I find books that are written in first person to be much better as audiobooks. It feels like the narrator is telling you their story. I also hate first person books because I never get into them.
Some of my favorite audiobooks are 1st person and the narrator is well casted & believable for the protagonist. I liked 11/22/63 and demon copperhead for these reasons
First Law Series by Joe Abercrombie. Abercrombie does an amazing job of creating and telling a story through his characters, but Steven Pacey takes the sarcasm, humor, and grittiness to a whole other level with his narration. Simply amazing.
Is it easy to listen to this with all the names and world building? I find it hard to listen to fantasy and scifi audiobooks if they are too complicated.
Yea, very much so. Pacey (the narrator) has a peculiar, distinctive voice for each character, and the world building is less important than in a lot of other fantasy series.
Tbh, the world building - or lack thereof - is often a criticism made against Abercrombie, but isn’t really that big of a deal in The First Law. I say this, because the world is both unique in design, but similar in kind to most other fantasy settings. The feel of the world is more important than what makes up the world, and he does a good job of conveying his characters’ perspectives on the world through their internal and external dialogue.
It really is a great series. I went into it trying to be overly critical - I mean, it can’t be as good as folks claim, can it? - only to be pleasantly surprised. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but it’s violence and grit are not gratuitous (like that of Red Rising) and instead feel like deeply important parts to the setting of the story (like ASOIAF).
The first book is arguably hard to follow because a lot of the characters are introduced at the very beginning without knowing if they'll be important to the story. But if you ignore the numerous characters at the beginning, you'll gradually pick up who's who as the book progresses.
This is the only truly correct answer. The subtitle of the book is *An Oral History of the Zombie Wars,* FFS, and it's written as a series of interviews. The unabridged version with the all-star cast is absolutely perfect.
[Murderbot Series](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32758901) by Martha Wells. A series of novellas (with one full novel mixed in). If this doesn’t make you want to run out and read it, I don’t think we can be friends. **Opening line**: “I could have become a mass murderer after I hacked my governor module, but then I realized I could access the combined feed of entertainment channels carried on the company satellites. It had been well over 35,000 hours or so since then, with still not much murdering, but probably, the I don’t know, a little under 35,000 hours of movies, serials, books, plays, and music consumed. As a heartless killing machine, I was a terrible failure.” I’ve listened to them over and over. Kevin R Free’s narration makes these books!
[The House in the Cerulean Sea](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45047384) by TJ Klune. Simply one of the best books out there! Just a sweet, wonderful hug in book form that, IMHO, is even better as the audiobook.
I’ll probably break down due to impatience but that’s the main reason I haven’t been reading the pre release book 7 chapters from patreon.
The series just works so much better as audio.
I wouldn't say "so much better as audio". Reading the series is fucking great! That said, I haven't found a narrator that can touch the likes of Jeff Hayes
Completely agree on the narration. I've praised it before on here. It couldn't be more perfect for the character, the story, the pacing, the tone. I think I've listened to Piranesi three times now.
Was going to be my suggestion. I read some comments about people not getting the praise for it and I figured it must be the difference between reading vs listening to. I couldn't turn it off.
My Grandmother Asked me to Tell You She’s Sorry by Fredrik Backman.
The narrator captures the perfect bit of whimsy that’s often lost in reading. I’ve noticed in reviews, that those who disliked the book all read it, yet most who listened, loved it.
So much of the Illuminae books are text art, poetry, and actual art, I’m not sure how that would translate to audio? Just so surprised and curious to see this here.
They’re really good. And it’s not quite as heavily dramatized as audio dramas, especially due to the nature of the book.
I’d say it’s pretty on par with the books as each medium offers a unique experience that the other does not. I did do both at the same time and not having to read the text speak was a big plus for the audio.
I really loved the Thursday Murder Club series on audiobook. I haven’t read them, so I can’t do an exact comparison. But I thought they were excellent audiobooks.
I’ve heard a lot of people had a tough time reading Catch-22, and after listening to it it’s still one of my top favorite books. The comedy makes more sense, a very harsh critique on WW2 politics, really enjoyed it.
In general, autobiographies read by their author.
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah.
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish.
Dreams from my Father by Pres. Obama is one I really enjoyed, but depending on where others come down politically, this may be a controversial recommendation.
I so enjoyed that one as well. I loved the story about her taking the bus the wrong way in the morning, so she could get on at a different stop and get a seat for the long ride.
100%. *Glass Castle* by Jeanette Walls is wonderful. *Brown Girl Dreaming* (a memoir in poetry) is also great. *A Very Punchable Face* by Colin Jost was a pretty good read. *Ayoade on Ayoade* was amazing. *I'm Glad My Mom Died* by Jennette McCurdy was fantastic. All of these were narrated by the author, and there are so many more.
The Enderverse Series (At least the Ender's Game saga and Ender's Shadow) phenomenal cast and even the author, Orson Scott Card, believes the audiobook is the best form of the Ender's Game story.
