat into the ring with audiobooks. As I quickly discovered, it takes more than having a nice voice to be successful in this industry. It gives me a lot of appreciation for the craft, and the sheer amount of work people do behind the scenes to provide customers the content they want.
Me: You do have a lovely voice.

Do you have a process when you approach a work? Please describe it for us.  

Usually I first read my way through the book, and often request a quick summary of the overall story and characters so I can focus on making decisions concerning the production and less about trying to understand what is going on. I make notes on how often characters appear, so I know how distinct I need to make them so that a listener can easily tell them apart from the rest. Pronunciations are something I check online with for local pronunciations (Houston, Tx is pronounced differently from Houston County, Ga) or with the author if it’s a unique character name. After that, I create separate sound files so I can grab a piece of my reading in the character’s voice, and save it for later when I need to keep my voices consistent. If there is an accent involved, I purchase online accent guides to help get me ready for the role, and look up videos of people talking with the native accent to help me further. After that, then I blast chill my recording room with my window AC, and record until I have to cool down the room again.

Do you get to read for fun? Do you have a favorite genre to read for fun?

I honestly prefer reading comics and manga to traditional books, but I do appreciate a good mystery or science fiction novel from time to time.
Me: Cool. I should have you look at my new graphic novel.

Do you have other hobbies? What do you do to relax?  

When I’m not recording, I’m either cooking, baking, or playing video games. Often I find inspiration that helps me when it comes to doing character voices, or just to simply focus on something that doesn’t involve deadlines.

Me: Now I want to know what kind of video games.

Want to know more?

Website: www.shamaancasey.com

Social Media Links:

Facebook

Tweets by scaseycontent

Instagram

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Heidi J. Peterson – Editor Interview

Julie Gilbert Interviews ,

Today, we get to speak with Heidi J. Peterson, an editor.

Welcome.

What led you to editing as a career choice?

I’m a wordaholic and love books. My mother earned a Library Science degree so we had a great influence and book access. However, like so many others, I actually fell into editing. After receiving my business degree, for many years I worked in Account Management. At different companies, colleagues often asked me to “fix their writing” or “make it sound better.” Over the years, friends asked me to help with resumes, business presentations, and the occasional holiday letter. Eventually, I just couldn’t stay away and started freelance business editing and eventually added book editing.

Tell me a little about your background.

I grew up in the Chicago suburban area. We explored the wooded trails behind our home and walked to the clearing to play baseball, to picnic, and to drink the icky, egg-tasting water from the pump. We watched horses trot on the trails next to the creek. Continuing along the creek to the north, we ended up at the nature center and visited the rescued and rehabilitated baby animals. Our public school annual field trips included a bus trip downtown to see the museums: The Field Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry, and the Shedd Aquarium. All these experiences fueled my imagination when reading books or jotting down stories.

What do you do for fun?

As I live in Minnesota, my husband and I enjoy traveling somewhere warm every March for a week. It’s nonnegotiable. Daily I walk my dog and take in nature. In the summer, I enjoy playing tennis, bird-watching, and going to a lake. In the colder times—about nine months of the year here—I enjoy reading with a blanket, or two.

What is your editorial specialty?

For fiction books, I specialize in mystery, short story, historical, and suspense/thriller. For nonfiction books, I specialize in biography, business, memoir, and true stories. My editing is always about enhancing a client’s words and ideas.

What services do you provide?

I provide editing at the copyediting and line editing levels, as well as manuscript critiques. I also proofread manuscripts.

Why is it important for an author to have their book edited?

Authors write to express and to have their book read by others, with the ultimate goal of having the reader enjoy and follow their story all the way. No author wants a reader to miss the journey because the reader is tripped up by a passage or glaring errors. Most readers will forgive a few errors, but if the book is riddled with errors or just doesn’t make sense, they’ll put it aside and pick up another book and may write a bad review online. However, a clean book with a good story usually provides positive online reviews and recommendations to potential readers.

What is your process when working with authors?

I like to find out exactly what services a client is looking for to improve their book. I complete a free, four-page edit sample in Microsoft Word so the author can see the suggestions, changes, and queries I would ask. I return the sample with marked changes, as well as a clean copy so the author can see the before and after clearly.

What memorable editing projects have you worked on?

This is a tough one! I like projects where I learn new things, assist a first-time author in getting words into print, or help someone secure new business. In this realm, three projects rank right up there: editing a large contract for a financial forensic accountant, editing Secrets of Willow Lane for a first-time author, and creating a business proposal for an entrepreneur who secured a $25,000 contract.

What editing tip did you learn that perhaps you didn’t use earlier on in your editing career?

Look at the big picture first, and then examine the little picture. It’s so easy for an editor to hone in on a sentence before taking a look at the entire document and the flow of the story or project. So, now I read the entire manuscript first, before making any electronic changes. I’ll scribble some notes on a notepad as I go through it, but I won’t mark the document at this first read. This gives me an opportunity to see where the story is headed. Then, as I go through and edit I can more easily catch inconsistencies or touch base with the author on unclear sections.

