Audiobook Narrators soar to New Heights as ‘Romantasy’ Genre Captivates U.S. Listeners

NEW YORK—Rebecca Soler was picking up her daughter from preschool and her professional and personal worlds collided.

“My daughterS teacher, my beloved Ms. Liz, said to me, ‘I was in my car, listening to Fourth Wing, and the narrator’s voice sounds so familiar…’,” says Soler. “And I was like, ‘Ms. Liz, what chapter are you on?!’ And she was like, ‘Four,’ and I said, ‘Ms. Liz, abort, abort!'”

Soler’s hilarious reaction stems from her role as the voice actor behind and the audiobook versions of all three books in Rebecca Yarros‘s Empyrean series, a red-hot romantasy series that has taken the literary world by storm.

The audiobooks, much like the books themselves, have dominated bestseller charts. Wiht the release of onyx Storm, the latest installment, pushing them all back to the top spots.

Soler is increasingly being recognized for her voice work, an unusual advancement.”People who I meet that don’t know what I do will suddenly say, ‘Wait a minute, that was you! I listened to that’,” says Soler, who has voiced titles across genres including YA, women’s fiction and other fantasy.”And my Cuban aunts have been like, ‘Rebecca, do we need to listen to Onyx Storm?’ and I’m like, ‘No Tía, please. This is not the one for you to listen to because it is going to be real weird for you,real rapid’.”

The rise of “romantasy”—a hybrid genre blending romance and fantasy—has not only propelled authors like Yarros to new heights but also spotlighted the voice actors who bring these fantastical worlds to life.Sales of audiobooks in the U.S.increased by double digits for the tenth consecutive year, reaching $1.7 billion in revenue in 2024. According to the Audio Publishers Association, fantasy, science fiction, and romance are among the most popular genres, driving much of this growth.

When she got the gig to record the first book, Soler had no concept she was about to play a part in one of the biggest stories in books of this century.”I knew that it was a page-turner,” she says. “But it was an indie publisher and if anything that makes you think it’s not going to be the size of other books that I’ve done that have had larger publishers.”

She didn’t even audition for it. The job was just offered to her, thanks to a small-world connection: Soler had gone to high school with Yarros’s publicist.

Meeting Yarros in person helped validate the approach she took in her audio interpretation, she says.

“She speaks really quickly, she has a very fast humour and that just solidified the choices I made. I’ve been fast-talking as Violet, and being really sarcastic and underplayed as Ridoc and rolling my eyes and exasperated as Tairn,” says Soler of her voices for various key characters. “Having met Rebecca,I understand that is her pace,and I am happy that I got it right.”

Narrating a complex, dense, plot-and-world-building book like this, Soler adds, is “more challenging” than most. To help her keep track of the characters – including the voices she does for them – she creates a detailed “org chart” of who everyone is, how they’re connected, the name of their dragon or griffin, and weather they’re alive or dead.

She’ll read the book four times before recording it, marking up her copy with cues and phonetics that help her say certain unique-to-the-Empyrean-universe words – Basgiath, Tirnanoc, Rhiannon with a long “ahh” sound.

Each 500-ish page book takes Soler, working with an engineer, five days of recording solidly from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.She caffeinates with an unsweetened black iced coffee, avoiding anything with dairy to prevent “mouth sounds.” On day four or five, she’ll reach for an almond milk latte. “You need that espresso, because my lord, Rebecca is relentless. The last few chapters do not let up. There’s no denouement in her books.”

Beyond the Voice: The Craft of Audiobook Narration

For narrators like Soler,mastering the craft requires more than just a pleasant voice. It demands meticulous preparation, character development, and stamina. Soler’s dedication to her characters is evident in her detailed “org charts” and multiple readings of each book. She is extremely serious about mouth sounds.

Teddy Hamilton, real name Andrew Eiden, is another familiar Empyrean voice. He pops up for chapters told from the viewpoint of Xaden Riorson, the charismatic and enigmatic third year whom the heroine, Violet Sorrengail, finds herself irresistibly drawn to in the first book.