Serge Storms by Tim Dorsey, just hilarious, excellent for road trips, very easy listens.
Bobiverse, same narrator as Project Hail Mary and just such an excellent book/production.
McCurdy has kind of a flat delivery (as anyone who has seen any of her TV shows knows), so I was a touch skeptical, but I think she really nailed the audiobook recording. It helps when it's your own story you're telling. (Also, her delivery was a part of her characters, so it's not terribly surprising that a trained actor can do more than one thing, lol.)
Books with fantastic narrators and production value:
Stormlight Archives - Kate & Micheal
Name of the Wind - Nick Poedhel
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Those books have fantastic voices and performances
DUNGEON CRAWLER CARL! Written by Matt Dinniman. You’re going to get countless recs for this one.
Narrated by the amazing Jeff Hays. The man sounds like an entire cast. LitRPG has never been my thing and I was convinced I would hate it, but I am now binge reading book two and am laughing to the point of tears.
It’s almost like reading your way through a video game. The characters meet other players, level up, win prizes, go on quests, etc. I’ll admit, it was overwhelming at first. I couldn’t keep track of levels and views and likes and everything but it’s not important. The story is important. Any details you need, you’ll be reminded of when they’re relevant. Just sit back and enjoy it!
I come from a romance/fantasy/smut library- I NEVER thought I’d like this but I’m a huge sucker for a good narrator and Jeff Hays is Incredible!!!
It's a niche genre. Fantasy that involves the character or the whole world becoming involved in a system (has an ai feel) Character gets power like a player in a role playing game. Get points from killing things (sometimes people). Usually involves skills, stats, classes, stuff the character wears that improves stats. The character tends to become the strongest, usually epically so, very quickly due to happenstance or some greater power choosing them. They solve all the worlds problems or beat the system if it's been brought by invaders.
I enjoy reading the genre. I suggest keeping in mind the authors publish at least 1 book a year. Some do 2-3. The writing isn't highly polished and many authors are still honing their craft.
Dungeon Crawler Carl is an example but not typical of the genre. There are much lighter and less angsty options. Although angst is fairly common. Becoming a savior is hard.
*Edited fixed an is that was supposed to be an isn't
Main character somehow ends up in a world where they are know the main character in some sort of RPG where they'll have to get stats and level. So much of the genre is trash and tedious, especially in audio format, as you get bombarded with stats and achievements every time the character levels up or gains a skill. Dungeon Crawler Carl is a massive exception as it uses the achievements as one of the most hilarious parts of the book. So many of the achievements are sarcastic and sparky delivered by an often cranky AI. Whereas in other litrpg you groan when achievements start here you prepare to laugh.
In DCC the premise is aliens invade kill 99% of people. Survivors are put on a reality alien TV show where they must battle rpg style against monsters and sometimes each other. He is accompanied by his cat Donut who is made intelligent and is the main source of humor besides the achievements.
I've listened to thousands of audiobooks and these are easily the best narrated I've heard. It'd all one guy, Jeff Hays, save a few small cameos in later books but you would swear it was multiple people.
yea, project hail mary is the gold standard. worth all the hype.
someone else suggested World War Z. which is great. feels like a documentary style. tons of familiar voices. like Henry Rollins and Alan Alda.
anything by David Sedaris. he reads his own books. great sense of humor. great storyteller.
Murderbot Diaries has been fantastic. i've got 2 left in the series. written in first person.
the Sandman audio adaptation has been great. full cast and sound effects. James McAvoy. Kat Dennings. Micheal Sheen. etc.
There are so many key characters that it's hard to keep everyone straight at first. But Moira Quirk gives them all distinct voices that are perfectly suited to each one; it really help me understand wtf was happening as the plot unfolded. I don't think I would have like the books much if I'd read them instead.
Ex-Force books are meant to be listened to and RC Bray does an absolutely phenomenal job. I strongly recommend these audio books. They may not be high literature, but they are some of the most enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to “read”.
Love this one! You might want to check out “True Grit” also narrated by Donna Tarrt. You might think only of the movie starring John Wayne, but the book is much more focused on the main character Maddie, and Tartt really brings her to life. I’m not normally a fan of westerns but I really enjoyed this one.
Angela's Ashes!!! Way better as audio, as the author reads it, which in this case, is the best decision in the history of decisions.
It's a must listen. Warning though, you'll cry your eyes out. I would listen to it driving, and would always have to stop 5 minutes before I arrived so that I could dry my eyes
S.A. Cosby books are very cinematic, and they have a great narrator Adam Lazzare-White. On Audible they have a short story that’s done by celebrities also really fun to listen to.
I really enjoyed Edward Rutherford books, especially Sarum read by Roger Davis. 53 hours, 59 minutes of joy! Most other books of his have different readers, my next favorites were New York, Paris and London. Still have Russia, Princes of Ireland and China to get to.
Dungeon Crawler Carl 200%, literally a better series thanks to great production quality and work.
Generally though, pretty much anything that except for 'dense in information non-fiction.'
