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23 Bestselling Audiobooks to Splurge Your Last Audible Credit On
Wondering about the greatest audiobooks ever? Well, I’m here to share the list of the top bestselling audiobooks of all time, which includes classics and modern gems.
Audiobooks are one of my favorite ways to escape reality. Whether I’m taking a break from work or making dinner, I always make sure to listen to a few of my favorite books that are even better as audiobooks. Most of these books I’ve enjoyed multiple times because they truly have the power to transport you to a different world. So, it’s no surprise that these books are must-listen audiobooks.
I honestly can’t choose a single favorite audiobook because they are all captivating and unique, narrated by incredible narrators. However, if you ask me to chose the greatest audiobooks of all time I’d say The Project Hail Mary narrated by Ray Porter and The Hobbit narrated by Andy Serkis should be at the top of your list. What makes these audiobooks compelling are the engaging narratives and the incredible performances by voice actors. I don’t think I will ever get bored of any of these best audiobooks of all time.
So, grab your headphones, and let’s start listening to these amazing audiobooks!
Best Selling Audiobooks to Listen Now
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Ann Patchett’s Tom Lake was a beautiful audiobook to listen to. If you know Patchett’s books, they often go at a slow pace, and it might seem like not much is happening, but then something surprising happens, just like in this one.
To be honest, what I liked the most about the book was Meryl Streep. She did a fantastic job with the narration. When she talked, I could really feel Lara’s emotions, like when she was happy or sad. It was like I was right there with Lara on her journey.
The Synopsis :
Tom Lake follows the lives of Lara and her three daughters as they return to the family orchard in Northern Michigan. They’re on a quest to uncover the story of Lara’s past romance with a famous actor from the Tom Lake theater company. As Lara reminisces, her daughters explore their own lives and reconsider their relationships with their mother. This novel delves into youthful love, married life, and the choices made before parenthood.
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Atomic Habits by James Clear
I don’t always include self-help books on my list of all-time best audiobooks, but I truly believe Atomic Habits belongs in this list. It’s one of the best self-help books that I think everyone should check out. It provides many practical tips on how to develop better habits.
You’ll be amazed at how small changes can create a significant impact over time. Clear’s narration was engaging as well.
The Synopsis :
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a guide to forming good habits and breaking bad ones. Clear offers practical strategies for habit formation, emphasizing the importance of systems over goals. He draws from biology, psychology, and neuroscience to provide a proven system for achieving remarkable results by focusing on small behaviors.
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The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
The Woman in Me is a powerful book and one of the most inspiring memoir audiobooks I have ever listened to. Honestly, I didn’t know much about Britney, as I’m not really into celebrity news.
But I found this book really great because it teaches you that sometimes you just have to keep moving forward. What made it even better was listening to Michelle Williams’ narration, which was truly amazing. She really brings out Britney’s emotions through her voice. And reading about Britney’s tough family life, her first love, her ex-husband, dealing with the paparazzi, and the media was genuinely heartbreaking.
The Synopsis :
The Woman in Me is Britney Spears’ powerful and candid memoir. It takes readers on her incredible journey, from her iconic career to her personal struggles. Britney shares her truth in this moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music and the importance of telling one’s own story.
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The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now is a really wise and inspiring audiobook. It talks about how important it is for all of us to change how we see the world. I am so glad I chose the audio format. Because author and narrator Tolle has a really calm voice that helps you focus more on the teachings and insights. It is definitely one of the life-changing audiobooks of all time.
The Synopsis:
In The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, readers are guided on a journey to live in the present moment, leaving behind the ego and analytical mind. Tolle simplifies complex concepts and helps readers connect with their inner being. This transformative book has the potential to radically change your life by emphasizing the importance of living in the now.
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American Gods by Neil Gaiman
If you ever feel like listening to Best selling full-cast audiobooks of all time, I would highly suggest starting with Neil Gaiman’s American Gods. It’s undoubtedly one of the best modern classics of all time. Its whimsical narration will take you on an epic journey. It’s also one of those audiobooks that you can turn to whenever you want to escape reality. The voice actors, including Neil Gaiman himself, did a fabulous job.
