Summer listening: the best audiobooks to take on holiday

Recommended by Mia Lioni, Audio Editor

Narrated by Teddy Hamilton and Angel Pean

Why listen to this: If you're looking for your next addictive romantasy obsession, Daggermouth is an unmissable summer listen. This viral dystopian romance combines heart-racing action, political intrigue and a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance in a world where love can cost you your life. Performed in immersive duet narration by romance favourites Teddy Hamilton and Angel Pean, every conversation feels immediate, cinematic and packed with tension, making it almost impossible to press pause.

If you're looking for: Dystopian romance, enemies to lovers, forced marriage, morally grey characters, political intrigue, slow-burn romance, revolution, high-stakes fantasy, immersive duet narration.

Great for fans of: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Conform by Ariel Sullivan, Quicksilver by Callie Hart.

Why I love it: The duet narration takes this audiobook to another level. Teddy Hamilton and Angel Pean bring so much chemistry, emotion and bite to Greyson and Shadera's story that it feels as though you're listening in on every confrontation and reluctant confession in real time. It's exactly the kind of all-consuming audiobook you'll find yourself making excuses to keep listening to.

Recommended by Mia Lioni, Audio Editor

Narrated by Patricia Allison

Why listen to this: Spanning decades, countries and missed chances, Kiran Millwood Hargrave's breathtaking novel follows two women whose lives become entwined after a chance meeting in 1970s Paris. Patricia Allison (Sex Education) delivers a beautifully intimate performance, bringing warmth, vulnerability and authenticity to both the novel's bilingual English-French setting and its deeply emotional queer love story.

If you're looking for: Epic love stories, queer romance, emotional literary fiction, second chances, coming of age, historical fiction, French settings, character-driven novels.

Great for fans of: One Day by David Nicholls, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, Normal People by Sally Rooney, Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman, Past Lives (film)

Why I love it: Patricia Allison's narration captures every moment of hope, longing and heartbreak with such honesty that it feels as though she's confiding the story directly to you. Her effortless handling of the French dialogue and beautifully measured performance make this one of those audiobooks that feels completely immersive – perfect for getting lost in on a long summer journey.

Recommended by Mia Lioni, Audio Editor

Narrated by Laura Aikman 

Why listen to this: Motherfaker will have you laughing out loud while still pulling at your heartstrings. This brilliantly original comedy follows an exhausted teacher who fakes a pregnancy to escape her life, only to discover that keeping up the lie is far more complicated than she imagined. Narrated by Laura Aikman (Gavin & Stacey), whose impeccable comic timing, expressive character work and brilliantly dry delivery bring Barri's increasingly chaotic scheme to life, it's as warm as it is hilarious.

If you're looking for: Laugh-out-loud fiction, witty female protagonists, workplace comedy, fresh contemporary fiction, found family, second chances, uplifting reads, British humour.

Great for fans of: The Husbands by Holly Gramazio, The Burnout by Sophie Kinsella, Alexandra Potter, Catastrophe, Gavin & Stacey.

Why I love it: This is exactly the kind of audiobook that makes everyday jobs feel more entertaining. Laura Aikman's performance captures Barri's dry wit, mounting panic and unexpected vulnerability so perfectly that you can't help rooting for her – even when she's making spectacularly bad decisions. It's funny, clever and surprisingly moving in all the right places.

Recommended by Mia Lioni, Audio Editor

Narrated by the author

Why listen to this: This book is full of practical leadership advice you can put into action straight away. In sixty concise, high-impact chapters, entrepreneur and The Apprentice interviewer Mike Soutar shares the lessons he's learnt from building businesses and assessing some of Britain's most ambitious entrepreneurs. Read by Soutar himself, the audiobook also includes an exclusive interview with entrepreneur Simon Squibb and immersive sound design, making it a dynamic and engaging listen.

If you're looking for: Leadership, entrepreneurship, career development, business strategy, AI in the workplace, management, productivity, bite-sized learning, personal growth.