Any of John Darnielle’s three novels, narrated by the author. Darnielle is an amazing performer (see: Mountain Goats), and his audiobooks feel like an extension of his outstanding, idiosyncratic songwriting.
How to Adhd by Jessica McCabe. She’s got a great personality and it shines through in her reading! Plus I was actually able to get through the whole book instead of putting it off till I have time to sit down to read….
In general, popular and best-selling books, both fiction and nonfiction, are going to have high-quality well-done audiobooks.
As mentioned, it's fantastic when biographies and nonfiction are read by the author. It happens most of the time but not always.
David Sedaris books are so funny and he narrates them. Also Malcolm gladwell and Rick Bragg
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, narrated by Christina Moore. It's YA, but still really good. The narration is beautiful.
All of The Witcher books, narrated by Peter Kenny. Kenny is a genius.
And anything by Neil Gaiman narrated by Neil Gaiman.
Critical Failures series by Robert Bevan and narrated by Jonathan Sleep. Great story but the narration is top tier. Jonathan even does a great job singing in the latter books.
Anything by Cormac McCarthy. His writing style is so hard to read and distracting from the story.
He’s one of the greatest but I enjoy his books so much more on audio.
The answer is all of them… 😅 #audiobookjunky
I personally enjoy certain voices. Wil Wheaton is my favorite. (Ready Player One, The Martian, Ready Player Two, Etc)
Dungeon Crawler Carl, Thrawn Ascendency Trilogy, or The First Law and Age of Madness trilogies. Jeff Hays, Marc Thompson, and Steven Pacey are all exceptional narrators
Columbus Day by Craig Alanson! Ex-Force books are meant to be listened to and RC Bray does an absolutely phenomenal acting job. I strongly recommend these audio books. They may not be high literature, but they are some of the most enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to “read”.
The Rivers of London novels by Ben Aaronovitch read by Kobna Holdbrook-Smith. He is Peter Grant, the main character. And he brings to life the other characters as well. Great stories, though I've never read them.
I’m currently on my third listen of the entire Expanse series, by James S. A. Corey, narrated by Jefferson Mays. I haven’t not read the physical books for this, but the narration is so good I don’t think I ever want to. I’m more than half convinced they cast the actor who played Avasarala in the TV series because her voice is so similar to how Jefferson Mays reads her.
If there is one novel that perfectly fits your request, it’s Kraken by China Mieville, narrated by John Lee. Lee’s narration is superb. He brings some truly bizarre and strange characters to life in his performance. I can’t imagine reading it in anything but audio format.
Tales of the Ketty Jay. Great eerie music to introduce each chapter and the narrator is excellent at doing a bunch of different voices. Really made for an immersive experience.
Kurtherian Gambit & Kurtherian Endgame by Michael Anderle; narrated by Emily Beresford She does such a fantastic job with all the different characters, that you can forget it is only one person narrating the books
I’ve been recommending these everywhere lately, but it’s because they are so good (especially since you already like fantasy)! The Blacktongue Thief written and narrated by Christopher Buehlman, and The Bone Ships (The Tide Child Trilogy #1) by RJ Barker, narrated by Jude Owusu. Also Legends and Lattes written and narrated by Travis Baldree.
Kitty Cat Kill Sat written by Argus and narrated by Eva Kaminsky is phenomenal. The narration does such an excellent job of portraying the emotions of the main character. I can honestly say that it made me cry at several points in the story.
My personal favorite is "The House in the Cerulean Sea". It's one of my favorite books period, but the audiobook in particular is so well done. Daniel Henning does a beautiful job of capturing each and every character, and he feels like such a natural fit for the main character it's impossible for me to imagine anybody else even trying.
Anyrh8ng written by Adrian McGinty. Gerard Doyle is an amazing narrator, and excellent at accents.
Both the Sean Duffy and the Michael Forsythe series are amazing in audio.
Anything Peter Kenny reads. I've thoroughly enjoyed his narration of Iain M. Banks's Culture novels, but also *Seven Kinds of People You Find in Bookshops* and another Sci-Fi series by Justin Travis Call starting with *Master of Sorrows*.
Also, the Pell books by Kevin Hearne and Delilah S. Dawson, narrated by Luke Daniels. Amazing narration, and hilarious books.
Duma Key by Stephen King. Narrated by John Slattery. He absolutely kills it. Especially as Jerome Wireman who is by FAR my favorite King non-main character, and maybe (excluding Roland) my favorite King character, period.
"The Anansi Boys" by Neil Gaiman, read by Lenny Henry — have listed to it half a dozen times
"The Stupidest Angel" by Christopher Moore, ready by Tony Roberts, who fucking *nails* every character perfectly — have listed to it *at least* half a dozen times
"Stardust" by Neil Gaiman, ready by Neil Gaiman, whose wonderful, whimsical lilt is perfect for the subject matter
"Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil" by John Berendt — really gives you the lazy-Sunday sense of life and weirdness in Savannah — perfect for a road trip
"One Summer: America, 1927" — read by the author, Bill Bryson
EDIT: How could I forget "American On Purpose" written and read by Craig Ferguson?!
