Audiobooks have become increasingly popular over the years, offering a convenient way to enjoy literature while on the go. With the rise of streaming services like Audible, it’s easier than ever to access a vast library of audiobooks. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to listen to. That’s where we come in.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the best Audible books of 2023. We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various audiobooks to identify the ones that are worth your time. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling mystery, a heartfelt memoir, or a thought-provoking non-fiction book, we’ve got you covered.
When it comes to choosing the best Audible book, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to choose a book that interests you. It’s also important to consider the narrator’s performance, as a great narrator can enhance the listening experience. Additionally, the length of the audiobook and the cost per credit are important factors to keep in mind.
With all of that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top Audible books of 2023 that are sure to keep you entertained and engaged.
Top 3 Best Audible Books 2023
3. F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School
As avid readers and audiobook enthusiasts, we have scoured through countless titles to bring you the best Audible books of 2023. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming memoirs, our list has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the top picks that are worth adding to your listening queue.
The Summer House
If you’re looking for a fast-paced military thriller with a twist, The Summer House is a great choice.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that will keep you hooked until the end.
- Interesting and well-developed characters.
- Narrator Ari Fliakos does an excellent job of bringing the story to life.
Cons
- The courtroom scenes towards the end of the book may feel a bit over-the-top for some readers.
- Some of the military jargon and terminology may be confusing for those unfamiliar with it.
- The plot twists towards the end of the book may feel a bit contrived for some readers.
The Summer House is a thrilling military mystery that follows a team of Army investigators as they try to solve a series of murders at an old mansion. As they dig deeper into the case, they begin to uncover a web of lies and deception that threatens to tear their team apart.
The book is fast-paced and action-packed, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The characters are well-developed and interesting, and the narration by Ari Fliakos is top-notch.
Overall, if you’re a fan of military thrillers or just looking for an exciting read, The Summer House is definitely worth checking out.
The Woman in Me
If you’re a fan of Britney Spears and curious about her life, then you should definitely consider purchasing The Woman in Me. This audiobook gives listeners an in-depth look at the pop star’s struggles and successes, and it’s narrated by the talented Michelle Williams.
Pros
- The audiobook is unabridged, so you won’t miss a single detail of Britney’s story.
- The narration is engaging and well-done, making it easy to listen to for hours at a time.
- The book covers a wide range of topics, from Britney’s childhood to her rise to fame and beyond.
Cons
- The audiobook is only 5 hours and 31 minutes long, so you may find yourself wanting more.
- Some listeners may find certain parts of the book to be repetitive or unnecessary.
- The book is only available in English, so non-English speakers may have trouble understanding it.
If you’re a fan of audiobooks and celebrity memoirs, then The Woman in Me is definitely worth checking out. Britney’s story is both inspiring and heartbreaking, and this audiobook does an excellent job of telling it. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about Britney’s life, The Woman in Me is sure to be an enjoyable listen.
In this audiobook, Britney Spears shares her personal experiences with the entertainment industry and the conservatorship that has been in place for over a decade. She opens up about her struggles with mental health and the pressures of fame, giving listeners a glimpse into the life of a pop star. The narration by Michelle Williams is engaging and well-done, making it easy to get lost in Britney’s story.
Overall, we highly recommend The Woman in Me to anyone looking for a compelling and emotional audiobook. Whether you’re a fan of Britney Spears or just interested in celebrity memoirs, this audiobook is sure to be a great addition to your collection.
F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School
If you’re looking for an entertaining and educational Audible book, F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School is a great choice.
Pros
- Entertaining and humorous approach to history
- Short, bite-sized stories that are easy to listen to
- Narrator’s voice is engaging and easy to follow
Cons
- Some stories may contain offensive language or mature themes
- Not a comprehensive history book, but rather a collection of interesting stories
- Some listeners may find the humor to be too crass or vulgar
As history buffs, we were excited to try out F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School. We were not disappointed. The book takes a humorous approach to history, presenting short stories that are both entertaining and informative. The stories cover a wide range of topics and time periods, from ancient civilizations to modern-day events.