What do you say to authors, especially first-time authors, who have reservations about working with an editor?

I understand their apprehension and can relate! I’ve had my own writing reviewed by book and online editors. Even professional editors know their work needs a separate set of eyes to catch things they may miss. Since writers review their work how they thought it out in their head when they wrote it, it’s easy to miss something they thought they wrote one way when they actually typed it another way. And, spellcheck obviously doesn’t catch everything.

Handing your book baby over to someone else can be unnerving to seasoned writers, as well as to new writers. This is why I carefully make suggestions to improve the writing with the reader in mind—to ensure their book or project is well received by others. Brutal feedback isn’t helpful or necessary to move a project forward. Constructive suggestions elevate a writing piece better every time.

Do you get to read for fun? Do you have a favorite genre to read for fun?

Absolutely! I especially love mysteries, biographies, and memoirs. Some favorite mystery authors include Tess Gerritsen, James Lee Burke, Sara Paretsky, Karen Slaughter, and Lisa Gardner. For nonfiction, I like the Malcolm Gladwell books and am fascinated at the way he researches and makes connections. I also enjoy biographies, whether everyday people, sports personalities, or American colonists. And, I enjoy children’s books too. Two of my favorites are Holes, for the creative plotline, and The Secret Garden, for the way the author makes her words dance when making the garden come alive.

As an editor, how do you keep current with industry changes?

My bookshelves overflow with editing and writing books. I attend classes through professional associations and online courses. Minneapolis has a large literary community including The Loft Literary Center.

For four years, I served on the Bloomington Literary Council, which connected me to authors, publishers, and readers. I also served on the Professional Editors Network board for four years, which allowed me to interact directly with many professional editors. I participated as a Mystery/Thriller category judge for the Midwest Independent Publishing Association’s 2018 annual book awards. In that role, I read and reviewed 16 novels averaging 400 pages each in a three-month period. It was amazing to read so many cool stories.

What Professional Associations do you belong to?

AIPP Home

https://aceseditors.org/
Professional Editors Network

Website:

Heidi’s website.

Social Media:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidijpeterson/

https://www.alignable.com/bloomington-mn/hjp-communications

How can authors get in touch with you?

To end on a light note, what is the most surprising thing about you?

In my travels, I’ve visited New Zealand, Mexico, Fiji, Hawaii, Roatan, Munich, Saint Lucia, and many other places, but I’ve never been to New York!

Thanks for sharing a little about your work.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Interview with Rock the Treatment Founder

Julie Gilbert Interviews ,

Introduction:

I found this company by accident searching up some questions about cancer. Happened to have some friends in the situation now, so I got curious. Each basket order comes with some nice, personalized follow-up. Today, I’m happy to have Stacy Berk join us representing the company.

Who are you and how did you get connected to the company?

Stacy: I am the founder of Rock the Treatment. It was started in 2015.

Do you have a personal connection to the cancer fight?

Stacy: I have several family members and friends that are cancer survivors.

Can you give us the short version of how Rock the Treatment got started?

Stacy: I was at a friend’s house helping after a double mastectomy, when she received an edible bouquet delivery. She immediately got sad instead of happy, and I questioned her as to why being that fruit was nutritious. She explained, due to the chemo the smell made her nauseous. Additionally, her mouth was sore (another side effect of chemo) so the acid in the fruit hurt her mouth. I realized, that I had inadvertently been guilty of sending loved ones gifts I thought were helpful, but actually had the opposite effect.

Me: That’s a powerful revelation. Glad you didn’t stop right there. It’s cool you did something to offer a solution.

Do you find the work uplifting or emotionally taxing?

Stacy: It took me a very long time to come to terms with the fact that every time we received an order it meant that another person was ill. The thing that flipped our thinking are the many emails from people that have ordered our gifts for their family or friend and are so grateful to have something that will bring them some comfort. We all feel so helpless, so if their gift helps in any way, it feels amazing.

What’s the best piece of advice given to you?

Stacy: Always do what is right, not what is easy.

If you could accomplish one thing, what would it be?

Stacy: Eradicate Cancer.

What’s the most important thing somebody about to fight cancer needs to hear?

Stacy: For many people it is difficult to allow others to help. They do not have to do everything on their own. Allow others to help you.

Where can we find out more about Rock the Treatment?

rockthetreatment.com
FaceBook
Twitter
Pinterest

Conclusion:

Thanks for joining me today. Hopefully, you’ve learned a little about this awesome company. If you have a friend or family member struggling with cancer and want to do something nice, this is a great place to start. Prayer is powerful, but if you want to do tangible too, I believe they have gift boxes for several types of budgets.

Audiobook Promotions:

33 of my 34 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Never Again (mystery, suspense) and Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there.
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian.
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift.
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma.
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother.
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble.

Interview with Rebecca Ehrenpreis – Narrator

Julie Gilbert Horror, Interviews, mystery ,

Introduction

Today, we have an interview with audiobook narrator, Rebecca Ehrenpreis. Thanks for joining us. Hope you like learning more about Rebecca and her work.