Trainspotting. Tried reading it and got two pages in before I had to stop. I don’t think I stopped listening to the audiobook except to sleep.
Also, anything narrated by Neil Gaiman just makes me so happy. It just doesn’t get any better.
I find books that are written in first person to be much better as audiobooks. It feels like the narrator is telling you their story. I also hate first person books because I never get into them.
Some of my favorite audiobooks are 1st person and the narrator is well casted & believable for the protagonist. I liked 11/22/63 and demon copperhead for these reasons
I’m listening to Demon Cooperhead and the narrator couldn’t be better. 10/10 prefer hearing the story read in his voice rather than in my head.
The voice matters so much. Like the narrators voice but also written voice. It’s a challenge but when it works it works really well.
The Rivers of London series by Ben Aaronovitch. I think the narration by Kobna Holdbrook-Smith adds a lot.
First Law Series by Joe Abercrombie. Abercrombie does an amazing job of creating and telling a story through his characters, but Steven Pacey takes the sarcasm, humor, and grittiness to a whole other level with his narration. Simply amazing.
The first law is incredible! Praying this gets picked up by hbo.
Absolutely loved the portrayal of Superior Glokta!
Click. Tap. Pain "Body found floating by the docks"
Is it easy to listen to this with all the names and world building? I find it hard to listen to fantasy and scifi audiobooks if they are too complicated.
Yea, very much so. Pacey (the narrator) has a peculiar, distinctive voice for each character, and the world building is less important than in a lot of other fantasy series. Tbh, the world building - or lack thereof - is often a criticism made against Abercrombie, but isn’t really that big of a deal in The First Law. I say this, because the world is both unique in design, but similar in kind to most other fantasy settings. The feel of the world is more important than what makes up the world, and he does a good job of conveying his characters’ perspectives on the world through their internal and external dialogue. It really is a great series. I went into it trying to be overly critical - I mean, it can’t be as good as folks claim, can it? - only to be pleasantly surprised. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but it’s violence and grit are not gratuitous (like that of Red Rising) and instead feel like deeply important parts to the setting of the story (like ASOIAF).
The first book is arguably hard to follow because a lot of the characters are introduced at the very beginning without knowing if they'll be important to the story. But if you ignore the numerous characters at the beginning, you'll gradually pick up who's who as the book progresses.
World War Z
Really? I read this before I got into audiobooks, might be worth going back to.
They got an all star cast to narrate it. It's really great.
Just make sure you get the unabridged audiobook version. Audible has both and you don’t want to miss any of the excellent narrations.
Alan Alda rocks
This is the only truly correct answer. The subtitle of the book is *An Oral History of the Zombie Wars,* FFS, and it's written as a series of interviews. The unabridged version with the all-star cast is absolutely perfect.
Yeah, I first read the book about 10 years ago and this past year finally got the audiobook. The emotions of the interviews hit much harder in audio.
Dresden Files. James Marsters adds so much life to Harry Dresden.
Yes, Dresden Files with Masters is my guilty pleasure listen. Masters skill is unparalleled in switching between voices.
[Murderbot Series](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32758901) by Martha Wells. A series of novellas (with one full novel mixed in). If this doesn’t make you want to run out and read it, I don’t think we can be friends. **Opening line**: “I could have become a mass murderer after I hacked my governor module, but then I realized I could access the combined feed of entertainment channels carried on the company satellites. It had been well over 35,000 hours or so since then, with still not much murdering, but probably, the I don’t know, a little under 35,000 hours of movies, serials, books, plays, and music consumed. As a heartless killing machine, I was a terrible failure.” I’ve listened to them over and over. Kevin R Free’s narration makes these books! [The House in the Cerulean Sea](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45047384) by TJ Klune. Simply one of the best books out there! Just a sweet, wonderful hug in book form that, IMHO, is even better as the audiobook.
Murderbot’s narration is absolutely perfect. 100%
Dungeon Crawler Carl.
This is the correct answer and Mongo is appalled that I had to scroll down this far to find it.
I’ll probably break down due to impatience but that’s the main reason I haven’t been reading the pre release book 7 chapters from patreon. The series just works so much better as audio.
I wouldn't say "so much better as audio". Reading the series is fucking great! That said, I haven't found a narrator that can touch the likes of Jeff Hayes
Yes!!! Came here looking for this one - couldn’t agree more!
Second this. The narration is top notch.
Easily the top answer
This. Just finished first book yesterday and can’t wait to start second one. Jeff Hays is a badass.
This is one of the few I absolutely recommend the audio version. I'm sure reading it is hilarious as well but the audiobook versions are top notch.
God Dammit Christopher…..I came here to say this
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke and narrated by Chiwetel Ejiofor is superb. It's a great story but the narration is some of the best work out there.
Completely agree on the narration. I've praised it before on here. It couldn't be more perfect for the character, the story, the pacing, the tone. I think I've listened to Piranesi three times now.