The Synopsis:
American Gods by Neil Gaiman follows Shadow, a man released from prison who encounters Mr. Wednesday, a former god and refugee from a distant war. Together, they embark on a mysterious journey across America, facing preternatural forces. This gripping novel explores the soul of America and unveils surprising discoveries about its gods.
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Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
I think Anxious People is a fantastic audiobook. Backman’s stories are funny, yet deeply meaningful.
It’s one of those audiobooks where the narrator does a perfect job with all the characters, even though there are so many of them. If I’ve read the book, I’d likely struggle to keep up with all the characters, and that’s why I applaud Marin Ireland’s performance.
She flawlessly brings out the diversity in the characters through her narration. The story is heartwarming and intricately crafted, with plenty of moments that will have you bursting into laughter.
The Synopsis:
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman is a poignant comedy that begins with a failed bank robber taking hostages during an apartment viewing. As tensions rise, eight strangers reveal their hidden truths, forming unexpected connections. Backman’s novel offers insights into the human condition and the importance of compassion.
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Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery
Anne of Green Gables is one of my favorite classic audiobooks. If you haven’t listened to it yet, you’re missing out. It’s a great story that made me love life more and dream bigger. There are many versions, but I recommend the free version from the site Lit2go. I can’t recall the narrator’s name, but it’s probably the best audioversion of Anne of Green Gables.
The Synopsis:
Anne of Green Gables introduces readers to Anne Shirley, an imaginative orphan who is mistakenly sent to a farm in Prince Edward Island. The story explores her adventures, vulnerability, and her impact on the Cuthberts who initially wanted to adopt a boy. It’s a timeless classic that portrays love, family, and the dreams of childhood.
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A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum
A Woman Is No Man is one of the life-changing fiction audiobooks.
This story struck me as one of the most powerful stories about domestic violence. And what’s even more heartbreaking is that the author draws from her own life experiences with arranged marriage and early motherhood. I really believe we should hear more stories like this one. The audiobook narrators did an excellent job making the characters and their emotions come to life in their performances.
The Synopsis
Etaf Rum’s debut novel, A Woman Is No Man delves into the lives of a conservative Arab family living in America. It follows Deya, who, like her mother Isra, faces the pressure of arranged marriages. However, a secret note challenges everything Deya believes about her past, uncovering complex family secrets.
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Becoming by Michelle Obama
Listening to Becoming felt like having a friend talk to me about her life. I really liked that Michelle Obama herself narrated the story, which made it feel more personal. I totally loved her journey, and I’m thankful that she showed that anyone can achieve their goals if they really want to. It’s inspiring and for sure one of the best audiobooks to check out.
The Synopsis:
In Becoming, Michelle Obama shares her remarkable journey from her childhood in Chicago to becoming the First Lady of the United States. Her memoir offers deep reflection, storytelling, and insights into her experiences. It’s a warm, honest, and inspiring account of her life and advocacy.
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Billy Summers by Stephen King
I’m not a fan of horror audiobooks because they always give me the creeps, and that’s why I’ve never listened to any of Stephen King’s books.
However, when I came across Billy Summers, I got really excited. The audiobook was a fast-paced and well-written thriller. It had a compelling plot with great characters. I have to give a shoutout to the narrator, Paul Sparks; he did an amazing job. I couldn’t stop listening, and every break I took, I was itching to find out what happens next. Trust me, Billy Summers is an unforgettable characters.
The Synopsis:
Billy Summers follows a hitman named Billy Summers, who seeks to leave his dangerous profession. However, one last job stands in his way. Stephen King weaves a suspenseful tale of intrigue, danger, and the unexpected.
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Mary Jane by Jessica Anya
Mary Jane is a gorgeous coming-of-age audiobook. The story, setting, and characters totally suck you into this exciting adventure.
You can’t help but want in on their world. This book got me thinking about how important good company is in life. The narrator Caitlin Kinnunen had such a sweet voice that suited the main character perfectly.
Honestly, I felt very sad when the story ended because I knew I would miss these vibrant characters. Another highlight of this audiobook is the fantastic original song.
The Synopsis:
Set in 1970s Baltimore, Mary Jane tells the story of a teenage nanny who becomes involved with a liberal household that includes a rock star and his wife. As she navigates this new world, Mary Jane gains insight into life, love, and her own aspirations.