Great for fans of: Simon Sinek, Steven Bartlett, Rory Sutherland, Simon Squibb, The Diary of a CEO, The Apprentice

Why I love it: The short, micro-learning chapters make this incredibly easy to dip into, whether you're commuting, travelling or fitting in a quick listen between meetings. Hearing Mike Soutar deliver the advice himself gives it extra authority, and the exclusive Simon Squibb interview and playful Apprentice-style audio touches make it feel much more than a standard business audiobook.

Recommended by Ellie Tucker, Assistant Audio Editor

Narrated by the author

Why listen to this: This is the perfect choice for true crime fans, full of unexpected twists, jaw-dropping details and deep narrative tension. Patrick Radden Keefe investigates the tragic death in 2019 of London teenager Zac Brettler, who fell from a luxury Thames-side apartment. While trying to get to the bottom of his death, his family discover he had been secretly posing as the son of a wealthy Russian oligarch. Read fantastically by Keefe himself, London Falling navigates an intersection of teenage make-believe and London's terrifying underworld, slowly layering the facts of the case and delving into the network of personalities and misdemeanors which contribute to this extraordinary tragedy. This is non-fiction which reads like fiction, delivered masterfully by the investigative reporter who spent years uncovering the case.

If you’re looking for: Investigative journalism, true crime, London setting, wealth and deception, social history, authoritative narration, literary non-fiction.

Great for fans of: Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe, investigative podcasts like Serial.

Why I love it: I was completely hooked by this audiobook from the start due to Keefe’s narration. In a sea of over-dramatized or sensationalised true crime, his measured, journalistic pacing is a breath of fresh air. Because he is the one who did the legwork, every revelation feels earned, and he guides you through the city's dark underbelly methodically yet empathetically. It is utterly riveting.

Recommended by Nick Griffiths, Audio Production Manager

Narrated by Joanne Froggatt

Why listen to this: This is a compulsive,  high-stakes thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last minute. Brilliant narration by Joanne Froggatt (Downton Abbey, Liar) elevates the suspense, perfectly capturing the mounting tension of a trial where everyone has something to hide. The story follows Leila Reynolds, a barrister suddenly handed her first high-profile murder case: defending a man accused of killing a well-respected judge. But her client refuses to speak to anyone including her, and as Leila fights to win a seemingly unwinnable case in front of a jury, she is also forced into a desperate battle to keep her own dark secrets buried.

If you're looking for: Courtroom drama, psychological thriller, legal procedural, debut novel, buried secrets, high-stakes twists, moral dilemmas, British justice system, celebrity narration.

Great for fans of: Presumed Innocent, Anatomy of a Scandal by Sarah Vaughan, Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister, Apple TV's Defending Jacob, Alice Feeney.

Why I love it: Joanne Froggatt is the perfect voice for this audiobook. Her background in TV thrillers really shines through as she captures Leila’s sharp professional exterior alongside her growing internal panic. The courtroom strategy scenes are so smartly written and immersive that you feel like a member of the jury, constantly shifting your allegiance and trying to spot the liars right up until the final twist.

Recommended by Mide Oluwayemi, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by Bel Powley, Richard Armitage and Henry Rowley

Why listen to this: Featuring an all-star cast including Bel Powley, Richard Armitage and Henry Rowley, the audiobook uses cinematic sound design to elevate the suspense to a fever pitch. The story follows Eden Fox, an artist on the verge of her big break, who returns from a run to her new home only to find her key doesn't fit. A woman eerily similar to her answers the door, and her husband insists the stranger is his wife. This audiobook promises obsession, webs of deception, and mysteries where absolutely nothing is as it seems. You’ll be breathless by the end of it.

If you’re looking for: Immersive audio drama, psychological thriller, domestic suspense, unreliable narrators, cinematic soundscapes, plot twists, marriage secrets.