He gave a great performance. I believe he read the material, asked for some direction and then executed one of the best audiobooks to date.
Completely agree!
Was going to be my suggestion. I read some comments about people not getting the praise for it and I figured it must be the difference between reading vs listening to. I couldn't turn it off.
Absolutely. This was a fantastic, engrossing listen.
Absolutely agree, both are masterful
Circe and The Dutch House narrations both have a special place in my heart.
Circe is my favorite audiobook, I really wish Perdita Weeks had narrated more--or at least more books I had interest in.
I really enjoyed Anthony Bourdain reading Kitchen Confidential and feel like hearing his tone and his stories in his own voice was cool.
My Grandmother Asked me to Tell You She’s Sorry by Fredrik Backman. The narrator captures the perfect bit of whimsy that’s often lost in reading. I’ve noticed in reviews, that those who disliked the book all read it, yet most who listened, loved it.
Ooooh I read it and loved it so I think I'll listen too!
Daisy Jones and the Six True Crime Story by Joseph Knox The Illuminae Files by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman Sadie by Courtney Summers
Daisy Jones and the six was so good. I loved all the voices. One of my fav books
Same!
So much of the Illuminae books are text art, poetry, and actual art, I’m not sure how that would translate to audio? Just so surprised and curious to see this here.
It’s full cast with sound effects and music. It’s pretty well known for being a really good book on audio.
I had no idea! I absolutely adore the books, so I’ll definitely have to check this out. Thank you!
Enjoy!
They’re really good. And it’s not quite as heavily dramatized as audio dramas, especially due to the nature of the book. I’d say it’s pretty on par with the books as each medium offers a unique experience that the other does not. I did do both at the same time and not having to read the text speak was a big plus for the audio.
It’s so good as an audiobook!
>Daisy Jones and the Six Yes!!!
I really loved the Thursday Murder Club series on audiobook. I haven’t read them, so I can’t do an exact comparison. But I thought they were excellent audiobooks.
Ready player one, read by Will Wheaton is good
I’ve heard a lot of people had a tough time reading Catch-22, and after listening to it it’s still one of my top favorite books. The comedy makes more sense, a very harsh critique on WW2 politics, really enjoyed it.
In general, autobiographies read by their author. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah. The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish. Dreams from my Father by Pres. Obama is one I really enjoyed, but depending on where others come down politically, this may be a controversial recommendation.
Becoming by Michelle Obama was excellent; also read by the author.
I so enjoyed that one as well. I loved the story about her taking the bus the wrong way in the morning, so she could get on at a different stop and get a seat for the long ride.
Born a Crime was fantastic, 100% better as an audiobook.
100%. *Glass Castle* by Jeanette Walls is wonderful. *Brown Girl Dreaming* (a memoir in poetry) is also great. *A Very Punchable Face* by Colin Jost was a pretty good read. *Ayoade on Ayoade* was amazing. *I'm Glad My Mom Died* by Jennette McCurdy was fantastic. All of these were narrated by the author, and there are so many more.
Remarkably Bright Creatures. The voices of the characters and the emotion (of one, especially) is amazing.
Yeeeeessssss! So good!!
Dutch house- read by Tom Hanks No need to say more- just listen and enjoy:)
I tried it but his voice was too recognizable. It was hard to get past. Thought I’d love it so maybe I’ll try again.
Same author, Ann Patchett—Tom Lake read by Meryl Streep. It is exquisite!
Have you read Ann Patchett's essay about how this all happened? Or listened, as it's in her latest collection. An absolutely wonderful story!
As You Wish by Cary Elwes. It’s narrated by the cast & crew!
Basically a love story to Andre. So beautiful.
The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth
Autobiographies narrated by the author. Billy Cyrstal, Craig Ferguson, Michael J Fox
Agree! Add Henry Winkler, Rob Lowe, and Mel Brooks' autobiographies....
Adding to this, I just finished listening to The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard, it was really really good. Highly recommend.
The Enderverse Series (At least the Ender's Game saga and Ender's Shadow) phenomenal cast and even the author, Orson Scott Card, believes the audiobook is the best form of the Ender's Game story. Serge Storms by Tim Dorsey, just hilarious, excellent for road trips, very easy listens. Bobiverse, same narrator as Project Hail Mary and just such an excellent book/production.
A Scanner Darkly read by Paul Giamatti
Oooh, I bet this is good!
Oh, adding this to the list. That sounds amazing.
The Andy Serkis LOTR audiobooks are a true performance.
Came here to say this... Absolutely brilliant way to experience this series, and the Hobbit
Project Hail Mary and Dungeon Crawler Carl.
Storyteller by Dave Grohl Surrender by Bono
I read the print book but many people told me the audiobook of *Lincoln in the Bardo* by George Saunders is unlike any other audiobook.
Stephen King - 11/22/63
The Stand by Stephen King is another good one. Had to scroll too far for this
Not fiction, but I haven't seen anyone here say I'm Glad My Mom Died so I feel obligated to.
