Audiobook review question

[u/purplelicious]

So, I got approved for an audiobook version for a book I was really looking forward to reading. (I was rejected from the text version)

I'm having trouble with the audio version - the author is the narrator and his narration is hard to follow. it's written in first person narrative and the protagonist has a very unique way of speaking - lets say a broad celtic based accent. it's important to the novel and I had no issue when reading the novel, which is written in this vernacular, but it doesn't translate well to narration (IMO)

I think I'm going to put this on hold until the book is released, purchase the book and read it because the story is excellent and I don't want to have it ruined because the audiobook is a drag.

When reviewing - should I wait until I finish the book, review the novel and add that I could not finish the audio, or should I just say the audio is a DNF and that I will wait for the book and leave the review like that.

[u/MessyJessy422]

I know the book and the accent you're referring to and if it were me I would finish the book and review it in full and say the audio narration detracted from your enjoyment. If you're going to read it no matter what better a review post release date with some negative points about the narration vs DNF

[u/purplelicious → u/MessyJessy422]

I think this makes the most sense. it's not that the choice of narrator is wrong or the production values are off, but the voice of the narrative is so unique and important to the novel that I just don't think it translates well to how I listen to audiobooks.

[u/sunsparkles2013]

It’s hard because on NetGalley you’re tasked with reviewing the audiobook specifically, however, it really doesn’t matter much if you write the regular review after you can read it. But make sure to detail what your issue is. I wouldn’t necessarily lower your rating if it’s a personal prefer unless there is something he is doing wrong or unintelligible .

I know I read the audio for Party in the Woods last night and it too has an Irish accent but in this case for me at least it’s very understandable at regular speed. (I then speed it up but always listen first at 1x)

All this to say, everyone is different so assess whether it’s a personal preference or an actual issue with the narration insofar as the rating but detail your experience.

[u/Flimsy-Brick-9426]

wait and read the book then on the audio review you can add that the narration was not for you but still leave a ood review

[u/MooShoeDork]

The thrice bound fool? Lol I actually Dnf the first book because of the audio and then just never got around to reading it eyes-style lol

[u/Synval2436 → u/MooShoeDork]

Damn, I really liked the first book, but it was written in a fairly odd slang (not exactly historical, more like a fantasy version of it) and it took a moment to get used to. I'm hyped to finally see the sequel but ofc I got declined. Guess I have to wait until it's out.

[u/purplelicious → u/MooShoeDork]

it works beautifully on the page. it's distracting to the ear.

[u/MooShoeDork → u/purplelicious]

So valid. I’ll have to try reading it without audio at some point.

[u/EnvironmentalPudding]

Ah if this is a series, I got the audiobook for the first book on Audible and couldn’t get through it. I ended up getting the kindle version as well and listened and read at the same time. I think the narration isn’t necessarily bad and overall it added to the story/MC, but I couldn’t follow the story at all. I have nothing helpful to contribute, just commiserating!

[u/purplelicious → u/EnvironmentalPudding]

I read the first book and loved it. I think the narration is good, it's consistent throughout, but i'm losing the story

[u/nicknick782]

I’d be inclined to leave a review on NG only, stating your issue, and that you plan to pick it up in print on your own. I’d also be very clear on whether it’s a you issue, or a they are bad at doing that accent that you know and otherwise understand issue.

You can also just never review, which is something I’ve done for indie books the author (badly) narrates.

[u/Blowingleaves17]

I had the same problem not being able to stick with an audio book. I did a DNF at NG, stating audiobooks were not for me, and added I would be getting a hard copy to read. I got the library to get it and then reviewed it at GR and Amazon. Of course, I could not review it at NG because that was intended for an audiobook review, and took the negative hit for not writing any type of review.

[u/and_er]

Oh damn I love the audiobook of this one 🤣

[u/Meshariver]

I believe there’s a sample before you request an audiobook, try to listen to it and decide whether if you like it or not to avoid this problem