Great for fans of: The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, All the Colours of the Dark by Chris Whitaker, Fool Me Once (and other Harlan Coben Netflix adaptations)

Why I love it: There are so many unique elements to audio as a format, and I love when a production explores the possibilities of this medium. From the rhythmic pounding of footsteps to the chilling creak of a door opening, I love this audiobook for the way it turns the words of Alice Feeney into a cinematic experience. The narrators really bring this captivating story together. While Richard Armitage unsurprisingly offers his signature style and gravitas, I was really impressed by Bel Powley’s ability to seamlessly capture the complexities of a host of duplicitous female characters. For me, My Husband’s Wife is thriller at its best.

Recommended by Mide Oluwayemi, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by Lorne MacFadyen

Why listen to this: If you are looking for a beautifully atmospheric, deeply affecting audiobook to keep you company this summer, then get ready to download the latest masterpiece from Booker Prize-winner Douglas Stuart. Set against the sweeping, windswept backdrop of the Outer Hebrides, the story follows John-Calum Macleod, who returns from art school to his childhood croft on the Isle of Harris with empty pockets and a heavy heart. Caught between his strict Presbyterian father and his pragmatic Glaswegian grandmother, Cal grapples with his identity, unsaid truths, and the aching loneliness of his remote island home. Read by the wonderful Lorne MacFadyen, listen to this stunning, slow-burn exploration of fractured family bonds for its emotional resonance.

If you’re looking for: Literary fiction, family drama, coming-of-age, LGBTQ+ fiction, evocative Scottish settings, complex family dynamics.

Great for fans of: Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart, The Blackwater Lightship by Colm Tóibín, The Matrix by Lauren Groff.

Why I love it: I love how the Scottish setting is as much a character as the people. I also believe the perfect narrator was chosen to perform this audiobook. Through his voice alone, Lorne MacFadyen conveys the crushing weight of expectation that permeates this story. MacFadyen’s Isle of Skye roots bring a rich, genuine texture to the narration. It’s remarkable that this is MacFadyen's audiobook debut: he delivers an astonishingly assured and tender performance. Aided by a Scottish Gaelic expert to ensure perfect pronunciation of the region's language, MacFadyen captures the simmering tensions and quiet heartbreak of Cal’s world with a rare brilliance, again adding to the authenticity of the story. 

Recommeded by Nelle Osei, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by Shelley Conn

Why listen to this: This is the perfect high-energy, laugh-out-loud adventure to power you through a summer road trip. When Maggie, a resilient fifty-something, discovers that the love-of-her-life has conned her out of her life savings and home, she pairs up with a sharp young reporter named Flick to catch him. Narrator Shelley Conn brings brilliant comic timing and rich emotional depth to this fast-paced journey, effortlessly steering the story from a chaotic European manhunt into a deeply moving, joyful celebration of female friendship and self-discovery.

If you’re looking for: Laugh-out-loud comedy, European road trip, female friendship, mid-life reinvention, Uplifting fiction, witty dialogue, intergenerational bonds.

Great for fans of: Confessions of a Fortysomething F##k Up by Alexandra Potter and The Switch by Beth O'Leary.

Why I love it: Conn’s performance makes you feel like you've piled into the passenger seat right next to Maggie and Flick. It has all the sparkling, chaotic energy of a classic summer read, but it’s anchored by wonderful, warm themes of friendship and soul-searching.

Recommeded by Nick Griffiths, Audio Production Manager

Narrated by Imelda Staunton 

Why listen to this: The Gruffalo is magical way to keep the little ones entertained during long summer car rides or cosy bedtimes. This undisputed modern classic comes alive through a rich soundscape filled with music, sound effects, and a bonus song and read-along track. Narrated by the enchanting Imelda Staunton, this award-winning rhyming story follows a quick-witted mouse taking a stroll through the deep dark wood. When he comes face to face with a fox, an owl, a snake, and a hungry Gruffalo, he'll need all his wits about him to avoid becoming their next snack!