The book’s narrator, The Captain, has a great voice that is engaging and easy to follow. We found ourselves getting lost in the stories and forgetting that we were listening to an audiobook. The short length of each story also makes it easy to listen to in short bursts, which is great for busy lifestyles.
However, we do want to note that some listeners may find the humor to be too crass or vulgar. The book contains some offensive language and mature themes, so it may not be suitable for all audiences. Additionally, while the stories are informative, they are not a comprehensive history book. Rather, they are a collection of interesting stories that may pique your interest in certain topics.
Overall, we highly recommend F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School for anyone looking for an entertaining and educational Audible book. Just be aware of the mature themes and language before listening.
The Quarry Girls: A Thriller
If you’re looking for a captivating audiobook that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is a must-listen.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that will keep you hooked until the very end
- Well-developed characters that you’ll care about
- Narrator Jess Nahikian does an excellent job bringing the story to life
Cons
- The pacing can be slow at times
- Some readers may find the subject matter disturbing
- The ending may not be satisfying for everyone
From the moment we started listening to The Quarry Girls: A Thriller, we were completely engrossed in the story. Set in 1970s Minnesota, this audiobook tells the tale of a group of teenagers who explore the tunnels that connect their homes, only to stumble upon a dark secret that threatens to tear their town apart.
Author Jess Lourey does an excellent job of weaving together a complex web of characters and plotlines, all while maintaining a sense of tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat. We found ourselves caring deeply about the fate of the characters, and the twists and turns of the story had us guessing until the very end.
Narrator Jess Nahikian is a true talent, bringing each character to life with distinct voices and accents. We were impressed by her ability to capture the emotion and intensity of the story, and we can’t imagine anyone else narrating this audiobook.
While there were times when the pacing felt a bit slow, we didn’t mind too much because we were so invested in the story. However, some readers may find themselves getting impatient with the slower moments.
It’s also worth noting that some readers may find the subject matter of The Quarry Girls: A Thriller to be disturbing. The story deals with some heavy themes, including sexual assault and violence.
Finally, while we personally found the ending to be satisfying, we know that not everyone will feel the same way. Some readers may find the resolution to be a bit too neat and tidy.
Overall, we highly recommend The Quarry Girls: A Thriller to anyone looking for a gripping, well-written audiobook. Just be prepared for a few moments of discomfort along the way.
The Keeper of Happy Endings
If you’re looking for a heartwarming historical fiction audiobook, The Keeper of Happy Endings is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The book has a beautiful and engaging storyline that will keep you hooked.
- The author did an excellent job of weaving the stories of different women together.
- The book is well-written, with realistic characters and dialogues.
Cons
- The book is slow-paced in the beginning, and it takes a while for the stories to come together.
- The ending may be predictable for some readers.
- Some chapters may feel like flashbacks, which can be confusing for some readers.
We recently listened to The Keeper of Happy Endings, and we were impressed by how the author, Barbara Davis, interweaves the stories of different women who are connected in ways that are not immediately apparent. The book is set during World War II and follows the story of Soline, a young woman who dreams of becoming a dressmaker. Soline’s story is intertwined with that of her granddaughter, who is struggling to find her place in the world.
One of the things we loved about The Keeper of Happy Endings is how well-written it is. The characters feel real, and their dialogues are engaging. We also appreciated how the author tackled difficult themes such as loss, grief, and hope. The book is a beautiful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.
However, we must warn you that the book is slow-paced in the beginning, and it may take a while for the stories to come together. Additionally, some readers may find the ending predictable, and some chapters may feel like flashbacks, which can be confusing.
Overall, we highly recommend The Keeper of Happy Endings to anyone looking for a heartwarming historical fiction audiobook. It’s a beautiful story about love, loss, and hope that will stay with you long after you finish listening to it.
Where the Forest Meets the Stars
We highly recommend “Where the Forest Meets the Stars” for anyone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that will keep you engaged until the very end.
