Ryan W. McClellan's Blog: The Content Marketer's Diary
January 15, 2025
Why Audiobooks Are Worth Your Time
Why Audiobooks Are Worth Your Time
Picture this: you're an author, sitting in your favorite café, sipping coffee as you brainstorm your next big idea.
You're thinking about your book's journey — from a manuscript to a published masterpiece. But wait, there’s another step you might be overlooking: turning your book into an audiobook.
If the thought of narrating your story in a padded closet terrifies you, relax. You’re not alone. Many authors grapple with whether audiobooks are worth the investment. Spoiler alert: they absolutely are. Here’s why, along with a dash of humor to
keep things light.
The Audiobook Industry Is Booming
Let’s start with the cold, hard numbers. The audiobook industry is hotter than a summer sidewalk. In 2023, the global audiobook market was valued at $5.3 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.4% from 2024 to 2030. Audiobooks aren’t just a trend — they’re a tidal wave authors can’t afford to miss.
According to the Audio Publishers Association (APA), 2022 saw audiobook sales rise by 25%, with more than 91% of U.S. adults saying they prefer audiobooks over other formats. That’s not just your book-loving aunt — that’s nearly everyone.
Why Readers Love Audiobooks
1. Convenience Is King
Readers are busy. Between work, family, and binge-watching their favorite series, sitting down with a physical book can feel like a luxury. Audiobooks, however, fit seamlessly into their lives. Whether they’re commuting, cooking, or pretending to listen to their kids’ piano practice, audiobooks turn mundane tasks into literary adventures.
Multitasking Is Our Superpower
Audiobooks let people absorb stories while doing other things. Imagine this: your fan is jogging on a treadmill, laughing out loud at your witty dialogue. They look slightly insane, sure, but your words are the reason they’re smiling while burning
calories.
3. Accessibility Matters
Audiobooks make literature accessible to everyone, including those with visual impairments or dyslexia. By creating an audiobook, you’re opening the door for a whole new audience to enjoy your work.
4. Engagement Is Higher
Studies show that listening to a story activates multiple areas of the brain, creating a richer experience. The intimacy of hearing a narrator bring your characters to life can make your story unforgettable.
The Ebook and Paperback Conundrum
Now, don’t get me wrong. Ebooks and paperbacks are fantastic. They’re like the reliable workhorses of publishing. But audiobooks? They’re the sleek sports car — flashy, exciting, and capable of taking your career to new heights.
According to Edison Research, 55% of audiobook listeners say they exclusively consume books in audio form. That means if you’re sticking to print and digital formats, you could be leaving half of your potential readers on the table.
The Cost of Producing an Audiobook
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room: audiobooks aren’t cheap to produce. Hiring a professional narrator, recording in a quality studio, and editing can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a 10-hour audiobook. Gulp.
But think of it this way: it’s not just an expense; it’s an investment. Audiobooks have the potential for long-term revenue. Platforms like Audible and Chirp provide ongoing royalties, meaning your audiobook keeps earning while you sleep. (Who doesn’t
love passive income?)
Tips for Making Your Audiobook Shine
If you’re ready to dive into the world of audiobooks, here are a few tips to ensure your story hits the right notes:
1. Choose The Right Narrator
The narrator can make or break your audiobook. They need to embody the tone, emotion, and rhythm of your story. Listen to samples and don’t be afraid to be picky. Your audiobook deserves a voice that matches your vision.
Invest In Quality Production
Bad audio is a dealbreaker. Crackles, background noise, or inconsistent volume levels will send listeners running. Ensure you work with a reputable studio or producer who knows the ins and outs of audiobook creation.
Promote Like Crazy
Your audiobook won’t sell itself. Use social media, email newsletters, and your website to let fans know about this exciting new format. Offer a free chapter as a teaser — once they hear it, they’ll be hooked.
Why Audiobooks Are a Win for Authors
1. Expand Your Audience
Audiobooks introduce your work to listeners who may never pick up a print book. Remember, you’re not just an author; you’re a storyteller. Let your voice (or your narrator’s) reach as many ears as possible.