“I’ve worked with Rebecca Yarros on so many of her books, so it’s been fun to see this become mainstream outside of the romance world,” says Eiden, who adds that despite their long professional relationship, he’s had very limited interaction with the author.

“I think that’s by design, because I know other narrators who do interact with her a lot,” he says. “I play an interesting role with her, as I play all of her male main characters. Those are fantasies that she’s writing – and that’s a thing with the fandom too, where they wish they didn’t know who I actually was because then they could just imagine the fantasy character, and I’m very much not the fantasy character.”

Eiden, who’s prolific in the romance narrating space, thinks that Yarros trusts him to understand her, and he trusts her in return.”She talks to me through her writing, and I talk to her through my narration,” he says. “To me, it’s always about the book. It’s about what Rebecca has written, and my duty is to understand what she means by it. What does this moment mean to the book, to my character? and what effect is this supposed to have on the reader?”

xaden is a notably intense character, although given Yarros’s interest in writing books about men who have been at war and may have PTSD, based on her own husband’s experience, that’s not exactly unusual.

“I always say her books are cryfests,” says Eiden. “I’ve never sobbed more in narrating a book than I have with a Rebecca Yarros audiobook.”

While he’s already got a devoted following, being part of the Empyrean universe has put “Teddy Hamilton” on a more mainstream map.”I’ve also gotten so many texts from people who will say, ‘Are you Teddy Hamilton? I’m listening to you!’ They wouldn’t normally listen to the types of books Teddy usually does,” says Eiden.”I’ve also had some of my buddies say, ‘Oh, I was talking to some girls last night and I was showing off that I know Teddy Hamilton.'”

It’s been such a big deal that Eiden says he recently had some in the industry come up to him and ask why he didn’t do the narrations under his real name rather than this stage name. “And I said it was because Rebecca Yarros didn’t ask for Andrew Eiden. She asked for Teddy Hamilton,” he says.

Another testament to the appetite for content in this series is that in addition to the audiobooks, there’s a dramatized audio adaptation produced by GraphicAudio, with a full cast of voice actors playing the different parts.

Khaya Fraites is the voice behind Violet sorrengail. She’s busy in her home recording studio working on the dramatized adaptation of Onyx Storm, set for release in May.

“I wasn’t told what I was auditioning for originally,” says Fraites, who’d only been doing small parts in various audio adaptations before she landed the part. “The director just said,’I have a book and I think you’d be good for it. The character is young, badass, think Katniss Everdeen.'”

At that stage, she hadn’t read the book, although she is a big reader herself. The scene she auditioned with was the “parapet scene,” where new students have to walk a lethal gauntlet before they even make it into the war academy building.

“I gave it my best shot, and I felt good about it,” says Fraites. “The director e-mailed me a few weeks later and he said, ‘You got the part. It’s for a little book called Fourth Wing. You may have heard of it?'”

Even then, she didn’t really have a sense of how big it was all going to be. That changed with Iron Flame, the second book to come out, and she began posting some of the behind-the-scenes of the recording process to TikTok.

“I started to interact with people, and I began to realize that, ‘Oh, this is kind of big’,” says Fraites, who tries not to let the pressure get in the way of her performance.

“I find Violet incredibly relatable. I feel like I have a lot in common with her, because she operates from a place of desperate protection for the people she loves because she’s experienced so much loss and grief,” says Fraites.

“I’ve also had a lot of loss at a young age. Once you’ve experienced a grief like losing a parent, you’re constantly operating from that space in whatever you’re doing.”

The emotional intensity of these stories means that Fraites often takes breaks while recording, and she sobbed in the booth when one character died.

“It may come off as extremely dramatic, but it is heavy. To be able to perform from that place, you do have to go there,” she says.

While she’s never been recognized in the wild for her work as Violet, she does get DMs from fans about it. “People have been so kind,” she says. “Someone messaged me recently and said,’You keep me company at 4 o’clock in the morning when I need something to listen to.'”

That warm embrace is also a draw for Soler. She gets DMs almost every single day from people saying nice things about her narration.

“Audiobook listeners are discerning, passionate and have high expectations,” she concludes. “If they give you a compliment, know that it is indeed really well-earned as you have been in their ear for hours, and you can either be super annoying to them, or super mission critical.”