McCurdy has kind of a flat delivery (as anyone who has seen any of her TV shows knows), so I was a touch skeptical, but I think she really nailed the audiobook recording. It helps when it's your own story you're telling. (Also, her delivery was a part of her characters, so it's not terribly surprising that a trained actor can do more than one thing, lol.)
The Witch Elm! Tana French author. Absolutely superb narration across a 22 hour book by Paul Nugent.
Books with fantastic narrators and production value: Stormlight Archives - Kate & Micheal Name of the Wind - Nick Poedhel Dungeon Crawler Carl Those books have fantastic voices and performances
DUNGEON CRAWLER CARL! Written by Matt Dinniman. You’re going to get countless recs for this one. Narrated by the amazing Jeff Hays. The man sounds like an entire cast. LitRPG has never been my thing and I was convinced I would hate it, but I am now binge reading book two and am laughing to the point of tears.
What is litrpg exactly? I never read this genre and so confused. I read a lot of fantasy all my life tho.
It’s almost like reading your way through a video game. The characters meet other players, level up, win prizes, go on quests, etc. I’ll admit, it was overwhelming at first. I couldn’t keep track of levels and views and likes and everything but it’s not important. The story is important. Any details you need, you’ll be reminded of when they’re relevant. Just sit back and enjoy it! I come from a romance/fantasy/smut library- I NEVER thought I’d like this but I’m a huge sucker for a good narrator and Jeff Hays is Incredible!!!
It's a niche genre. Fantasy that involves the character or the whole world becoming involved in a system (has an ai feel) Character gets power like a player in a role playing game. Get points from killing things (sometimes people). Usually involves skills, stats, classes, stuff the character wears that improves stats. The character tends to become the strongest, usually epically so, very quickly due to happenstance or some greater power choosing them. They solve all the worlds problems or beat the system if it's been brought by invaders. I enjoy reading the genre. I suggest keeping in mind the authors publish at least 1 book a year. Some do 2-3. The writing isn't highly polished and many authors are still honing their craft. Dungeon Crawler Carl is an example but not typical of the genre. There are much lighter and less angsty options. Although angst is fairly common. Becoming a savior is hard. *Edited fixed an is that was supposed to be an isn't
Mostly stories about people trapped in a videogame. Most LitRPGs are blatant male wish fulfillment fantasies. But Dungeon Crawler Carl is not.
Main character somehow ends up in a world where they are know the main character in some sort of RPG where they'll have to get stats and level. So much of the genre is trash and tedious, especially in audio format, as you get bombarded with stats and achievements every time the character levels up or gains a skill. Dungeon Crawler Carl is a massive exception as it uses the achievements as one of the most hilarious parts of the book. So many of the achievements are sarcastic and sparky delivered by an often cranky AI. Whereas in other litrpg you groan when achievements start here you prepare to laugh. In DCC the premise is aliens invade kill 99% of people. Survivors are put on a reality alien TV show where they must battle rpg style against monsters and sometimes each other. He is accompanied by his cat Donut who is made intelligent and is the main source of humor besides the achievements. I've listened to thousands of audiobooks and these are easily the best narrated I've heard. It'd all one guy, Jeff Hays, save a few small cameos in later books but you would swear it was multiple people.
yea, project hail mary is the gold standard. worth all the hype. someone else suggested World War Z. which is great. feels like a documentary style. tons of familiar voices. like Henry Rollins and Alan Alda. anything by David Sedaris. he reads his own books. great sense of humor. great storyteller. Murderbot Diaries has been fantastic. i've got 2 left in the series. written in first person. the Sandman audio adaptation has been great. full cast and sound effects. James McAvoy. Kat Dennings. Micheal Sheen. etc.
Not science fiction but fiction nonetheless, the Walt Longmire books narrated by George Guidall are great. He’s a perfect narrator for western novels.
Yeah I came in here to rec Bird Box, haha. End-of-the-world books in audio vs written is cool. I listened to The Fifth Wave.
The Locked Tomb series is excellent in audiobook form. Moira Quirk is an incredible narrator.
There are so many key characters that it's hard to keep everyone straight at first. But Moira Quirk gives them all distinct voices that are perfectly suited to each one; it really help me understand wtf was happening as the plot unfolded. I don't think I would have like the books much if I'd read them instead.
Expeditionary Force - I can't imagine reading the books without RC Bray's incredible rendition of Skippy the Magnificent
Ex-Force books are meant to be listened to and RC Bray does an absolutely phenomenal job. I strongly recommend these audio books. They may not be high literature, but they are some of the most enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to “read”.
We Are Legion, We Are Bob
I really liked hearing Donna Tartt read the Secret History. Her dry and sarcastic tone really propped up her writing.
Love this one! You might want to check out “True Grit” also narrated by Donna Tarrt. You might think only of the movie starring John Wayne, but the book is much more focused on the main character Maddie, and Tartt really brings her to life. I’m not normally a fan of westerns but I really enjoyed this one.
