Q&A with Meredith Potts, The Daley Buzz Cozy Mysteries
/Tell us about the process of turning your book into an audiobook.
It’s an incredible experience hearing your words read aloud. Writing is such a solitary activity that it feels particularly special listening to a narrator make your characters come alive.
Do you believe certain types of writing translate better into audiobook format?
I certainly believe that it doesn’t hurt to have a playful, humorous writing style with snappy dialogue. Then again, whodunits probably translate well to any format. After all, who doesn’t love a good mystery?
How did you select your narrator?
I held an open audition. That’s how I’ve found both of my wonderful narrators.
Were there any real life inspirations behind your writing?
I used to work at a coffee shop for a number of years, so I used some of my real-life experiences slinging lattes as the inspiration for Daley Buzz, the cafe in my series. People are very particular about how they want their coffee and that is reflected in a number of scenes throughout the series.
How do you manage to avoid burn-out? What do you do to maintain your enthusiasm for writing?
There’s a new murder case in each book of the series, which brings a unique set of new wacky characters and motives into play. As for the writing, I try to take the weekends off. Everyone needs a break now and then.
Is there a particular part of this story that you feel is more resonating in the audiobook performance than in the book format?
The dialogue really stands out more when read aloud, I find. So much depends on the performance of the narrator, which is why I’m so glad that I found two fantastic narrators.
What bits of advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Write to market. And invest in the marketing of your writing.
What’s next for you?
There’s a Daley Buzz spinoff on the way. I can’t wait to share the new series with my readers and listeners.