Featured project: Nightscape by Stephen R. George.

What brought you to working on this project?

Rebecca: I was interested in working on a mystery because I enjoy guessing what’s going to happen next. I really like the twists and turns and surprises a mystery has. I did a search on ACX and Nightscape written by Stephen R. George came up. I auditioned for it and a month later heard back from the publisher, Crossroad Press. I was accepted as the narrator. This is a Horror Mystery. I have to admit that I was so into it that sometimes when my daughter knocked on the door of my sound booth, I was so frightened that I started screaming. It happened more than once. 
Me: That sounds both amusing and terrifying.

Do you have a favorite character voice from the project? Why/ why not?  

I really like the voice I used for Bonnie Laine and also for the Red haired woman. They were both unique. I had never used them before.

How many other works have you narrated? 

I am now up to Book 6.

What was the most challenging other work you’ve voiced? Easiest? Most fun? What made it hard, easy, fun??  

This book was quite challenging because there were so many characters. Another book that I enjoyed Narrating was Delusional by Carolyn Adams, a mystery thriller. 

Can you recommend any of your other titles for us? What about the work is appealing?

I am working now on a Romance. I also enjoy it. It is a warm happy story. 

Which work are you most proud to have been a part of? Why?

Nightscape. The story line and Bonnie, the heroine, she and I are alike in many ways. I really understood her. We had similar circumstances. I am also divorced and brought two children up on my own. 

What drew you to voice acting?

I always enjoyed it. I used to create radio plays on my tape recorder when I was a kid and make up different characters. Then, later on in life, when I lived in London, I worked for a voiceover agency that sometimes cast me for voice acting jobs. It was a lot of fun.   

Is this the only acting you do? If you do other forms of acting, which is your favorite and why?

Rebecca: My most favorite acting part was in high school when I played the role of Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. The director of the play was the drama teacher at my high school, The Frisch School in Paramus, New Jersey. He was also the assistant producer of the famous off Broadway musical, The Fantasticks. Former students I have randomly bumped into throughout the years, still remember my part in the play. Even the principal of the school would call me, Nurse Ratched. Still today.
Me: Oh, neat. I think I’ve heard of that school.

What’s one random thing people don’t really know about you?  

That I am really funny.

Do you get to read for fun? Do you have a favorite genre to read for fun?

Yes, I love mysteries, thrillers, biographies, and books on the Holocaust. My mother is a survivor of the Holocaust from France.

Do you have other hobbies? What do you do to relax?  

I love dancing. I like Zumba. At home, I like to exercise to a website called, Just Dance.com. It’s a lot of fun. 

What kind of movies do you enjoy?

I like comedies, thrillers, tearjerkers, and documentaries.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know a little more about Rebecca. You can find all her Audible books here.

If you’d like to read more about Rebecca, check out her website.

http://rebeccavoice.com/audiobooks/

Audiobook Promotions …

ACX recently changed the policy on audiobook codes. There will be far less in the future, and they do not count as sales, so grab books while you can.

Feb Promos on Audiobook Crave.com (requires email sign in):
5 Steps to Surviving Chemistry
Spirit’s Bane (Guardian Angel Files Book 1)
Kindred Spirits (Guardian Angel Files Book 2)
Violence in Vegas (Eagle Eyes Book 1)
Rescue in Reno (Eagle Eyes Book 2)
Danger in Dallas (Eagle Eyes Book 3)

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian.
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift.
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma.
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother.
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble.

Check out my other titles available on Audiobooks Unleashed:

Beyond Broken Pencils – contemporary, literary
Shadow Council Combo (Books 1-4)
(Alternately, the individual titles can be found on Audiobook Crave
SC 1: Money Makes it Deadlier
SC 2: Revenge Makes it Sweeter
SC 3: Christmas Makes it Chaos
SC 4: Treachery Makes it Tense)

Eagle Eyes – mystery thriller

Scratched Off – mystery, thriller; FBI agent vs serial killer, more intense than Shadow Council/Eagle Eyes

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy

The Collins Case – Heartfelt Cases Book 1, Christian mystery
The Kiverson Case – Heartfelt Cases Book 2, Christian mystery
The Davidson Case – Heartfelt Cases Book 3, Christian mystery

Other titles on Audiobook Crave (but buried deep):
5 Steps to Better Blurbs – for authors
Innova – Christian Dystopia
The Golden City Captives – short fantasy
Fatal Interest – short mystery/thriller



Interview with Author Kim McMahill

Julie Gilbert Interviews, mystery , ,

(Plus info on her new release)

Introduction:

Today, we have an interview with Kim McMahill. She’s excited to tell you about her new release. It’s called A Foundation of Fear, just in case you totally skipped over the giant cover above.

What inspired you to write this series?

