Happy Wednesday, friends!
Okay, we are taking a little detour today because BEFORE my September Book Review next week, I wanted to take a minute and give space to…
…ALL THINGS AUDIOBOOKS.
Because I have thoughts.
And opinions.
And I would love to know yours BEFORE I proceed any further down this rabbit hole.
I have mentioned many times before that there are certainly things I’VE CHANGED MY MIND ABOUT in life.
You know, like how many children I would have.
Or being a working mom.
I never thought I’d have four dogs.
I used to swear we weren’t “Disney Cruise” people.
And here’s one more…YOU GUYS, IT TURNS OUT THAT I REALLY DO LOVE AUDIOBOOKS!
What? What?
I am NOT an audiobook person.
Except, I think I totally am now.
It’s fun being 45 and still surprising yourself 😉 .
So, here’s the deal, this month (September), I have listened to not one but TWO and honestly, I can’t wait to start my third. I wanted to hash out this audiobook business though BEFORE my book review next week so that I can spend that time actually discussing the book and not my new love of audiobooks.
If you’ll recall, up until July, I had NEVER listened to an audiobook and then…
…BOOK CLUB #29 was The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett which became difficult for me to read.
I go into depth in the blog post, but I was going to quit the book just because I found reading it so boring. I had never quit a book club book before, but I just didn’t know how I was ever going to get through this very long book that I just could not get geared up to read. BUT I didn’t want to quit, so after chatting with a friend, I decided to try listening to the book instead. Y’all…it rocked my world.
I LOVED listening to this book.
I loved it so much that when a blog reader suggested perhaps I listen to one audiobook a month, I immediately agreed which meant…
…in August, I listened to Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser.
And like I mentioned before, I have already listened to two this month as well.
So, that’s how we got here.
Here are my initial thoughts and questions for YOU…
Thought #1:
I don’t know why, but I used to think listening to audiobooks would REPLACE reading books. I now see that, at least for me, that’s silly. All the audiobooks do is give me MORE opportunities to read/hear stories from authors. I’m still reading the exact same amount of time. I have not replaced that time (early mornings, in snippets throughout the day, at night) with listening. Sitting down and opening a book and tuning the world out is still my favorite pastime. That hasn’t changed at all. What has changed is that now when I drive alone in the car, walk the dogs, unload the dishwasher, fold laundry…I can listen to a book. I’m getting EXTRA books into my life. I love books, so this is only adding value to my day and not taking anything away.
Thought #2:
I tend to really love to read chick lit especially before I go to bed. It’s light, it’s easy, it won’t get me worked up and nervous right before I try to go to sleep. I tend to shy away from books that are a little dark/seem heavy because they’re not ideal for my evening reading. Enter the audiobook. I have already realized that listening to these books while I’m out and about in my car and/or doing chores around my house/at the gym makes these stories more palatable to me.
Thought #3:
I’m behind on my podcasts, y’all. I saw that Acquired just dropped a new episode on Home Depot, but I haven’t even started it yet because I’ve been wrapped up in my audiobooks. I have replaced my podcast time with audiobook time.
Thought #4:
I’ve only listened to four audiobooks, and I can already tell you that narration is a big deal. It’s actually another “thing” to make or break a book for me. I think I *might* have started with the VERY BEST narration (The Calamity Club) and then moved on to one that was read by a single narrator but in a way that was charming and magical and just divine (Lady Tremaine). I will go into detail in my September Book Review but now, I’ve read one by a narrator that was “okay” and another that was narrated by the actual author (not my fave). I am going to need a lot of coaching/tips/tricks when it comes to selecting audiobooks where the narration adds (and doesn’t take away!) from the story.
Okay, now for some questions!
Question #1: What are your favorite CURRENT listens?
I would love to know which books you’ve loved listening to that are CURRENT reads (books published in 2026).
Question #2: What are your favorite OLDER listens?
If you could only suggest one “older” book for me to go back and listen to on audio, what would that be?
Question #3: What makes an audiobook more desirable to you? Or less desirable?
For those of you well versed in audiobooks, what are things you look for before purchasing? What are things you stay away from?
I would love to know!
I said for YEARS that I would never read on a Kindle and well, as you know, I am OBSESSED with my Kindle. So here I am, taking back that “I’m not an audiobook person”. I clearly am 🙂 .
I can’t wait to read your thoughts, tips and comments below!
Two random things before we go…
If you’re looking to take a bite out of fall, my CINNAMON APPLE PECAN CAKE is exactly what you need to bake! It’s delicious!
And this is random, but I wanted to share…between now and Thursday, Tuckernuck is having their Friends and Family Sale!
Save 15% off orders over $250 – 20% off orders over $500 with code: FAMILY
I wear a lot of Tuckernuck. Here are just a few of my current faves:
THIS DRESS which is absolutely a favorite of mine right now! It’s gorgeous!
Clearly, my color right now is brown because…
…I wore THIS DRESS to church too. This dress comes in many other colors, but I picked…
…the brown vegan suede because it really screamed “I love fall!”. The fabric, the fit, the pockets…love.
MY TEE SHIRT DRESS! I love this dress so much that I decided to buy it in solid black too.
I bought THIS DRESS last year in black and loved it so much that I just bought it again in faux brown suede. It comes in nine different color/fabric options!
Athleticwear is always on repeat over here! CANE TENNIS SKIRT + this light V NECK SWEATER. Both come in multiple colors.
THIS SKIRT was on repeat all summer long! I have it in white, but it comes in other colors too.
Alrighty, I hope you have the BEST Wednesday! I’ll see you all tomorrow. xx
Maureen says
I love audiobooks! Julia Whelan is amazing! I love almost everything she reads.
If you don’t like a narrator in this first few chapters, it rarely gets better but sometimes, altering the speed can help. I typically listen at 1.25 – too much faster and I’ll lose some of the story but that can depend on the speed of the readers voice.
Memoirs read by the author are often amazing!
Tracy Robinson says
I love audiobooks as well, and Julia Whelan is my favorite narrator!! I always listen to the sample before buying because the narrator voice is very important to me. If I don’t like the sample narration, then I don’t buy the book. I LOVED listening to Theo of Golden and the Correspondent. It gave a depth to the book that I don’t think I would have gotten if I had come up with my “own voices” reading them.
Caryn Lane says
The Emma M Lion series is my top recommendation. The narrator/reader is superb! I would give her an award if I could. She really makes the character come alive.
Project Hail Mary is another good one. Narrator is excellent.
Vikki Leavengood says
Love, love Emma M. Lion! When Shay said, “What? What!” I laughed out loud. I assumed she was referencing Archibald. 🙂 The narrator is amazing. I did buy book 8 and will probably buy all of them; they are just sooo good. Reading book 9 will be great since I already have the character’s voices in my head.
Amelia says
Another vote for Emma M Lion! I have been listening to the series this summer (also while folding laundry!) and the books are so delightful! I agree that the narrator is amazing and I often find myself laughing out loud at times.
K. W. says
Couldn’t agree more!! Emma M. Lion and Project Hail Mary – the best!!
Emily says
Could not agree more. These have been my FAVORITE audiobooks. The narrator really brings the characters to life.
Kizzi says
I’m with you on the narrator making or breaking an audiobook. You can actually sort by narrator on some of the apps. I have enjoyed several that I might not have picked up otherwise.
sandy Ivey says
I NEVER sit down during the day so reading is not an option. I love books. If my hands are busy and I’m alone, I have ear pods in and I’m listening to a book. Theo of Golden on Audible and Calamity Club are 2 of the best. I agree, the narrator is a make or break for me. I always preview 1st.