The Rise of Romantasy: Explore the reasons behind the increasing popularity of the romantasy genre in the U.S. Factors include escapism, the appeal of strong female leads, and the blend of adventure and romance.
Practical Implications for Aspiring Narrators: Offer advice for aspiring audiobook narrators, including training, building a demo reel, and finding work. Highlight the importance of networking within the industry.
The Role of Social Media: Discuss how social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have helped audiobook narrators to connect with fans and promote their work.
The Future of Audiobooks:* Analyze trends in the audiobook industry, such as the increasing use of AI-generated voices and the growing demand for immersive audio experiences.

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Audiobook Narrators Soar: A deep Dive into the ‘Romantasy’ Phenomenon with Rebecca Soler

Hello, and welcome to Archyde News. Today, we’re diving deep into the booming world of audiobooks, particularly the captivating rise of the “romantasy” genre. Joining us is Rebecca Soler, the voice behind the incredibly popular empyrean series. Rebecca, thanks for being with us.

Rebecca Soler: Thanks for having me! I’m thrilled to be here.

The Romantasy Revolution: What’s the Hype All About?

archyde: The romantasy genre — a blend of romance and fantasy — has absolutely exploded. What do you think is driving this surge in popularity, both for the books and, consequently, for the audiobooks?

Rebecca Soler: Well, I think there’s a real craving for escape right now. Romantasy offers that perfect blend of thrilling adventures, intricate world-building, and, of course, those swoon-worthy romantic elements. It’s a potent combination. Plus, the stories often feature strong female leads, which resonates with a lot of readers. And with audiobooks, you can lose yourself in a world while you multitask your daily life.

From Page to ear: The Art of Audiobook Narration

Archyde: Your role as Violet sorrengail in the Empyrean series has garnered you quite the fanbase. Can you walk us through your process for bringing such a complex character and immersive world to life?

Rebecca Soler: Absolutely. It starts with reading the book multiple times, really absorbing the story and the author’s vision. Then, I create detailed “org charts” to keep track of all the characters, their relationships, and their voices. I also spend a lot of time on pronunciation, especially with the unique words and places in the Empyrean universe. Meeting Rebecca Yarros helped solidify my choices for each character, understanding her pace and humor really fueled my performance.

Archyde: That sounds incredibly involved! Considering the fast-paced storytelling, the importance of character differentiation must be key…

Rebecca Soler: Absolutely. You’re in the listener’s ear for hours, so it’s critical to clearly distinguish each character. That’s why working out voices and accents is so crucial. It’s not just about reading the words; it’s about embodying the characters and making the listener feel. You wont to keep the listener immersed.

Advice for Aspiring Narrators

Archyde: For those aspiring to break into audiobook narration, what advice would you give? What are the crucial steps?

Rebecca Soler: Start with vocal training! Then, build a good demo reel showcasing your versatility. Look for opportunities for small roles, and network, network, network. the audiobook community is surprisingly tight-knit. Sites such as ACX (Audiobook Creation exchange) are great resources for begining your career. Most of all, get your voice heard.

The Power of Voice and Social Media

Archyde: Social media platforms like tiktok and Instagram seem to be playing a larger role in connecting narrators with fans. Have you experienced that?

Rebecca Soler: Totally. It’s fantastic. It allows us to connect with listeners on a personal level, share behind-the-scenes content, and get immediate feedback. It’s a whole new way to build community around these audiobooks.

The Future of Audio: Trends and Insights

Archyde: What trends do you see shaping the future of the audiobook industry?

Rebecca soler: The industry is rapidly growing. I think we’ll see continued innovation in immersive audio experiences, potentially integrating sound design and different levels of production – but I really hope thay don’t start using AI voices! However, I do worry about quality. there’s also an increasing demand for diverse genres, and that’s exciting. What could the landscape look like in the next five years?

Archyde: Exciting and insightful! Rebecca, it’s been a pleasure speaking with you. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

Rebecca Soler: My pleasure. Thanks for having me.

Archyde: And to our listeners, we’d love to know your thoughts. What draws you to audiobooks,and what qualities in a narrator do you find most compelling? Share your opinions in the comments below. This has been Archyde News, bringing you insights from the world of books and beyond.

