Is anyone else finding themselves suddenly hooked on audiobooks? I don’t know when this became my “default” for background / listening, but I’ve always been a huge Spotify listener, and that was my default every time I got in the car, or went for a run, or even just for listening in the background at work.
But somewhere along the way I started listening to audiobooks, and I am finding myself glued to my Airpods when I’m mid-book…especially the thrillers…and I barely listen to music anymore! Kinda sad really, but I don’t miss it, and I feel better when I’m learning (nonfiction) or at least engaging my brain in the story of a good fiction.
There’s just something about listening to a good story, right? It hits differently. It’s like you’re a part of the narrative, living through every suspense, every punchline, every plot twist. It’s not just about ‘reading’ a book anymore; it’s about experiencing it. So here’s to our shared obsession, and to the best audiobooks that have us hitting ‘play’ over and over again. Sit back, pop in those earbuds, and let’s dive into my top picks.
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Hurry – this deal ends on July 31st. So sign up, and listen to any/all of what you like below for for free!
PS – If you’re reading this before July 31st, now’s probably the time to sign up for Audible Premium Plus because it’s FREE-ninety-nine (ok, just free) for 3 months! You’re welcome. And now…if you’re wondering where to start, let’s do a roundup of the very best audiobooks (IMHO) based on reviews, popularity, and this humble-author’s not-so humble opinion.
Best Audiobooks of 2023
- Fiction
- Nonfiction
Thrillers
Get Hooked on The Girl on the Train: A Novel
Join millions of readers who have been captivated by this gripping psychological thriller. The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Dive into the Thrilling World of The Housemaid
Prepare to be hooked from the first chapter of The Housemaid. This gripping thriller is filled with suspense and mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end!
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Thriller with My Sister’s Grave: Tracy Crosswhite, Book 1
Prepare for a suspenseful ride with this gripping police procedural. Follow Tracy Crosswhite as she unravels the truth behind her sister’s mysterious death.
Dive into the Legal Thrills of Sycamore Row
Ready for some heart-pounding legal drama? John Grisham delivers once again with his gripping novel, Sycamore Row. Get ready to be on the edge of your seat as you follow the twists and turns of this thrilling courtroom battle.
Experience the Thrills of Gray Mountain: A Novel
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue with this gripping thriller. John Grisham delivers yet another page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end!
Embark on a Thrilling Adventure with Camino Island: A Novel
Step into the world of rare books and daring heists with this suspenseful novel by John Grisham. You won’t be able to put it down!
Get Ready for a Heart-Pounding Ride with The Guardians: A Novel
Prepare to be engrossed in this thrilling suspense novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its gripping storyline and complex characters, The Guardians: A Novel is a must-listen for any fan of the genre.
Discover the Thrills of Never Lie
Prepare to be hooked from the first page with this gripping medical thriller. You won’t be able to put it down as you uncover the shocking secrets and lies.
Dive into the Legal World with Rogue Lawyer: A Novel
Experience the thrill of the courtroom with this gripping legal thriller. Follow the unconventional lawyer, Sebastian Rudd, as he takes on high-stakes cases and fights for justice.
Dive into the Suspense of The Boys from Biloxi: A Legal Thriller
Prepare for a thrilling ride with this legal suspense novel. Full of twists and turns, it will keep you guessing until the very end!
Dive into the Thrilling World of Too Late: Definitive Edition
Prepare to be on the edge of your seat with this captivating psychological thriller. With its twists and turns, Too Late: Definitive Edition will keep you guessing until the very end.
Experience Thrilling Crime Fiction with In the Heart of the Fire: Nameless: Season One, Book 1
Join Nameless, a vigilante assassin, as he takes on dangerous criminals in this gripping crime thriller. With intense action and a complex protagonist, this audiobook will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Keep You Guessing with The Liar
Prepare to be kept on the edge of your seat with this thrilling suspense novel. With twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end, The Liar is a must-read for fans of the genre.
Enter the World of Intrigue with The Maid’s Diary: A Novel
This thrilling novel will transport you into a world of mystery and suspense. Follow along as secrets are revealed and danger lurks around every corner.
Get Lost in the Charm of A Quiet Life in the Country: A Lady Hardcastle Mystery, Book 1
Transport yourself to the English countryside with this delightful cozy mystery. Lady Hardcastle and her loyal maid, Florence, are a dynamic duo you won’t be able to resist!
Experience Thrills and Suspense with Drift: Rachel Hatch, Book 1
Step into the world of Rachel Hatch, a tough and determined private investigator, in this gripping mystery thriller. With its fast-paced action and intriguing plot, you won’t be able to put this audiobook down!