Kelly Hooper says
I feel I am much more productive when I have a good audiobook to listen to. That basket of laundry that needs folded doesn’t seem like a chore when I am enjoying an audiobook. I listened to Eleanor of Avignon (so good!) last week for my book club and I’m currently really enjoying Theo of Golden. My all time favorite audiobook is The Dutch House by Ann Patchett as it’s read by Tom Hanks!!!
Natasha says
I haven’t stepped into the world of audio books yet but everyone tells me I should listen to The Dutch House by Ann Patchett, but read by Tom Hanks. Supposedly it’s amazing!
denise vick says
It absolutely is! I struggle with listening to fiction, but Tom Hanks is absolutely superb. (as he is with everything he does)
Monica Baker says
I also struggle with listening to fiction and have only been able to do memoirs.
Jennibell says
It is!!!!
Liz says
Yes and so is Tom Lake with Meryl Streep.
Addy Robinson says
100% audiobooks took my podcast time but it’s ok for me because it has made me more discerning with podcasts. It is someone(s) loving to hear themselves talk 🤣
If a book is TOO meaty/deep, it doesn’t work for audio for me because I find I can’t multitask at all (walk, fold laundry, drive).
In rare instances when an audiobook is bad, it gets the 1.25x or, gasp, 1.5x treatment. 🤣 Rare, but a good option for either the content or the narration being poor and and just wanting to wrap it up.
I need to go look up the popular audiobook narrator whose male voices make me cringe. I’ll post some good ones, too. It is generally seen as a big ego cringe if an author does their own audio because it should be left to a professional voice actor. The exception is autobiographies, especially read by actors!
Liz Farese says
I am a huge audiobook listener as I have a long commute each day. I also find that I get behind in podcasts from time to time, especially the longer ones like Aquired. One of my all time favorite books to listen to was “The Dutch House”. The narrator was Tom Hanks. How can you beat that!
Talia says
Same – and The Dutch House audiobook is fantastic!
Diane Moore says
I started listening to audiobooks when I was going through a time of mind-racing sleeplessness. So, the narrator and pace of the book were critical to help me get back to sleep. I found femalevvoices too high or they tend to be more fluctuating so I only listened to male narrators, and the book had to be interesting enough to hold my attention, but not exciting.
Now, I listen with the same criteria at night, but often choose books I always wanted to read but seemed more daunting in written form – mostly classics.
Also books that seem like a written podcast, so to speak.
Elspeth Mizner says
I started listening to audio books in addition to reading too! I personally like listening to murder mysteries or autobiographies on audiobook, especially if the author is the narrator. I love to use Libby to support my local library too!
Happy reading and listening!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Jana says
Simply Ina by Ina Garten was so fun to “read” as an audiobook! She reads it herself and it’s like sitting down and having a conversation with her!
Dana P says
Loved Ina’s book, too! I’ve been listening to audiobooks for quite some time now and love the convenience of working while listening. I’m currently reading Dust to Dust by Jen Wilkin and really enjoying it! It’s a little heavier though-it’s about aging and the Christian life, especially for women.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I just can’t listen to audiobooks just yet. While I love a podcast, I find my mind wandering while I try to listen and then I have no idea what I just listened to. Maybe one day when I’m in a different season of life!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Jodi says
I am the same way! I listen to Christian podcasts, but I can’t stay tuned into audiobooks!
Charise says
I had this problem, too! I started with autobiographies/memoirs only read by the author and that eased me into it.
Mallory Barnard says
I love audiobooks because I can listen while I’m getting ready in the morning and commuting to the office! I try and avoid books that have a ton of characters as sometimes it can be harder to keep track of in audio format. I also love a memoir in audiobook because often the person is narrating it themselves!
Elisabeth says
I rarely listen to books on audio, but 10/10 recommend “reading” The Correspondent on audio. All the unique voices make SUCH a difference for an epistolary book.
Val says
I’m listening to The Calamity Club right now based on your suggestion to listen to it and I absolutely love it! I also listened to The Correspondent (amazing!) and Yesteryear. For me, each one worked on audio and I doubt I would have enjoyed them as much if I just read them.
Eileen says
A few years ago I trained myself to be able to listen to audiobooks and now, in this busy phase of life, I listen to more books each month than I read on my Kindle. I still l do both, but I get through audiobooks much faster. I listen to any kind of book, but if I’m going to read a thriller or biography, I always listen to them. I really like autobiographies narrated by that person. I also really like historical fiction books on audio. I use the Libby app for both audio and kindle books. So easy and free!
Jennibell says
I agree, I had to “learn” how to listen. My kids grew up with audiobooks in the car rather than movies – we listened to SO MANY good series!!! Harry Potter was, by far, the favorite. Jim Dale did a tremendous job of reading those books! 20 years later and I have two kiddos who still love to listen to books 🙂
Melissa says
The Sideways Life of Denny Voss
Whistler
This Book Made Me Think of You
ACOTAR series
Fourth Wing series
Nicole B says
The Class Mom series was GREAT as an audiobook option. Something about all that sarcasm from the narrator, who was also the author). I know you havent had a good experience with authors narrating – but this one worked!
Kelly F says
I can’t imagine reading this series and not listening to it! The author/narrator sucked me in and I mowed through the whole series extremely fast!
Susan Jeffries says
I actually have changed my thoughts on audio books too. I drive a lot so I started a Libby account a couple of years ago and now I am hooked! Some books are simply better on audio. I sadly didn’t enjoy Calamity Club when I read it (I LOVED The Help). So I am going to add it to my Libby account and try again!! Thanks!!
Paula Hobbs says
I’m not a coffee girl, but take away my audiobooks and I won’t be very nice. LOL 🙂 I have been listening to them for a few years now and it’s truly the calm to my storms most days. I listen at work, in the car, doing chores, in the grocery store, while I’m strolling in stores, etc. I use my air pods unless I’m in the car, but I only use one pod at a time so that I’m not totally zoned out (especially at work ha!). I absolutely loved listening to Calamity Club! A few of my resents are…
1. Love You More by Emily Griffin
2. The Divorce by Freida McFadden
3. The Calamity Club
4. Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
5. The Devoted Wife by Sarah A. Denzil
I agree on the narrators. I always “preview” before I download and if I can’t get on board with the narrator, I either read on my Kindle or bypass all together.
I’m glad you’re on board the Audiobook Train! I can’t wait to hear other recommendations!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t tried previewing yet. How much do you get to hear when you preview? And is it a random snippet or the beginning of the book?
Paula Hobbs says
Usually 5-10 minutes and it’s normally the beginning of chapter one, the prologue or introduction. You can also speed up or slow down the speed. I’ve only had a handful that I just couldn’t get past the narrator. The good most definitely outweighs the bad.
Diane Moore says
You get to hear quite a bit and it’s the beginning of the book.
Kristen says
I am 50 and I am still in the mindset that listening to an audio book is cheating! I am not sure if I can fit it in w/ the podcasts I listen to but maybe I will give it another shot if I am laying at the beach/pool or plane rides?
Mix and Match Mama says
That was absolutely me too! What I have realized is that on a plane or by the pool, I will absolutely still read my physical books. I won’t stop reading where I was reading…but now, I can hear these great stories in the car, doing laundry, while I’m at the gym too. I don’t read and listen to the same book. I read one book and listen to another. I know some might toggle back and forth, but I want to be invested in a book 100% when I read or listen.