2. Increase Your Revenue Streams
More formats mean more opportunities for sales. Audiobooks can be sold on multiple platforms, including Audible, Google Play, and your own website. You’ll also gain access to subscription-based royalties, which can be a steady source of income.
Boost Your Brand
Having an audiobook adds a professional polish to your author brand. It shows readers (and listeners) that you’re serious about your craft and willing to go the extra mile to connect with them.
Humor Time: Audiobooks Vs. Ebooks Vs. Paperbacks
Let’s have a little fun. Here’s a breakdown of why audiobooks are the MVPs of publishing:
Paperbacks: Great for beach reading, terrible for one-handed snacking.
Ebooks: Perfect for techies, but prone to battery drama. Audiobooks: Hands-free, eyes-free, snack-friendly, and your dog thinks you’re talking to them.
Ready To Take The Audiobook Plunge?
If you’re still on the fence, let me leave you with this: investing in an audiobook isn’t just about keeping up with trends. It’s about future-proofing your career, reaching more readers, and ensuring your stories live in as many formats as possible.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge, and let your book find its voice — literally.
P.S. If you want to hear what all the fuss is about, head over towww.rwmcc.com!. You’ll find a collection of my books, ready to entertain, inspire, and maybe even become your next favorite audiobook. Don’t miss out!
Picture this: you're an author, sitting in your favorite café, sipping coffee as you brainstorm your next big idea.
You're thinking about your book's journey — from a manuscript to a published masterpiece. But wait, there’s another step you might be overlooking: turning your book into an audiobook.
If the thought of narrating your story in a padded closet terrifies you, relax. You’re not alone. Many authors grapple with whether audiobooks are worth the investment. Spoiler alert: they absolutely are. Here’s why, along with a dash of humor to
keep things light.
The Audiobook Industry Is Booming
Let’s start with the cold, hard numbers. The audiobook industry is hotter than a summer sidewalk. In 2023, the global audiobook market was valued at $5.3 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.4% from 2024 to 2030. Audiobooks aren’t just a trend — they’re a tidal wave authors can’t afford to miss.
According to the Audio Publishers Association (APA), 2022 saw audiobook sales rise by 25%, with more than 91% of U.S. adults saying they prefer audiobooks over other formats. That’s not just your book-loving aunt — that’s nearly everyone.
Why Readers Love Audiobooks
1. Convenience Is King
Readers are busy. Between work, family, and binge-watching their favorite series, sitting down with a physical book can feel like a luxury. Audiobooks, however, fit seamlessly into their lives. Whether they’re commuting, cooking, or pretending to listen to their kids’ piano practice, audiobooks turn mundane tasks into literary adventures.
Multitasking Is Our Superpower
Audiobooks let people absorb stories while doing other things. Imagine this: your fan is jogging on a treadmill, laughing out loud at your witty dialogue. They look slightly insane, sure, but your words are the reason they’re smiling while burning
calories.
3. Accessibility Matters
Audiobooks make literature accessible to everyone, including those with visual impairments or dyslexia. By creating an audiobook, you’re opening the door for a whole new audience to enjoy your work.
4. Engagement Is Higher
Studies show that listening to a story activates multiple areas of the brain, creating a richer experience. The intimacy of hearing a narrator bring your characters to life can make your story unforgettable.
The Ebook and Paperback Conundrum
Now, don’t get me wrong. Ebooks and paperbacks are fantastic. They’re like the reliable workhorses of publishing. But audiobooks? They’re the sleek sports car — flashy, exciting, and capable of taking your career to new heights.
According to Edison Research, 55% of audiobook listeners say they exclusively consume books in audio form. That means if you’re sticking to print and digital formats, you could be leaving half of your potential readers on the table.
The Cost of Producing an Audiobook
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room: audiobooks aren’t cheap to produce. Hiring a professional narrator, recording in a quality studio, and editing can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a 10-hour audiobook. Gulp.
