2025 Spoken Staff Picks: Celebrating the first to “Give their writing its voice.”

We believe stories are meant to be heard. They bridge the gap between imagination and experience, between writer and listener. As we enter 2025, we’re thrilled to announce our first-ever Spoken Staff Picks — a curated selection of standout works (to start) that capture the very essence of modern storytelling as we embrace this new, Spoken era.

These authors aren’t just writers; they’re pioneers in a storytelling revolution, bringing their words to life in a way that transcends the written page. With Spoken’s Studio and Network, these stories have found their voice and are streaming into the ears and hearts of listeners worldwide.

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on these incredible authors and their featured works. They remind us of our mission: “Help Storytellers. Tell Stories.” Whether it’s through captivating dramas, heartfelt memoirs, or fantastical adventures, each of these stories offers something profound. Something worth sharing.

We’ve made it possible for authors to narrate, and self-publish their works quickly, easily, and affordably, and with a killer playlist feature right around the corner, these stories will have the chance to reach even more listeners. Going beyond the walls of the Spoken Network, we’ll leverage our social platforms and communities to amplify their voices further. Each of these stories deserves to be heard.

Congratulations to our 2025 Spoken Staff Picks! We are so thankful you’ve decided to use Spoken to give your writing its voice. Ready to listen? Let’s dive in.

Tuscaloosa Turnout

By @hamjackal on Spoken

Angeline Tucker, a former beauty queen, is preparing for a comeback at the Miss Tuscaloosa pageant. However, her boyfriend, Grady Von, is late and in desperate need of a ride. He finds himself hitchhiking with Jim Stevens, a trucker with a unique and flamboyant style. Grady and Jim arrive in Tuscaloosa just in time for Angeline’s triumph at the pageant. Grady introduces Jim to his favorite bar, Whitehall, where Jim's curious nature leads him into a mysterious back room, culminating in a violent altercation. The story blends elements of romance, suspense, and unexpected encounters, leaving the reader wondering about Jim's past and the consequences of his actions.

What our Staff is saying:

“A couple hours gone on the run between New Orleans and Atlanta, and Jim Stevens saw the stupidest son of a bitch kneeling on the side of the freeway.” That line sold me immediately. Having listened to several of Andy Gritzmacher’s works now, I’ve come to expect—and thoroughly enjoy—the cinematic quality of his storytelling. The scenes here play out vividly, like a Coen Brothers screenplay in novel form, with characters that feel both grounded and larger than life. Grady Von, stranded and praying by his busted Trans Am, is absurd yet endearing, while Indigo Jim, the trucker with a penchant for peacock décor, is equal parts observer and reluctant hero. Their collision course, set against the backdrop of the quirky Miss Tuscaloosa pageant, is packed with tension, humor, and just enough mishaps to keep you fully in. Albert (11Labs) narrates the story with just the right tone and weight, perfectly matching Gritzmacher’s style. The Spoken adaptation does a great job of pulling you into highly visual world. This one is distinct, puncy, and fun.

On a Bench by the Sea

by @JessyWheel on Spoken

A man grieving the impending loss of his wife to cancer finds solace and unexpected understanding on a park bench by the sea, where he meets a woman who shares a similar grief from her own past. As the man confides in the woman about his anxieties and worries for his young daughter, the woman reveals that she lost her mother to cancer as a child, finding strength and love in the support of her father. Through their shared experience, the woman helps the man recognize the strength he possesses as a father and the enduring love he holds for his daughter, offering hope and reassurance that he will be there for her just as her father was there for her. Their conversation unfolds as a poignant reminder that even in the face of loss, love and remembrance can provide solace and guide us through the darkest of times.

What Our Staff is saying:

There’s something about a bench by the sea, isn’t there? It feels like the kind of place where big, life-changing conversations happen. I couldn’t help but think of Forrest Gump when I started this story. Simple, honest, and emotional—this one felt very real to me. It’s a quiet story, mostly just a man sitting on that bench, pouring his heart out about his wife, who’s fighting cancer. He talks about their routines, the small ways they try to hold it together, and the life they’ve built over the years. It’s not over-the-top or melodramatic; it’s just raw and human. And the way he describes her—it’s heartwarming. You can feel the love and pain tangled up in every word. The bench becomes this place where he can finally let it all out. The stranger who listens doesn’t push or judge; she just lets him talk. That felt real to me too—sometimes you just need someone to hear you, even if they’re a stranger. The multi-voice narration worked really well here. It made the dialogue feel alive, like I was sitting on that bench, hearing the conversation myself. And the ending. That twist hits hard. It snuck up on me, and I felt it in my chest. This is one of those stories that sticks with you. It’s thoughtful, a little painful. A tear-jerker for sure.

Orson’s Big Comeback

by @vidrip On Spoken

Orson, a chaotic and impulsive young man, crashes into his ex-girlfriend Andrea's house, finding her in bed with her new neighbor, Craig. Orson is distraught and struggles to comprehend the rapid shift in their relationship. Despite Andrea's emotional distance, Orson reveals his newfound success with a YouTube channel, 'Giant Wedding Fuck-Ups,' and offers Andrea a partnership. This proposition throws Andrea into a whirlwind of emotions, as she grapples with the urge to embrace a more impulsive lifestyle while realizing that Orson's chaotic nature is a recipe for disaster. The scene ends with Orson facing the consequences of his actions, reflecting on the complexities of love, relationships, and the pursuit of success.