Kathie says
I love listening to JacQueline Windspear books. Use your library to check out audio books over buying them. I’ve bought audio books once I’m hooked on the author. I just finished Theo of Golden yesterday and wish I could listen again for the first time. Narrator was fabulous!
Sheaffer Sims says
You would *THINK* an audiobook would be appealing to me, but nope.
Mix and Match Mama says
You really would…
Paige E says
My problem with audiobooks has definitly been the narration. I just can’t find a good fit. I already don’t like things read to me, so its tough for me to get past a narrator who is doing different voices, or I find grating. So I have yet to find the sweet spot. I also tried to start reading a bit on my phone per my sister’s recommendation. Something to hop on instead of social media and just read a few pages. That lasted for a little while since I was having trouble getting into books for a season. Well… I’m back to books. I found “Judge Stone” by James Patterson and Viola Davis and realized what I was missing was a really amazing page turner! So back to books for me. But trying new things is a must! You never know what might be a good fit for a season or for good!
Kelly Russo says
One audiobook tip I have is to change the pace to 1.2x or 1.25x speed. It really doesn’t affect anything for me, listening wise, but cuts hours of time off of the book! Especially for long books like fourth wing and calamity Club I think it took four or five hours off the total time!
Mix and Match Mama says
Wow! That’s a significant amount of time. I haven’t tried that yet.
Allison Leatherman says
Still hands down the best narrator I’ve ever heard on an audiobook–Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver! I also just listened to The Dutch House which was narrated by Tom Hanks. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett is narrated by Meryl Strep. Narrator is the game changer. Another great audiobook is The Correspondent bc the voices help you keep track of who is who. I actually listen to audiobooks more than I read now because I commute an hour each day in the car and actually look forward to it when I’m listening to a good one.
Claudia says
Shay I can feel your excitement for your new love of audiobooks and I’m excited for you. I do the same and will read physical books, some on my Kindle, and some on audio. I enjoy all 3. I just reviewed my list of completed books on Audible and recommend Nobody Will Tell You This But Me by Bess Kalb. It’s about a grandmother and granddaughter relationship. It’s sweet and funny. I also recommend sampling audiobooks first to see if you like the narration. Some I know immediately I will not like after sampling it.
Megan Bowen says
I love audiobooks and listen to a ton. I have had a few that I just couldn’t get through because of the voice. I listen to almost everything at 2x speed, which also means more reading for me and I love that too. I have never disliked a book read by Julia Whelan. She is just the best at what she does and even though she regularly reads them herself, she has a wide range of voices to separate characters in stories. The first one I ever listened to from from her was The Great Alone and I still recommend it to people all the time as a book and one to listen to. She also does a lot of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s books. Daisy Jones & the Six was another she did that I truly loved but there were lots of other people narrating that one too. The transitions from listening to a full cast of characters in that book made “reading” it so seamless and easy to follow.
Some authors just aren’t meant to read their own stuff (or any stuff.) Matthew McConaughey was an excellent narrator of his book Greenlights and I loved listening to him but did have to slow him down a bit from my regular speed of 2x.
Erin Bennett has done many of Elin Hildebrand’s novels and is another excellent choice to listen to. She does a lot of Emily Henry books as well.
Kate Andersen says
I love audio books… my favourite (and only) part I enjoy about commuting! I lot of my listens are from your book recommendations, but I recently listened to Nesting by Rosie O’Donnell. The book is set in Ireland and has won a couple awards, including for Debut novel. The content is on the heavier side but I loved listing to the Irish accent of the reader.
erin says
auto correct: Roisin O’Donnell, likely a much better Irish accent 😉 thank you for the recommendation!
Sarah DeWald says
Totally agree on the narration – it can make or break the book. Matthew McConaughey, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler’s books are read by them and they were hilarious. And Britney Spears’s book was read by Michelle Williams and that one was pretty good.
meg says
I love audiobooks, but my all time favorite would have to be Demon Copperhead. Wow. Such a hard read, but I found myself laughing out loud often with the characters inner dialogue, and then crying. It was by far my favorite audio.
Libby says
I read fiction but listen to nonfiction, mostly biographies. I typically read one fiction book at a time, hence listening to nonfiction while I also read fiction. Yes, my podcasts & magazines sometimes fall behind. I try to get my audio books from the library, so it’s never anything too current.
Nicole N says
Christina Applegate’s memoir was narrated by herself and I loved it. XE Sands is one of my fave narrators, she reads a lot of Kristin Higgins books. I loved listening to The Favorites on audible because it sounded like a podcast with the different narrators and The Things We Leave Unfinished by Rebecca Yarros is one of my favorite books I listened to.
Sara Hertel says
I like when there are different narrators for different characters. Some of my favorites have been Listen for the Lie, This story might save your life, Famous Last Words, and Its Not Her.
Haley says
I am a big fan of audiobooks, and I’ve also found that they only enhance my reading time. I still love and crave time with my physical books, but audiobooks give me some extra reading time while I’m driving, walking my dog, etc.
Based on how much I listen, I’ve found that Spotify’s Premium plan is the best option for me. I pay around $28 a month, but I get unlimited music and about 30 hours of audiobook listening time each month. I also like not having to commit to one full book on Audible—I can switch back and forth between my physical book and the audio version!
I usually get through at least one full audiobook each month, too. Spotify has this really cool feature where you can scan the page you’re on in your physical book, and it picks up right at that spot in the audiobook!
Angela says
Can’t recommend The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett on audio book enough! The story and narration are AMAZING! Published in 2025 and has sooo many 5 Star reviews on Goodreads, Tik Tok and Audible. This one will get you even more excited about audiobooks!
Susan P Fitzpatrick says
Hmm..Maybe I should give audiobooks a try? 🤔 Thanks for your thoughts on this!
Maria says
I’m picky too. It’s all based on the narrator. I highly recommend memoirs on audiobooks. Barbra Streisand was the best in my opinion. It’s incredibly long (40 hrs) but it’s so fun! She tells jokes, inserts music, it was an experience! Cher did something similar, it was good but Barbra nailed it. Just hearing a celebrity share their own story makes the narration for me.
For current books, I’m listening to The Thunderbirds by Elin Hilderbrand. Erin Bennett has narrated all of Elin’s books. I really enjoy her. Her acting and vocal range are incredible.
I haven’t listened to a podcast in ages. I do miss them but unfortunately audiobooks have replaced them.
I do have two books going simultaneously which I could have never done in the past. I listen to audiobooks during the day but before bed I read on my kindle.
I also agree with the suggestion to speed up the audio to 1.25X. I started doing this recently. I don’t do it all the time, just those times when you need to move things along a bit.
Julie says
I love audible non-fiction books read by the author themselves, especially autobiographies. Example: Listening to Beth Moore read her autobiography was amazing!
Leslie says
The narration for Theo of Golden is *chef’s kiss*. Also, The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion.
Anita says
Agree! Theo of Golden was such a great audiobook!
Cherie says
A favorite for me to listen to, especially in the fall, is the Harry Potter series narrated by Jim Dale. My kids love it too.
Also anything by Gretchen Rubin. So good!
Agree that the narrator makes all the difference.
I also use Libby and love it. Free and supports my local library- what’s not to love?
Sarah C says
As a librarian, I’m SO happy you joined the audiobook club!!!
