I decided to share a few of my podcast novel recommendations in the science fiction and fantasy genre. My previous post of “What’s on my iPod” did not include books I’ve listened to on my iPod. Given the time I spend in the car, I’m always looking for new content. I have purchased audio books for years. Now, I find more than enough free content to keep my mind occupied while driving.
Here are a few authors/books that come to mind. Each author worked hard to build an audience by giving away content for free via podcasting. Using social media, building and nurturing their online communities allowed them to bring that loyal audience to publishers as proof they could sell their product. This helped to separate themselves from other authors trying to get books published. They were pioneers as this was somewhat counter-intuitive and considered a bit crazy to give your content away for free in one medium hopes of being able to sell it in another medium. These authors each signed contracts with traditional publishers after podcasting their content.
1. J.C. Hutchins – http://www.jchutchins.net/ – 7th Son Trilogy
I really enjoyed this trilogy. It makes the top of my podcast novel list in this genre.
2. Scott Sigler – http://www.scottsigler.com/ – Infected, Earthcore, Nocturnal, The Rookie, and short stories
I almost hesitate to recommend Scott Sigler, but I must admit to waiting impatiently for each new chapter to be released via podcast as he was writing the books. He is scary and funny, albeit in a violent, foul, and egotistical way. His books are clearly not for everyone and his style takes some getting used to. He refers to his readers as junkies since they get hooked on his content.
3. Mark Jeffrey – http://markjeffrey.typepad.com/ – The Pocket and the Pendant of the Max Quick Series
This series is suitable for a younger audience, but something all ages can enjoy. I’m about to start the second book.
Beyond the obvious iTunes, lots of interesting podcast content can be found at sites like:
3. http://www.podcastalley.com/
Enjoy!
Egotistical? Hell no. But if I was, I’d be way more egotistical than anyone else could even think of being. Thanks for the props!
How cool is that! A comment from one of the authors I just mentioned – Scott Sigler. Scott has been known to kill people and even wipe out entire cities in his books based on comments from readers. I hope my home town is safe 🙂
One other point of note. Podcast authors tend to promote each other. It’s “a rising tide lifts all boats” in action. I think I discovered J.C. Hutchins first and then Scott Sigler from J.C.. They have done some fun things including each other in podcasts. There was no downside to promoting each other as I followed all content from both.
Thanks Scott!
Don’t listen to Sigler — he IS egotistical beyond belief. You keep on insulting him while giving him props.
As for me — thanks for the mention and hope you enjoy the second Max Quick book!
– Mark
Wow, two of the three authors posting to my blog. Thanks Mark – I’m sure I’ll enjoy the book. I hear it is even better than the first.
J.C. Hutchins – how about making it a trifecta.
Reporting as ordered! 🙂
Wow, I’m absolutely thrilled to be at the top of your list! Humbled and honored, Bill. Thanks so much. I’m great friends with Mark Jeffrey — such a talented author.
But this other guy? Scott … who? Never heard of ’em. 😉
The trifecta is complete!
Holy Cow! This is amazing! I’ve got a long road trip ahead of me. I’m gonna have to listen/read these now. I’ve always thought about subscribing to audible.com. And I knew through Bill that there were authors out there doing this. But now I’ve got a reference. AND, that the authors actually posted here… that’s just too… too…