The Top 10 Audiobooks of 2025

This sophisticated story follows an actress married to a university scholar, divided into two parts, each exploring how a young man could disrupt their marriage. Set in Manhattans creative and intellectual circles, Traci Kato-Kiriyamas understated narration gradually builds a sense of unease beneath the surface of refined relationships. Penguin Audio

In this modern horror masterpiece, a Native American transformed into a vampire seeks vengeance for the 1870 massacre of 200 unarmed Blackfeet women and children in Montana. The story unfolds in layers: the vampires confession appears in a white preachers journal, which is discovered by a contemporary academic descendant who hopes the journal will advance her career. The audiobooks three narrators skillfully highlight the different ways this tale is told, with Shane Ghostkeeper capturing the Indigenous storytelling perspective. Simon & Schuster Audio

Sarah Wynn-Williams narrates her own account of working at Facebook/Meta, detailing her shift from diplomat to corporate policy director. She portrays her colleagues, including Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg, without embellishment, offering a clear-eyed critique of the tech world and the disillusionment of a generation of idealists. Macmillan Audio

Edoardo Ballerini, celebrated for his narrations, presents a collection of classics in the public domain, including a Henry James novella. His performance brings to life a sensitive American girl navigating European society, alongside renditions of The Great Gatsby, Bartleby the Scrivener, Death in Venice, and select Gogol stories, making these audiobooks essential listening. Blackstone Publishing

Molly Jong-Fast delivers her memoir with a conversational ease, recounting her complex relationship with her mother, Erica Jong. Despite touching on dementia, the narration remains witty, irreverent, and deeply engaging, giving listeners the feeling of an intimate chat. Penguin Audio

Robert Macfarlane, a master of nature writing, narrates his own exploration of major rivers in Ecuador, India, and Canada. He treats rivers as living entities with distinct personalities, urging listeners to recognize their intrinsic value. His narration makes these waterways feel profoundly alive. Highbridge Company

E. Jean Carroll recounts surviving sexual assault and suing a former U.S. president with humor and verve. Her narration blends sharp legal insight with witty observations, demonstrating resilience and rhetorical mastery, making this memoir both moving and entertaining. Macmillan Audio

Kate Spinneys Proto explores the history of the Proto-Indo-European language and its descendants. Emma Spurgin-Husseys husky voice enhances the experience, bringing the ancient tongue to life and offering a soothing, immersive listening experience. Bloomsbury Publishing

Gem Carmella narrates a fairy-tale novel about two sisters in a village bordering Faerie, harvesting magical "grammar." Her vibrant rural English accent and lively storytelling elevate the tale, transforming it into a captivating fireside-like experience. Macmillan Audio

Michael Sheens narration of Philip Pullmans Book of Dust trilogy is an extraordinary embodiment of the novels. His portrayal of Lyra Belacqua and her adventures conveys full commitment to Pullmans vision, making these recordings a must-listen for fans of the series. Penguin Audio

Sources:

• The 10 Best Audiobooks of 2025

Author: Olivia Parker
Olivia Parker is a journalist and editor with over 8 years in media. She focuses on culture, arts, and social issues, skilled in feature writing and critical reviews.