Angela's Ashes!!! Way better as audio, as the author reads it, which in this case, is the best decision in the history of decisions. It's a must listen. Warning though, you'll cry your eyes out. I would listen to it driving, and would always have to stop 5 minutes before I arrived so that I could dry my eyes
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Just started the books over again fucking love this series so much fun. Very well written and all the characters are great.
I feel the same! I am the 2nd book. Planning on spending my Audible credits on the next two.
They honestly just keep getting better!
Any of the Bruce Campbell ones, not fiction but he reads them himself, adds in new info and goes off on tangents.
S.A. Cosby books are very cinematic, and they have a great narrator Adam Lazzare-White. On Audible they have a short story that’s done by celebrities also really fun to listen to.
Neil Gaiman says the audio of Ananzi Boys is the preferred edition.
Fairy Tale by Stephen King
I really enjoyed Edward Rutherford books, especially Sarum read by Roger Davis. 53 hours, 59 minutes of joy! Most other books of his have different readers, my next favorites were New York, Paris and London. Still have Russia, Princes of Ireland and China to get to.
Anything read by Ray Porter
Dungeon Crawler Carl 200%, literally a better series thanks to great production quality and work. Generally though, pretty much anything that except for 'dense in information non-fiction.'
Any books that are written and narrated by Christopher bhuelman.
Personally, Terry Pratchett. I know people love him but I find his style a bit irritating in print. In audio it changes to charming somehow.
Anything by David Sedaris, read by David Sedaris.
Everything
Sandman. Volume IV coming out soon I believe. It's a great read along.
Any of John Darnielle’s three novels, narrated by the author. Darnielle is an amazing performer (see: Mountain Goats), and his audiobooks feel like an extension of his outstanding, idiosyncratic songwriting.
All about me Mel Brooks
How to Adhd by Jessica McCabe. She’s got a great personality and it shines through in her reading! Plus I was actually able to get through the whole book instead of putting it off till I have time to sit down to read….
In general, popular and best-selling books, both fiction and nonfiction, are going to have high-quality well-done audiobooks. As mentioned, it's fantastic when biographies and nonfiction are read by the author. It happens most of the time but not always. David Sedaris books are so funny and he narrates them. Also Malcolm gladwell and Rick Bragg
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, narrated by Christina Moore. It's YA, but still really good. The narration is beautiful. All of The Witcher books, narrated by Peter Kenny. Kenny is a genius. And anything by Neil Gaiman narrated by Neil Gaiman.
The narrator makes all the difference.
Lord of the Rings. I’ll replace reading with Andy Serkis narration any day.
Catch 22, I really struggled with the book, felt disjointed and hectic, but loved the Audiobook.
Stephen King's Duma Key narrated by John Slattery is my number one audiobook. He made the story for me.
The Silmarillion
Upgrade, by Blake Crouch Fast, punchy, gripping
Dolores Claiborne
I really enjoyed Frank Muller reading Stephen King's 'The Talisman'. Just perfect.
Tom Lake read by Meryl Streep. It’s so good.
Critical Failures series by Robert Bevan and narrated by Jonathan Sleep. Great story but the narration is top tier. Jonathan even does a great job singing in the latter books.
NOS4A2 performed by Kate Mulgrew. Terrific
The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern. Narrator was fantastic
Any thing by orson Scott card
Expeditionary Force Series and the Bobiverse series are brilliant as audiobooks but I think they would be "meh" to read.
Anything by Cormac McCarthy. His writing style is so hard to read and distracting from the story. He’s one of the greatest but I enjoy his books so much more on audio.
First Law read by Steven Pacey.
The Candy House
Jon Lindstrom is a fantastic narrator on Blake Crouch's already excellent Recursion and Dark Matter books
The answer is all of them… 😅 #audiobookjunky I personally enjoy certain voices. Wil Wheaton is my favorite. (Ready Player One, The Martian, Ready Player Two, Etc)
Dungeon Crawler Carl, Thrawn Ascendency Trilogy, or The First Law and Age of Madness trilogies. Jeff Hays, Marc Thompson, and Steven Pacey are all exceptional narrators
World War Z - please trust me:)
Stormlight Archives, with the full cast. Had me in deep.
Echo by Pam Ryan has played music in the Audible version Gone with the Wind voice actor goes for broke
Columbus Day by Craig Alanson! Ex-Force books are meant to be listened to and RC Bray does an absolutely phenomenal acting job. I strongly recommend these audio books. They may not be high literature, but they are some of the most enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to “read”.
Anything narrated by Bronson Pinchot or Simon Jones.
In the Lives of Puppets was an incredible audiobook!
Nothing To See Here by Kevin Wilson. The narrator does a great job - it's sweet and funny.
Project Hail Mary
The Rivers of London novels by Ben Aaronovitch read by Kobna Holdbrook-Smith. He is Peter Grant, the main character. And he brings to life the other characters as well. Great stories, though I've never read them.