Truthfully, it drives me bananas when people say audiobooks “don’t count”! Most of us probably fell in love with reading when a parent or teacher read us an amazing book as a kid- I still remember falling in love with Number the Stars when my fourth grade teacher read it to our class (which I think ultimately created my deep love of WW2 historical fiction!) As parents, we read books aloud to our kids and would never tell our kids “these books don’t count!” Haha so if they count for kids, why do they stop counting for adults?
Second, from a librarian standpoint, I HIGHLY recommend the Libby app! If you have a library card, you get free access to pretty much every audiobook. Sometimes you do have to wait, just like you would with a popular or new physical library book, but especially if there’s older books you want to listen to, Libby has them and for free!
Finally, as a fellow busy lady, I highly recommend bumping up your speed to 1.25 or 1.5! That’s what gave me the hardest time when I first started audiobooks was that the “regular” speed was too slow for my attention and I would get distracted and lose interest. Moving it even just a little bit faster keeps me so much more engaged!
So happy you’re loving the audiobook life!! Happy listening!!! 🙂
Jean E says
Loving your comments regarding “audiobooks don’t count as reading.” What a great perspective!
Lauren says
I love this perspective! I also remember my teacher reading Number the Stars which I LOVED and inspired my love for WW2 fiction as well!
Jessica CS says
My favorite audio books:
The Rose Code
The City Girl’s Guide to Country Living (perfect for fall)
Code Name Helen
Project Hail Mary
Brooke Cabianca says
It was recommended to me to go back and listen to Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry and I’m so glad that I did! I did not think this would be my type of book but the characters are amazing. I love it so much. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Arika says
Brooke, if you have not watched the miniseries, it’s a must. It’s incredible.
Faith says
I never thought I would/could listen to a book that either but listened to my first one several years ago. I listened to Theo of Golden this summer at the recommendation of someone because of the narrator. It was so good! Sometimes it’s hard for me to sit down and read but I loved the flexibility of being able to multitask and listen to a book.
AJ says
I read about 120-140 books a year and the majority of those are audiobooks because they make chores more enjoyable. Audible ratings include a rating for the performance and a separate one for the story, and the reviewers are pretty clear when the performance stinks or ruins the story. I find audiobooks very helpful for stories that have hard to pronounce places. For instance, A Gentleman in Moscow with its Russian locations and The Pirate Queen with its Irish brogue would have been difficult to read but are great on audio. Other standouts are The Correspondent and Theo of Golden.
Lindsey says
If you like a full cast, The Favorites was good!
Laura says
When I was working I’d listen to audiobooks on my commute. But since I retired I don’t spend much time in the car anymore. I’ve tried listening when I walk my dog every morning but I like podcasts when I walk but will sometimes listen to a book if that’s the quickest way to get the book on Libby. But now that I’m retired I have plenty of time to read so my listening time is greatly reduced.
Michelle says
The best audiobook narrator, hands down, is Julia Whelan. I could listen to her read an encyclopedia! Don’t know why but she’s the queen! One of the first, and in my opinion BEST, audiobooks is Daisy Jones and the Six. Different narrators for different characters. This doesn’t always work for a book but this one is excellent! Aside from The Calamity Club, some of my most recent ones with excellent narration are The Correspondent, The Day You Were My Husband, Mad Mabel, Just For The Summer, The Pirate Queen, and The Briar Club. Others have said it, but listen to the Preview. It’s usually about 4 minutes long. You can tell immediately if it is one that will grate on your nerves!
Olivia says
With young children and a full-time job, I have zero time these days to sit and read without feeling guilty that I should be tending to something around the house. Audiobooks allow me to enjoy a book and “escape” while folding the laundry, rocking the baby to sleep, sitting in the school pick-up line…etc. I get and extra dose of endorphins because I feel like I’m multi-tasking. Haha. But I’ll admit, I still am looking forward to the days when life slows down and I can actually enjoy sitting down to read without anything else tugging for my attention.
As for narrators, start paying attention to the narrators you like and you can search based on books they narrate! You can also sample the book to ensure the voice isn’t going to make you cringe through the entire story. That’s a sure way to DNF a book.
Kim B says
How do you find out what books a favorite narrator has read?
Mix and Match Mama says
I had this same question, and so I just googled “Julia Whelan audiobooks” because so many have suggested her as a narrator.
A A says
In the Libby app, you can search by the narrator’s name to see their books
Olivia says
OH! And Theo of Goldon was an absolute gem to listen to. I felt like my grandfather was reading to me the entire time. It was like a warm hug.
Lisa C in Richardson says
I read on my Kindle and have an audiobook going in the car. As far as narrators, once I listen to one I like, I look to see what else that person has narrated. George Guidall has narrated most if not all of the Daniel Silva books on Gabriel Allon. The same holds true for popular female chick lit writers. I don’t know if the writer gets to choose his/her narrator but I’ve found that generally the popular author/narrator stay together. I prefer one narrator per book. I can listen to a book with two narrators but I prefer one. Erin Bennett has narrated most of Elin Hilderbrand’s novels.
Kara says
I listen to audiobooks everyday! My favorite 2026 listens are This Book Made Me Think of You, Abby Offsides, Romantic Hero, Into A Golden Era (#7 of Timeless Series), This Story Might Save Your Life…
Favorite older listens: What the wind knows, Emma M Lion series, Timeless series, The Spellshop
Currently listening to: Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner
Kelly Sites says
Secrets of a Charmed Life is one of my top favorite books of all time. Also, The Kitchen House and Invention of Wings (outstanding)
Sarah Grant says
Mad Mabel
Amber says
This isn’t a new one but Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid on audiobook is the only way to “read” that book. It is so good. Glad you’ve come over the audiobook world! I love reading physical books and like you read in bed each night but then also listen throughout the day to an audiobook. I do find sometimes I’m in podcast mode and sometimes I’m in audiobook mode, which is a good balance because sometimes my brain needs to digest all that information I’ve taken in on podcasts.
Paige M. says
I love to read as well as listen to audiobooks. I work in Downtown Boston and take public transportation to work so audiobooks are great when I am on the bus. I agree the narrator can make or break the audiobook on Amazon most audiobooks will give you the option to listen to a sample of the narration before purchasing so that you can decide if you like it or not.
Terry says
Theo of Golden is so much better on Audio!
Rachel says
Two audiobooks I’ve listened to that stand out are…
1. Theo of Golden
2. The Woman In Me (Britney Spears’s memoir)
I’m pretty sure you’ve read both of those already. But the narration in them is so good! The narrator for Theo makes him come alive. Also, I believe Michelle Williams is the narrator for Britney’s book, and she does a phenomenal job with it!
Alissa says
We went on a family road trip this summer and listened to the Project Hail Mary audiobook on our long drive. The whole family was SO into it and the narrator was incredible. He did all the voices (including many different accents). Highly recommend!
Emma says
I was firmly anti-audiobook (for me) until I started listening to memoirs or essay books read by the author. Viola Davis’s Finding Me is a gorgeous book – she won a grammy for her reading of the audio! It is a heavy read, but so beautiful and moving. On the other side of the spectrum, Leanne Morgan’s book is a hilarious and easy listen on audio. Anything written by David Sedaris is hilarious and his audiobooks are read in front of a live audience. It’s fun to be laughing with a crowd as you listen to those. Jen Hatmaker’s memoir Awake is also excellent on audio. I also loved Dinner for Vampires and I’m Glad My Mom Died on audio. Both read by the authors who are actresses and they did an excellent job reading.