KM: A Foundation of Fear is the third novel in the Risky Research Series. The series explores the diet, nutrition, research and pharmaceutical worlds. The book topics range from a miracle weight loss pill, to a deadly sweetener, to the political influence exerted in order to maximize profits from an industry worth roughly 40 to 100 billion dollars annually. Health and nutrition are such complex topics and impact nearly everyone, and the money involved is definitely worth killing for.

What makes your main character unique?

KM: Devyn is a fearless FBI agent who definitely leads a much more adventurous life than I do. Well, she has no fear of drug dealers, crime bosses, or back-alley thugs, but she does have a fear of relationships and having her heart broken.

When you’re brainstorming for a new story, what usually comes first for you, the plot or the characters?

KM: Usually the plot comes first. Once I know how the story will unfold it is easier to determine the types of characters that I need in order to accomplish the mission in an interesting and entertaining way.

Tell us something about yourself that we don’t know.

KM: Hold on to your hats! I don’t own a Smart Phone. I don’t have anything against the device and suspect I’ll get one in the not so distant future, but for now I haven’t felt the need for one and fear it may consume time I don’t have to spare.

Me: Yup, that’s different.

Do read in the same genre you write in, or do you avoid reading that genre?

KM: I love to read suspense and action adventure. I can’t imagine writing in any other genre. Action adventure and romantic suspense can take the reader on journeys to places they can only dream of and put them in situations that make their hearts race, something very far from most of our daily lives.

Besides writing is there another career you would have liked to pursue?

KM: I always dreamed of being an archeologist, but when looking into college majors I thought I should pursue something more practical. Writing action, adventure, and suspense allows me to explore and solve mysteries. My goal in the next phase of my life is to find and take advantage of volunteer opportunities to participate on digs.

Blurb for A Foundation of Fear:

FBI Special Agent Devyn Nash is obsessed with taking down Coterie, a deadly group out to control the multi-billion-dollar diet product industry. The FBI’s plan to expose Coterie places Devyn’s best friend and her partner’s fiancé in the crosshairs of this ruthless organization. Can Devyn protect her friend and bring the coldblooded killers to justice before they strike again while distracted by injury, a sexist bully, and a long-distance relationship with a handsome Wyoming sheriff?

Lobbyist and Coterie assassin Sofia Wilks wants nothing more than to regain control of her life. Sofia knows Agent Nash is nipping at her heels, but the FBI agent isn’t the worst of her fears. She is drawn to a man who has the power to destroy her.

Excerpt:

The man flipped the sign outside the door to read “Privacy Please,” before slipping silently into the dimly-lit room. The sound of the harmonic overtones from the Tibetan singing bowls reverberated throughout the serene space. Aromas from exotic oils and incense assaulted his senses, momentarily distracting him from his mission.

As he shut the door, it clicked loudly.

“It’s about time. I thought maybe you had forgotten about me,” the woman in the hot tub stated.

“Of course not, just continue to relax while I prepare your robe,” he replied.

He noticed cucumber slices obscured her vision. He silently walked up behind her and knelt down. Placing his hands on her shoulders he began to gently knead her muscles.

“Oh, that’s wonderful,” she said as she slid lower into the water.

He continued to masterfully massage her shoulders until her body became limp from complete relaxation. He slowly eased her lower and lower into the steaming cauldron. The water began to lap at her chin. He could feel her tense.

“That’s enough. I’m ready to get out now,” she demanded as she tried unsuccessfully to push herself up from the tub.

She was so reclined that her feet were unable to get any purchase on the sloped surface to counteract the downward pressure he exerted on her shoulders. She struggled against him, but her position and his size made the attempt futile.

About the Author:

Kim McMahill grew up in Wyoming which is where she developed her sense of adventure and love of the outdoors. She started out writing non-fiction, but her passion for exotic world travel, outrageous adventures, stories of survival, and happily-ever-after endings soon drew her into a world of romantic suspense and adventure fiction. Along with writing novels Kim has also published over eighty travel and geographic articles, and contributed to a travel story anthology. Kim currently resides in Colorado, and when not writing, she enjoys gardening, traveling, hiking, and spending time with family.

Buy Links for A Foundation of Fear:

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PVL4391

Barnes and Noble Buy Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1131000069?ean=9781522398547

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-foundation-of-fear/id1457767041

Social Media Links:

Blog: http://www.kimmcmahill.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimmcmahill

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/KimMcMahillAuthor/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimmcmahill/

Goodreads author page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/849945.Kim_McMahill

Associate links to follow…

Amazon Prime

The Collins Case – 2 FBI agents track down a kidnapped family. Kid friendly.

If fantasy’s more your thing, go Redeemer Chronicles. The first, Awakening, is available as an audiobook.

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – a kid deals with her parents’ divorce, bullies, and the wonder of discovery.

Try The Dark Side of Science – Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.

Beyond Broken Pencils – Contemporary literary tale of a school shooting. Ian unleashes his inner demons on his classmates and teachers…

Scratched Off – FBI agent vs a serial killer. When Sam Kerman sets out to hunt a serial killer, he has no idea how personal the case will become.


OR

Guest Post: Hunter by Joanna White

Julie Gilbert Action Adventure, Fantasy, Interviews , ,

Hi, Joanna. What is your new book about?

