Audiobooks are booming—and for indie authors, they’re a powerful way to reach more readers. But knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s where Charlotte Chiew comes in.

Charlotte is a trained actor and professional audiobook narrator who’s worked with indie authors across genres to help bring their stories to life in audio. In her conversation with Sharissa Bradley on the Project Seed Money Podcast, Charlotte unpacks everything from pricing and timelines to how to make sure your narrator understands your vision.

“You’re handing over your baby,” Charlotte says. “It has to be the right fit.”

🗣️ What Does a Narrator Actually Do?

Charlotte offers several levels of support for authors, from simply recording the audio to full-service production, editing, mastering, and even uploading files to platforms.

And yes, she can even help you pick another narrator if her voice isn’t quite the match for your book. For her, the relationship and collaboration come first.

🧠 Authors’ Most Common Questions (and Misunderstandings)

One of the biggest pain points Charlotte sees is around distribution. Many authors think ACX and Amazon are the only options, but she emphasizes that there are other (and often better) ways to sell your audiobook.

She also encourages authors to ask the right questions from the start:

• What is your per-finished-hour rate?
• What’s included in your services?
• What are your turnaround times?
• Do you charge for samples? (Red flag if they do!)

“An audition sample should never cost money,” Charlotte warns. “And if a five-minute sample takes weeks to deliver—that’s a concern.”

📅 When Should You Start the Audiobook Conversation?

Charlotte recommends having the conversation early—even while you’re still writing. That way, you can be thinking about how your story sounds and plan ahead for scheduling. If you’re hoping to release your audiobook around the same time as your physical and ebook, she suggests reaching out at least 2–3 months in advance.

She breaks it down simply:

• 9,300 words ≈ 1 hour of audio
• A 10-hour book might take 2–3 weeks to produce (if the narrator has availability)
• Planning ahead gives you more control and less stress

💡 Collaborative Creativity

Charlotte is also exploring a new collaborative project for authors—a short story audio collection across genres. She’s inviting indie authors to submit 10–15 minute works that can be bundled and shared across platforms, helping everyone reach new audiences. (Stay tuned!)

💬 Her Message to Authors?

“Don’t be afraid to keep going,” Charlotte says. “The writing community is generous and creative, and there are people who will support you.”

For more from Charlotte, listen to the full interview and connect with her through the Project Seed Money Directory or at charlottechiew.com.