For fiction, anything read by Julia Whelan I’ve loved. Taylor Jenkins Reid’s books are great on audio as well. You have probably read Daisy Jones and the Six and Carrie Soto is back, but those both have wonderful audio production and are super engaging.
A tip: many people have mentioned libby as a great audiobook resource, which I love. Also if you have a premium spotify account, you get 15 hours a month of free audiobook listening, and they have a great selection. If I’m struggling to get started in a book, I will switch to audio for a few chapters through spotify and that usually helps. I rarely listen to an entire book on audio, but really enjoy switching back and forth on certain titles.
Ellen says
You sound like me, LOL!
I am very picky and it took me a long time to find out what works for me with audio books. I totally agree that memoirs tend to work well in this format. The Viola Davis book was AMAZING. Loved it. There were times when I felt like was watching her on stage. Another that I can highly recommend is “Between Two Kingdoms” by Suleika Jaouad.
I can only do 1.1 speed. I’d read a LOT more books if I could crank up the speed, but I find it too annoying! And yes, highly recommend the Libby app.
Charise says
I was the same way with audiobooks and didn’t think it counted as actually “reading”! I enjoy listening to memoirs that are read by the author and that has eased me into audiobooks. I work from home and needed something to fill the silence other than tv shows/movies I’ve already seen so I am currently listening to “Lady Tremaine” and really enjoying it! I’ve heard that Tom Lake by Ann Patchett is great as an audiobook and read by Meryl Streep so may try that next. As far as an older book suggestion, I would say you can’t go wrong with Little Women!! I listened to it years ago on audiobook and really did enjoy it.
Jessica Shobe says
Once I started audiobooks, I never looked back. I do still like physically reading a book too. My favorite narrator is Julia Whelan. My favorite audiobook is Carrie Soto is back. I usually listen at 1.4 speed. Can’t wait to find out which 2 you listened to this month.
Carolyn says
Hi! I am a bit of a speed reader and based on how many physical/kindle books you get through in a month, I assume you are too! With that – I HIGHLY recommend going up to 1.5X speed (or working your way up to that)! I can’t listen at normal speed now :). For older listens – Harry Potter is amazing and Project Hail Mary. And one last thing – everyone gets one free audible book each month with your Amazon Prime subscription through Amazon Music app, and it syncs to your audible account.
Samantha Carroll says
Yes! I was also going to suggest Harry Potter for an older listen. I read those 20 years ago, have seen movies dozens of times, been to Universal fir all the Harry Potter adventures and this year listened to the first book on Audible and it’s like I’m falling in love with the story all over again! Currently listening to book 2. I also keep a book going on kindle and usually also a paper book from library at same time too. Happy listening!
Tiffany says
I love audiobooks! They entertain me on walks and while doing mindless tasks around home. Not all audiobooks are equal and I have found one narrator (who usually narrates Kristin Hannah books) that I am not a fan of, so I avoid.
I am currently listening to, and love, The Keeper of lost Children. It’s historical fiction about biracial kids of German mothers and American soldier fathers lost WWII. It involves adoption, so might pull at your heart. Two old favorites are Born a Crime (Trevor Noah’s memoir, narrated by him) and Carrie Soto is Back (you’ve prob read it…but it was such a fun production w Patrick McEnroe and other tennis commentators.)
Amy says
The Beantown Girls by Jane Healey was one of my first audio books (back in 2020) and I still remember it! Another one that I honestly listened to just because it was available but ending up loving was When We Believed in Mermaids. I can’t remember if you keep track of your books in Goodreads or another platform, but I created a separate shelf in Goodreads for my audiobooks so that I could look back at which ones I listened to compared to the ones I read. Can’t wait to see your book review!
Amy says
Listen to Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey, narrated by him! Hours of Matthew McConaughey speaking like sweet molasses! And it’s a great book!
Carol says
I’m not semi-retired and WFH, but I commuted an hour each way for 20 years. I looked FORWARD to getting into the car each day to listen.
I LOVE audiobooks! I listen to them in the car, when puzzling, while doing housework, while cooking. It’s a great way to read when your hands are busy or to “hobby stack” while doing something else like puzzling. The Outlander books (narrator Davina Porter) are the BEST books EVER! I never would have gotten through them without the audiobook option. I love Susan Erickson (J.D. Robb’s aka Nora Roberts’ In Death books are narrated so well!), Julia Whelen and January LaVoy. Zachary Webber is my favorite male narrator. Happy listening!
Katie says
Country Club Summer by Rachel Cullen (2026)
The Push by Ashley Audrain (2021)
Christe says
Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime was the first audiobook I ever listened to and still think about it!
Kay says
Hi Shay! I am totally with you on everything. And I found a place for audiobooks in my life exactly as you did-as extra “bonus” reading and not to replace reading at home. I still am always reading a real book. But when I’m driving to and from crew for hours a day for my youngest, I now listen to a book instead of podcast or radio. So like you said, I’m just “reading” extra. I usually listen to non fiction (love autobiographies!) and read fiction.
The other thing I use audio books for is if I’m in a busy phase of life AND I have a longer book to read. (Like Hollow Bones for our book club!) So, I buy that as both kindle and audiobook and I toggle between the two depending on the day. I will read it a bit but then if I have to do a dog walk, I can just pop it on my air pods. The down side is it’s expensive, but I do it once in a while.
Merideth says
My favorite audiobooks are the autobiographies written and read aloud by celebrities from my youth. Rob Lowe’s books are awesome and Andrew McCarthy’s BRAT book was great. There’s just something about hearing the personal voice of actors and actresses that I followed on the screen and in all our teeny-bop magazines back in the 80s. Love!
Kelli says
I’ve loved The Thursday Murder Club, Emma M Lion, and The Correspondent on Audible. I also prefer to listen to memoirs rather than read them, especially when the author narrates their own story. My daughter (now 15) and I have very much enjoyed the Harry Potter books. A Place to Hang the Moon is probably both of our favorite shared book and audiobook. We’ve listened multiple times.
Stephanie says
I LOVE AUDIOBOOKS!!! Julia Whelan, Therese Plummer, and Madeleine Mabey are my favorite narrators. Sometimes British or Australian accents are difficult to listen to and understand if they read quickly. Sometimes of the recent books I’ve listened to that I loved are “A Girl Named Samson” by Amy Harmon. Just a phenomenal historical fiction book about a real person. I didn’t want it to end! Another fantastic read and listen for this time of year is “A Secret History of Witches” by Louisa Morgan. The narration is super amazing and just gets you in the Fall mood !! I’ve listened to it several times. Set in Cornwall. Happy Listening!!!
Jessamyn Peace says
I was wondering when you were going to finally decide you loved audiobooks!! With how much you enjoy podcasts and books it’s a no brainer!! 😉 Trevor Noah’s autobiography Born a Crime is an older book read by Trevor that I enjoyed so much. Rachel Beanland’s brand new book The Half Life was a story that captivated (takes place in Italy and the cover art makes you swoon) and had a good narrator as well! Enjoy your new hobby!! One tip I’ll give is that I prefer to check out books from Libby and Hoopla through my library. There’s often not a long wait time, and I have many holds going at once so something’s already ready even if it’s new. My husband uses audible because he enjoys “rereading” books but I like to listen to listen once. As far as picking a narrator, if you find one you love, you can search by that narrator and I’ve found some good reads that way in the past!