Experience Legal Thrills with Special Circumstances: Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez Legal Thriller, Book 1
Prepare for an adrenaline-packed ride with this gripping legal thriller. Follow lawyer Mike Daley and his ex-wife Rosie Fernandez as they navigate the twists and turns of a high-stakes murder trial.
Experience Heart-Pounding Suspense with Ward D
Prepare to be on the edge of your seat with this gripping medical thriller. Ward D will keep you guessing until the very end!
Get Lost in the Suspense of Hideaway: A Novel
Discover the gripping world of suspense and mystery in this thrilling novel. With twists and turns at every corner, you won’t be able to put it down!
Dive into Intrigue with The New Girl: A Novel
Enter the world of spies and politics with this thrilling novel. With its gripping storyline and unexpected twists, you won’t be able to put it down!
Experience a Thrilling Ride with I Will Find You
If you love suspenseful thrillers, then this audiobook is a must-listen. Follow along as the protagonist embarks on a mission to find the truth and confront their past.
Get Ready for a Thrilling Ride with The House at the End of the World
This suspenseful thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat as you uncover the secrets of the house at the end of the world. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions and unexpected twists!
Get Lost in the Suspense of The Murder House
Prepare yourself for a thrilling ride with this gripping police procedural. With its intricate plot and spine-chilling twists, The Murder House will keep you guessing until the very end!
Get Hooked on Don’t Lie to Me: Eva Rae Thomas, Book 1
Join Eva Rae Thomas in her thrilling journey as she uncovers dark secrets and solves mysterious crimes. This gripping police procedural will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end!
Experience Thrills and Suspense with Triple Cross: The Greatest Alex Cross Thriller Since Kiss the Girls
Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping read with this gripping thriller from James Patterson. Join detective Alex Cross as he navigates a web of danger, suspense, and unexpected twists that will leave you breathless!
Experience Suspense and Intrigue with Perfect Strangers
Prepare to be enthralled by this gripping psychological thriller. With its twists and turns, Perfect Strangers will keep you guessing until the very end!
Solve Crimes with The 23rd Midnight: A Women’s Murder Club Thriller
Join the Women’s Murder Club in their thrilling 23rd adventure as they investigate a series of mysterious crimes. This audiobook will keep you guessing until the very end!
Dive into the Thrilling World of Before She Disappeared: A Novel
Step into the shoes of Frankie Elkin, a seemingly ordinary woman with an extraordinary talent for finding missing people. This gripping novel will keep you hooked from start to finish!
Discover a Thrilling Page-Turner with Identity: A Novel
Prepare to be immersed in this gripping suspense novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. Get ready for a wild ride!
Get Ready for a Thrilling Ride with Outfox
Prepare yourself for a heart-pounding suspense novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its gripping storyline and clever plot twists, Outfox is a must-listen for any fan of thrillers!
Dive into the Suspenseful World of The House of Wolves
Prepare to be on the edge of your seat with this gripping thriller. The House of Wolves will keep you guessing until the very end!
Experience Thrills and Legal Drama with The Street Lawyer: A Novel
Step into the world of legal suspense with this gripping novel by John Grisham. You’ll be hooked from the very first page as you follow the story of a lawyer who goes from working at a prestigious firm to defending the homeless on the streets of Washington, D.C.
Experience Heart-Pounding Suspense with Lethal Defense: Nate Shepherd Legal Thriller Series, Book 1
Step into the world of legal thrillers with this gripping audiobook. Follow Nate Shepherd as he fights to uncover the truth and defend his clients in a high-stakes courtroom battle.
Experience the Thrills with The Last Juror: A Novel
Prepare to be hooked from the very first chapter of this legal thriller. With its gripping storyline and excellent narration, this audiobook will keep you entertained until the very end.
Prepare for a Thrilling Ride with The Surgeon
If you’re a fan of medical thrillers, you won’t want to miss The Surgeon. This gripping story will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow the hunt for a terrifying serial killer.
Dive into the World of Quantum Physics with Quantum Radio
Experience the exciting blend of science and suspense in this technothriller. Get ready to be hooked from the very first chapter!
Uncover the Secrets of On a Quiet Street
Prepare to be immersed in a suspenseful world of secrets and mystery with this thrilling audiobook. You won’t be able to put it down!
Dive into the Action with Cross Down: An Alex Cross and John Sampson Thriller
Fans of James Patterson’s thrilling Alex Cross series won’t want to miss this action-packed installment. Join Alex Cross and John Sampson as they navigate a dangerous world of spies and politics.
