There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when the right voice meets the right story. You’re cooking dinner, driving to work, or just walking the dog—and suddenly, you’re transported into a different world. That’s the charm of audiobooks. And if you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s a good audiobook to start with?” or “Which are the best audiobooks of all time?”—you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the best audiobooks ever—the ones that linger in your mind long after the final chapter. Whether you’re looking for fiction audiobooks, heart-stopping thrillers, life-changing memoirs, or simply a story well-told, we’ve got a curated list that blends top audio books with storytelling brilliance.
Let’s plug in, shall we?
🎧 Why Audiobooks Are Taking Over Our Bookshelves (and Headphones)
Remember when audiobooks were just a fallback for long road trips? Well, not anymore. They’ve become one of the most recommended audiobooks experiences out there—not just for convenience, but for the sheer performance. A great narrator doesn’t just read; they embody characters, breathe life into prose, and give the story a whole new dimension.
The best audible books don’t just tell a story. They perform it. You’ll laugh, cry, gasp, and even rewind to savor a moment again.
📚 The Top Audiobooks You Absolutely Must Listen To
Now let’s get into the juicy part—audiobook recommendations that are worth every second of your attention.
1. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Narrated by: Trevor Noah
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
This one’s often considered one of the best audiobooks of all time—and for good reason. Trevor Noah’s memoir about growing up in apartheid-era South Africa is equal parts heartbreaking, hilarious, and eye-opening. But here’s the twist: he narrates it himself. The way he mimics voices (his mom’s included!) and relives childhood tales? Absolutely priceless.
If you want good audiobooks that feel like you’re listening to a master storyteller over coffee—start here.
2. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Narrated by: Jim Dale
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
You might recognize Jim Dale from another little audiobook series (Harry Potter, anyone?), but here he lends his voice to this enchanting, dreamy tale of a magical circus. If you’re hunting for great audiobooks that blend fantasy, romance, and lyrical prose—this is it.
Top audiobooks often leave you feeling like you’ve just stepped out of a dream, and The Night Circus nails it.
3. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Narrated by: Ray Porter
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
From the author of The Martian, this space epic features one of the top audio books in the sci-fi genre. Ray Porter’s narration makes you feel like you’re floating through space with Ryland Grace—scientist, astronaut, and unlikely hero. It’s fast-paced, clever, and unexpectedly emotional.
If you’re wondering what’s a good audiobook to get your heart racing—this one will have you hooked.
4. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Narrated by: A full cast
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
Now here’s a game-changer. A fictional band from the 70s, a behind-the-scenes documentary style, and a full cast of voice actors. This isn’t just an audiobook; it’s a cinematic experience. It’s often called one of the best audiobooks ever for the sheer creativity of its format.
Plus, if you’re into fiction audiobooks with music, drama, and glitter-drenched nostalgia—welcome to your new favorite.
5. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
Narrated by: Tom Hanks
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
Yes, that Tom Hanks. Need we say more?
His performance is subtle, tender, and completely captivating. It’s a slow-burn family drama that works beautifully in audio. For those who love good audio books with literary depth and emotional resonance, this is an audio book recommendation you’ll want to revisit.
🔄 Books That Sound Better the Second Time Around
Some stories are so good, you go back for seconds—and with audiobooks, it’s like hearing it with fresh ears.
- Becoming by Michelle Obama – Her narration makes it feel deeply personal. One of the best audiobooks of all time in the memoir category.
- Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens – If you missed the audio version, you’re missing the voice of the marsh itself.
- Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling, narrated by Jim Dale – Timeless. Magical. The gold standard for great audiobooks.
These are top audiobooks that keep on giving.
💡 How to Choose the Best Audiobook for You
Finding the best audiobook isn’t about popularity alone. It’s about what speaks to you. Here are some quick tips:
- Try samples: Platforms like Audible let you listen before you commit.
- Check the narrator: A good narrator can elevate a mediocre story. A bad one? Well…
- Go by mood: Want something uplifting? Heartbreaking? Thrilling? Match the book to your current vibe.
- Follow the genre: Love crime thrillers? Search specifically for top audiobooks in that category.
And don’t forget to explore audio book recommendations from real users (like in this article!) and lists curated on Riya’s Blogs—your go-to corner for everything bookish.
🌟 Hidden Gems: Underrated But Amazing Audiobooks
Here are a few best of audiobooks that don’t get enough spotlight:
- Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman – A quirky and emotional ride.
- The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid – Glamour, secrets, and sensational storytelling.
- Educated by Tara Westover – One of the most most recommended audiobooks in nonfiction for a reason.
They’re the quiet killers—good audiobooks that sneak up on you and leave a lasting mark.