Toni says
I, too, am a fairly new convert to audiobooks and agree The Calamity Club was an EXCELLENT audiobook! I was going to say I wouldn’t think The Correspondent would be good as an audiobook because of all the addresses that are part of the book, but based on some of the comments here, it appears it didn’t detract from the narration of the book. I also have read books that have recipes scattered throughout, which I don’t think I would like either. But maybe those things are only bothersome to me?🤷♀️ I still read most books on my Kindle but do enjoy listening to an audiobook while I’m on a walk or cleaning the house, etc.
Allison Bass says
The Favorites by Layne Fargo is amazing! An entire cast narrated it!
Mary C says
Loved listening to this book!
Jessica Shobe says
Two more things. I use the libby app to check audiobooks out from the library. You can also put them on hold which is nice. Right now, I have 5 on hold, so I’m catching up on my podcasts. Second, if you have Amazon Prime (who doesn’t), you get one free book a month. I usually try to make that a current one or new release.
Abby O says
Welcome to the audiobook world!
I’m a daily audiobook listener and absolutely love both the Audible and Libby apps. My favorite genre is memoir because I love hearing someone’s story told in their own voice. My FAVORITE audiobook of 2026 has been Through Mom’s Eyes by Sheinelle Jones. I think you would absolutely love, love, LOVE this book!!!!!!!
Old favorites include Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten, Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon by Malcolm Gladwell and Bruce Headlam, and Finding Me by Viola Davis.
A A says
I use the Libby app (on my phone!). There are two narrator-related things I love in that app 1. If I listen to a book and find I loved the narrator, I can search by a their name to find other books read by them. And 2. my favorite—I made a narrator “tag” to add to books with a narrator I love (either after searching as above, or right after hearing a new favorite narrator—I can go in and tag their other books!) Funny side note—the first two I adored were Julia Whalen and Bahni Turpin—turns out they are both award winning narrators 😆. I also love Liane Moriarty’s narrator Caroline Lee, Nicholas Ralph (“all creatures great and small” series), and Michael York—I adored how he read “Cry the Beloved Country” and plan to listen to him read Chronicles of Narnia soon!
Leslie Ruggiero says
I love both reading and listening to audiobooks! The audiobooks are great for my dog walks or being stuck in Boston suburb traffic!
One of the first audiobooks I ever listened to was wish you were here by Jodi Picoult and I still think about it to this day! I also really enjoy a biography that is narrated by the person. Katie Courics was FANTASTIC! Kelly Ripas was also cute and fun!
Alyssa Norman says
Audiobooks have been a life changer for me- I still get to escape while ALSO being productive! Sometimes if I’m really into a book I’ll find myself looking for chores or things to do just so I have more time to listen to my book! I also will get a physical copy along with my audiobook so I’ll read when I can and pick up at the spot I stopped and listen when I don’t have time to sit and read.
I think there are seasons where each makes more sense! Or both! I listen to the Secret Life of Flora Lee which was AMAZING but also narrated by Cynthia Erivo which made listening to it even better!
Paula Bacon says
I started listening to audio books years ago during my 1 hour each way commute to work. I would find myself getting in the slow lane sometimes because I didn’t want to get to work too fast and have to stop my story. HA! To answer your questions in my opinion.
1. I just found a new author, Noelle Ihli. Everything I have listened to of hers has been wonderful!
2. A few older books that really stood out for me were “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens and “The Women” by Kristin Hannah.
3. What makes an audiobook desirable for me other than the storyline is the narrator. I prefer a single narrator that can change their voice and accent for the different characters. Sometimes if I really like a narrator, I will search other books they have narrated, and I find new authors and books that way.
Welcome to the world of audio books! It can make some of the most mundane chores much more enjoyable.
Darcy says
I love, love, love audio books! (But still read at night from a real book.) As many have noted, increasing the speed is a game changer and you won’t even notice. 🙂 I typically listen on 1.2x speed. I also love that playing an audio book in the car means all of us can listen (our boys are 10 and 9) – we’ve listened as a family to Astoria, MeatEater’s Campfire Stories, The Last Outlaws, The Gales of November, The Mona Lisa Vanishes and 99: Stories of the Game.
My favorite audio books for when it’s just me in the car: Theo of Golden (the narration makes this book), Be Ready When the Luck Happens (Ina Garten), The Boys in the Boat, Greenlights (Matthew McConaughey narrates, so good!), Shoe Dog (Phil Knight), My Life in Full (Indra Nooyi – every female in business needs to listen to this book!!!) and Decision Points by George Bush would be my top recommendations.
Jennifer Maynard says
I never buy audiobooks, but get them from Libby and then also we have a Spotify Premium subscription and you get 15 hours of audiobook time with that, so that is mostly how I listen to my audiobooks.
Chris says
Yes to Julia Whelan ! I generally try to keep the chick lit on my kindle and so pick and choose audiobooks based on narrator/topic that seem suitable.
My family loves audiobooks — City Spies, Harry Potter (Stephen Fry British version), Land of Stories, Project Hail Mary, The Martian. All great for long car rides.
Newer book: James by Percival Everett.
Older book: TREVOR NOAH BORN A CRIME!! Hands down best autobiography audiobook out there!
Kerry says
Ok, this is going to seem childish, but my fave listen of ALL time are the Harry Potter books. The narrator is INCREDIBLE (Grammy winning) and it is absolutely the performance of a lifetime. I never read the books, but have listened all the way thru the series multiple times b/c it’s so good. The story is wildly intricate and so well planned out from the first sentence to the last, and I think listening allows you to grasp the scale of the story. I’m
Pretty sure you said you never read them – this is your chance. It’s pure….magic 😉
Greenlights is also so good. Who doesn’t want to listen to Matthew McConaughey pontificate and story tell??
I love my autobiographies in audiobook, particular if it’s an actor/famous person b/c it’s cool to hear someone’s story in their own voice and if there an actor, they’re usually an amazing storyteller.
Andy Cohen’s books may rank a close 2nd to HP – him telling his stories is hilarious and makes you feel like SJP and Anderson Cooper are your BFFs too.
YOLANDA MCLEAN says
It’s fun to read all the audiobook comments. Here are a few I’d recommend – The Great Alone, The Correspondent, Where the Crawdads Sing, and Greenlights read by the author Matthew McConaughey – alright, alright, alright.
I hardly ever buy an audiobook – I have the upgraded Spotify where I get the included audiobook hours but maybe ten more added. This is where I get new reads – like what you choose for book club, for example. I do have an audible subscription and I have so many credits that I have to use one each month and I usually choose a book by an author that I want to support. I use Libby but for some reason it takes forever or never to get new titles.
I listen at 2.0 speed as my default – if it’s a narrator with a British accent I’ll sometimes have to slow to 1.75 speed. It literally feels like a snooze fest to listen at regular or less than 1.5 speed.
I also speed up my podcasts, but not as much as audiobooks.
I literally cannot read with my eyes – I fall asleep after just a few minutes.
Kathy says
I don’t listen very much to audiobooks, but I just finished the series of The Unselected Journal of Emma M Lions books. I am so invested in this young girl’s life. I can’t wait for the next book. I do agree the narrator makes a huge difference.
Stephanie Harris says
So my recommendation is look for stories with British characters I love the accent. 99% are just adorable with all their cute colloquialisms.
Mix and Match Mama says
I already agree with this one!
Maureen says
I love audiobooks and am always listening to one! I tend to use Libby and Hoopla to check out books for free using my library card. The BEST tip I was given is to search by narrator…my favorite is January Lavoy. This has led me not only to a narrator I enjoy but has opened my eyes to some new genres.
