Cheri's 6 Reasons to Try Audiobooks for the First Time

Recently, I asked readers to tell me what they thought of the samples for the audiobooks I have published. I've been surprised by many of the rather unenthusiastic comments. Some have even said they don't listen to audiobooks, so they can’t comment on the samples. Really? They won’t even take two minutes to even listen to the sample? I’m having a hard time understanding this. Honestly, to me this is similar to people who won't read, just in reverse. And it reminds me of one of my favorite quotes from Mark Twain.

“The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.” ~Mark Twain

 

It's true that it's hard to find time to read, especially when you have children to care for, a fulltime job to do, and laundry to sort. This leads me to my first reason to try audiobooks.

1 Listening to an audiobook is far more convenient than sitting down to read. You can multitask with an audiobook in ways you can't with a printed book or an ebook. You can enjoy a story or learn to speak French while doing laundry, preparing dinner, or driving to work. Basically, you can listen to a story being read to you at times when you cannot read at all. So let me put it this way, “The man who does not listen to audiobooks has no advantage over the man who cannot hear.” And with Whispersync via Amazon, you can keep the story going from your Kindle to your car without interruptions, making audiobooks even more convenient. Keep listening while you drive the children to soccer... Life doesn't have to interrupt your enjoyment of a good book.

2 Listening to a book rather than reading it IS NOT cheating like watching a movie is. Movies have been changed from the original book because much of what is in a book can’t be translated into film. The internal monologue, the descriptions of feelings, taste, and smell are not things that can be shown on the big screen. Sure an actor can show emotion on their face, but it's still just not the same. Books that are made into movies need to be stripped down to dialogue, scenery, sounds, and action. Movies just can’t be as rich and allow you to use your imagination like a book does. But most audiobooks are unabridged, which means it's exactly the same as the physical book, just more entertaining and more convenient. And listening still allows you to imagine every nuance written upon the page. The story is not imagined for you, it's simply lifted from the page.

3 Listening to an audiobook can help you momentarily escape reality when life sucks. When a book is acted out by a professional reader, the little inflexions in the voice, the laughter, and the tension all make the story fill your senses and bring it to life in a way that the story surrounds you. Maybe you need to run as you try to escape the demons in your life. Maybe you’ve been crying and you wouldn’t be able to focus on the words to read them. Maybe your vision is failing you because of an illness. Maybe you’re in so much physical pain you can’t even lift a book to read it. Maybe you’re blind but you love to enjoy a good story. Listening to someone read to you is actually easier than reading Braille. When you can EASILY sink into another world, time, or place, you can take a momentary break from reality so that when you do return to facing your demons, you’re refreshed and ready to battle again.

4 Audiobooks can make you smile when you realize you’re caught in a traffic jam. Nowadays, most audiobooks are digital, meaning you can have several with you at all times on your smartphone. Stuck in traffic or driving a long distance? Escape the monotony with a great story.

5 There’s nothing quite so delicious as having a romance whispered into your ear. Need I say more?

6 Have you listened to Harry Potter as read by Jim Dale? Um, you’re totally missing out if you haven’t. Your children are missing out too. And if none of the above reasons are enough to get you to try an audiobook, then start with Harry Potter and you’ll be hooked.



Of course, you’re welcome to try one of my audiobooks as well...

Not sold yet? Listen to chapter one of Fateful right now.

 

 

Tristan Hunt is like listening to Jim Dale, just sexier... ;)

 

And if you're smart, which I'm sure you are, go download the Kindle copy of Fateful for FREE,

and then snatch up the 10 hour long audiobook for $1.99!

 

(Just click on the image below.)

 

 

Thanks for visiting my website!

 

Why do you love listening to audiobooks? Let me know in the comments.

 

Audio of Cheri's books are available in the USA from Amazon, Audible, or iTunes.

Also from AU Audible.

And from UK Audible.

An interview with Tristan Hunt, the narrator of Fateful.

An interview with Tristan Hunt, the narrator of Fateful. 



Portrait of Tristan was taken by Leslie Hassler.



If you're interested in enjoying his production of The Fateful Series, get a great deal on Fateful when you download the Kindle copy for FREE, and then get the audiobook to go with it for only 2.99!

(Update! That price has dropped to 1.99 for the audiobook!!!)

 



Note: If you've already downloaded Fateful, check for the available update under Manage Your Content and Devices on Amazon.

 

(Click on the picture below to get Fateful now.)

 

And now on to the interview... 

 

How do you decide what voice to do for each character?

The accent is usually obvious based on where the character is from but I really let the writing dictate how the voice develops... I let the writing inform me. Sometimes the characters' voice will come to me right away... other times I'll spend a few minutes feeling my way until I hit upon a certain timbre that feels right.