The Tumultuous Road to the Oscars: scrutiny, Controversy, and the power of Perception

This year’s Oscar race has been anything but typical. A cloud of controversy hangs over the nominations, threatening to eclipse the films themselves. From the role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking to the depiction of complex social issues, and even the resurfacing of past social media posts, no nominee seems immune to the intense scrutiny of public opinion.

The film “The Brutalist,” directed by Brady Corbet, has found itself at the center of a debate surrounding artificial intelligence in filmmaking. While the film has garnered critical acclaim, its innovative use of AI technology has sparked controversy and raised ethical questions about the future of the industry.

On the other hand, Sean baker’s “Anora,” a nuanced exploration of the world of sex work, has faced criticism for its lack of on-set intimacy coordinators. This criticism highlights growing concerns about the potential for exploitation and harmful portrayals within the film industry, particularly when dealing with sensitive subjects.

The spotlight has also fallen on individual performers. Fernanda Torres, whose captivating performance in “I’m Still Here” has earned widespread praise, issued a public apology for her role in a blackface sketch from her early acting career. This incident demonstrates the lasting impact of past actions and the heightened awareness surrounding issues of cultural sensitivity in the entertainment industry.

This heightened scrutiny extends beyond the silver screen and into the digital realm. social media has become a powerful force, amplifying voices both positive and negative, and shaping public perception of nominees and their work.

### The Impact of Online Discourse

The rise of social media has undoubtedly changed the Oscar landscape, creating both opportunities and challenges.while platforms like Twitter and Instagram provide a direct line of communication between filmmakers, actors, and audiences, they can also become breeding grounds for negativity and misinformation.

The speed and reach of online discourse can have a profound impact on public opinion, possibly influencing voting decisions and shaping the narrative surrounding the awards.

### Navigating a Complex Media Landscape

In this surroundings, it is crucial to approach online data with a critical eye. Distinguishing between genuine perspectives and curated online personas requires careful consideration and a healthy dose of skepticism.

It is indeed essential to consult reputable sources, consider the motivations behind online commentary, and engage in thoughtful discussions that promote understanding rather than division.

Ultimately, the Oscars, like any major cultural event, are subject to the complexities and contradictions of our time. The challenges posed by controversy, social media, and evolving societal values demand a nuanced and informed approach.

We can strive to engage with this year’s Oscar race with critical thinking,empathy,and a commitment to celebrating the power of storytelling while recognizing its inherent complexities.

Oscar Buzz: Social media’s Impact on Awards Season

This year’s Oscar race has been marred by controversy, with online platforms playing a central role in amplifying negativity and shaping public perception. From alleged offensive tweets to smear campaigns,the traditional behind-the-scenes tactics of awards season seem to pale in comparison to the virality of social media outrage.

One especially contentious situation involves nominee Emilia Pérez, a film frontrunner lauded for its progressive message. Tho, controversy erupted surrounding Gascón, the film’s nominated performer, who faced backlash for past offensive online posts. Netflix, facing significant reputational damage, seems to be distancing itself from Gascón, highlighting the precarious nature of awards campaigns in the age of social media.

“It’s funny that Oscar campaigns used to indulge in dirty tricks and whisper campaigns and now they don’t have to, because obsessed stans do all the work,” noted The New york Times’ Oscar beat columnist Kyle Buchanan.

While Gascón’s situation involved pre-existing online posts,many other controversies this season appear to have been amplified and distorted through social media. It’s less about the content itself and more about the intensity and reach of online discourse. A handful of outraged tweets can effectively derail a campaign, turning narratives against nominees and films.

These controversies underscore the immense financial stakes involved in awards season. Winning an Oscar, particularly Best Picture, can considerably boost a film’s revenue. Netflix, aiming to secure its first Best Picture win, faces an uphill battle. Simultaneously occurring, smaller films like Anora see an Oscar win as a potential pathway to exponential growth.

Interestingly, amidst the chaos, Conclave, a papal thriller, has emerged relatively unscathed. Perhaps, as a film exploring the corrosive nature of smear campaigns, its themes resonate even more strongly in today’s climate. Though, with weeks remaining until the oscars, no film is safe from the unpredictable currents of social media.