Ashley says
Here are my top listens for the year-
The Calamity Club
Yesteryear
This Story Might Save Your Life
Dolly All The Time
Atmosphere
And anything with Julia Whelan i’ll listen to :p
Emmy says
I am a reader that would like to join the audio book enthusiasm, but could use advice on “how”? What equipment do most of you use? I have an Iphone, kindle and laptop. Do you listen on the phone? Or another device? I need to buy headphones or earbuds – what works best? All of the book recommendations sound wonderful and I can see how audio books part of the time would be so helpful!
Mix and Match Mama says
I listen on my phone just like I do a podcast. If I’m on a walk or at the gym, I’ll pop my airpods in. If I’m getting ready or emptying the dishwasher, I’ll just set the phone on the counter. In my car, I just listen as I would music or a podcast. So easy!
Margaret says
Love audiobooks!!
The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M Graff is the best audiobook I’ve ever listened to! Extremely powerful.
For something less heavy, The Conditions of Will by Jessica Hastings.
Kelly Sites says
The Only Plane in the Sky was INCREDIBLE.
Susan S. says
Calamity Club was a favorite of mine on audio. If you like Harry Potter, the full cast versions are wonderful! All books are out of this year.
Hollie M says
Oh my goodness – so many comments today and I am sure you will get a LOT of repeats. I have come to LOVE audiobooks. A few things – in no particular order
1. The Libby and Hoopla apps from my library allow so many books to be “read” for free!
2. If you subscribe to Amazon Music, you get one free audible a month!
3. Julia Whelan is the best. She reads many Kristin Hannah and TJR books they really come alive.
4. Besides Julia, I also really enjoy when autobiographies are read by the individual. E.g., Prince Harry, Christina Applegate, Matthew Perry, Jeanette McCurdy, Emily Gilmore 😉
5. Also love when celebrities do audiobooks – e.g., Julia Roberts and Riley Keough From Here to the Great Unknown, Carey Mulligan reads The Midnight Library
6. Multiple narrators generally elevate the experience – highly recommend The Favorites if you haven’t already read it
I’m very enthusiastic about this topic! Happy listening
Dawn Crawford says
I’m an avid audio book listener. I’m currently on #64 for 2026. I use the Libby app to listen to my all my books. All you need is a current library card to link to the app. Bonus — there is no cost to borrow the books and no membership fees. The only disadvantage is sometimes the books aren’t available and I’m on a waitlist until they are. You can keep multiple books on the waitlist.
I agree that The Dutch House was one of my favorites. I’ve also really liked Hello Beautiful, Ordinary Grace, When We Were Young and Brave, One True Loves, The Lion Women of Tehran. Anything narrated by Julia Whelan, or written my Kristin Hannah. We love to hear what you listen to!!
Janet says
It’s all about the narrator for me.
*Dutch House narrated by Tom Hanks was one of my all-time Favorites, so much so that I sought out other books he has narrated.
I also love an Australian or British accent for the narration.
I like my audiobooks to be LONG!
Finally, you can check out audiobooks from your local library and load them on your phone for a free option to listen.
Cris says
I do love a memoir when it’s read by the author. I was really struggling with “All My Knotted Up Life” by Beth Moore on the page, but it was much better when I switched to audio. I wonder if you would have liked it better on audio??
Ashley S says
Can I just say that one of my favorite aspects of your blog is the comment section!? It’s great to read your thoughts and interests, then pop down to the comments for all the “extras”. I learn so much! Thanks for the community, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
Mine too!!!!
Crystal D says
One Second After by Forstchen
Converted me to loving audiobooks. Still think of this storyline weekly!
Katie says
I recently discovered an appreciation, and dare i say, *love* for audiobooks as well! They are handy for car trips (18 hours each way) with a teen in tow -The Odyssey translated by Emily Wilson and narrated by Claire Danes for the win!! Surely she absorbed something while sleeping and scrolling?
Another random fun find was The Great Gatsby narrated by Jake Gyllenhaal! Yes! Please!
Remarkably Bright Creatures I loved but don’t know who narrated, and your book club pick The Frozen River too. Since getting older readers are necessary to read but tend to give me headaches and eye strain so that was when I turned to audio books. Plane trips are when I listen to them most now, but maybe I need to give them a try for walking and running errands too.
Sara Wagner says
The entire Emma M Lion series on Audio is AMAZING! The narrator is fantastic, the books are quick, the characters are FUN! I read while walking the dog, and I was in an audiobook hangover after finishing the last book.
Jacquelyn Jenkins says
Glad you are on the Audio Book train!! It’s another great way to get more books in. My favorite are memoirs because they are often read by the person. Best I’ve ever ‘read’ is Greenlights – what’s better than Matthew McCounaughey talking to you!? Another great one was Demi Moore’s Inside Out. Happy listening … I mean reading!
Kathryn Batwinis says
I love an autobiography when the author reads it themselves. Matthew McConagheys “green lights” is so good! Freida McFaddens books are super easy thriller-lite reads that are great as audio books
Michelle B says
There is a company that does audiobooks. I think it is called graphic audio. The tag line is a movie for your mine. It has sound effects etc. The books I have listened to are more fantasy books but good if you read those kind of books. I regular audiobook that you should listen to is Project Hail Mary. Excellent story and the audiobook adds some special. It is sci-fi but not too sciencey.
Lisa says
Can I say I love audio books! I love them because I can do other things while listening to the book! For our book club I choose audio first before buying the book.
Also, The Calamity Club must definitely be listened to. The accents are what make the book so great!
Cindy Smith says
I love Audiobooks! My sleep has improved 100% because I wear one AirPod and if I wake during the night, I can listen to my book for a few minutes and it puts me back to sleep. My favorite one that I recommend to everyone is The Dutch House by Ann Patchett and narrated by Tom Hanks. Need I say more?!?
Amy says
I can’t answer any of your questions but I have one for you. Do you listen to a book and read one at the same time? I haven’t tried audiobooks but I think I would get confused.
Mix and Match Mama says
I do not! I only listen to one book and only read another. You totally could do both, but I prefer separating them.
Bren says
Wow! Could only read through part of these comments right now, but such great information shared! Great post and appreciate all that has been shared here! I’ll have to come back later.
I mention on here frequently that I have commuted for quite some time now and Audiobooks and podcasts are my saving grace! Along with that, my family lives 4-6 hours away and I remember how it used to be such a treat for me to go and find a book on CDs to listen to while on a long drive. When books started being something I could listen to via my phone via my car I was downright giddy! 🙂
I have a schedule for my podcasts vs. books. Though sometimes if I’m really close to finishing a book, the podcast schedule might get rearranged. But it’s also fun, I always know what I am looking forward to next drive.
I too love anything read by Julia Whelan, like many above! But my favorite audiobook so far has 100% been the Correspondent. Hearing all of those characters brought to life, with different narrators, was fabulous!
A narrator will make or break a book for me. I frequently listen to the preview (on Audible, it’s the first 5 minutes of the book). I think sometimes I cannot authentically feel a character when a narrator is doing so many different voices in a book. I 1000% respect these amazing narrators for all the voices and accents, etc. they can do, but sometimes, it’s just too much for me. Maybe it takes away from what the narrator is actually saying? Hard to describe! For the Abby Jimenez books I’ve listened to, I really enjoy her male & female narrators. I’ve listened to quite a few now and I guess with each book those voices seem familiar and I am enjoying that!