If you’re looking for: Children's classics, rhyming story, magical soundscapes, bedtime stories, family listening, animals, quick-witted heroes, interactive songs.

Great for fans of: Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen, The Gruffalo's Child by Julia Donaldson, and the Paddington films.

Why I love it: Imelda Staunton’s narration is pure magic. She brings a wonderful warmth and theatrical energy to the deep dark wood that completely spellbinds young listeners (and parents, too!). Combined with the immersive music and sound effects, it turns a beloved picture book into a vibrant audio adventure that you won't mind hearing on repeat.

Recommeded by Ellie Tucker, Assistant Audio Editor

Narrated by the author and Teddy Winter

Why listen to this: This is a gentle, reassuring, and completely charming way to help the toddler in your life prepare for the big leap to Reception this September. Moving through a full school day – from morning drop-off and finding your coat peg to lunchtime decisions and playground fun – this sweet story normalizes school routines to ease pre-first-day jitters. What makes this production truly special is the casting of eight-year-old child actor Teddy as Roo; his authentic, friendly voice acts as a welcoming, slightly older peer guiding young listeners through the day. Backed by immersive schoolyard soundscapes and a tips section read by author Camilla Reid, I Am Ready For School will help pre-schoolers and their adults feel more familiar with this milestone transition.

If you’re looking for: School readiness, preschool, comforting narration, child voice actor, early years development, parenting tips, immersive soundscapes, educational, reassuring.

Great for fans of: Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, the Pip and Posy series, Bluey.

Why I love it: I think the decision to cast a child actor makes this audiobook really special. Teddy’s performance brings a genuine, peer-level warmth that an adult narrator simply couldn't replicate. I think it’s so important not to talk down to young people, no matter their age, and I think this book makes the school environment feel instantly safe and familiar rather than intimidating. Combined with the practical tips for adults at the end, I Am Ready For School is a beautifully crafted, holistic package that gives families the reassurance they need during a major life stage.

Recommended by Ellie Tucker, Assistant Audio Editor

Narrated by the author and Aaron Yamawaki, Christopher Hastings, Helen Laser, Lipica Shah, Max Meyers, Torian Brackett

Why listen to this: This laugh-out-loud, high-energy blockbuster audio adventure is sure to entertain the whole family. Travel undercover with Mango and Brash, two alligator secret agents on a hilarious mission to solve a bakery kidnapping before the secret recipes fall into the wrong hands. Transforming a highly visual graphic novel into an audio masterpiece, this production features a phenomenal full cast – including the author himself – and layers of fun sound effects and snappy music, sure to engage and excite listeners of all ages.

If you’re looking for: Family-friendly comedy, full-cast audio, immersive sound design, graphic novel adaptation, secret agents, talking animals, goofy mystery, teamwork and friendship.

Great for fans of: Dog Man by Dav Pilkey, Bunny vs Monkey by Jamie Smart, The Bad Guys film

Why I love it: I am obsessed with the sheer energy of this production! Fun fact: the actors recorded this synchronously, meaning they were all in the same room at the same time. And you can genuinely hear how much fun they're having together in the studio, bouncing off each other and making the comedy sing. The sound effects are brilliantly placed, amplifying the silliness without ever overwhelming the story, making it a rare audiobook that I think would keep both kids and parents completely glued to the speakers.

Recommended by Nick Griffiths, Audio Production Manager

Narrated by Tom Babbage

Why listen to this: A laugh-out-loud adventure to keep the kids entertained all summer. This zany, action-packed story follows a pint-sized demigod banished to Earth who must complete twelve legendary tasks to get back home, starting with defeating a 'lion' (which might actually just be a very grumpy cat). Narrated by Tom Babbage, the audiobook is a fully produced, high-energy experience packed with hilarious character voices, immersive sound effects, and music that bring the comic-book style story to life.