Pros
- The characters are unique and well-developed, making it easy to become invested in their lives and emotions.
- The story is both mysterious and heartfelt, with moments of intensity and moments of calm.
- The themes of trauma, attachment, and the magic of connection are seamlessly woven together, making for a captivating read.
Cons
- The scenario may be a bit far-fetched for some readers.
- The story can be emotionally intense at times, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a light read.
- The beginning of the book may be a bit slow for some readers, but it is worth sticking with it.
“Where the Forest Meets the Stars” tells the story of Jo, a graduate student doing research in rural Illinois, who meets Gabe, a man who sells eggs at a roadside stand, and Ursa Major, a little girl who insists she is an alien. As the three of them become closer, they must confront their past traumas and learn to rely on each other for healing and connection.
The characters in this book are unique and well-developed, making it easy to become invested in their lives and emotions. The story is both mysterious and heartfelt, with moments of intensity and moments of calm. The themes of trauma, attachment, and the magic of connection are seamlessly woven together, making for a captivating read.
While the scenario may be a bit far-fetched for some readers, the emotional intensity of the story may also be a bit much for those looking for a light read. Additionally, the beginning of the book may be a bit slow for some readers, but it is worth sticking with it.
Overall, we highly recommend “Where the Forest Meets the Stars” for anyone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that will keep you engaged until the very end.
The Housemaid
We highly recommend The Housemaid for anyone looking for a gripping psychological thriller.
Pros
- The plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Lauryn Allman’s narration is superb and adds to the suspenseful atmosphere.
- The writing is engaging and easy to follow.
Cons
- Some readers may find the story too dark or disturbing.
- The characters are not very likable, which may be a turn off for some.
- The pacing can be slow at times.
The Housemaid is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Nina, a wealthy woman who hires Millie as her housemaid. As the two women become closer, secrets are revealed and the plot takes unexpected turns.
One of the best things about The Housemaid is the plot twists. Just when you think you have everything figured out, the story takes another turn. The suspense builds throughout the book, and the ending is satisfying and surprising.
Lauryn Allman’s narration is also a highlight of this audiobook. She does an excellent job of bringing the characters to life and adding to the tense atmosphere. The writing is engaging and easy to follow, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
However, some readers may find the story too dark or disturbing. The characters are not very likable, which may be a turn off for some. Additionally, the pacing can be slow at times, which may make it difficult to stay engaged.
Overall, we highly recommend The Housemaid to anyone looking for a gripping psychological thriller. The plot twists, excellent narration, and engaging writing make it a must-listen.
Resurrection Walk
We highly recommend purchasing Resurrection Walk by Michael Connelly on Audible. This legal thriller is a captivating listen that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Pros
- The story is well-written and keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
- The narration by Peter Giles, Titus Welliver, and Christine Lakin is outstanding and adds depth to the characters.
- The plot is unique and thought-provoking.
Cons
- Some listeners may find the legal jargon difficult to follow at times.
- The story may be too intense for some listeners.
- The length of the audiobook may be too short for those who prefer longer listens.
Resurrection Walk is a legal thriller that follows Detective Harry Bosch as he works to exonerate a man who has been wrongfully imprisoned for decades. The story is well-written and keeps you engaged from beginning to end. The narration by Peter Giles, Titus Welliver, and Christine Lakin is outstanding and adds depth to the characters. The plot is unique and thought-provoking, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
One potential downside of Resurrection Walk is that some listeners may find the legal jargon difficult to follow at times. Additionally, the story may be too intense for some listeners. Finally, the length of the audiobook may be too short for those who prefer longer listens.
Overall, we highly recommend Resurrection Walk to anyone looking for a captivating legal thriller on Audible.
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir
We highly recommend Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir by Matthew Perry for anyone looking for an engaging and insightful audiobook.
Pros
- Matthew Perry’s narration is engaging and authentic, making the book feel like a personal conversation.