Hunter was the first fantasy novel I’d ever written. Before it I’d written Christian dramas as a fun hobby. Well, Hunter was just a fun hobby at the time too because writing wasn’t my career – not yet at least.

It’s a story about a young woman named Averella whose brother is really sick. She’s protective over him because she’s always had to be. They live in small huts, oppressed by a government who takes men and boys and throws them in a prison called Zagerah where they are never seen again. Her father was taken a few years ago so when Averella’s brother is taken, her brother falls into a deep depression.

Needless to say, Averella’s really reckless and almost a bit stupid. Her grand idea is to use her father’s old gear to make herself look like a man so she can be thrown into Zagerah to save her brother. It doesn’t really register with her that she won’t be escaping until later on; that even if she finds Gabriel, they’ll both be stuck here for the rest of their lives, however short they are.

Sounds interesting. What appealed to you about the story?

Not only do I love this as an idea because it tells a good story with plenty of room for drama, suspense, and really tense moments and intriguing dynamics with the other characters, but also because it shows that Averella, like all humans are, has flaws. She isn’t this perfect heroine who knows what she’s doing. Half the time she sort of makes up the plan as she goes along. Even once she gets inside Zagerah, her life is now revolved around desperately trying to survive with little to no time to even look for Gabriel.

Averella isn’t only flawed though. She’s strong because she’s had to be there for her sick brother and a broken mother who stopped caring about life after she lost her husband. Averella’s faced with impossible circumstances and has to learn to act tough around a bunch of men who have been locked inside this place, running for their lives for years. Many of them no longer have hope and the longer she’s around that, the more she starts to lose her hope too.

What challenges does the main character face?

Once inside Zagerah, not only does she have to pretend to be a man and not be discovered, but everywhere she and the other prisoners go, they’re being hunted… The Hunters are genetically enhanced assassins whose only jobs are to kill every prisoner inside Zagerah and no one evades them. Well, the only ones who do are the prisoners who have Hunter potential inside them. On top of that, Zagerah itself is dangerous and every area has biomes that will kill them if they’re not careful.

Averella has a lot to face and a lot to survive… if she can.

Is the book available yet?

You can pre-order Hunter here

Thanks for checking into my new book ..

I’m doing a giveaway of a free DVD with lots of exclusive bonus content about Hunter along with a poster and a magnet. Enter to win here.

To find out more about me or to subscribe to my newsletter for free book recommendations, please visit.

Thanks, Joanna.

Associate links to follow…

Amazon Prime

The Collins Case – 2 FBI agents track down a kidnapped family. Kid friendly.

If fantasy’s more your thing, go Redeemer Chronicles. The first, Awakening, is available as an audiobook.

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – a kid deals with her parents’ divorce, bullies, and the wonder of discovery.

Try The Dark Side of Science – Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.


OR

Interview with Author/Narrator Steve Cook

Julie Gilbert Interviews, Nonfiction , ,

Introduction:

Today, we have a special treat, an interview with an author who also happens to be a narrator. Or is he a narrator who’s also an author? Let’s find out. Welcome, Steve Cook.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’ve been voicing, producing and publishing audiobooks since 2006. Before that I produced radio and TV commercials and imaging for stations across the country. Previous gigs include KIIS-FM, XTRA Sports 1150 and Channel 103.1 in Los Angeles, AIR1 Radio Network, and Sportsradio 680 The Fan in Atlanta. After graduating from Berea College in KY, I spent many years acting on the stages and soundstages of New York and Los Angeles, appearing with Esther Rolle Off-Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre in New York in “Member of the Wedding”, with Helen Mirren at the Tiffany Theatre in L.A. in “Woman In Mind”, and on the daytime drama “Days of Our Lives”. Recently I was heard as the Narrator on the hit series “Swamp Murders” on Investigation Discovery Channel (2013-2017). My audiobook credits include five #1 Amazon Best-Sellers, The “1599 Geneva Audio Bible” (currently working on The Revised Geneva Translation), “Tom Sawyer: A One-Hour Classic” (Abridged & Fully Dramatized with cinematic music and sfx), a one-man 32-voice “A Christmas Carol” (Unabridged & Fully Dramatized), “Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted to Fly”, “Danger at Wolf Rock”, “Plop! Goes the Blue Swirl Ice Cream”, “Gift of the Magi Audiobook” (Abridged and Fully Dramatized), Ken Ham’s “Ready to Return” and Randy Pope’s “The Answer”. My memorization devotional series called “Memo Devo” has been a featured resource on the most popular Bible website in the world, BibleGateway.com, and my audio devotional/study series called “Witness The Bible” is currently featured on BG and has been since 2011. The New Testament of the Revised Geneva Translation has just been accepted for streaming by BG, starting this Summer. Since October of 2017 I’ve also been blessed to be the podcast producer of Rick Warren’s “Daily Hope” program. Go Braves!

