From Page to Audio – Why I’m Recording My Own Audiobook

If you’d told me last year that I’d be huddled in a closet whose walls were made of duvets and blankets with a mic, reading my book aloud, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am—bringing Wherever You Will Go to life in audio form, one recording session at a time.

In my last newsletter to my subscribers, I talked about the set-up and the ups and downs of trying to hire a professional studio, and how I had the brainwave to set up a purpose-built recording booth in a space under the stairwell. Genius, if I say so myself. And though I can only do about an hour and a half at night, when it's quiet, I'm gradually getting it done.

Audiobooks have become a favourite way for many readers to experience fiction. And after being captivated by the narration in The Girl With The Louding Voice, I thought: what if I gave Essie, the heroine from the upcoming Wherever You Will Go, my own voice?

I’m no professional voice actor, and yes—it’s scary. But it’s also thrilling. There’s something powerful about reading words you wrote, imagining listeners hearing them just as you intended. I admit to an amped up heart rate each session and making bloopers galore, but you won't ever have to hear those. Just, what I hope will be a professional sounding audiobook.

It’s an experiment. It’s deeply personal. And I can’t wait to share the results with you.

💌 Want to hear how it turns out? Get sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes audio, a FREE read and early access to the audiobook—only in my newsletter. Sign up before June 17th!