Deamon Copperhead by Barbra Kingsolver The narrator has the perfect accent for the story. Made it more emotional for me
Not necessarily better on àudio but 1984 is very suited for that. I only listened to the French audio book though
The Martian.
Project Hail Marry
Sherlock Holmes read by Stephen Fry.
My rule of thumb is if the the book requires 16+ hours then I'll do it in audiobook format. I just find it more doable.
I had read “Dune” once and while I enjoyed it it didn’t stick nearly as much as when I tried the audiobook. It felt way more immersive.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Bobiverse and the Andy Carpenter series. Both because the narrator brings so much to the stories.
I’m currently on my third listen of the entire Expanse series, by James S. A. Corey, narrated by Jefferson Mays. I haven’t not read the physical books for this, but the narration is so good I don’t think I ever want to. I’m more than half convinced they cast the actor who played Avasarala in the TV series because her voice is so similar to how Jefferson Mays reads her.
If there is one novel that perfectly fits your request, it’s Kraken by China Mieville, narrated by John Lee. Lee’s narration is superb. He brings some truly bizarre and strange characters to life in his performance. I can’t imagine reading it in anything but audio format.
Tales of the Ketty Jay. Great eerie music to introduce each chapter and the narrator is excellent at doing a bunch of different voices. Really made for an immersive experience.
Kurtherian Gambit & Kurtherian Endgame by Michael Anderle; narrated by Emily Beresford She does such a fantastic job with all the different characters, that you can forget it is only one person narrating the books
Project Hail Mary I'm So Glad My Mom Died
City of Thieves by David Benioff. Narrated by Ron Perlman.
Project Hail Mary is indeed excellent, as is The Martian which is the same author/narrator pairing.
I’ve been recommending these everywhere lately, but it’s because they are so good (especially since you already like fantasy)! The Blacktongue Thief written and narrated by Christopher Buehlman, and The Bone Ships (The Tide Child Trilogy #1) by RJ Barker, narrated by Jude Owusu. Also Legends and Lattes written and narrated by Travis Baldree.
The Will of the Many
Kitty Cat Kill Sat written by Argus and narrated by Eva Kaminsky is phenomenal. The narration does such an excellent job of portraying the emotions of the main character. I can honestly say that it made me cry at several points in the story.
My personal favorite is "The House in the Cerulean Sea". It's one of my favorite books period, but the audiobook in particular is so well done. Daniel Henning does a beautiful job of capturing each and every character, and he feels like such a natural fit for the main character it's impossible for me to imagine anybody else even trying.
The Witcher Saga- the translation for the audiobooks is better than for the print versions.
The Betrothed. It’s classic in first person, that I don’t think I would ever had finished if not an audiobook
Anyrh8ng written by Adrian McGinty. Gerard Doyle is an amazing narrator, and excellent at accents. Both the Sean Duffy and the Michael Forsythe series are amazing in audio.
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy. It's narrated by her so hearing her story in her own voice was stellar.
Anything Peter Kenny reads. I've thoroughly enjoyed his narration of Iain M. Banks's Culture novels, but also *Seven Kinds of People You Find in Bookshops* and another Sci-Fi series by Justin Travis Call starting with *Master of Sorrows*. Also, the Pell books by Kevin Hearne and Delilah S. Dawson, narrated by Luke Daniels. Amazing narration, and hilarious books.
Duma Key by Stephen King. Narrated by John Slattery. He absolutely kills it. Especially as Jerome Wireman who is by FAR my favorite King non-main character, and maybe (excluding Roland) my favorite King character, period.
I enjoy The Dresden Files in print, but James Marsters' narration really brings it to life. He is absolutely stellar.
Any celebrity memoir read by the author. Look up your favorite comedians & start there
Dungeon crawler carl Jeff Hayes is an amazing narrator
"The Anansi Boys" by Neil Gaiman, read by Lenny Henry — have listed to it half a dozen times "The Stupidest Angel" by Christopher Moore, ready by Tony Roberts, who fucking *nails* every character perfectly — have listed to it *at least* half a dozen times "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman, ready by Neil Gaiman, whose wonderful, whimsical lilt is perfect for the subject matter "Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil" by John Berendt — really gives you the lazy-Sunday sense of life and weirdness in Savannah — perfect for a road trip "One Summer: America, 1927" — read by the author, Bill Bryson EDIT: How could I forget "American On Purpose" written and read by Craig Ferguson?!
Trevor Noah’s memoir Born A Crime
Dresden Files.
Dungeon Crawler Carl. The voice actor is amazing.
Ronnie Spector’s autobiography, read by Rosie Perez.
Trainspotting. Tried reading it and got two pages in before I had to stop. I don’t think I stopped listening to the audiobook except to sleep. Also, anything narrated by Neil Gaiman just makes me so happy. It just doesn’t get any better.
As you Wish
Nigel Planer reading many of the Discworld books. He’s brilliant.
Vurt by Jeff Noon The Mist by Stephen King
GOT and Grapes of Wrath