Fantasy Audiobooks Are Trending, 17 To Dive Into
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Fantasy Audiobooks Are Trending, 17 To Dive Into

Magic, adventure, epic storytelling – the fantasy genre is booming and it’s perfectly suited to audiobooks, where skilled narrators, sound effects and background music can completely immerse you in other worlds. From timeless tales to future ‘romantasy’ classics, here are the ones we think are worth a listen…
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THE LATEST HITS

Throne Of Glass

By Sarah J. Maas

Action-packed and filled with court intrigue, Throne of Glass follows Celaena Sardothien, an assassin plucked from a prison camp and offered a chance at freedom – if she can survive a deadly tournament to become the King’s Champion. But sinister forces are at play inside the castle, and Celaena soon realises there’s more at stake than her own survival. With a planned Hulu adaptation in the works, now is the perfect time to dive into Maas’s bestselling series. Elizabeth Evans is the narrator across all seven books – but we also recommend checking out the dramatised versions for a full-cast experience.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

The Sword Of Kaigen

By M.L Wang

If you don’t want to get stuck into a seven-book series right now, The Sword Of Kaigen is a solid standalone fantasy – rare for the genre – inspired by Japanese samurai culture. This book delivers gut-wrenching emotion alongside thrilling, magic-fuelled battles. It follows Misaki, a mother who was once a warrior, and her son Mamoru, as they are forced to fight for their survival when war reaches their isolated mountain home. 

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

Blood Over Bright Haven

By M.L Wang

Another standalone piece from the same author, Blood Over Bright Haven is set in a city where magic and academia intertwine. Sciona, a dedicated scholar, uncovers dark secrets that challenge the foundations of her society. This tale delves into themes of ambition, morality and the pursuit of knowledge set against a richly imagined backdrop. Plus, narrator Moira Quirk is a specialist in the dark academia sub-genre.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK


Mistborn

By Brandon Sanderson

Imagine a world where the Dark Lord won. That’s the premise of Mistborn, where a small band of rebels plots to overthrow the immortal ruler who has dominated their land for a thousand years. With its unique metal-based magic system and a plot filled with jaw-dropping twists, this book is a modern fantasy classic. It’s on pause right now, but a film adaptation has been planned, so now is the perfect time to get ahead. Michael Kramer is the credited narrator on a lot of Sanderson’s books too, so you can be sure you’re in good hands.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

The Priory Of The Orange Tree

By Samantha Shannon

A soaring, dragon-filled epic that defies traditional fantasy tropes, The Priory of the Orange Tree features a diverse cast of characters across multiple perspectives, from a fierce queen who commands dragons to a skilled warrior with a dark past, and an ancient dragon who has seen centuries of war. As the world stands on the brink of destruction, these characters must unite against an unimaginable threat.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

The Poppy War

By R. F. Kuang

A brutal, war-torn fantasy inspired by Chinese history, The Poppy War follows Rin, a poor orphan who earns a place at an elite military school – only to discover the horrors of war firsthand when an ancient conflict reignites. Dark, thought provoking and utterly immersive, this book doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, making it a must-listen for fans of ‘grimdark’ fantasy.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK


THE ‘ROMANTASY’ GENRE-BREAKERS:

A Court Of Thorns And Roses

By Sarah J. Mass

You've likely seen this on trains, in bookstores and all over BookTok. If you’ve somehow managed to avoid it, A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a mortal girl caught in the world of faeries after killing a fae disguised as a wolf. The romantic arc between Feyre and the mysterious fae, Tamlin, is full of tension and passion – but all is not as it seems, particularly once the mysterious Rhysand arrives. This is the first in a five-book epic, though keen readers will also want to keep their eye out for the long-awaited sixth and final instalment, which is due in 2026.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

Fourth Wing

By Rebecca Yarros

A fast-paced, emotionally charged tale of dragons, danger and romance, Fourth Wing follows Violet, a student at a prestigious academy for dragon riders, as she battles both external threats and her own vulnerabilities. As Violet and her fellow cadets navigate their training, a romantic tension develops, drawing readers into an engaging love story amid the fierce action. Narrated by Rebecca Soler (who’s narrated other notable fantasy books by authors like Stephanie Garber) and Teddy Hamilton, we also recommend the two existing follow-ups – Iron Flame and Onyx Storm. Five books are eventually expected to round out this modern saga. 