🎭 Best Fiction Audiobooks You’ll Never Forget
Sometimes, fiction just hits different when it’s told aloud—when every whispered confession and every plot twist is right in your ear. Here are a few great audiobooks in fiction that listeners around the world are raving about:
6. Circe by Madeline Miller
Narrated by: Perdita Weeks
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
A lyrical retelling of the witch-goddess from The Odyssey, Circe is a feast of poetic language and deep emotions. But here’s the kicker: Perdita Weeks becomes Circe. You don’t just listen—you live her exile, her heartbreak, and her power.
This is the best of audiobooks for anyone craving myth, magic, and a haunting, feminine narrative arc.
7. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Narrated by: David Pittu
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
At over 30 hours long, The Goldfinch is not for the faint-hearted—but if you love sprawling epics with psychological depth, this is one of the top audiobooks ever produced. David Pittu’s performance is layered, textured, and absorbing.
This book explores loss, obsession, art, and survival in a way that’s beautifully suited for audio—making it one of the best audio books of all time.
8. The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Narrated by: A full cast
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
If you’ve never heard this one on audio—prepare for an experience. Set in 1960s Mississippi, The Help features a full-cast performance that brings the social and emotional tension to life. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe even rewind to catch a line again.
It’s an all-time favorite among audio book recommendations for a reason.
💡 Not Just Stories: Best Nonfiction Audiobooks That Inform and Inspire
Audiobooks aren’t just about stories. Some of the best audiobooks ever are the ones that change how you think. Here are a few nonfiction gems that pack serious punch:
9. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Narrated by: David Goggins & Adam Skolnick
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
This isn’t just an audiobook—it’s a full-blown experience. Between chapters, Goggins and Skolnick dive into podcast-style commentary, reflecting on the stories and lessons. This format is unique and deeply engaging.
If you’re into self-development, this is among the top audio books that push you to crush limits.
10. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
Narrated by: Matthew McConaughey
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
All right, all right, all right—this memoir is part wisdom, part wild ride, and 100% entertaining. McConaughey’s narration is rich, quirky, and just so him. You’ll hear about his philosophy, career, and a few very personal stories that make this one of the best audible books ever released.
It’s a favorite pick for people wondering “what’s a good audiobook for road trips?”
😂 Need a Laugh? Try These Comedy Audiobooks
Because sometimes, life is too serious—and you just need to giggle while folding laundry.
11. Bossypants by Tina Fey
Narrated by: Tina Fey
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
Witty, snarky, and filled with relatable tales of awkward adolescence and Hollywood nonsense, this is good audiobook territory if you’re looking for some levity.
Fey’s narration is gold, making this one of the most recommended audiobooks for comedy lovers.
12. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling
Narrated by: Mindy Kaling
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
Mindy’s voice is like that of your funniest, smartest friend who’s spilling tea over brunch. The audiobook is packed with pop culture, identity talk, and hilarious side commentary. It’s light, breezy, and one of the good audio books to brighten any gloomy day.
❤️ Steamy & Sweet: Best Romance Audiobooks
Because love stories sound even better when whispered in your ear…
13. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Narrated by: Olivia Song
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
This heartbreaking love story deals with domestic abuse, inner strength, and making difficult choices. The narration is heartfelt, raw, and compelling. If you love fiction audiobooks with emotional depth, this one belongs on your list of best audiobooks ever.
14. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Narrated by: Callie Dalton
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5
Fake dating, academic chaos, and hilarious banter. Callie Dalton nails the quirky, awkward brilliance of Hazelwood’s characters. It’s a rom-com you’ll root for, and one of the best audible books in the romance genre right now.
🔎 Thrills and Chills: Best Thriller & Mystery Audiobooks
Get ready for sleepless nights and heart-pounding twists.
15. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Narrated by: Jack Hawkins & Louise Brealey
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5
A psychological thriller that slowly unravels with eerie calm—until it punches you in the face. The dual narration keeps things intense and creepy. It’s not just a good audiobook, it’s one of the best audiobooks of all time in the thriller world.
16. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Narrated by: Julia Whelan & Kirby Heyborne
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
What happens when your wife disappears and you’re the prime suspect? This twisty, toxic tale is delicious in audio format. The alternating POVs, chilling tones, and perfectly delivered monologues make it a top audiobook to binge.
🔚 Conclusion: Audiobooks Are Not Just Books—They’re Experiences
In a world that moves fast, audiobooks let us slow down while still getting things done. Whether you’re craving an escape into fantasy, a dose of reality through memoir, or a laugh-out-loud moment in the middle of chores, there’s a best audiobook out there for you.
This list is just the beginning. There are hundreds more waiting to be discovered—stories that whisper, shout, inspire, and entertain through the power of voice.
So, the next time you wonder “what’s a good audiobook to listen to today?”—bookmark this post from Riya’s Blogs, plug in those earphones, and press play on your next great adventure.
Want to read a bit more? Find some more of my writings here-
The “Friends” Finale Revisited: What It Got Right, What It Missed, and What Rachel Deserved
The Taste of Pani Puri & Love: A Romantic Story
The Best Books on Mental Wellbeing That Everyone Should Read (At Least Once)
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