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Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I’m a huge fan of writer Taylor Jenkins Reid, and I must say, Daisy Jones & the Six did not disappoint. The different voices in the audiobook gave it a whole different dimension. It was such an entertaining listen, and the characters felt so real.
The Synopsis:
Daisy Jones, a young girl in late sixties L.A., dives headfirst into the world of rock ‘n’ roll, and drugs. Her path collides with The Six, a band led by the brooding Billy Dunne. As their worlds intertwine, their journey to musical legend status becomes an unforgettable tale chronicled in this riveting novel, presented as an oral history.
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Dear Reader by Cathy Rentzenbrink
Dear Reader is very short but fantastic audiobook about a girl’s love for books. I think every bookworm should listen to this book. It’s absolutely fantastic, and there are so many great book recommendations as well.
The Synopsis:
Dear Reader” is a moving exploration of the transformative power of books. Cathy Rentzenbrink shares her personal journey of how reading saved her life repeatedly. It’s a heartwarming and joyful reflection on the role of books in our lives, filled with recommendations and a love for reading.
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Finding Me by Viola Davis
I loved Viola Davis in How To Get Away with Murder, so I was genuinely curious to learn about her journey. And let me tell you, Finding Me was inspiring beyond words. It’s about overcoming childhood trauma, poverty, heartbreak, and so much more. It’s truly an incredible audiobook that I will listen to again and again.
The Synopsis:
Viola Davis’ memoir, Finding Me, takes readers from her childhood in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the stages of New York City and beyond. It’s a story of finding purpose and self-identity in a world that often overlooks the truth. Viola’s candid narrative inspires readers to embrace radical honesty and discover their true selves.
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Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
Greenlights is an articulate and compassionate memoir that everyone should listen to. McConaughey’s narration feels personal and heartfelt. He shares many private moments, making it a deeply engaging audiobook.
The Synopsis:
Matthew McConaughey’s unconventional memoir offers raucous stories, outlaw wisdom, and life lessons learned the hard way. He reflects on fifty years of living and shares insights on everything from handling life’s challenges to achieving greater satisfaction. It’s a love letter to life itself.
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I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Another memoir audiobook that was truly inspiring, I’m Glad My Mom Died is written and narrated by iCarly actress Jennette McCurdy. This book really made me question the dark side of Hollywood and the reality of fame as a child star.
The Synopsis:
Jennette McCurdy’s memoir delves into her life as a former child actor, revealing struggles with eating disorders, addiction, and a complex relationship with her mother. It’s a heartbreaking and humorous exploration of resilience, independence, and the joy of self-discovery.
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It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
I’ve met people who have varying opinions about Colleen Hoover’s work, but for me, It Ends With Us was a true gem.
It’s a heartwarming, inspiring, and exceptionally beautiful story. It’s one of the most emotionally impactful audiobooks I’ve ever listened to. Lily and Atlas’ story has stayed with me, and I truly adored it. However, I should mention that it does tackle sensitive themes of sexual abuse and domestic violence.
The Synopsis:
Lily’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ryle Kincaid, a brilliant neurosurgeon. As they navigate a passionate yet complex relationship, Lily is haunted by her first love, Atlas Corrigan. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the choices that shape our lives.
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Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
I wasn’t really into sci-fi audiobooks, maybe because I always thought them to be difficult to read. But Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir took me by surprise. The narration is outstanding, and the writing is excellent. Ray Porter’s performance was spot on; he was absolutely perfect as Ryland Grace. Surprisingly, it was also easy to listen to as well.
The Synopsis:
Ryland Grace wakes up millions of miles from Earth, with no memory of his mission or his own name. As the sole survivor on a critical mission to save humanity, he must unravel a scientific mystery that holds the key to survival. It’s a gripping tale of isolation, survival, and the human spirit.
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The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
The Dutch House was an audiobook I chose to listen to solely because it was narrated by Tom Hanks. And I must say, I really loved it. Hanks as Danny is truly wonderful. It’s a perfect fit for Tom Hanks’ voice, and it beautifully explores the bond between siblings.