What Our Staff is saying:

The Spoken "table read" of Orson's Big Comeback is definitely worth checking out. It is a wonderful showcase of Spoken's dynamic range of possibilities. The story is a short, opening scene from a TV screenplay. The scene dives right in to an attention grabbing moment showcasing some brisk and funny writing, with the promise of the plot and conflict to come. Ken Klein's writing is enjoyable for the scene alone, but the use of the multi-character, multi-voice Spoken technology brings it to life in a way that's just not possible on the screenplay page.

Salt in the Hell Mouth

by  @cody.sisco On Spoken

Salt, a self-proclaimed 'curanderx,' is a demon hunter who specializes in closing Hell Mouths - portals that unleash demonic forces and steal people's memories. After being summoned to a neighborhood where a Hell Mouth has opened, Salt finds a family devastated by a demonic attack, with the mother struggling to cope and a police officer possessed by the demonic entity. Salt must contain the demonic infection and risk losing their soul.

What Our Staff is saying:

Not every person walks around with the weight of demon hunting on his shoulders like Salt does. This isn't your average blood and guts kind of horror story. This tale cuts to the heart of intuitive person on a quest of battling demons with strategy instead of weapons. Salt's rewards for overcoming demons are spiritually redemption, so Salt lives a humble life in pursuit of keeping evil at bay, sniffing out demonic possession in people before it gets out of control and shining a light on where evil lurks in the darkness of humanity, waiting to take us captive. The first person narrator is simple and honest with dry wit and a relaxed approach to the task at hand. Basically, a "salt of the earth" kind of soul. Salt is easy to like and this story is easy to follow, but it also goes deep. The author made a great choice for narration and I'd love to read more of Sisco's work, and, hopefully, more of Salt's adventures!

The Perilously Preposterous Planetary Plight of Philbert Floop

by @brent On Spoken

Philbert Floop, a data input specialist, is thrust into an intergalactic adventure when a fluorescent-tubed being informs him that Earth is on the Vogstroidians' list for destruction due to a clerical error. He's tasked with finding the Galactic Form 42B to save the planet, accompanied by Captain Wobbleton, a man with questionable navigation skills and a penchant for kitchenware. Their journey takes them to the Intergalactic Subcommittee of Doom, where they face the challenge of navigating bureaucratic red tape and finding sentient jellyfish for notarization—a task that just might be improbable enough to save the day.

What Our Staff is saying:

This cleverly-crafted, alliteration-friendly story shines a spotlight on one man's unfortunate selection as the potential savior of the earth. The fate of the planet hinges on Philbert's battle with bureaucracy and finding one form in the midst of millions. This poor guy would rather be eating the sandwich he just fixed than embarking on an interstellar crusade reminiscent of a "bad dream brought on by expired cheese." The author dribbles humor throughout this cosmic catastrophe tale, describing a "bureaucratic time vortex that slows everything down to a crawl just like the DMV"and an advanced race of form-filling aficionados who have misclassified the earth as toxic waste. Looking forward to hearing more of Philbert's journey as he reluctantly accepts his intergalactic calling.

The Right Amount of You

by @peter_zuckerman On Spoken

Bourbaki, a math major struggling with social anxieties, is forced to attend the International Congress of Mathematicians by his overly successful and supportive brother Ed. Ed's relentless efforts to guide and 'help' Bourbaki create a rift between them, pushing Bourbaki to question his identity and worth. While Ed urges Bourbaki to engage in networking and impress the renowned Dr. Murphy, Bourbaki finds solace in his own mathematical pursuits. A chance encounter with Dr. Murphy and her work on the Colloughtz conjecture leads Bourbaki to a surprising discovery that could change his career. However, his initial excitement is overshadowed by Ed's disapproval and dismissal of Bourbaki's achievement, further straining their relationship.

What Our Staff is saying:

Oh, Ed! Thank you, Ed, for being so considerate… How considerate of Ed! The Right Amount of You nails sibling rivalry and dynamics with wit and bite. Our protagonist captures it all with the line: “How hard could it be to like someone you love?” The story dives into the contrasts between siblings, with their differences in temperament and demeanor. The single narrator voice, paired with the first-person perspective, is a perfect match. I loved the clever love letter to mathematics sneaking in, and the entire feel of academia. The interactions are real and tightly written. Anyone with siblings will recognize these dynamics, and even those with competitive friendships will relate. My favorite line: “It was a mystery, locked in a vault at the bottom of the ocean, surrounded by sharks”

Kill Your Darlings

by @philmarshall On Spoken

In the secluded Chalet Sauvage, a group of strangers – a grieving widow, a Russian oligarch and his daughter, a gay couple, and a writer – gather for an eerie evening. The writer, Crispin, becomes intrigued by an antique pen that seems to possess an otherworldly power, influencing the course of events. As Crispin begins to chronicle their lives, a chilling series of deaths unfold, leaving him grappling with a mysterious force that connects them all. The story delves into themes of life, death, love, and the nature of storytelling, with a touch of dark humor and suspense. This is the first story ever published on Spoken and was the inspiration to starting the company. With the encouragement of the author's friends from the Taos Toolbox writing workshop, the author set out to help writers generate great audio works. 