- The memoir offers a candid and honest look into Perry’s struggles with addiction and mental health, making it relatable and informative.
- The book provides an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the making of the hit TV show Friends.
Cons
- The book may not be suitable for those who are not fans of Friends or Matthew Perry.
- Some listeners may find the book’s content to be heavy and emotional.
- The book’s length may be too short for some listeners.
In Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir, Matthew Perry shares his personal struggles with addiction and mental health, as well as his experiences on the set of the hit TV show Friends. Perry’s narration is engaging and authentic, making the book feel like a personal conversation rather than a scripted audiobook.
The memoir offers a candid and honest look into Perry’s struggles, making it relatable and informative for anyone who has dealt with addiction or mental health issues. Additionally, the book provides an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the making of Friends, making it a must-listen for fans of the show.
Despite its strengths, the book may not be suitable for those who are not fans of Friends or Matthew Perry. Additionally, some listeners may find the book’s content to be heavy and emotional. Finally, the book’s length may be too short for some listeners, leaving them wanting more.
Overall, we highly recommend Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir for anyone looking for an engaging and insightful audiobook.
All the Broken Places: A Novel
If you’re looking for a captivating historical fiction audiobook, All the Broken Places: A Novel by John Boyne is a great choice.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish
- Well-developed and believable characters that you can’t help but root for
- Excellent narration by Kristin Atherton and Helen Lloyd
Cons
- May be emotionally heavy for some listeners due to the sensitive subject matter
- Some parts of the story may be predictable
- Lengthy listening time of 12 hours and 42 minutes
In All the Broken Places: A Novel, Boyne tells the story of Gretel, the daughter of a high-ranking SS officer who kept her father’s secrets hidden for years. The audiobook takes listeners on a journey through Gretel’s life, from her childhood in Nazi Germany to her adulthood in Paris, where she must confront her past and come to terms with the truth.
The storyline is incredibly gripping, and Boyne’s writing is both powerful and poignant. The characters are well-developed and believable, and you can’t help but become emotionally invested in their stories. The narration by Kristin Atherton and Helen Lloyd is also excellent, and they do a fantastic job bringing the characters to life.
While the audiobook is undoubtedly captivating, it may be emotionally heavy for some listeners due to the sensitive subject matter. Additionally, some parts of the story may be predictable, and the lengthy listening time of 12 hours and 42 minutes may be a deterrent for some.
Overall, we highly recommend All the Broken Places: A Novel to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotional historical fiction audiobook.
Tom Lake: A Novel
If you’re looking for a heartwarming story about family, love, and the simple joys in life, Tom Lake: A Novel is a must-listen audiobook.
Pros
- Meryl Streep’s narration is outstanding and brings the characters to life.
- The story is beautifully written and will leave you feeling uplifted.
- The book explores themes of family, love, and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures.
Cons
- The pacing of the story can be slow at times.
- Some listeners may find the plot predictable.
- The book may not be suitable for those who prefer action-packed or fast-paced stories.
From the first chapter, we were captivated by the story of Lara and Joe, who run a cherry orchard in Michigan. When the pandemic hits and they are unable to hire their usual seasonal workers, their three grown daughters come to their aid. The family must work together to harvest the fruit and keep the farm running, all while navigating the challenges of lockdown.
Ann Patchett’s writing is beautiful and evocative, and Meryl Streep’s narration is simply outstanding. She brings each character to life with nuance and depth, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story.
While the plot may be predictable at times, the book’s focus on family, love, and the simple joys in life make it a heartwarming listen that will leave you feeling uplifted.
Overall, if you’re looking for a beautifully written and expertly narrated audiobook that explores themes of family, love, and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures, Tom Lake: A Novel is a great choice.
The Edge
If you’re looking for a thrilling audiobook that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Edge by David Baldacci is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The plot is fast-paced and action-packed, making it a great choice for fans of suspense and mystery novels.