The 2024 Oscars are a stark reminder of the evolving landscape of awards season. Social media’s influence is undeniable, shaping narratives, amplifying voices, and impacting campaigns in ways previously unimaginable. While traditional tactics still play a role, online platforms are now a decisive force, demanding greater accountability and transparency from all involved.

Decoding Online Personalities: Fact vs. Fiction

In today’s digital age, crafting an online persona is as common as checking email. But how much of what we see online is genuine, and how much is carefully constructed for public consumption? This question becomes particularly relevant when individuals who project a seemingly harmless public image are scrutinized for potential hidden agendas. It raises the question: “Is this person truly who they portray themselves to be, or is there a more complex story behind the facade?”

The Power of Perception

The internet provides a platform for individuals to present a carefully curated version of themselves, highlighting desirable traits and downplaying any perceived flaws. This carefully constructed image can be incredibly influential, shaping how others perceive individuals, brands, and even political figures.

Spotting the Red Flags

While approaching online interactions with a healthy dose of skepticism is wise, jumping to conclusions based on limited information can be perilous. it’s crucial to consider the following:

• consistency: Does the online persona align with their offline behavior and actions?
• Motivation: What are their stated intentions and goals? Do they seem genuine?
• Source: Where are they getting their information? Are they citing credible sources?

the Importance of Critical Thinking

In the digital age, critical thinking is more critically importent than ever. We must learn to analyze information carefully,question assumptions,and evaluate sources before forming opinions. This involves:

• Verifying information: Don’t accept everything you read online as truth. Cross-reference information with reputable sources.
• considering multiple perspectives: Seek out diverse viewpoints to gain a more balanced understanding.
• Being aware of biases: everyone has biases. Recognize your own and be mindful of how they may influence your interpretation of information.

Navigating the complexities of online personas requires a combination of healthy skepticism and critical thinking. By staying informed and engaging with information responsibly, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of the digital world and the individuals who inhabit it.

What Strategies Do you Use to Distinguish Between Genuine and Curated Online Personas?

Decoding Online Personalities: A Conversation with Dr. Evelyn Reed

With the rise of social media, crafting online personas has become almost as commonplace as checking the weather. But how much of what we see is genuine, and how much is a carefully constructed performance? Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading expert in online behavior and social psychology, sheds light on this complex issue.

“The internet has fundamentally changed the way we present ourselves,” Dr. Reed explains.”It’s become a stage where individuals can curate a specific image, highlighting their best qualities and downplaying any perceived flaws. This curated persona can be incredibly powerful,influencing how others perceive them.”

Dr.Reed emphasizes the importance of critical thinking when navigating the online world. “don’t accept everything you see at face value,” she advises.”Consider the source, look for inconsistencies, and be aware of potential biases. Remember, online personas are frequently enough carefully constructed, and the reality behind the screen might potentially be quite different.”

Navigating the World of Curated Online Personas

In today’s digital age, the line between reality and online persona can often blur. Social media platforms have become stages where individuals curate carefully crafted representations of themselves, raising important questions about authenticity, truth, and the impact on society.

The Rise of the Curated Self

Several factors contribute to the growing trend of online persona curation. Firstly, social media algorithms often prioritize visually appealing and aspirational content, encouraging users to present idealized versions of themselves. This can create a pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and achievements, leading individuals to present a more polished online persona than they might in real life.

Secondly, the anonymity and relative distance offered by the internet can lower inhibitions, allowing people to experiment with different identities and express themselves in ways they might not feel cozy with offline. This can be empowering for some, but it can also lead to a disconnect between online and offline personas, creating a sense of fragmentation.

fact vs. Fiction: Discerning Truth Online

With the proliferation of curated online personas, it’s more crucial than ever to develop critical thinking skills to discern fact from fiction.

“It’s essential to remember that what we see online is frequently enough a carefully constructed narrative,” emphasizes Dr. Reed, an expert in online behavior and social media psychology.