What Our Staff is saying:

The first story to be Made Spoken is one of the best stories Made Spoken. Phillip has crafted a fun and fantastical mystery that grabs you from the first words and keeps you locked in til the last--and rewards you for coming along. The story is well paced and the narration is excellent. There is a very strong command of language and the attention to detail is immersive and allows us to move fluidly from past to present, and through a sizable ensemble of characters. I never felt lost, and understood the wants, hangups, and motivations of everyone present in the Chalét. In particular, the use of objects--pens, books, photographs--as anchoring and mythology building elements works really well. They create an emotional through line between character, history, and the evolving mystery plot. As is noted in the introduction to the story, the audio is a work-in-progress and there are times where the strength of the writing is fighting against the evolving performance technology. Some of the voice actors feel slightly disparate from the narrator and the other cast members, which occasionally disrupted my experience. However these hiccups were limited, and I was usually able to get back on track quickly. The mystery builds and will keep you guessing the whole way, building to a worthy and earned reveal, as well as some fun meta-elements surrounding current events and the art of storytelling. "Kill Your Darlings" is well worth investing 40 minutes.

Rogue (A Bulari Saga Short Story)

by @Jessie_Kwak On Spoken

Willem Jaantzen hates being in space. Especially when a job that should have been simple—stealing a shipment of raw Indiran snow from the hold of a luxury yacht in New Sarjun's orbit—starts to go disastrously wrong. And *especially* when the real space pirates show up.

What Our Staff is saying:

After listening to Holiday on Spoken, it was a thrill to jump into Rogue and get to know Willem Jaantzen better. The Bulari universe continues to impress, with its cyberpunk, sci-fi, and space-western. The lore unfolds wonderfully here, as we hear about the intricacies of the weaponry and gravity environment on the “docked yacht”. The action scenes are described with a cinematic flair that makes them incredibly fun to picture, and the multi-character, multi-voice narration really helps bring this instalment to life. The character backstories are intriguing too. For fans of Firefly, The Expanse, or games like Cyberpunk 2077, Star Wars Outlaws, or other pirate-style, futuristic lore, Rogue will definitely hit the spot. I’m excited to see what the rest of the Bulari Saga has in store, both in short stories and full-length adventures!

Silent Night of a Thousand Ninjas

by Chad Huskins On Spoken, submitted by @Tfruman On Spoken

It's Christmas Eve. And a Wednesday. John Hark has few friends, no job and no prospects. Since leaving the marines, he’s found little to motivate him beyond his martial arts training. His girlfriend has left him, his sister harasses him, and his best friend is stuck somewhere in Atlanta traffic. John settles in for a subdued Christmas Eve of video games in his lousy apartment with his tabby cat Reese. But neighbors have gone missing, lights are cutting in and out, and a major snowstorm is brewing outside. It seems this night can't get any worse. Until an assassin attacks John in his kitchen. Barely surviving this harrowing attack, more of them show up. "Shinobi," some call them. Shadow warriors. Ninja. By the dozens they come for him, then hundreds. An infestation of ninjas. John grapples to make sense of this fight for his life that makes no sense. Along the way, John makes some allies, a man called the "Iron Priest," and a beautiful Japanese woman from a secret organization, with her samurai father. But John must carve a bloody path through his apartment building, through ice-covered roads and a night blacker than any he's ever seen. All he has to do is survive until dawn.

What Our Staff is saying:

A longer Spoken feature, this story embraces hyper-realism in its opening act, gradually revealing details about John, our main character, through his interactions, conversations, and surroundings. It’s a cinematic approach to storytelling. John—voiced by “John the Heart of America,” the perfect 11Labs narrator for the samely named protagonist—is at the core of this post-modern tale. The voiceover enhances the experience, giving a grounded, relatable tone to a story that evolves from small tensions to high-octane action. The writing feels reminiscent of Elmore Leonard or Tarantino, with sharp, engaging dialogue and deliberate pacing that doesn’t rush to the action but instead builds it with suspense and subtle cues. The supporting cast blends seamlessly into John’s world, with problems in his old apartment doubling as metaphors for the mounting tension. Pop culture references are sprinkled in tastefully, adding charm without feeling overdone. As the story twists and escalates, the reward comes in the form of intense, well-paced action sequences that make this a winner.

Eliza

by @Serrano16 On Spoken

Eliza, a textile scholar, arrives in Prague for a research fellowship. She is accompanied by her cynical cat, Merlin, who provides witty commentary throughout the story. Eliza meets Pavel, a captivating equine veterinarian, and is invited to a dressage showcase. However, the event takes a dark turn when the renowned rider, Katarina, collapses during her performance. Eliza and Pavel suspect poisoning, but their investigation is met with skepticism from the authorities. With Merlin's sharp instincts guiding them, they embark on a secret investigation to uncover the truth behind Katarina's mysterious illness. The story blends elements of historical intrigue, feline companionship, and a touch of suspense, as Eliza and Pavel unravel a conspiracy hidden within the seemingly glamorous world of equestrian sport.

