In an effort to promote his upcoming novel, Sunborn, author Jeffrey A. Carver had been recording the novel for podcast. But, due to difficulties with equipment, and the frustrations of the task he has now abandoned the project. The first installment of his attempt is still available for listening |MP3|
I’m not someone who’s likely to say “don’t record your novel” but in this case I can see why Carver stopped. When recording interferes with writing time, and your recording isn’t done in a smooth and efficient manner, you’d be crazy to do it.
Another issue, one that Carver doesn’t cite, is that authors don’t always make the best readers. A trained actor can bring a whole new dimension to the text. Carver’s reading isn’t bad, it just isn’t good.
Another issue I’m thinking about: Releasing the 4th book in the series 1st isn’t the best idea. When the first three haven’t been released to audio yet, you’re betting that the audience for the 4th book will be able to step in – and get it. Better, would be to promote a new book is to release an older book, ideally the first in the series. This will get your audience whetted, and more likely to pick up later books in paperbook versions.
Posted by Jesse Willis