Dive into the Thrilling World of The David Wolf Mystery Thriller Series: Books 1-4
If you love a good mystery series, then this audiobook collection is a must-have! Join Detective David Wolf as he unravels thrilling cases and brings criminals to justice.
Join The Victims’ Club and Solve the Mystery
This thrilling mystery novel will have you hooked from the first page. Follow along as a group of victims band together to uncover the truth and seek justice.
Action & Adventure
Embark on an Epic Fantasy Journey with Fourth Wing: Fourth Wing, Book 1
Enter a world of adventure and magic with this gripping fantasy audiobook. Join the heroes on their quest to save their kingdom from darkness and discover the power within yourself!
Experience Suspense with Long Shadows
Step into a world of mystery and adventure with this thrilling audiobook. With its captivating storyline and suspenseful twists, Long Shadows will keep you hooked from beginning to end!
Experience a Thrilling Adventure with The Days of Noah: The Complete Box Set
Embark on an epic journey through the end times in America with this gripping box set. Packed with action, suspense, and mystery, this novel will keep you hooked from beginning to end!
Biographies
Experience a Powerful Memoir with I’m Glad My Mom Died
In this raw and honest memoir, comedian and actor Nora McInerny shares her journey of grief and healing after the loss of her mother. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately appreciate the beauty of life.
Discover Untold Stories with The Way I Heard It
Prepare to be entertained by this collection of fascinating stories from one of the most beloved storytellers, Mike Rowe. Each episode is filled with wit, humor, and surprising twists!
Dive into the Deep End with The Water Is Wide
Experience the inspiring true story of a young teacher who brings hope and education to a remote island community. This memoir is a heartwarming tale of resilience and the power of education.
Laugh Out Loud with Dad Is Fat
Written and narrated by the hilarious Jim Gaffigan, this audiobook is a collection of comedic essays about the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt!
Experience an Inspirational Journey with Broken: The Most Shocking Childhood Story Ever Told. An Inspirational Author Who Survived It.
Prepare to be moved by this powerful memoir that tells the story of an author who overcame unimaginable challenges. It’s a story of resilience, survival, and ultimately, triumph.
Laugh Out Loud with You Can’t Joke About That
Explore the world of comedy and censorship with this thought-provoking audiobook by David Ng. It challenges the boundaries of what we find funny and encourages us to think about the power of humor in our society.
Explore the Rise and Fall of New York with The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York
Dive into the captivating story of Robert Moses, the man who shaped New York City as we know it. This audiobook provides a fascinating look at the power dynamics and urban development that shaped the city’s history.
Dive into the World of Entertainment with Live Wire: Long-Winded Short Stories
Get ready for a collection of captivating and entertaining stories from some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. This audiobook will keep you hooked from start to finish!
Self-Help
Unlock Your Potential with The Four Agreements
This timeless classic by Don Miguel Ruiz offers a powerful code of conduct that can transform your life and relationships!
Find Your Inner Peace with Mindfulness: The Most Effective Techniques
Mindfulness: The Most Effective Techniques. This audiobook is packed with techniques that will help you connect with your inner self and reach your goals easily and peacefully.
Find Unstoppable Strength with Overcomer: 8 Ways to Live a Life of Unstoppable Strength, Unmovable Faith, and Unbelievable Power
Discover the secrets to living a life of unstoppable strength and unmovable faith with this inspiring audiobook. Let its powerful message empower you to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.
Transform Your Life with The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
This groundbreaking book by Stephen R. Covey provides powerful lessons in personal change that can help you become more effective and fulfilled in all areas of your life. Don’t miss out on this life-changing audiobook!
Discover the Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln with Team of Rivals
This fascinating biography by Doris Kearns Goodwin explores the leadership skills and political genius of Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. It’s a must-read for history buffs and anyone interested in learning from one of America’s greatest leaders.
Discover the Power of Gratitude
In this inspiring memoir, Oliver Sacks reflects on the moments and people that have shaped his life. Get ready to be inspired and thankful!
Find Healing and Peace with Forgiving What You Can’t Forget
Discover how to move on, make peace with painful memories, and create a life that’s beautiful again. This powerful audiobook by Lysa TerKeurst offers insights and practical strategies for forgiveness and healing.
Discover the Wisdom of Women in The Women of the Bible Speak
This enlightening audiobook delves into the stories of 16 remarkable women from the Bible, offering their timeless wisdom and valuable lessons that still resonate today.