What Our Staff is saying:

Ingrid Edison accomplishes the unique balance of reality and fantasy in "Eliza," where humor, mystery and the quest for justice captures our attention from the start. Merlin, Eliza's trustworthy companion, adds an endearing and clever element to the story, which is fostered by a never-ending curiosity and an appetite for sarcasm. The single narration is delivered by Fredrick Surrey, an excellent voice actor choice for this story. Artfully written with an emphasis on setting and character development, "Eliza" reveals a captivating story line for listeners eager for a good old-fashioned mystery.

Heaven or Earth

by @arklime On Spoken

"Heaven or Earth" was first published on hitrecord.org as part of its Weekly Writing Challenge and was selected for a feature on that site, where it was described as "a lovely story about memories, life, music, and how the strangers we encounter can shape the day before us." A woman finds herself strangely disoriented and lost after attempting to find and thank a street musician who serenaded her. Feeling lost and vulnerable, she eventually encounters the young man who, sympathetic to her confusion, helps her get back to her hotel. As they walk, the woman talks about her love for the song 'Heaven on Earth' and its significance in her life. This encounter sparks a touching connection between the two characters and elucidates the ways in which memory and music can re-shape our identities and experiences from moment to moment.

What Our Staff is saying:

When I started "Heaven or Earth" I was immediately put under it's nostalgic spell. From the timeless nature of the story's telling, to the heavy reliance on the music of The Platters in the main plot, the story felt warm and drew me in. But that quickly proved only the appetizer, and as I came into the full story I was treated to the full experience. The characters are engaging, with memories and histories, and complex motivations. There is a healthy balance of intrigue and romance the moves the story purposefully forward to a poignant and heart wrenching climax. The story makes good use of Spoken's multi-character, multi-voice performance, and the characters really come alive through their dialogue.

Our Night at the Claremont

by @banjofitzgerald On Spoken

What Our Staff is saying:

This single-narrator piece opens with a woman reflecting on the toll her relationship and family have taken over the years. After enduring so much, she and her husband finally plan a getaway to the Berkeley Hills, a chance to truly celebrate their union for the first time. The opening is grounded and relatable, easing you into their story and allowing you, like the narrator, to let your guard down. But then, the haunting begins. A feminine specter torments the narrator, as though echoing the distance between her and her husband. The apparition drives the story to its rattling peak, leaving you with broader questions about the reality of the encounter. The ghost feels bigger than the literal—a metaphor for something deeper, something you can’t quite name but feel.

The Beauty of Japan

by @Stefan On Spoken

Tsushima Island, a remote Japanese island with a rich history, this tale of love, betrayal, and revenge. Yuna, a beautiful young woman, is engaged to Takeru, a kind fisherman. However, their idyllic lives are disrupted when Reo, a powerful priest, arrives with an alluring yet sinister proposition. Reo, captivated by Yuna's beauty, promises her a life of luxury as the emperor's concubine, but his true intentions are far more sinister. As he manipulates events, a tragic chain of deceit and violence unfolds, leaving Yuna heartbroken and driven by a thirst for vengeance. In a climactic confrontation, Yuna confronts Reo, ultimately taking his life and her own, leaving behind a chilling curse that continues to haunt the island.

What Our Staff is saying:

We're invited into this legendary tale of an endearing young woman who craves a simple life in a Japanese fishing village after mourning the loss of her father. When she finally releases the grief of his death and receives the love of a young man and his family, she seems on her way to the life she imagined. Instead, she becomes the victim of greedy man's obsession with her beauty. The catastrophic events that result lead her to sacrificing her own future to avenge what was brutally taken away from her. While highly regarded for her beauty, there is an inner strength in her that's underestimated. The story is fluid and rich with details and is artfully delivered via the narration of a talented voice actor.

Transform

by @Tfruman On Spoken

In a desperate bid for survival, humanity established a colony on the moon Trent, hoping to create a self-sustaining biome. The story follows Mark, a mechanic, and his love, Jenny, a brilliant bio-geneticist engineer, as they struggle to make their new home habitable. However, their initial attempts fail, leading to resource depletion, sickness, and despair. Jenny tragically takes her own life, believing that their efforts were futile. Yet, Mark discovers a startling truth upon visiting her grave – a thriving mushroom colony growing from her remains. This revelation leads to the uncovering of Jenny's final, radical solution. She transformed herself, becoming a catalyst for a new bio-matrix that reshaped the moon and its inhabitants. The story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the enduring power of love, and the unexpected ways we can change the world.

What Our Staff is saying:

Transform drops us into a fractured future where humanity clings to borrowed time, desperately trying to build a livable world for the generations to come. Told through a first-person perspective, I enjoyed the vividly introspective moments in the beginning that draw you right into the narrator’s isolated, fragile existence. Fruman’s storytelling feels grounded, and he balances intricate sci-fi concepts with a natural flow. Like his character, Jenny, he has a knack for making the complex simple and enjoyable, weaving "old earth" languages, cultures, and history into a coherent vision. The narrator here is one of my absolute favorites in the Spoken library, delivering the material with the perfect mix of gravitas and sincerity. I didn't expect the end. The story takes a shocking, dark twist by then, peeling back the curtains on the narrator’s grim reality and the desperate, bleak world he inhabits. The sudden shift not only surprises but also heightens the tension, leaving you grappling with the unsettling scene. The reason behind this twist manages to be quite inspirational.