If you’re looking for: Children's comedy, action and adventure, Greek mythology with a twist, laugh-out-loud humor, full-production audiobooks, sound effects and music, heroic quests.

Great for fans of: Bunny vs Monkey, Dog Man, InvestiGators by John Patrick Green, and high-energy animated comedies.

Why I love it: It is basically impossible to listen to this without cracking a smile! Tom Babbage’s narration is incredibly energetic, and the addition of cartoonish sound effects and music makes the whole experience feel like you're listening to a Saturday morning cartoon. It’s fast-paced, wonderfully silly, and the absolute perfect companion for family road trips.

Recommended by Nelle Osei, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by Robyn Holdaway

Why listen to this: Alex Abbott is [Un]Dead is a brilliantly hilarious supernatural comedy. When ordinary kid Alex Abbott accidentally gets turned into a vampire, they find out that cool powers definitely don't make up for a lifetime ban on chips and ice cream. After accidentally breaking an ancient pact, Alex is forced on a high-stakes quest to bargain with a Sicilian fire demon. Narrator Robyn Holdaway delivers a masterclass performance, capturing Alex’s wit and reluctant heroism with a voice that jumps right out of the speakers.

If you’re looking for: Vampires and monsters, laugh-out-loud comedy, supernatural adventure, family listening, coming-of-age, middle-grade fiction.

Great for fans of: Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan, Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston, or fans of Wednesday and Loki.

Why I love it: As Alex is not assigned a gender, the casting of non-binary narrator Robyn Holdaway beautifully honors the author's inclusive vision. Holdaway’s narration is an absolute triumph, they capture that perfect, hyper-relatable blend of pre-teen sarcasm and frenzy. 

Recommended by Nelle Osei, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by the author

Why listen to this: If you are looking for an inspiring audiobook, this beautiful guide to discovering the joy of being wholly yourself is an essential choice. Written and narrated by Emma Slade Edmondson, co-host of the award-winning Mixed Up podcast, this audiobook helps mixed-race children proudly explore their heritage, learn about global history, and find the words to talk about their identity. Emma’s warm, reassuring voice guides listeners through practical advice and heartfelt letters from inspiring mixed-race figures. The audiobook also includes an exclusive Q&A at the end, making it a perfect conversation-starter for families looking to connect on a deeper level.

If you’re looking for: Identity and heritage, family listening, practical advice, mixed-race history, self-love and confidence.

Great for fans of: The Anti-Racist Kid by Tiffany Jewell, Black and British by David Olusoga. 

Why I love it: The themes of identity within this audiobook coupled with Emma’s warmth and empathy make it an incredibly powerful listen for children and adults alike. It handles big, important themes with such a light, joyful touch that it never feels like a lecture, perfect for kickstarting potentially difficult conversations in an accessible way.

Recommended by Mide Oluwayemi, Audio Editorial Assistant

Narrated by the author

Why listen to this: This story follows Patch Simmons, a highly dramatic teen who has officially decided that this is the year he gets a boyfriend. When two mysterious new boys join the school drama club, Patch and his overly supportive best friend Jean launch a full-scale romantic mission. The only minor hiccup? He has absolutely no idea if either of the boys likes him, or even guys for that matter. Harry Trevaldwyn’s hilariously fresh YA debut is an absolute must-listen. This audiobook truly captures the awkward, overconfident and entirely endearing chaos of teenage crushes.

If you’re looking for: YA rom-com, LGBTQ+ romance, coming-of-age, laugh-out-loud humour.

Great for fans of: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging: Confessions of Georgia Nicolson by Louise Rennison, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole by Sue Townsend, Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding. 

Why I love it: It’s amazing when a comedian reads their own work. I love how Trevaldwyn brings his flair for comedic timing to the narration and lands every snarky comment and punchline, making the audiobook incredibly entertaining. He turns what is already a brilliant YA novel into a vibrant and heartwarming tribute to the coming-of-age experience. It was almost impossible for me to listen to this without feeling completely giddy!