I’m gonna let the Braves thing go … we can agree to disagree on that.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy hanging out with my 10-yr-old daughter and 13-yr-old son, and getting away with my hard-working wife when we can. Otherwise, I suppose my main hobby these days is the parsing of the autographs and primary translations of the Greek New Testament. (I know, exciting stuff.)

To each their own. I collect Legos. To most people, they’re just painful things to step on.

Share a bit about your writing.

What other writers/people do you consider inspirational?

I especially enjoy biographies, especially political and historical figures.

I’m not much of a nonfic person, but history is pretty fascinating.

What got you into writing?

At this point I would consider myself more of an editor than a writer. I take existing historical manuscripts and parse them for clarity. Then fill them with as much passion as I can in performance.

Editing is a huge part of writing.

What is your writing process?

I have about 5 different websites I filter manuscripts through in order to arrive at a satisfactory translation.

When do you consider a work complete?

When I’m convinced that either I am in agreement with the best scholarship available on a particular passage, or barring consensus, I’ve satisfied my own sense of logic and revealed truth. This applies to both editing and vocal performances.

Tell us about one of your books:

Who designed the cover?

I design all the RGT covers.

Do you write in other genres?

Not yet.

What would you like to try if you were to check out a diff genre?

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you. Memo Devo: Memorization As Devotion (3 Book series) This is important to me because it’s part of a continuing mission to activate more of God’s Word in people’s daily lives, through a radically ancient concept called Active Scripture Memorization. I believe MD has the power to help us experience better intimacy with God, a better witness for God, and better protection under God, all while using time and resources we already possess.

Let’s dig deeper into the random side of you:

What’s one thing very few people know about you?

That I am a very good golfer.

Cool. Never tried it … er, more than mini-golf anyway.

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Cookie Dough

Ohhh, nice choice.

Where can we get in touch with you if we want to know more?

Website: 5talentsaudio.com Facebook.com/fivetalentsaudio Twitter: @5TalentsAudio

But wait… there’s more.

What brought you to working on this project?

I perceived a need among the faith community for a new modern translation of this particular type of Bible.

What was the hardest part of bringing this story to life?

The same as always: To tell a story well without self-consciousness.

Do you have a favorite character voice from the project? Why/ why not?

I enjoy them all. The antagonists are usually a bit more interesting dramatically, like Pilate or Herod, but the protagonists like Jesus and Paul can provide great vocal challenges too.

Do you have a favorite chapter from the project? Why/ why not?

I always relish the opportunity to record well-known sections of the Bible like The Beatitudes or the Lord’s Prayer or something because it provides such a great chance to reveal God’s heart in fresh new ways. Is there anything you’d like listeners to know about this work before they hear your performance? That this is the way most folks first received the Bible in the 1st Century – orally, through story. Most were illiterate and could not read the early letters and dispatches the churches would receive, so they had to speak them back out loud to each other. The great thing about that is that we know how amazingly vibrant in the community these churches were in terms of loving those around them. Hopefully these recordings can have a similar effect today.

Do you have any other narrated works?

So far about 30.

What was the most challenging other work you’ve voiced?

I just began working on The Ancient Book of Jasher. That is gonna be a bear, mostly because of the formatting of the text. I prefer nice big 20-pt font on 6×9 pages. This is a pdf on 8.5×11 so it’s not a matter of just enlarging the text. I just don’t like having to read a lot of words across each line, especially when the text is archaic prose like this. I may need to take the time to try and re-format that whole pdf. 18 hours of joy.

There are some programs that do that. Try Calibre. Change it to Word then mess with the margins yourself.

What is the easiest work you’ve voiced?

Interestingly, it was another ancient book, The Book of Enoch, which was the first project my publishing partner, Robert Bagley, and I recorded back in 2016. I don’t know why but that one just rolled off the tongue like no other before or since. It spent 35 weeks in the Top 20 of its Audible Category in 2016 and has sold nearly 13,000 copies worldwide as of this writing. Go figure!

That’s awesome. Congrats!

What’s the most fun project you’ve worked on?

Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted to Fly I think the title says it all. 😉 Children’s Books will always reign supreme for me as far as acting challenges and fun.

It does indeed. It’s been hit or miss for me reviewing kids’ books.

Is this the only acting you do? If you do other forms of acting, which is your favorite and why?

Right now it is. I hear Atlanta is a pretty happening place to be these days for on-screen. I thought about getting my printed headshot/resume back together, renting an IMDB page, doing the website, agent, the whole bit. But decided I just don’t have the time or resources to do that right for now. Just too much on the plate. Maybe when I retire!

I didn’t know IMDB pages were rented. Learn something new every day.

If you could only leave 1 lasting impression on the world, what would it be?

The love of Christ.

What kind of movies do you enjoy?

I like war documentaries. The strategies, the geeks who they interview, the human interest, all of it. I get so mad at the horrible decisions the generals make and then so mesmerized when they describe a soldier’s letter home to his wife or a great act of heroism. I’m that guy who imagines he was born 200 years too late. My wife even just turned me on to Outlander. Just hopeless.