Experience a Powerful Memoir with All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir
Dive into this captivating memoir that explores the author’s journey through faith, love, and personal growth. It’s a powerful story that will inspire and uplift you!
Immerse Yourself in the Powerful Narration of The Complete Audio Holy Bible – KJV
Experience the timeless words of the Bible like never before with this audio version. James Earl Jones and Jon Sherberg bring the scriptures to life with their compelling and captivating narration.
Experience the Timeless Classic A Tale of Two Cities
Immerse yourself in Charles Dickens’ masterpiece and get swept away to the tumultuous world of the French Revolution. This audiobook will transport you to another time and leave you in awe of its timeless storytelling.
Uncover the Secret Spy Ring with George Washington’s Secret Six
Discover the untold story of the spy ring that played a vital role in the American Revolution. This captivating audiobook will take you back in time and reveal the heroes who saved America.
Find Inspiration in The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times
Looking for a dose of inspiration? Look no further than The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times. This powerful memoir shares one woman’s journey of resilience and triumph, reminding us all that we have the strength to overcome any challenge.
Novels & Fantasy
Escape into Dreamland: A Novel
Indulge in this captivating contemporary romance that will transport you to a world of love and intrigue. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions!
Fall in Love with Beautiful Thorns: Boys of Bellerose, Book 4
Escape into the world of romance with this captivating audiobook. Follow the characters as they navigate love, heartbreak, and everything in between.
Indulge in a Steamy Romance with Savage Hate: Savage Hearts, Book 1
Looking for a sizzling romance that will make your heart race? Look no further! Savage Hate: Savage Hearts, Book 1 is the perfect audiobook to add some spice to your day.
Embark on an Epic Fantasy Journey with Dragon Blood – Omnibus
Step into a world of magic and adventure with this thrilling fantasy series. Join the characters on their quest as they navigate through dangerous lands, encounter mythical creatures, and battle epic foes!
Embark on an Epic Journey with The Immortals of Meluha
Immerse yourself in this captivating fantasy series by Amish Tripathi. Follow the adventures of Shiva as he discovers his destiny in the mythical land of Meluha.
Embark on a Magical Journey with The Chronicles of Narnia Complete Audio Collection
Step into the enchanting world of Narnia with this complete audio collection. Experience the epic adventures of Aslan, Lucy, and the Pevensie children in this beloved fantasy series.
Dive into the Paranormal with The Witching Hour
Immerse yourself in this bewitching tale that combines fantasy, paranormal elements, and urban settings. Get ready to be enchanted!
Immerse Yourself in the Dark World of The Angel Trials (The Complete Series)
Step into a captivating urban fantasy series filled with angels, demons, and thrilling trials. This complete series will keep you hooked from start to finish!
Embark on a Thrilling Adventure with Only the Evil: A Death Gate Grim Reapers Thriller, Book 8
If you’re a fan of paranormal and urban fantasy, this audiobook is a must-listen! Join the Death Gate Grim Reapers as they navigate a world filled with supernatural creatures and thrilling mysteries.
Dive into the World of Fantasy with Chosen Wolf: The Marked Wolf Series
Embark on an epic adventure filled with werewolves, magic, and romance. This thrilling audiobook will transport you to a world you won’t want to leave!
Immerse Yourself in Reminders of Him: A Novel
Experience the powerful storytelling of this captivating novel. With relatable characters and a compelling plot, you won’t be able to put it down!
Explore Heartfelt Stories with Things We Never Got Over
Immerse yourself in the emotional journeys of the characters in Things We Never Got Over. This captivating novel set in a small town will tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on the power of love and forgiveness.
Experience Heartfelt Emotions with Regretting You
Regretting You is a moving novel that delves into the complexities of family relationships and the power of love. Get ready to be emotionally invested in this captivating story!
Experience the Thrills of The Perfect Marriage
Delve into the dark and twisted world of a seemingly perfect marriage in this gripping psychological thriller. You won’t be able to stop listening!
Escape into the Unforgettable World of These Tangled Vines: A Novel
Indulge in this captivating family saga filled with secrets, love, and redemption. It’s the perfect audiobook to get lost in on a lazy afternoon.
Experience a Gripping Thriller with The Inmate
Prepare for a thrilling ride with The Inmate! This gripping psychological thriller will keep you guessing until the very end. Get ready to be on the edge of your seat!
Embark on a Thrilling Journey with Demon Copperhead: A Novel
Prepare to be mesmerized by this captivating coming-of-age novel. With its intriguing storyline and rich characters, Demon Copperhead is a must-listen for any fiction lover!
