The Rapture Effect was just a start. All of my Star Rigger novels are getting new audiobook recordings (with the exception of Eternity’s End, which already has a terrific recording). Just released: Dragons in the Stars. It’s a lovely recording, and is working its way into stores as we speak.
This project is, to put it mildly, a big deal on my end. No publisher is doing this for me (well, okay, I am as Starstream Publications). I commissioned Stefan Rudnicki and his partner, Gabrielle de Cuir, to record the books. They are two of the finest narrators in the business.
Why am I doing this, when there were already audiobooks available in Audible for these titles? Simple. I was not happy with the earlier narrations, which were produced by Audible many years ago, without input from me. They are now gone from the store, and in their place, I want the best possible versions for readers and listeners to enjoy. Stefan and Gabrielle have a wealth of experience in theater and music as well as audiobook recording, they are fans of the material, and working with them is a rewarding collaborative experience.
But Jeff, you say—isn’t this an expensive proposition? Yes. It is. You get what you pay for in this business, and I’m getting a lot. Am I crazy for doing it, when I probably won’t earn back the cost for years, and possibly not in my lifetime? Maybe. But I am fortunate to have some funds that make this possible, and I consider it an investment in the art and the stories. You could say it’s an investment in my permanent legacy to readers. These recordings will outlive me, and I hope that the audience will, also. I like to think they will help in a small way to make this world a more beautiful place.
Please check out Dragons in the Stars! The sequel, Dragon Rigger, will be along shortly.