Again, great post, Shay, thanks so much!
Erin says
Wow lots of thoughts on this already! Old audio book, that I listened to when I was traveling for work on CD was Nineteen minutes by Jodi Picoult, narrated by Cynthia Nixon. So good! Her broadway chops shine through with this, I bey she narrates others. I have listened to Mathew Perry’s bio, narrated by him after his passing. It was so raw about addiction. I’m not listening to the Calamity Club per your recommendation! So thank you! Unfortunately for me it may become how I am with Netflix, I spend more time looking at my options before picking one! Ha! so I need to be more specific.
Katie Brenning says
I have also started listening to audio books this year. I drive a lot for work so spending that time listening to book is amazing. I am also behind on my podcasts.
I flew through Amy Harmon’s historical fictions books. I could not stop, they were each so good. I started with What the Wind Knows. They were each different, but I loved her story telling. All are based on real person.
Thanks for the post. Going to check out the comments for other recommendations.
Jamie says
On pace to listen to over 100+ audiobooks this year! I nearly always listen at 1.5 speed or more.
The Road To Tender Hearts was an adorable and wonderful audiobook!
Narrator – anything by Julia Whelan will be a win!
Memoirs by the author are always so good too. Viola Davis’ was a fave. And Matthew M. “greenlights” too!
Keryn Dias says
The ones I’ve enjoyed so far this year are Five, This Story Might Save Your Life, Finding Grace, Good People, Start at the End, This Book Made Me Think of You
Agree that anything narrated by Julia Whelan is great.
Project Hail Mary is phenomenal. Is She Really Going Out With Him, 11/22/63 to name a few older ones
I never listen at 1.0. 1.5 to 1.75 typically
So glad you have seen the light 😉
Jennah says
Did you know that you get 15 hours of free audiobook time every month with Spotify plan? You can always add time for way less than buying an audiobook too. Guessing with teenage children, you already have a Spotify family plan… And they have all the current books available. Narrators def make or break an audiobook. Not sure I would have ever read Reese Witherspoon’s book, Gone Before Goodbye, but the audiobook version with diff actors reading each part was good. Same with Beautiful Ugly, not sure I would have read because it’s kind of intense but good audiobook with some sound effects too.
Emily says
I used to feel the same way , Shay! For me, and audiobook has to be really captivating. I just finished This Story Might Save Your Life which was SO FUN!! It added little extra audio clips to make the story even more engaging. It’s read by Julia Whelan, the audiobook queen.
Becca Buncie says
Oh yes this one is great on audio!
Heidi Gordon says
I prefer to read books mostly, but have found that memoirs or self-help style books I like as audiobooks. Definitely try the faster speed!
Margie says
Project Hail Mary is an incredible book to listen to in audio form.
I have a kid that’s neurodivergent and he does better listening to his textbooks and any class related readings (he actually prefers to both look at the text and listen to it). So after some research I discovered an app/ website called Speechify. It’ll read articles, PDFs, websites, books out loud and now I really like it too. Sometimes when I have a long drive and I really want to read an article or something, I’ll put it in that app and have it read it aloud to me. You can choose from many different voices (male, female, British accent, American accent, etc….) and speed levels.
Laura Berry says
I have listened to tons of audiobooks, and one that stands out in my mind is The Hail Mary Project….which they have since made into a movie. It is such an awesome story, but can get technical sometimes when explaining the science and engineering. So listening to it on audiobook while I did my power walking was a great way to get to enjoy the amazing story!
ERIN GOBIN says
I agree. Project Hail Mary is required listening for audio book lovers!
Jen says
I love audio books. They’ve changed my life haha. I now look forward to driving my kids to/from practice or going to work. I even listen to them now when working out! During my evening walk, its imperative to have a good book to keep me going. Life changing.
Linda says
I have listened to audible books for years, started with a job that allowed me to listen to music, books etc. all day. I first started with checking out library books on tape; they were free to borrow/check out and mostly unabridged versions. They eventually went to online versions. After ‘checking out” most of what I was interested in, I then I discovered Chirp. These I pay for and I can find books by my favorite narrators and authors. One of my favorite types of genres are biographies. These most likely are read by the actual author. It’s fun listening to the author tell the story of their lives. I still read a lot of books themselves and also read Kindle books. Right now, I am listening to a Robin Williams reading to me.
Chelsie says
This isn’t technically an audiobook, but I listened to the podcast Jane Austen Stories and Season 1 is Pride & Prejudice narrated by Julie Andrews. It was SO good! I have always wanted to read P&P but could never make myself actually do it. Julie Andrews’ voice was absolutely perfect for the story and made it such an enjoyable way to finally experience the book. Highly recommend!
Becca Buncie says
I have a very similar history with audiobooks. I thought I hated them and have really started to enjoy them. I will say that I like to listen to memoirs over reading them physically 90% of the time. I also really love when there are multiple voices such as in Calamity Club. I also really like audiobook when there is a lot of dialect or other languages used, for example I really enjoyed James on audio. I’ve also enjoyed listening to several of Ann Patchett’s books, as well as Fredrik Backman.
Elisabeth Hogue says
Listening to an autobiographical audiobook read by the author is my favorite. Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry and Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey are amazing in their own voice. They laugh throughout, show emotion- you really get such a sense of who they are. Highly recommend!
Jessamyn says
Came back to read all the comments!! This was helpful! One other book I remembered to recommend— do you remember the book your read some years back The Light in Hidden Places? It’s one of my favorites now thanks to your recommendation now but I listened to it in audiobook and the narrator is Polish and was actually friends with the main character in the book! When I gave away a copy of the book after I read it I looked through it and was SHOCKED at the spellings of some of the things in the book. The narrator helped me know the real pronunciations so well. I loved that one. Would be worth listening to even though you’ve read it!
Christen says
It was not published in 2026 and is now “older,” but Daisy Jones and the Six was the audiobook that turned me into an audiobook listener/reader. The cast is wonderful and that it is written as interviews works so well in audio format. I grew up listening to Adventures in Odyssey, so I love that books can take on the feel of a radio drama. I do agree with many that speeding the reading up to 1.25x is usually right. I’d also add that I decided to listen through the Bible this year, since it was written to be read aloud. I’ll be finished with the OT on Sept. 30 and I find myself having to hold back from moving ahead of the plan many days.
Jaren says
My mom got me into audiobooks!! Listening to them while doing “boring” things like laundry, dishes, and picking up kids here and there has made those things way more enjoyable! I’m often listening to a book and reading a book at the same time! My favorite audiobook to date was Mad Mabel!! I’ve also listened to most of the Freida McFadden books on audio!
Alyssa says
Julie Andrews reading her two autobiographical books “Home” and “Home Work” was a delight! And Kelly Bishop’s “The Third Gilmore Girl.”
Heidi says
I am a high school librarian, and I looooooooooooooove audiobooks! Lately more and more of my students are asking for them, and that makes me so happy! The best one I have EVER listened to is The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. (I have listened to it THREE times.) It is a young adult book, but I think adults would love it too!
ERIN GOBIN says
I’m currently listen to Into the Blue which is a current romance novel, narrates by Julia Whelan… The queen of all narrators. I’m only maybe 25% in so I can’t tell you that it’s fabulous yet but I’m enjoying it so far and it has fantastic reviews.
For an older book, since you loved The Rose Code you gotta read The Briar Club. And do a re-read of Daisy Jones and The Six on audio. So fantastic.