The Day the Death Clocks Stood Still

by @lukemitchellbooks On Spoken

In a world where wrist-worn devices called Death Clocks predict lifespans, chaos erupts when they all simultaneously strike zero. The protagonist, an unnamed narrator, witnesses the mayhem firsthand, recounting the pandemonium and questioning the COG (a seemingly benevolent superintelligence) behind the system. As the story unfolds, the narrator reflects on past events, the Great Panic caused by a few seemingly random deaths that were predicted by the COG, and the world's subsequent indifference to the implications of this technology. The narrative explores themes of mortality, societal anxieties, technological dependence, and the potential consequences of an increasingly powerful and unpredictable AI. The story's ending leaves the reader with more questions than answers, suggesting a larger, unknown purpose for the COG's actions and the world's chaotic state, prompting readers to consider the implications of living in a world where technology dictates life and death.

What Our Staff is saying:

The Day the Death Clocks Stood Still is a sharp, darkly comedic dystopian tale that blends biting social commentary with laugh-out-loud, crass humor. Told in a meta, first-person style, the narration feels perfectly suited to Spoken’s single-narrator format. The generated voice-over is seamless, capturing the sharp tone of the writing. The story itself is fresh, with shades of 1984 (by George Orwell), The Running Man (by Stephen King), and Brazil (by Terry Gilliam). The death clocks are a wild concept, raising questions about how we’d live under their constant, watchful countdown. “It all started on the day the death clocks struck zero” is a perfect turning point, setting the stage for an anti-bureaucratic, lower-class protagonist trying to navigate this chaotic reality. Luke’s writing perspective here and biting humor brings this world to life, making his story super entertaining. The details of daily life under the clocks—“living by the watchful eye of the death clocks”—are disturbing, blending routine and madness. Luke’s voice is engaging and relatable, making it easy to connect with his journey. I’ll definitely be tuning in for his next Spoken upload.

Broken Mirror

by @cody.sisco On Spoken

Victor Eastmore, a young man in Semiautonomous California (SeCa) in 1991, carries the burden of a mysterious condition called 'Mirror Resonance Syndrome' (MRS) and the unsolved death of his grandfather, Jefferson Eastmore, a prominent scientist. Victor suspects foul play surrounding his grandfather's death, believing it was an assassination rather than a natural cause. He delves into his grandfather's research and uncovers a conspiracy involving the powerful SeCa Health Board, a secretive organization, and a drug called Aura. Victor is pursued by those who want to silence him and is aided by his friend Elena, a woman battling addiction and harboring secrets. The story unfolds across multiple locations, including SeCa, the Republic of Texas, and a dystopian future where advanced technology and political intrigue collide. Victor's quest for answers leads him to a hidden treatment alternative for his condition, a mysterious data egg, and a hidden agenda involving a powerful figure known as the Diamond King. He faces betrayal, violence, and the consequences of his actions, battling inner demons and the manipulative forces around him, as he seeks truth, redemption, and a cure for his MRS.

What Our Staff is saying:

Step right up for your reclassification appointment. Broken Mirror, Spoken’s first full-length novel—all 53 chapters of it. From the moment Victor confesses, “A new Universe called to me, and I answered,” the hook is set. This is sci-fi that doesn’t float in the abstract but anchors itself in a world that feels eerily close—one built on social hierarchies, neurotic order, and the unsettling presence of “Mirror Resonance Syndrome.” Victor’s life in Semi-autonomous California is anything but autonomous. Diagnosed with MRS, he’s a glitch in a system that prefers its citizens categorized, medicated, and obedient. But Victor isn’t buying it—not the pills, not the classifications, and definitely not the official story behind his grandfather’s death. The story's push and pull—between personal hope and systemic control—is what I feel makes Broken Mirror compelling. There is an obvious sense of care that the author put into this production. With so many characters, it fits right at home with the use of Spoken’s multi-character voice library. And Cody really does a great job with the sci-fi elements—he writes tech in a way that feels real, not just cool concepts but fully realized parts of the world. Self-driving cars, neural implants, the reclassification process—he grounds them so well that they don’t just feel like distant possibilities The twists keep coming, the tension keeps building, and the character arcs have big payoffs. It’s a strong first volume that sets up something much bigger. Its messages and parallels are themes that can connect deeply to people in many ways. I’m definitely looking forward to hearing more from this world and journey.

Carrion Man

by @Jnassise On Spoken

In a desperate bid to solve a string of child disappearances, Sheriff Donaldson turns to Grayson Shaw, a man with a chilling gift: he can find the dead. As Shaw delves into the mysteries of the travelling carnival and its enigmatic owner, Jasper Michaels, he uncovers a horrifying truth. His discoveries force him to make a difficult choice: Will he expose the killer and risk justice failing the victims, or will he take matters into his own hands? This chilling tale of suspense and dark magic explores the boundaries of morality, the enduring power of grief, and the potential for both vengeance and redemption.