Do you ever find yourself feeling the emotion you're portraying? So if you’re reading an emotional part do you end up crying? Sometimes? Almost? Never? Too manly for that? Be honest. :) 

Absolutely! I love those moments and I try to leave them in the final edit if possible. Often, when I get emotional there are slurps or pops which prevent me from using it but I'll continue saying the line until I get a clean take.

How do you prepare for emotional or tense scenes?

Again, I let the writing inform me. Simply taking the journey along with the characters is enough to put you in the emotional state they find themselves in at any given moment... emotional or otherwise.

How do you manage to swap between different voices and keep them all straight?

Once I land upon who each character is and where their voice lies in me, it’s not too difficult to shift back and forth... especially when you have multiple personality syndrome, like me... myself... and I. :) Also, keep in mind that I have the luxury of editing. When Ethan has a line right after Danielle and then Max interjects, I can take a beat and breath to turn the switch in the mind and then go back and edit out the pauses.

How on earth did you get into narrating audiobooks?

I wanted to do something creative that I was in control of. I love storytelling and performing but the entertainment business, acting and auditioning etc, is mostly based on circumstances outside of an actor’s control. Yes, you can make sure your body and your instrument are it top shape at any given moment by consistently working out and taking classes and honing your skills... but as far as actually getting a job its completely out of your control beyond showing up to smile for the camera and do your bit. Producing audiobooks allows me complete autonomy and a creative outlet.

What is your favorite food?

I love a great meal but it's hard to beat Mother Nature's simplest, sweetest treats... like watermelon. For me, it doesn't get much better than a perfectly ripe and slightly chilled slice of watermelon.

What do you do when you’re not producing audiobooks?

I audition for film, TV and commercials... and sometimes book them... I work in production when a good job comes along... I'm a dad, which is a job I take seriously... I'm a husband, which is a job I should probably take more seriously... and I'm currently in a Pinter play, The Homecoming, at an Equity theater in Los Angeles.

How would you describe your narration style and voice?

My approach is akin to a movie in which I play all the parts... as well as narrate. :)

What is one thing most people don’t know about you? (That you’re willing to share.)

Besides my affinity for watermelon... one of my guilty pleasures is watching episodes of GLEE. Shhhh.

Is there anything specific you do before you start recording? A process? Or a routine? A good luck dance? Stretch? Crack you knuckles? Eat a cupcake?

My morning routine is the same everyday... up at 6:15 and head to the gym, take the kids to school at 7:30, cook two eggs and make some green tea by about 8 and then warm up my voice and start recording by 9.

Have you thought about starting a YouTube channel so we can watch you do the chubby bunny challenge? Or what about doing a daily vlog?

I can honestly say that the thought has never crossed my mind. In fact, I had to look up what a chubby bunny challenge was and it was quite funny... but not very enticing to me. :) A daily vlog is an interesting idea, but would people reeeeeaaaally be interested? Self-promotion has never been my strong suit but I know it’s becoming more and more necessary. I suppose I'd better get with the program!

What is the best way to contact you so we can tell you how awesome you are? (Facebook, website, blog, Twitter?)

Most kind. :) Yes, you can visit Tristan Hunt on Facebook! (I just opened the account... late to the game, I suppose.)

What types of characters have you done so far? Was there one that was particularly fun for you to perform?

I played a character in a book called the Gorgon... all about knights and ladies... who had a stutter and I quite enjoyed it for some reason. I enjoy most of the characters I play... especially if they're saucy or evil.

Do you have children? Do you have pets?

Yes, two... a boy and girl... and a fish named Turquoise.

What is your favorite genre to narrate and why?

Romance is what I'm hired to do the most... and what I'm well suited for. And I especially like period pieces.

Do you have a favorite accent to perform?

A snotty elderly British woman.

Is there an accent you can’t do?

Many. Although 'can't' is not the word I would choose... I would say that there are many I simply haven't had the time to study and perfect as of yet.

What is the funniest thing that happened while recording?

Usually when my son sneaks in and starts listening and then wants to record something as well... he's quite a character himself so we get a kick out of listening back to what he's done.

Do you have a favorite narrator? Who inspires you?

Mm, there are so many great ones. I'm a Harry Potter fan and Jim Dale did an amazing job with those books. Simon Vance is also one of the best out there. Sissy Spacek did a version of To Kill A Mockingbird which is SO beautiful. And my daughter is listening to Kate Winslet doing Matilda which is absolutely stellar.

Thank you, Tristan, for taking the time to answer these questions and let us get to know a bit more about you!