Here are some strategies to help you navigate this complex landscape:

• Consider the Source: Who is sharing this information? What are their motivations? Are they known for accuracy and objectivity?
• Look for Consistency: Does the online persona align with other information you have about the individual? Do their actions and statements offline match their online portrayal?
• Cultivate Healthy Skepticism: Don’t believe everything you read online. Question assumptions, seek multiple perspectives, and verify information through reputable sources.

Societal Implications: A Double-Edged Sword

The rise of curated online personas has both positive and negative implications for society.

“On one hand,it can empower individuals to express themselves freely and connect with like-minded people,” explains Dr. Reed.

“Conversely, it can contribute to a culture of superficiality, where authenticity is sacrificed for online approval. It can also fuel misinformation and sow division,as people are more likely to believe information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs,even if it’s false.”

Finding Balance: Authenticity in a Digital World

As we navigate this increasingly complex digital landscape, it’s critically important to find a balance between expressing ourselves online and maintaining a sense of authenticity.

We must critically evaluate the information we consume, be mindful of the personas we present, and prioritize real-world connections.

What strategies do you use to discern genuine from curated online personas?

Decoding Online Personalities: A Conversation with Dr. Evelyn Reed

With the rise of social media, crafting online personas has become almost as commonplace as checking the weather. But how much of what we see is genuine, and how much is a carefully constructed performance? Dr. Evelyn Reed,a leading expert in online behaviour and social psychology,sheds light on this complex issue.

“The internet has fundamentally changed the way we present ourselves,” Dr. Reed explains.”It’s become a stage where individuals can curate a specific image,highlighting their best qualities and downplaying any perceived flaws. This curated persona can be incredibly powerful,influencing how others perceive them.”

Dr.Reed emphasizes the importance of critical thinking when navigating the online world. “don’t accept everything you see at face value,” she advises.”Consider the source, look for inconsistencies, and be aware of potential biases. Remember, online personas are frequently enough carefully constructed, and the reality behind the screen might potentially be quite different.”

Navigating the World of Curated Online Personas

In today’s digital age, the line between reality and online persona can often blur. Social media platforms have become stages where individuals curate carefully crafted representations of themselves, raising meaningful questions about authenticity, truth, and the impact on society.

The rise of the Curated Self

Several factors contribute to the growing trend of online persona curation. Firstly, social media algorithms frequently enough prioritize visually appealing and aspirational content, encouraging users to present idealized versions of themselves. This can create a pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and achievements, leading individuals to present a more polished online persona than they might in real life.

Secondly, the anonymity and relative distance offered by the internet can lower inhibitions, allowing people to experiment with different identities and express themselves in ways they might not feel cozy with offline. This can be empowering for some, but it can also lead to a disconnect between online and offline personas, creating a sense of fragmentation.

fact vs. Fiction: Discerning Truth Online

with the proliferation of curated online personas,it’s more crucial than ever to develop critical thinking skills to discern fact from fiction.

“It’s essential to remember that what we see online is frequently enough a carefully constructed narrative,” emphasizes Dr. Reed, an expert in online behavior and social media psychology.

Here are some strategies to help you navigate this complex landscape:

• Consider the Source: Who is sharing this data? What are their motivations? Are they known for accuracy and objectivity?
• Look for Consistency: Dose the online persona align with other information you have about the individual? Do their actions and statements offline match their online portrayal?
• Cultivate Healthy Skepticism: Don’t believe everything you read online. Question assumptions,seek multiple perspectives,and verify information through reputable sources.

Societal Implications: A Double-Edged Sword

The rise of curated online personas has both positive and negative implications for society.

“On one hand,it can empower individuals to express themselves freely and connect with like-minded people,” explains Dr. Reed.

“Conversely, it can contribute to a culture of superficiality, where authenticity is sacrificed for online approval. It can also fuel misinformation and sow division,as people are more likely to believe information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs,even if it’s false.”

Finding Balance: Authenticity in a Digital World

As we navigate this increasingly complex digital landscape, it’s critically critically important to find a balance between expressing ourselves online and maintaining a sense of authenticity.

We must critically evaluate the information we consume, be mindful of the personas we present, and prioritize real-world connections.

What strategies do you use to discern genuine from curated online personas?