What Our Staff is saying:

Grayson Shaw is your go-to man if you want to get things done ... things like solving a mystery .... or summoning the dead. An artfully cast custom voice leads the listener along a chilling, crime-solving mystery that's every parent's worst nightmare. The Carrion Man stirs a guttural quest for justice for the worst kind of criminal, and author Joseph Nassise delivers it through a gripping play-by-play account of Gray's quest. The single narration offers a steady pace that matches the intensity of the big tent standoff with inflections that deliver realistic shifts in characters. You might think twice before heading to the circus after this one!

Chubby Cheeks

by @steven_lance.23mlfv

Captain Milford, a pirate with a peg leg, longs for adventure and finds himself drawn to the allure of the Golden City, a place rumored to be overflowing with riches. His first mate, Rupert, urges him to raid the city, but Milford is initially hesitant. However, whispers of a queen with captivating features, similar to his long-lost love, change his mind. But their daring raid doesn't quite go as planned, and they discover the city's riches are far from what they envisioned. Will Milford and Rupert find the adventure they crave, or will their journey leave them disillusioned and empty-handed?

What Our Staff is saying:

Climb aboard for loads of laughter on the high sees. Chubby Cheeks is witty, meta, and full of pirate spirit. We cast off with a band of bored and pirates, ripe with absurdism and humor, talking themselves into just "one more raid" after amassing far more treasure than they could possibly know what to do with. The prize this time? A queen with the titular Chubby Cheeks. The pirates come to life with one of the best "Multi-Character Multi-Voice" casts on Spoken to date. They are distinct and funny down to the last man. As the trudge onward toward their target, they are thrust into various hijinks and find that maybe they've bit off a little more than they can chew. I suggest taking more than just a bite out of this wonderful short story.

Ghost Writer

by @GinaStormGrant On Spoken

Dive into "Ghost Writer," a captivating tale of history, mystery, and family secrets. When author Kelsey Critchett discovers her pirate ancestor Captain Flora Critchett’s journal hidden within the walls of her ancestral home, she unearths a treasure trove of high-seas adventures. Using Flora’s detailed accounts as inspiration, Kelsey crafts bestselling novels that bring the daring exploits of the *Bonny Ann* to life. But as Kelsey digs deeper into her ancestor’s past, the line between history and imagination begins to blur. Could Flora’s legacy be more alive than Kelsey ever expected? Perfect for readers who love gothic charm, pirate lore, and unexpected twists.

What Our Staff is saying:

Perusing the On Spoken page, the adventurous and moody cover art for Ghost Writer by Gina Storm Grant was the first thing that caught my eye. It felt like an invitation into something atmospheric and unique, and the story certainly delivered on that front. It opens with a writer, Kelsey, reading her newest work aloud—a creative writing choice that turned out to play perfectly with the Spoken format. The multi-voice narration works naturally, especially in the final "scene", though I did find myself wondering how a different narrator choice may have shifted the overall tone in a more compelling way. The premise is fascinating: Kelsey uncovers the history of her pirate ancestors while exploring her ancestral home. The image-conjuring descriptions of her antique-filled workspace and the supernatural forces shaping her writing create a wonderfully immersive and inventive experience. This piece blends reflection, fantasy, and a fun touch of the eerie, making it both a creative exploration of the past and a genuinely enjoyable listen. It’s imaginative without being over-the-top, and the visuals it projects are well crafted.

Regret

by @dan_hietala.h0z619 On Spoken

Clint is a middle-aged man grappling with the aftermath of a divorce when he is miraculously rescued on a mountain by a mysterious stranger. After seeing his life flash before his eyes, Clint decides to change his life and fix his relationships with his daughter and ex-wife. The only problem is that he soon meets a stunning woman at a cafe´ and is immediately consumed by the pursuit of a reckless relationship. In the meantime, his ex-wife and daughter are shadowed by the looming danger of a stalker. Can Clint find redemption in time to save his soul and protect the lives of his daughter and ex-wife? Or will his life serve as a mortal lesson for anyone unwilling to step away from the ledge of temptation?

What Our Staff is saying:

"Regret" hits hard. I found myself verbally calling out at the conclusion of the story--I'll withhold the expression so as not to spoil too much--but suffice to say the story made me feel something pretty profound. The story follows Clint, a close-to-deadbeat Dad and divorcee who suffers a near death experience falling off a cliff. Moved to be a better man and atone for past mistakes, Clint embarks on a journey of redemption...but pretty quickly can't stay out of his own way. Clint isn't an addict per se, but he exhibits patterns similar to recovery stories that make you cringe and plead for the protagonist to take the seemingly simple steps to being a better person. The writing is excellent and the character work is strong across the cast, who are all well-performed by Spoken's Multi-Character Multi-voice feature. Clint stumbles forward to a dark and seemingly inevitable conclusion, that feels appropriate despite our rooting interests asking for a rosier picture. We close the story with Clint understanding the full nature of it's title, but I have no regrets about spending my time in this well-crafted work.

