Just Your Average 1980's Action Novel: Michael-Scott Earle interview

In an age where digital monopolies dominate the literary landscape, independent authors are forging their own paths to reach readers. Few exemplify this resilience better than Michael-Scott Earle, a prolific author whose gritty, action-packed novels channel the unapologetic energy of 1980s action films. Earl's journey from corporate sales to literary success reveals not just a passion for storytelling but also a fierce independence in the face of industry giants like Audible.

Finding New Worlds Through Audiobooks

Like many seeking refuge from mundane work routines, I turned to audiobooks to make my day more bearable. While scrolling through Audible, I stumbled upon Destroyer by Michael-Scott Earle, a novel that felt more like an immersive cinematic experience than a standard audiobook. Its dynamic dual narration and vivid, action-driven storytelling hooked me instantly. This discovery reignited my passion for reading, reminiscent of the first time I cracked open J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. Naturally, I wanted to learn more about the mind behind these adrenaline-fueled stories.

In speaking with Earle, it became clear that his path into audiobooks was as calculated as it was necessary. "I wrote my books, obviously," Earle begins, explaining how he transitioned into audio formats. He recalls sitting on a plan reading a book he hoped would be a good read but, In his words, “was just utter garbage.” So he decided to get into writing with the help of his wife. Earl's first venture on Audible wasn't with Destroyer, but with his Lion's Quest series, Destroyer was then bought by Tantor Audio. However, the experience soon soured.

What sets Earle's audiobooks apart is his decision to use not just one but two narrators. His longtime collaborators, Christopher Boucher and Jessica Threet, help bring his stories to life with engaging and authentic performances in most of his book series. Their chemistry adds an extra layer of depth, transforming his audiobooks into a shared experience for listeners. A good example is the Tamer and Star Justice series. Chris and Jess have this incredible dynamic. Their chemistry makes the story feel real like you're watching a movie unfold instead of just listening to a book.

Earle also engages his audience through Kickstarter campaigns for new projects. Beyond funding, these campaigns foster a sense of community. As a unique bonus, Boucher and Threet often record hilarious bloopers that fans adore.

Battling Audible: The Indie Author's Struggle

Audible, once a beacon for independent creators, gradually became a thorn in Earle's side. His frustration is palpable: "It's a real trash platform. They don't pay enough money to the creator or the producer. They pay 40% exclusive, 25% non-exclusive." Earl describes how Audible's algorithm, once favorable to indie authors, stopped promoting content, making it nearly impossible to be discovered without paid advertising. "Why would you spend $10 on a Facebook ad to make $4 on a sale while Audible pockets $6?" he asks rhetorically.

"At one point, Audible's algorithm helped new readers find my books. Now? It's a pay-to-play system, and indie authors like me are left in the dust."

The challenges weren't just financial. Earle also expressed concerns over creative control and the platform's opaque policies. His frustrations mirror the larger struggle faced by countless indie creators across various digital platforms.

This broken system led Earle to a pivotal decision: reclaim control. As his contracts expired, Earle actively withdrew his works from Audible, seeking better alternatives.

Building an Independent Empire

Refusing to remain at the mercy of corporate giants, Earle created his own solution. He launched his website and co-founded Audiobook Guild, a platform tailored for indie authors. "Audiobook Guild has probably released close to 700 titles by now. Last year, we did just over $3 million in revenue," he shares. This success underscores a growing demand for independent alternatives in the audiobook industry.

Unlike Audible, Audiobook Guild offers fairer revenue splits and fosters a community that appreciates genres often marginalized by mainstream publishers. Earle's entrepreneurial spirit has cultivated a loyal following, particularly among fans of male power fantasy and gritty action fiction.

"I wanted to create a space where authors like me could thrive—without being squeezed by corporate platforms."

Earle's commitment to fostering a creator-friendly environment sets him apart. His platform not only sells books but also builds a supportive network for authors who value independence.

The Harsh Realities of Publishing Today

Earle openly acknowledges the increasing difficulty of becoming a full-time author in today's market. Compared to thirteen years ago, the cost to write, record, and publish a book has skyrocketed.

"You're looking at $4,000 to $6,000 just to get a book fully produced, published, and recorded now. It's tough. Most people can't afford that upfront without crowdfunding or significant savings."

Earle emphasizes that while self-publishing offers creative freedom, it comes with financial risks. Many aspiring authors mistakenly believe publishing is a quick path to wealth.

"People think they can write a book and get rich quick. That's not how it works. Advertising costs alone can sink you if you're not careful."

For Earle, writing full-time is a serious business. It's no longer just about writing a story—it's about marketing, production, and distribution, all of which require significant investment.

The Art of Writing Like an '80s Action Film

Earle's writing style is unapologetically cinematic. His stories don't just unfold; they explode off the page. "People say I have great world-building, but I try to resist it," Earle admits. Preferring first-person narratives, he focuses on the protagonist's immediate experience rather than elaborate lore. This approach makes his novels feel like fast-paced action films, with just enough world-building to ground the reader.

Excerpt from Lions Quest:

"He spun over backward, and his helmeted head collided with the stone floor. I kind of cringed when I heard a snapping sound, and I noticed that the guard’s life bar had disappeared."

Earle emphasizes action over exposition, creating stories that captivate readers seeking thrills and intensity. His work resonates with fans of fast-paced, unapologetically bold fiction.

Conclusion: Defying the Odds

Michael Scott Earl's career is a testament to creative resilience and entrepreneurial ingenuity. In an industry often dictated by monopolies, Earle has carved out his success—writing books that thrill readers and building platforms that empower authors. For fans of action-packed stories and supporters of independent media, Earle's journey offers both inspiration and a rallying cry: creators deserve control over their work.

In a world craving authentic, unfiltered voices, Michael-Scott Earle proves that sometimes the best way forward is to forge your own path—much like the heroes in his novels.

"I'm not here to fit into anyone's mold. I'm here to break it."

 You can find Michael at his website: The Official Michael-Scott Earle Book Store – Author Michael-Scott Earle | Book Store

And at: Audiobook Guild | Great Stories Deserve Great Narration

Also, look for him on Facebook and twitter