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

Crimson Moth

By Kristen Ciccarelli

 Crimson Moth follows Seraphine, a young woman thrust into a world of high society and ancient magic, where every move could be her last. With only her wits and her blossoming magical abilities to guide her, she must navigate treacherous political schemes and deadly secrets. But as she grows closer to a mysterious and enigmatic companion, a slow-burning romance begins to ignite, adding a tantalising layer of emotion to an already thrilling journey. With danger at every turn and a love that’s as unpredictable as the magic around her, Seraphine’s story will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK


The Very Secret Society Of Irregular Witches

By Sangu Mandanna

A refreshing change of pace, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a charming and witty romantasy. Mika, a witch whose magic doesn’t quite fit the mould of traditional witchcraft, is called to teach a young girl in a secluded house. As she becomes entangled with the quirky and endearing residents, she finds herself drawn to a world full of unexpected bonds, warmth and a touch of magic. With its delightful characters, cosy atmosphere and a sprinkle of romance, this is the perfect feel-good fantasy for those who like their magic with a side of humour.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

Six Of Crows

By Leigh Bardugo

A heist story set in the same world as Shadow and BoneSix of Crows follows Kaz Brekker, who assembles a crew of six outcasts for an impossible heist that could change everything. A convict seeking revenge, a sharpshooter with a bet to win, a runaway with a hidden past, a spy known as the Wraith, a Heartrender using magic to survive and a thief with a knack for escapes – together, they’re the world’s only hope. If they don’t kill each other first. Romance sparks but the heist is the real focus, with morally complex characters and high-stakes tension brought to life by a dynamic, diverse narration. 

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

Sunrise On The Reaping

By Suzanne Collins

A prequel to The Hunger Games series, Sunrise on the Reaping follows a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy as he faces the brutal and violent Hunger Games. Set in the tense build-up to the 50th annual Hunger Games, the story explores Haymitch's early years, his personal struggles and his emotional journey during the Quarter Quell. As the Games unfold, Haymitch realises that he’s been set up to fail – but his spirit to fight back is strong. The audiobook is narrated by Jefferson White, best known for his role as Jimmy Hurdstrom in Yellowstone, whose gripping performance brings the story’s intensity and Haymitch's journey to life. 

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK


THE CLASSICS:

Dune

By Frank Herbert

Originally published in 1965, Dune left a defining mark on the fantasy genre. As you may be aware, it underwent the Hollywood treatment with Denis Villeneuve’s star-studded adaptation, featuring Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, backed up by Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Austin Butler and Christopher Walken. It’s a long wait for Dune Part 3 – its release date is currently December 2026 – meaning there is plenty of time to sink your teeth into the original material narrated by audiobook favourite Scott Brick.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

The Assassin’s Apprentice

By Robin Hobb

The first book in the Farseer Trilogy, The Assassin’s Apprentice follows FitzChivalry, the bastard son of a prince, as he is trained to be an assassin in a royal court filled with political intrigue and dangerous secrets. American actor Paul Boehmer’s performance as narrator captures the nuances of Fitz’s journey, from his isolated childhood to his role in the kingdom’s politics.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

The Lord Of The Rings

By J.R.R. Tolkien

Perhaps the most iconic fantasy series of all time, The Lord of the Rings follows Frodo Baggins and his companions as they set out to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron. The late, great Rob Inglis gives a captivating performance that brings Tolkien’s detailed world and complex characters to life. We also recommend checking out The Hobbit narrated by Andy Serkis, who also voiced Gollum in the Peter Jackson-directed films.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK


His Dark Materials: Northern Lights

By Philip Pullman

A magical adventure filled with daemons, parallel worlds and dark conspiracies, Northern Lights is a classic that blends philosophy with fantasy. HBO’s hit adaptation of  the Dark Materials series, starring Dafne Keen and James McAvoy, has introduced it to a new generation. But here you rediscover the original text, narrated by Ruth Wilson – the enigmatic Mrs Coulter herself.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

A Game Of Thrones

By George R.R. Martin

The book that launched a global phenomenon, A Game of Thrones is a brutal tale of power, betrayal and dragons. Narrated by veteran British actor Roy Dotrice, this gripping story introduces listeners to unforgettable characters and an addictive plot. In the fight for the Iron Throne, survival means bloodshed, dark forces and relentless ambition. With Dotrice’s masterful performance, Martin’s intricate world comes to life. While the HBO series has ended, the books remain a masterpiece of storytelling – and there’s still apparently more to come.

Available at AUDIBLE.CO.UK

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