In this segment, I explain why I’ve chosen to narrate my wife Jern Tonkoi’s novels myself—and what that decision really costs in time, craft, and gear. Using my first audiobook (Lanta) as a starting point, I break down the hidden workload (recording, editing, proof-listening), the performance skills you have to develop (breath control, posture, fatigue, vocal presence), and a “start small” approach that lets you improve fast without redoing an entire book. I also share the practical recording fundamentals that made the biggest difference for me—room and reflection control, choosing a forgiving mic (I use a Shure MV7+), avoiding clipping, using a pop filter, and even a surprise productivity win from switching to a teleprompter app.
Happy reading,
—Eddie.