Immerse Yourself in the Dark Fantasy of Fairy Tale
Step into a world of magic and darkness with this captivating dark fantasy audiobook. Get ready for an enchanting and thrilling adventure!
Experience the Thrills of It
Prepare to be scared with this iconic horror novel by Stephen King. Let the chilling story of Pennywise the Clown haunt your dreams!
Escape into the World of The Bookstore Sisters: A Short Story
Immerse yourself in this heartwarming short story about family, friendship, and the love of books. It’s the perfect escape for any book lover!
Dive into the Suspenseful World of Rich Blood: Jason Rich, Book 1
This gripping thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow the captivating story of Jason Rich. Get ready for twists and turns that will leave you wanting more!
Step into Someone Else’s Shoes: A Novel
This captivating novel takes you on a journey through the lives of different characters, offering a unique perspective on empathy and understanding. You won’t be able to put it down!
Experience a Thrilling Ride with The Housekeeper: A Twisted Psychological Thriller
Prepare yourself for a mind-bending journey with The Housekeeper: A Twisted Psychological Thriller. This gripping audiobook will keep you guessing until the very end, with its twists and turns that will leave you breathless.
Experience Chilling Horror with Watchers
Prepare to be immersed in a world of suspense and terror with Watchers. This gripping horror novel will keep you up at night, unable to put it down!
Discover a Heartwarming Tale with Chasing Fireflies: A Novel of Discovery
Immerse yourself in this captivating novel of love, faith, and self-discovery. Perfect for fans of heartwarming romance and Christian fiction.
Dive into a Thrilling Adventure with The Water Keeper
Embark on a captivating journey through history and culture with The Water Keeper. This gripping novel will keep you hooked from beginning to end!
Laugh Out Loud with Sisters Behaving Badly
This hilarious and heartwarming novel is perfect for anyone who loves stories about sisterhood, family dynamics, and the ups and downs of modern life. Get ready for a wild ride!
Embark on an Epic Journey with Homecoming
Immerse yourself in this captivating historical fiction and follow the lives of four young women as they navigate love, war, and resilience during World War II.
Experience the Chills with Needful Things
Stephen King delivers another spine-tingling masterpiece with Needful Things. This horror novel will keep you up at night, wondering what dark secrets are lurking in the small town of Castle Rock.
Experience History with Surviving the Forest: A WW2 Historical Novel
Immerse yourself in this gripping and emotional story based on the true experiences of a Jewish Holocaust survivor during World War II. You won’t be able to put it down!
Immerse Yourself in the Literary Classic Middlemarch
This masterpiece by George Eliot is a must-read for any literature lover. The rich characters and intricate plot will transport you to 19th-century England.
Experience The Royal Drama of Spare
The acclaimed auto-biography by Prince Harry is actually recorded by him as well. No better way to get to know him.
Experience Love and Drama with Trials and Tribulations: The Robinswood Story, Book 3
Step into the world of Robinswood estate with this captivating historical romance. Follow the characters as they navigate trials and tribulations in their quest for love and happiness.
Experience Russian Literature at Its Finest with The Master and Margarita
Step into the world of Russian literature with this masterpiece by Mikhail Bulgakov. The story of the devil visiting Moscow will captivate you from beginning to end!
Embark on a Darkly Hilarious Journey with Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone: A Novel
Prepare for a wild and twisted ride with this darkly humorous novel. You won’t be able to put it down as you follow the outrageous antics of the characters in this unconventional, laugh-out-loud story!
Embark on an Adventure with Treasure Island
Ahoy, matey! Join young Jim Hawkins on a thrilling treasure hunt in this beloved classic by Robert Louis Stevenson. This swashbuckling tale is perfect for both kids and adults alike!
Escape to the Mountains with The Lady and the Mountain Man
Step into the world of historical romance with this captivating audiobook. Follow the story of a lady who finds love and adventure in the rugged mountains.
Dive into a Rich Story with The Covenant of Water (Oprah’s Book Club)
Discover the powerful story of a young girl’s journey through love, loss, and redemption. This Oprah’s Book Club selection is a must-read for any literature lover.
Experience the Timeless Tale of Heidi
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Heidi with this heartwarming audiobook. Perfect for children and adults alike, it’s a classic that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside!
Escape to the Beach with Bookshop by the Sea
Indulge in the perfect summer read with Bookshop by the Sea. This charming and heartwarming romance will transport you to a picturesque seaside town and leave you craving for more.