But think of it this way: it’s not just an expense; it’s an investment. Audiobooks have the potential for long-term revenue. Platforms like Audible and Chirp provide ongoing royalties, meaning your audiobook keeps earning while you sleep. (Who doesn’t
love passive income?)
Tips for Making Your Audiobook Shine
If you’re ready to dive into the world of audiobooks, here are a few tips to ensure your story hits the right notes:
1. Choose The Right Narrator
The narrator can make or break your audiobook. They need to embody the tone, emotion, and rhythm of your story. Listen to samples and don’t be afraid to be picky. Your audiobook deserves a voice that matches your vision.
Invest In Quality Production
Bad audio is a dealbreaker. Crackles, background noise, or inconsistent volume levels will send listeners running. Ensure you work with a reputable studio or producer who knows the ins and outs of audiobook creation.
Promote Like Crazy
Your audiobook won’t sell itself. Use social media, email newsletters, and your website to let fans know about this exciting new format. Offer a free chapter as a teaser — once they hear it, they’ll be hooked.
Why Audiobooks Are a Win for Authors
1. Expand Your Audience
Audiobooks introduce your work to listeners who may never pick up a print book. Remember, you’re not just an author; you’re a storyteller. Let your voice (or your narrator’s) reach as many ears as possible.
2. Increase Your Revenue Streams
More formats mean more opportunities for sales. Audiobooks can be sold on multiple platforms, including Audible, Google Play, and your own website. You’ll also gain access to subscription-based royalties, which can be a steady source of income.
Boost Your Brand
Having an audiobook adds a professional polish to your author brand. It shows readers (and listeners) that you’re serious about your craft and willing to go the extra mile to connect with them.
Humor Time: Audiobooks Vs. Ebooks Vs. Paperbacks
Let’s have a little fun. Here’s a breakdown of why audiobooks are the MVPs of publishing:
Paperbacks: Great for beach reading, terrible for one-handed snacking.
Ebooks: Perfect for techies, but prone to battery drama. Audiobooks: Hands-free, eyes-free, snack-friendly, and your dog thinks you’re talking to them.
Ready To Take The Audiobook Plunge?
If you’re still on the fence, let me leave you with this: investing in an audiobook isn’t just about keeping up with trends. It’s about future-proofing your career, reaching more readers, and ensuring your stories live in as many formats as possible.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge, and let your book find its voice — literally.
P.S. If you want to hear what all the fuss is about, head over towww.rwmcc.com!. You’ll find a collection of my books, ready to entertain, inspire, and maybe even become your next favorite audiobook. Don’t miss out!
January 5, 2025
How to Write a Gripping Dystopian Thriller Like Through Jaded Eyes
The dystopian thriller genre captivates readers with its intense exploration of flawed societies, compelling characters, and high-stakes conflict. If you’ve ever dreamed of crafting your own dystopian masterpiece, follow this advice:
Build a Distinct, Troubling World The hallmark of any great dystopian thriller is the world it creates. Whether it’s a totalitarian regime, environmental collapse, or technological domination, the setting should feel both chilling and plausible.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: I constructed a world that’s not just a backdrop but an integral part of the story, immersing readers in a society warped by its own systems. Every element—from oppressive government policies to the strained lives
of its citizens—contributes to the tension.
Your Turn: Explore current societal issues and project them into a dystopian future. Add layers of detail to make the setting immersive: architecture, culture, laws, and daily struggles.
Create Complex, Relatable Characters Readers want protagonists who are flawed yet determined. In a dystopian thriller, the characters often grapple with moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices while navigating their oppressive worlds.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The protagonist’s internal struggles mirror the external chaos of their environment, making their journey emotionally resonant.
Your Turn: Develop backstories that reveal why your characters act as they do. Show growth as they adapt, resist, or even become complicit in their dystopian surroundings.