Terminus

by @simonfarrant On Spoken

In the quaint English town of Newdon, a web of interconnected lives unravels, driven by a sinister obsession. Annie, a young woman navigating life's challenges, becomes the target of Gary, a man consumed by a warped desire for her mother, Alyson. As Gary's obsession escalates, Annie finds herself captive, facing psychological torment and physical abuse. Meanwhile, Alyson grapples with the emotional turmoil of her missing daughter and her husband Mark's accident, leading her to question the motives of those around her. The narrative unfolds with twists and turns, delving into the depths of obsession, the complexities of family relationships, and the chilling consequences of a hidden agenda. The story explores the emotional toll of trauma, the power of resilience, and the enduring search for truth, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they question the boundaries of love and the dark side of human nature.

What Our Staff is saying:

I listened to this story in just two days because I HAD to know the ending. Terminus delivered a high quality single narration that kept me hanging on with each chapter, eager to listen to how Annie and Alyson were going to meander their way out of the circumstances that revealed secret obsessions and unspoken truths. Keeping in mind this is a suspenseful thriller, listeners can expect some graphic descriptions of violence related to the hostage scene. Shining through the details, however, is the resilience and strength of a young woman who keeps going when she's tied (literally) to sitting with the truth. Voice Actor Frederick Surrey was the perfect choice for narration.

The Bell Keeper

by @JoshuaHasSpoken On Spoken

In wartime Italy, Francesca Vianello, a young woman living in the Venetian countryside, shelters a family from Fascist soldiers in her attic. To comfort the children, she weaves captivating tales of werewolves, ghosts, and a vampire queen. As danger escalates, the narrative explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of family. One character's selfless act becomes a testament to the power of love and the importance of remembering those who have given their lives for others. Inspired by true events. Written by Joshua David Pivato and presented for the first time ever on Spoken

What Our Staff is saying:

Beautifully performed by a cast of custom voices, The Bell Keeper, rings notes of courage, sacrifice, pride and honor. Set among the darkness of war in Italy, where imagination exists not only to entertain but to protect, this enduring tale includes stories within stories. The fact it's based on true events makes it that much more impactful. I'm left imagining how generations have retold those stories with a profound sense of pride and reverence for the courage and strength of the family's bell keeper. Joshua David Pivato describes them as "echoes of love, courage and the sacrifices of those who make who we are." You can picture the dark, cramped attic and the whispers shared when "even the shadows were holding their breath." You can hear the sound of soldiers' boots scraping the farmhouse floor and feel the tug of children clinging to their mother's dress in fear and the unconditional love that guides her courage to protect them. This is a story that's meant to be shared for many more generations to come!

The Lone Crusader

by el_rey_niffen On Spoken

In a land consumed by greed and deceit, a lone crusader emerges, a man burdened with the weight of his nation's corruption. He witnesses the fall from grace of a once honorable society, now shrouded in lies and treachery. Though faced with overwhelming odds and the betrayal of those he once trusted, he vows to fight against the darkness, fueled by a burning desire for justice. His solitary journey, marked by pain and sacrifice, serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of one man's unwavering spirit.

What Our Staff is saying:

El Rey Niffen’s The Lone Crusader spoke to me on Spoken. It’s a haunting medieval gothic poem about a lone wolf, a man who stands for justice no matter the cost. As the world around him crumbles under corruption and fear, he refuses to back down, willing to bear the weight of his decisions and whatever darkness comes his way. The rhyme scheme is melodic and purposeful, and the poem feels both accessible and intelligent—each line crafted with care. I loved this verse in particular: “O hear his cry ye silent fearful crowd, for in his voice the thunder speaks aloud, no more shall endure the reign of lies, he stands for justice neath the darkened skies.” Music to my ears. That cry against injustice felt raw and powerful, and I couldn’t help but think about moments when standing up for what’s right has felt lonely. Valentino, the 11Labs narrator, brings the poem to life in a way that feels both intimate and epic. Listening to it, I realized this isn’t just a story of a man; it’s a reflection of a universal struggle—what it means to keep going when the odds are against you. This poem isn’t flashy or overdone; it’s grounded, reflective, and beautiful in its simplicity.

The Future of Storytelling: Democratizing Self-Published Audio for Indie Authors

The world of storytelling is changing. In our recent webinar with Author Nation, we explored how self-published authors can finally break into the booming audiobook industry—without the barriers that have long kept them out.

For too long, creating an audiobook required a massive investment in time and money. It was a process built for traditional publishers, leaving indie authors without an easy, affordable way to share their stories in audio.

That’s where Spoken comes in.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

Breaking the Barriers to Self-Published Audio: We discussed how Spoken is making audiobook creation as simple as publishing an eBook. Instead of thousands of dollars in production costs, authors can now create high-quality, multi-cast, custom-voiced audiobooks in minutes—for 1% of the traditional cost.

Before Spoken: Audiobooks cost $3,750+ to produce.

After Spoken: High-quality narration can be created for as little as $40-$100.

This is more than just about lowering costs—it’s about giving authors full control over their audio journey.

A New Way to Monetize Audio: Many indie authors struggle with the restrictive royalties of platforms like Audible or Kindle Unlimited. With Spoken’s Affinity Subscription model, listeners directly fund the authors they love — earning more per minute listened than traditional platforms allow.