The Synopsis:
Danny and his sister Maeve are exiled from their family’s lavish estate, the Dutch House, by their stepmother. Set over five decades, this novel explores their enduring bond, family dynamics, and the quest for belonging. It’s a story of love and loss, resilience, and the ties that bind us.
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The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
I was hesitant to listen to The Great Alone at first because it was over 15 hours long, definitely not a short audiobook. But I’m so glad I did because it was truly a heart-wrenching story. The characters face a string of unfortunate events, and you feel really helpless as they go through each of them. The description of Alaska and the incredible narration by Julia Whelan truly make this a must-listen audiobook for everyone.
The Synopsis:
Set in 1970s Alaska, this novel follows the Allbright family as they navigate the challenges of living off the grid in the wild. Ernt Allbright, a former POW, leads his family into the wilderness, but as winter approaches, their isolation takes a toll on their relationships. It’s a tale of survival, love, and the human spirit.
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The Guest List by Lucy Foley
The Guest List was a brilliant audiobook. I couldn’t put this down; it was absolutely addictive.This was also another captivating full cast narration. Foley did a great job of creating a spooky feeling, and each narrator effectively delivered those eerie vibes, skilfully building tension and atmosphere.
The Synopsis:
On a remote island off the coast of Ireland, a wedding celebration turns dark and deadly. As resentments and secrets among the guests surface, a murder occurs, leaving everyone a suspect. The novel weaves a suspenseful and atmospheric tale reminiscent of Agatha Christie.
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The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
I found Andy Serkis’ fantastic performance in The Hobbit audiobook transporting me straight to Middle Earth, immersing me in the hobbit’s captivating adventures.
While we all recognize his brilliance as Gollum, I was pleasantly surprised to hear him master various character voices. From Gandalf to Thorin, and Dwalin, his interpretation added depth to the story, making it one of the top audiobooks worth listening to.
The Synopsis:
This timeless classic, The Hobbit introduces readers to Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an epic adventure filled with wizards, dragons, and mythical creatures. It’s a tale of bravery, friendship, and the magic of Middle-earth.
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The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
I haven’t listened to many thriller audiobooks, but The Last Thing He Told Me really encouraged me to explore more of them.
This audiobook proved to be a compelling thriller with an excellent plot. Rebecca Lowman was the perfect choice as the narrator. Her voice exuded intensity, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire narrative. A must-listen for any thriller enthusiast.
The Synopsis:
Hannah Hall’s life takes a dramatic turn when her husband, Owen Michaels, disappears, leaving behind a note instructing her to protect his daughter, Bailey. As Hannah unravels Owen’s secrets, she discovers a hidden world of deception and must forge a new path for her family.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Audiobooks
- Is listening to audiobooks as effective?
Yes, there are many studies showing that listening to audiobooks helps people remember what they’ve heard better than traditional reading. Personally, I find no real difference between reading and listening; sometimes, audiobooks make the story more enjoyable and easier to understand.
- How do I choose a good audiobook?
The best way to pick an audiobook is by selecting a genre that interests you. It’s important to consider your personal preferences rather than just following what others are listening to.
- What books are better to listen to than read?
I absolutely loved Project Hail Mary, it was one of the best audiobooks I listened to.
- What are the most popular types of audiobooks?
Popular audiobook genres include memoirs, romance, mysteries, thrillers, sci-fi, non-fiction, and self-help.
- Are audiobooks good for the brain?
Absolutely! Audiobooks offer brain benefits, like improved reading comprehension and a broader vocabulary. They’re not only entertaining but also beneficial for your cognitive health.
- Is it OK if I prefer audiobooks over regular books?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine! Audiobooks have numerous benefits and can even be better than physical books in certain situations.
- When should I listen to an audiobook?
You can listen while doing chores, working out, cooking, waiting in line, or during appointments. Audiobooks are versatile and a fun way to spend time, even during repetitive or monotonous tasks.
- Are audiobooks worth it?
Definitely! Audiobooks can improve comprehension and vocabulary and allow you to be productive while doing repetitive or monotonous tasks. They’re a valuable addition to your reading experience.
Conclusion:
So that’s the list of bestselling audiobooks that must-read for a reason.
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Stephy George