Visit Audible for more samples of Tristan’s work. (US or UK)

Reviews:
Which character – as performed by Tristan Hunt – was your favourite? Danielle's uncle Nick, there was a part where he was telling a story and Tristan spoke in such a perfect tone that even I felt shivers. If you could sum up Fateful in three words, what would they be? Emotional, beautiful and soulful. If you prefer audio books then get the first book right now, narrated perfectly by Tristan Hunt. Definitely a 5 star rating from me. ~Beks

What does Tristan Hunt bring to the story that you wouldn't experience if you had only read the book? I loved the way Tristan brought Max's character to life in exactly the way I imagined it. Tristan told the story in a wonderful hybrid of watching a movie and listening to a friend that was easy and comfortable with the perfect amount of expression and performance... So beautifully written and performed that I shed a tear or two. ~Leanne

Impatient? Listen right now:

Meet Tristan Hunt, the narrator of Fateful!

(Portrait of Tristan was taken by Leslie Hassler. Click on her name to see more of her work!)

 

Tristan Hunt (aka Jason Downs) has been performing professionally for 30 years. He has appeared in films (Racing Daylight, Clara's Heart, Hairspray), on TV (Saturday Nite Live), on stage (Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest) and in commercials. His first paid job was a voice over at the age of 10 and he has loved recording ever since. His voice has been featured in film, in advertisements and in video games. He was also signed to Jive records and released two albums as a singer/songwriter resulting in a top 20 hit in the United Kingdom. He began narrating books in March of this year and has six releases available so far. Telling stories is something he truly loves to do and looks forward to doing for a long time to come.

 

Tristan's production of Fateful was released May 28th of this year and I couldn't be more pleased with his work! He brought my characters to life in a way I hadn't imagined was possible.

 

His soothing voice just dances over the words and I think he makes me sound like a better writer than I actually am.  Or maybe my style of writing just worked out well with his style of reading. I'm not really sure. All I know is that Fateful is very fun to listen to.

 

When it came to finding the right narrator for all of my books, I new I had to find the right actor. And for me it was a tall order, because I absolutely loved Jim Dale's production of Harry Potter so much I was very picky about my choice. I'm happy to say that I am just as happy with Tristan's performance in Fateful as I was with anything I've heard from Jim Dale.

(Note: If you have not heard Harry Potter on audio yet, you should! It's fabulous.) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book 1)  

 

Anyway, Tristan made Danielle very likable. Brianna a bit snarky and funny, but awesome. Ethan sounds genuine, Max is sexy, and the fairies are perfect. The romantic scenes have just the right amount of sensuality, and laughter can be heard in his voice when the scene is funny. Seriously, you have to hear it to believe it.

If you have not read Fateful, pick up the audio and see what everyone is talking about. Or pick up the eBook for FREE, and then listen to the audio which you could also get for free if you're new to Audible.

Up next, watch for Fractured and Forever on audio.
 

They're in production right now!


Go to this link to listen to the sample and to pick it up from Audible:

http://www.qksrv.net/click-4355868-10273919?url=http://www.audible.com/pd/Teens/Fateful-Audiobook/B00KLGJ7FC/ref=a_newreleas_c1_1_t?ie=UTF8&pf_rd_r=0K6HMBTE6GDEPMX4Q1N9&pf_rd_m=A2ZO8JX97D5MN9&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=recenthistoryfooter&pf_rd_p=1346650482&pf_rd_s=center-1&source_code=COMA0213WS031709

Or click on the picture below to snatch it up from Amazon!
 

(Note: If you're in the UK, go HERE to pick up Fateful on Audio.)

Over 100,000 copies of Fateful have been downloaded worldwide and it is currently in Amazon's top 100 over all Kindle Store. Plus the book is #1 in Fairy Tales, Mythology & Folk Tales, Paranormal Romance, Vampires, Teen & Young Adult Books.

 

 

 

Go to anyone of these links below to get the eBook for FREE in whatever format you need: 

 

 

Amazon USA:
http://www.amazon.com/Fateful-Book-1-Series-ebook/dp/B004VT0RJK/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=authcherschm-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=&creativeASIN=B004VT0RJK

Amazon UK:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fateful-Book-1-Series-ebook/dp/B004VT0RJK

iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/fateful/id449647872?mt=11

Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fateful-cheri-schmidt/1103264846?ean=2940045844642

Kobo:
http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/fateful-4

Smashwords:
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/64361

Also:

Amazon Spain:

http://www.amazon.es/Fateful-Book-1-English-ebook/dp/B004VT0RJK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404757634&sr=8-1&keywords=cheri+schmidt

Amazon Italy:

http://www.amazon.it/Fateful-Book-1-English-ebook/dp/B004VT0RJK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404766465&sr=8-1&keywords=cheri+Schmidt

Amazon Canada:

http://www.amazon.ca/Fateful-Book-1-Cheri-Schmidt-ebook/dp/B004VT0RJK/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1404766538&sr=1-1&keywords=cheri+schmidt

 

 

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