Production on the audiobook of Shami Stovall’s conclusion to the Frith Chronicles, Grandmaster Arcanist, begins today. I’m a little bittersweet about it: this is the series that started my voiceover career, and it will be the final time I lace up Volke Savan’s boots. But, what the hell… #OneLastTime

I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it: I owe a lot to Shami. I mispronounced Volke’s name in my audition for Knightmare Arcanist way back in 2019, and in most cases, that would have cost me the gig. But for some reason, Shami liked my read, told me the correct way to say his name, and offered me the job of narrating her swashbuckling fantasy series.

I made a lot of mistakes back then. I still do, but I made them then also. Saying “yes” to this project was not one of them. I’ve gotten to scratch my animation itch by voicing this cast of characters. It was the first time I was moved to tears while narrating. It was the first time someone believed I could do this voiceover thing.

Even more important, to me at any rate, is that I’ve come to see Shami as a friend, one that I hope to get to meet in person one day. I’m not sure if she’s a hugger…if she is, she’s getting a big one. (If not, well, I will always respect people’s boundaries.)

Will I continue working with Shami in the future? I certainly hope so. There’s still the rest of the Star Marque series to get to, and who knows what other projects are in the future, so we’ll see.

And Shami, I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it:

Thank you.

Loyalty. Without it, we cannot know true friendship.