Audiobooks

Stonebridge starts with the book itself: genre, audience, tone, character requirements, author preference, and the kind of listening experience the book should create. We then coordinate narrator selection and sample reads so the voice is evaluated before full production. The right narrator for a memoir may be completely different from the right narrator for children's fiction, business nonfiction, or a dramatic novel. The selection is based on fit rather than simply choosing the first available voice.

Yes. Narrator approval is part of the production process. Stonebridge can arrange sample reads so the client can hear how the voice works with the actual material before the complete book is recorded. This gives the author a chance to approve the direction, pronunciation, tone, and general performance style. Once a narrator and production direction are approved, full recording can move forward with much less risk of major changes later.

A typical Stonebridge audiobook project is approximately three weeks, although the exact timeline depends on the length of the book, narrator availability, revision requirements, and platform preparation. A short book can move faster than a long or performance-heavy title. Stonebridge confirms the schedule after reviewing the manuscript and the intended distribution plan. Recording is only one part of the process; editing, mastering, quality review, files, metadata, and platform preparation also need to be completed properly.

The client reviews the work during the production process. Corrections involving mispronunciations, missed text, technical issues, or performance problems can be addressed within the agreed revision structure. The best way to avoid large re-recording requirements is to approve the narrator and direction through sample reads before full recording begins. If a client changes the creative direction after substantial approved recording has already been completed, the additional work may require a revised scope.

Stonebridge's standard position is client ownership of the approved final work. The client receives the completed audiobook files included in the agreement and retains the rights to the underlying book. Any narrator, music, sound-effect, or third-party licensing terms are addressed as part of the production agreement so the client understands what can be used and where. Stonebridge does not take ownership of the client's audiobook simply because it coordinated production.

Stonebridge can prepare and plan distribution across suitable audiobook channels, including Audible, Apple, Spotify, Kobo, Storytel, Chirp, Audiobooks.com, OverDrive, and other appropriate platforms. An exclusive arrangement generally limits distribution to a defined platform or network in exchange for that platform's terms. A non-exclusive structure provides broader flexibility across multiple channels. Stonebridge reviews the client's objectives before recommending the distribution route rather than assuming one model is best for every author.