- The characters are well-developed and interesting, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
- The narration by Zachary Webber, Erin Cottrell, Will Collyer, Erin Bennett, and Tiffany Smith is top-notch, bringing the story to life in a way that feels immersive and engaging.
Cons
- Some listeners may find the violence and language in the book to be too intense for their tastes.
- The story can be a bit confusing at times, with multiple plot threads that don’t always come together seamlessly.
- The ending may be a bit predictable for some listeners, though it still manages to be satisfying overall.
Overall, we think that The Edge is a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling audiobook that will keep them entertained from start to finish. With well-developed characters, a fast-paced plot, and excellent narration, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best audible book, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your selection:
1. Narrator
The narrator of an audiobook plays a crucial role in the overall listening experience. A good narrator can bring a story to life and make it more engaging, while a poor narrator can detract from the enjoyment of the book. When choosing an audiobook, be sure to listen to a sample of the narrator’s voice to ensure that you find it pleasant and easy to listen to.
2. Genre
Just like with traditional books, audiobooks come in a variety of genres. Whether you’re looking for a mystery, romance, or self-help book, there’s an audiobook for everyone. Consider your personal interests and choose a genre that you enjoy.
3. Length
Audiobooks can vary in length from a few hours to over 50 hours. Consider how much time you have to listen to the book and choose a length that works for you. Keep in mind that longer books may require more time commitment, but can also provide a more in-depth and satisfying listening experience.
4. Production Quality
The production quality of an audiobook can greatly impact the listening experience. Look for audiobooks that have clear and consistent audio quality, with no background noise or distractions. Additionally, some audiobooks may include sound effects or music to enhance the listening experience.
5. Reviews
Before making a final decision, it’s always a good idea to read reviews from other listeners. Look for audiobooks with high ratings and positive reviews, as this can be a good indicator of a quality listening experience.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best audible book for your personal preferences and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some highly recommended audiobooks for 2023?
We have compiled a list of highly recommended audiobooks for 2023 based on their popularity and critical acclaim. Some of the top picks include “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah, “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig, “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir, and “The Push” by Ashley Audrain. These audiobooks offer engaging stories and exceptional narration that will keep you hooked until the very end.
What are some of the best audiobooks for a long road trip?
Long road trips can be tedious, but audiobooks can make the journey more enjoyable. Some of the best audiobooks for a long road trip include “The Martian” by Andy Weir, “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah, “The Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling, and “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams. These audiobooks offer engaging stories and exceptional narration that will keep you entertained for hours on end.
What are some good audiobooks for men?
If you’re looking for audiobooks that cater to the male audience, we recommend checking out “The Last Thing He Told Me” by Laura Dave, “The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown, “American Sniper” by Chris Kyle, and “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein. These audiobooks offer engaging stories and exceptional narration that will appeal to men of all ages.
What are some of the best nonfiction audiobooks?
Nonfiction audiobooks can be just as captivating as fiction. Some of the best nonfiction audiobooks include “The Code Breaker” by Walter Isaacson, “The Bomber Mafia” by Malcolm Gladwell, “Caste” by Isabel Wilkerson, and “The Splendid and the Vile” by Erik Larson. These audiobooks offer insightful and thought-provoking content that will expand your knowledge and understanding of the world.
What are some of the best mystery audiobooks for 2023?
Mystery audiobooks can keep you on the edge of your seat. Some of the best mystery audiobooks for 2023 include “The Sanatorium” by Sarah Pearse, “The Maidens” by Alex Michaelides, “The Survivors” by Jane Harper, and “The Perfect Family” by Robyn Harding. These audiobooks offer thrilling and suspenseful stories that will keep you guessing until the very end.
What are some of the best fantasy audiobooks for 2023?
Fantasy audiobooks can transport you to magical worlds and allow you to escape reality. Some of the best fantasy audiobooks for 2023 include “The Empire of Gold” by S.A. Chakraborty, “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon, “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab, and “The Burning God” by R.F. Kuang. These audiobooks offer enchanting stories and exceptional narration that will leave you spellbound.