Should You Make an Audiobook?
Whether an audiobook is worth it for an independent author, and how to make one without a big budget.
Is It Worth It?
Audiobooks are a growing share of how people read. Whether one is worth making depends on your book and your budget.
Does Your Book Suit Narration?
Fiction and memoir tend to work well as audiobooks. Heavily visual non-fiction, with charts or diagrams, translates less naturally to audio.
It Costs Money or Time
An audiobook is rarely free. You either invest your own time narrating it, or pay a narrator, or use an AI narration tool. Decide which trade-off suits you.
Your Options
There are three realistic routes to producing an audiobook as an independent author.
DIY Narration
Free, but time-intensive. You will need a decent microphone and a quiet room, plus patience for retakes and editing.
Hire a Narrator
Platforms like ACX and Findaway Voices connect you with professional narrators. You can pay upfront or offer a royalty share instead.
AI Narration Tools
The cheapest and fastest option, with quality that varies by tool. Some retailers restrict or label AI-narrated audiobooks differently, so it is worth checking current platform rules before committing.
Distribution
Once your audiobook is ready, you have a few options for getting it to listeners.
Audible / ACX
The largest audiobook marketplace, though it can come with exclusivity requirements depending on the agreement you choose.
Findaway Voices
Distributes more widely across multiple retailers and libraries without requiring exclusivity.
Sell Direct
You can also sell audio files directly to readers through your own site, keeping full control and profit.
Promote It Once It Is Live
An audiobook is only useful if people know it exists — these guides cover getting the word out.
Thinking About an Audiobook?
Get in touch if you want to talk through whether it makes sense for your book.
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