I had no idea

I didn’t see this day coming. But, I’m quite happy it has.

When I first came out with Being Ethel (In a world that loves Lucy), I was super excited to cut an audiobook. I went at it with the best intentions. As I did the work, I was shocked about how tedious and time consuming it was! Now, remember, I’ve done voice work for almost fifty years, and still do every day. Doing commercials, training videos, on hold announcements, museum announcements…even documentaries…don’t compare to voice a book. You have to talk much slower than you read. But I did it. I was fortunate enough to have a friend in a studio who did the editing for me, and it launched. Without that, the cost would have been crazy.  So, I made the decision not to have the rest of my books in an audio format, even though people were asking for them. Then I thought that was that.

Well…enter technology. Amazon has now come out with a Beta version where in a matter of minutes they’ll take your novel already with them and use a virtual voice to turn your novel into an audiobook. Since, I will not be doing them myself…probably ever…I think it’s a good alternative to get the stories out in this way to people who may only ever listen to rather than read a book. That’s why I did it! The stories are important, and life changing.  (That’s also why I bug you to leave reviews and spread the news about the stories…it’s super important!)

I was allowed to choose between several voices and review it before publishing. I think they have a little way to go in inflections at the end of sentences, but it’s still pretty amazing. I had to teach my virtual voice how to say “Mackinaw” when she sees Mackinac Island…. thank goodness there was an editing option for that!

So, here’s the dealio!

Being Ethel (In a world that loves Lucy) is available on almost every audiobook platform, including Amazon, and it’s my voice.

Being Dorothy (In a world longing for home), Being Alice (In a world lost in the looking glass), Being Wendy (In a world afraid to grow up), and Being Nancy (In a world lost in mystery) are all available only on Amazon, and it’s a virtual voice. If you are part of audible, they are part of your plan. I’m not positive about this, but I think if you get an eBook version of the book, they offer you the audiobook for $1.99, which is really cool. Listening to a book is different than reading it, a fun experience. Plus, you can drive and listen! Simply search my name or book title on Amazon, and click on the audiobook option.

So please spread the word, check it out, and yaaaaaa!

Speaking of reviews…I’m stuck where I am. Being Nancy sits at 16 reviews…and so many have purchased it. Please leave a review! It can be short and sweet… I loved the book! Never put in any spoilers. But PLEASE leave a review. Even if you didn’t buy it on Amazon, if you spend $50 there a year, you can leave reviews. Thank you!!!

I’m happy to tell you that I survived another heart ablation procedure a few weeks ago. I’m doing well, but dealing with aftermath, mandatory meds that I hate for the next 3 months. I’ll be glad when that is passed. Also!!

I’ve started the next book: Being Goldie (In a “just-right” world). It’s going well! I’m super happy about that. I appreciate your prayers as I write and heal from health stuff. I’m taking it a bit easier, which is hard for me.

As summer will wind down, we will enter my favorite season of fall.

Can’t wait!

Be thinking of holidays and how great my novels would be as gifts…you can order directly from me signed…or I can send a signed sticker. (A less expensive alternative).

I’m also starting an art endeavor this fall…I hope…wait…was I supposed to rest more?

Ha! Most days my stamina makes me.

I trust you are all having a wonderful summer. My joy is being a paper missionary to tell the Good News that we are loved and cared for in the greatest story ever told. No matter what’s happening in the world – The Lord is our Shepherd, and we shall not want.

Blessings to you and yours…

Remember! Audiobooks…all of them now. Leave Reviews. Prayers, and watch for an email in a little less than two weeks with some more big news!

You are the best,

Michele