If you could meet one person from history or present time, who would it be and why?

Lincoln. Just read his biography.

It’s been a while…share how we can connect with you again.

Website: audiooven.com Social Media Links: Facebook.com/audiooven Twitter: @AudioOven

Conclusion:

There you have it, folks. Thanks for stopping by, Steve. I’m guessing we’ll be hearing a whole lot more from you.

Associate Links:

Means I make a few cents on your interest here… Amazon Prime
The Collins Case – 2 FBI agents track down a kidnapped family. Kid friendly. If fantasy’s more your thing, go Redeemer Chronicles. The first, Awakening, is available as an audiobook. Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – a kid deals with her parents’ divorce, bullies, and the wonder of discovery. Try The Dark Side of Science – Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.
OR

Live Chat Narrator Interview with Reuben Corbett

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, Author Resource, Fantasy, Interviews, middle grade, Reader Resource, Young Adult , , , ,

 

Introduction:

Hey all, tonight we have a very special guest. He’s the narrator of many great books, including Spirit’s Bane and The Golden City Captives. (both ebooks are free.) By the way, if you have the ebook, usually the audiobooks are cheaper. If you’ve never listened to one of his audiobooks, you should definitely consider doing so.

Feel free to join the discussion by commenting.

Let’s Welcome Reuben.

BL: Glad you are able to join us, Reuben!

Reuben: Thanks, Bonnie.

BL: I am learning a lot about the Audiobook process – it is fascinating!

EF: Hey Reuben, welcome – this is a great place to hang out.

Reuben: I love it so far!

 

Reuben Corbett Discussion #1

Hey, thanks for joining us today.

Tell us about yourself. Where are you from? What got you into narrating?

Do you listen to audiobooks?

How can we learn more about you? (links)

Do you have a FB page?

Reuben: Well, I am from Grand Junction, Colorado. I was a welder for a number of years, worked in all kinds of trades. I have always loved reading books, and I was always told I had a good voice! So I decided to get into narrating. I was a cello performance major in college, so I was already familiar with audio recording. So I got out my old equipment and started reading!

Me: Do you still play the cello?

Reuben: I do, but not nearly as much as I would like, with work an all. I definitely need to get back into it!

EF: Reuben, what was your first audition like?

Reuben: First audition for an audiobook? It was terrible, lol. It took me almost 6 months of practicing, auditioning, and recording to really find my voice, my style. I also learned a lot about recording audiobooks! Very different from recording music, acoustic treatment of the room is critical to great sounding recordings.

EF: Do you have a home studio or is there somewhere that you go?

Reuben: Lol, you’re not going to believe this, but my studio is actually in my parents basement! My house is next to a very noisy road, and it didn’t matter how much I did to treat my closet, car noises showed up in the recordings.

Reuben Corbett Discussion #2

How many books have you narrated?

Readers: What have you been reading lately?

Reuben: I have narrated 7 books so far. Right now I am working on the Dragonia Series for Craig A. Price Jr.

Me: I have the first of that series on my to-read list.

EF: I’ve been working on a project for the day job- so I lot of business and leadership books. Way behind on the fun books.

BL: Sadly, I haven’t made enough time to do as much reading as I would like – I am just started the 7th in Toby Neal’s Crime in Paradise

Me: I have all but given up “fun” reading. Usually too much else to do, but I enjoy the whole process … even rewriting, which I’ll be doing a LOT of this summer.

BL: Hope you get a lot of fun reading time! I got away from it for a little while and really missed it – it rejuvenates me when I am spending too much time in my own thoughts

Reuben Corbett Discussion #3

What do you look for when you browse for things to audition for?

Readers: What do you look for in a book?

Reuben: I look for a book that I would want to read lol. I love science fiction and fantasy. I also love self help books lol.

Me: Self-help and scifi/fantasy…that’s an interesting mix. Do you get a lot of fun reading time?

Reuben: I do, I really do. I just love immersing myself in stories. I also love to find ways to better myself, hence the self help books.

Me: What’s one piece of advice you’ve gotten from a self-help book recently?

Reuben: Fear is: False Evidence Appearing Real

Reuben Corbett Discussion #4

Tell us a little about what you’ve been working on recently.

Readers: tell us something you’ve been working on recently.

Reuben: I just finished Craig’s first installment in the Dragonia Empire series. It is very much in the epic fantasy genre. I just started the second book, where the story really gets going!

Me: Tell us a little about that series.

Reuben: It is very much rebellion against empire. Two main characters, Devarius and Paedyn, lead a ragtag bunch of villagers on a perilous quest to join the resistance. There are dragons, betrayal, and romance!

 

 

Reuben Corbett Discussion #5

If you could recommend 3 of the books you’ve narrated, what would they be and why?

Readers: Do you listen to audiobooks? What could convince you to try audio if you haven’t ever done so?