Weave in Thrilling Conflict A dystopian thriller thrives on tension—whether it’s a chase, a rebellion, or a deadly conspiracy. The stakes should constantly escalate, keeping readers on edge.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: I kept the pace tight with twists that challenge both the protagonist and the reader’s expectations. From heart-pounding action sequences to quiet moments of revelation, the story never loses its grip.
Your Turn: Outline key plot points and ensure each raises the stakes. Incorporate unpredictable twists that feel natural yet surprising.
Tackle Big Questions Dystopian thrillers are at their best when they challenge readers to think critically about society, morality, and humanity. Use your story to explore these deeper themes.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The book delves into themes of surveillance, freedom, and identity, leaving readers questioning how far society might go in the name of progress.
Your Turn: Identify the central theme of your story. Use dialogue, symbolism, and character arcs to explore these ideas without preaching.
Leave a Lasting Impact A great dystopian thriller lingers long after the final page. The best stories make readers question their own reality and the world’s future.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The book’s conclusion is both satisfying and unsettling, a hallmark of the genre.
Your Turn: Craft an ending that resolves the immediate conflict but leaves room for reflection. Consider a twist or revelation that recontextualizes the story. Get Inspired: Read Through Jaded Eyes.
If you’re serious about writing a dystopian thriller, start by studying the best examples in the genre. Through Jaded Eyes by is a must-read for anyone looking to understand how to build suspense, craft compelling characters, and explore powerful themes.
👉 Buy your copy on Amazon today: Through Jaded Eyes Happy writing!
Build a Distinct, Troubling World The hallmark of any great dystopian thriller is the world it creates. Whether it’s a totalitarian regime, environmental collapse, or technological domination, the setting should feel both chilling and plausible.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: I constructed a world that’s not just a backdrop but an integral part of the story, immersing readers in a society warped by its own systems. Every element—from oppressive government policies to the strained lives
of its citizens—contributes to the tension.
Your Turn: Explore current societal issues and project them into a dystopian future. Add layers of detail to make the setting immersive: architecture, culture, laws, and daily struggles.
Create Complex, Relatable Characters Readers want protagonists who are flawed yet determined. In a dystopian thriller, the characters often grapple with moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices while navigating their oppressive worlds.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The protagonist’s internal struggles mirror the external chaos of their environment, making their journey emotionally resonant.
Your Turn: Develop backstories that reveal why your characters act as they do. Show growth as they adapt, resist, or even become complicit in their dystopian surroundings.
Weave in Thrilling Conflict A dystopian thriller thrives on tension—whether it’s a chase, a rebellion, or a deadly conspiracy. The stakes should constantly escalate, keeping readers on edge.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: I kept the pace tight with twists that challenge both the protagonist and the reader’s expectations. From heart-pounding action sequences to quiet moments of revelation, the story never loses its grip.
Your Turn: Outline key plot points and ensure each raises the stakes. Incorporate unpredictable twists that feel natural yet surprising.
Tackle Big Questions Dystopian thrillers are at their best when they challenge readers to think critically about society, morality, and humanity. Use your story to explore these deeper themes.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The book delves into themes of surveillance, freedom, and identity, leaving readers questioning how far society might go in the name of progress.
Your Turn: Identify the central theme of your story. Use dialogue, symbolism, and character arcs to explore these ideas without preaching.
Leave a Lasting Impact A great dystopian thriller lingers long after the final page. The best stories make readers question their own reality and the world’s future.
Example from Through Jaded Eyes: The book’s conclusion is both satisfying and unsettling, a hallmark of the genre.
Your Turn: Craft an ending that resolves the immediate conflict but leaves room for reflection. Consider a twist or revelation that recontextualizes the story. Get Inspired: Read Through Jaded Eyes.
If you’re serious about writing a dystopian thriller, start by studying the best examples in the genre. Through Jaded Eyes by is a must-read for anyone looking to understand how to build suspense, craft compelling characters, and explore powerful themes.
👉 Buy your copy on Amazon today: Through Jaded Eyes Happy writing!