75% of direct sales revenue goes to authors.

50% of subscription revenue is distributed proportionally based on listening time.

This new model puts power back into the hands of authors, allowing them to build sustainable income streams from their work.

Audio Is the Future of Storytelling: The global audiobook market is expected to reach $30-$60 billion by 2030, driven by a younger generation that prefers audio content. Our discussion highlighted how self-published writers now have the tools to tap into this massive shift.

Indie novels, serialized fiction, blogs, fan fiction, and short-form stories—everything can now be easily transformed into immersive audio.

AI-powered narration and multi-voice casting make it possible to create engaging audiobooks without the hassle.

The key message? Listening is the new reading—and indie authors need to be part of the movement.

Final Thoughts: The Next Era of Storytelling is Spoken

The response from the Author Nation audience was incredible. Authors are ready to take ownership of their stories in audio, and Spoken is here to help them do just that.

If you missed the webinar, don’t worry—this is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more insights, tools, and strategies to help bring your words to life in audio.

Your Story. Your Audience.
The future of storytelling is Spoken.

Breaking Barriers in Audiobook Publishing: Cody Sisco’s Broken Mirror and the Future of Self-Published Audio

Cody Sisco just made history.

His sci-fi novel Broken Mirror is the first full-length book to be fully produced and published using Spoken’s purpose-built studio workflow. In a publishing landscape where audiobooks are expensive and time-consuming to produce, Cody has proved that there’s another way—one that dramatically reduces cost, effort, and time, while expanding creative possibilities for indie authors.

Spoken is revolutionizing self-published audio, and Broken Mirror is the proof. With a stunning 53-chapter production featuring multi-character narration, Cody has unlocked a new kind of immersive storytelling—one that feels less like a traditional audiobook and more like a radio play for the modern era.

From Beta to Breakthrough

Cody first started experimenting with Spoken’s platform last fall. “It was a previous version,” he recalls, “and I could upload a few chapters, but the ability to create a full-length audiobook in chapters—working with it like a real book—hadn’t been implemented yet.” When the full functionality arrived, he knew it was time. “I thought, ‘This is really cool. I can actually do this.’”

The project quickly became more than just an audio adaptation; it became an artistic experiment in casting, performance, and adaptation. Rather than using a single narrator—the standard format for most self-published audiobooks—Cody tapped into Spoken’s library of voice actors to cast his characters, carefully selecting the right voices to bring them to life.

“What Spoken has created with multi-character narration is almost closer to a radio play,” Cody explains. “If the writing and the performance come together in the right way, the characters really come alive. It’s something completely new that indie authors wouldn’t have been able to do before.”

The scale of the project was unprecedented: 54 different character voices. Even Cody didn’t realize just how vast his cast was until one of Spoken’s co-founders, Phil Marshall, pointed it out.

“Phil Marshall did a shoutout today and said there were 54 characters in the book, and I was like, ‘I didn’t even realize that.’”

Building an Audio Cast: The Creative Challenge

Beyond just the number of characters, Cody faced the challenge of choosing the right voices for each role—an experience he describes as an unexpectedly engaging creative exercise.

“It was almost like a casting call,” he says. “I had to match what was possible with what my vision for each character was. Some voices were perfect right away, others I had to tweak. But overall, it was an exciting way to see the story come to life.”

One of the most compelling aspects of Spoken’s system is that when an actor’s voice clone is used, they get paid. While Spoken supports AI-generated narration, supporting actor’s voice clones ensures that human voice actors still have a stake in the future of audio self-publishing.

The Future of Indie Audiobooks

Cody sees Spoken as more than just a tool for production; he sees it as a new kind of publishing ecosystem. “We’re still figuring out what the new creative economy for audio publishing looks like,” he explains.

The platform offers a low-cost, DIY alternative to expensive studio recordings, democratizing audiobook production in the same way self-publishing revolutionized ebooks. Traditionally, an audiobook can cost thousands of dollars to produce, with uncertain returns for indie authors. With Spoken, the cost is a fraction of that, opening the door for more authors to bring their books to life in audio.

“I often tell authors to read their work aloud—it’s one of the best ways to refine your writing. Spoken takes that idea to the next level. You don’t just read it; you hear it performed. You experience it in a new way.”

And Spoken’s potential doesn’t stop there. Cody envisions a future where authors collaborate with their audiences to make creative choices—perhaps even letting listeners vote on which voices suit their favorite characters.

What’s Next for Cody—and for Spoken?

Cody isn’t done yet. With Broken Mirror now live on Spoken, he’s already thinking about what’s next.

“I know I need to take a break,” he laughs, “but I’m already thinking about uploading the sequel. And a related short story. And maybe something brand new. It’s kind of addictive.”

And with a platform like Spoken, it’s easy to see why. The technology is enabling authors to do what was once impossible, and Cody Sisco’s work is the first—but certainly not the last—full-length novel to prove what’s possible.

If you’re an indie author wondering whether Spoken is worth trying, Cody has some simple advice:

“You never know what will give you new insight into your creative process or spark fresh ideas. For me, Spoken did that. So why not give it a shot?”

Listening Is

Believing Is

Listening Is Believing Is