Reuben: I would definitely recommend The Afterlife Academy, Spirit’s Bane, and Dragonia: Rise of the Wyverns. Afterlife Academy because it is a pretty silly paranormal book that kids and adults can enjoy. It has fun characters, and great humor. Spirit’s Bane because it is very thought provoking, deeply emotional and spiritual, but also fantastically fun fiction drama. It has action and really great characters that were a blast to do voices for. I’ve already talked a little about Dragonia…

Me: Okay, so, of course I’m gonna focus on SB for a moment… who was your favorite character to voice?

Reuben: Oh my goodness… This book definitely tested the limits of my acting abilities, lots of character voices. I have to say that the most fun voice was the guilt demon! Satan was difficult, as you can imagine. Suave, yet the epitome of evil…lol tough. I also loved doing the voice of Lord Hadeon.

Me: I think the one that impressed me the most was Mina… the one that flat-out made me laugh was the “frantic little demon.”

BL: I have to admit I have only tried one audiobook – and I was not enamored with the story – I am definitely going to give it another try (but with one of Julie’s books!) now that I have started taking walks daily.

Reuben Corbett Discussion #6

What inspires you?

Readers: What inspires you?

Reuben: My inspiration, to be honest, comes from other narrators. I love hearing how other people read, do voices, tone, etc.

 

 

Reuben Corbett Discussion #7

What is your process for creating an audiobook?

Readers: Describe one of your creative processes. What do you do? How do you do it?

EF: When I am editing a big project, I tend to cut it into smaller pieces and arrange it on my living room wall. A friend saw it once and asked if I was stalking someone.

Me: That’s awesome. I want a pic of that!

Reuben: First, I have to read the book! As I am reading, I can hear the tone of the book, from the way the author writes. Ideas for voices also form as I get to know the characters, where they are from, etc.

Reuben Corbett Discussion #8

Thanks for stopping by tonight. Stick around for a few days as some people couldn’t make it tonight but may drop in later tonight or tomorrow.

Totally not kicking you out, but this ends the “formal” stuffs I prepped. 😛

Closing thoughts?

Reuben: Yes, I have some promo codes for The Afterlife Academy if anyone wants a free audiobook!

Me: I heard it. I’ll second that it’s a good one.

Audiobooks Reuben has done …

The Golden City Captives, Spirit’s Bane, The Afterlife Academy, The Night Human Hunter, Simplify, Godstone, and Dragonia: Rise of the Wyverns. Go here if you want to check them out.

Commentary:

He’s an amazing narrator (quick, clean audio, decent range of voices, easy to work with). If you’re interested in hiring him, look him up on ACX or email me your contact info and I will ask him to get back to you. (devyaschildren @ gmail.com)

 

Associate links to follow…

Amazon Prime

 

Audible – If you’d like some free codes, please email me at [email protected] with requests for any of my works.

Indie e-Con Scavenger Hunt 2018 – Stop #21 (J.J. Francesco)

Julie Gilbert Interviews, mystery, Uncategorized, Writing , , , , ,

Introduction:

Hey, I’m J.J. Francesco and my books are probably one of the only places in the literary world where you can get a hybrid of Criminal Minds type psychopath, Lifetime movie type melodrama, and Sunday morning Catholic themes. Well, at least I like to think so.

If you’re here, you’re probably on a scavenger hunt. Hope you’re having fun. I’m supposed to introduce myself here but there’s not a big story to tell. I was never a good reader and still am not, but I liked TV and Movies. I took this weird path from motion picture fan to writing prose that still kind of baffles me. But stories are just that powerful, I guess.

My Publishing Story:

After several failed attempts to get into “writing a book,” when I was 18, I decided to dip into personal experiences to tell a radical “what if” version of a trauma that happened to me in first grade. This novel draft became what would, years later, become my third published book, Because of Austin. Despite my attachments to my crime series revolving around Detective Julie Martel, I think Because of Austin may be the work I am the most proud to share. It touches on several social themes facing our kids today and I think it’s a book that both younger and adult audiences can benefit from.

The book originally looked very different, but after reading Emma Donoghue’s Room, I gutted the book start to finish and literally rewrote almost every word. The structure of the story remained intact and yet so many more nuances came out in this rewrite. It was the first time I really feel another book influenced me for the better. And now? I can hardly imagine this book any other way. While a few small things got lost in the translation that I do miss, there was so much more gained in this narrative approach that I can’t even think of looking back. I hope readers who discover my books will connect with my characters and ultimately find new friends that will stick in their heads for a long while.

My Stories:

Blood Chain, Death Scene, and Because of Austin.

Conclusion:

There are still so many stories left in me to tell. And I hope one day I can un-scatter my brain enough to get them out there to the world. But for now, I have 3 books that I am immensely proud of and that’s something, right?

Want to stay in touch?

Amazon:
Facebook: facebook.com/jjfrancesco
Twitter: @jjfrancesco

 

And Now Your Hunt Here Ends and Begins Anew …

 

Thanks for stopping by. Best of luck in the game.

 

Link to Full Scavenger Hunt: http://kendrasgiraffecrafts.blogspot.com/p/indie-e-con-2018-scavenger-hunt-stops.html