The Best Audiobooks of 2026 (So Far)

It's hard to believe 2026 is half over, and we have half a year of publishing out in the world. We've already seen blockbuster hits from new and seasoned authors alike with a variety of award-winning narrators and said authors bringing those stories to life. This is only a sampling of all the great publishing we've seen so far, so be sure to shop here to find more favorites for your digital library.

 

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George Saunders returns with an imaginative new story about the pivotal moment between life and death. Jill “Doll” Blaine accompanies the dying as they transition to the afterlife—but her latest assignment forces her to reckon with the fragility of humanity. "The three main narrators are splendid. Judy Greer, as the youthful Doll Blaine...MacLeod Andrews performs the Frenchman...[and] Stephen Root captures the onetime oil baron's unrepentant attitude."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

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Tasked with interviewing his mentor without a recording device, the narrator of this Ben Lerner novel falls into a tender meditation on art, technology and what it really means to be alive. Audie award-winning narrator Seth "Numrich narrates this metaphysical, poetic journey with great sensitivity and a perceptive ear for heightened language."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

 

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Discover Upward Bound, a center for disabled adults, complete with a cast of eclectic patients and their overworked caretakers. Offering unique perspectives from complex characters, Woody Brown intricately weaves delicate storylines with empathy and warmth, delivering an inspiring novel of acceptance and hope. Narrated by a full cast and garnering a coveted Earphones Award, the "[e]mpathetic and heartbreaking performances embrace the messy, beautiful lives of people surviving despite a broken system."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

 

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Natalie seemingly has it all, the perfect husband, kids and a thriving social media empire — but things are about to change. When she suddenly finds herself in an alternate universe from another century, a darkly hilarious story unfolds. This electrifying debut novel about the unraveling of a lifestyle influencer is a sharp commentary on family, faith and fame.

 

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Two unlikely allies, one house full of secrets — in a world teetering on the brink of a suspected apocalypse, a resident of a well-protected mansion is found dead. Thrills, humor and suspense unfold in this locked-room mystery. Joe Jameson and English actor Sir Derek Jacobi "deliver a captivating performance that celebrates the tale's mix of drama and farce."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

 

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Imagine coming home from a run and being replaced. This is what happens to Eden ... or does it? The author of Rock Paper Scissors returns with another crafty domestic thriller. "Three accomplished narrators skillfully present this thriller...and outstanding sound effects provide some relief from the tension."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

 

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The author of Mercury weaves a lyrical tale of two folk singers, decades apart, and the ambitions that burn bright in their music and memories. This full cast audiobook brought home the Earphones Award for these three narrators and "[l]isteners will appreciate the addition of original soulful songs performed by the narrators, which have been woven throughout the audiobook."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

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This ambitious twist on the Beast of Gevaudan weaves history with chilling mythology for a dark and haunting love story. Earphones Award Winning narrators "Rory Barnett delivers an immersive performance, creating distinct, richly textured characters [and] Imogen Church narrates addendum chapters from the point of view of a succubus with equal skill."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

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Billy Eichner is ready to tell his story, and he's telling it on his own terms: as an audiobook memoir original. Eichner has spent a lifetime building a career of speaking (or the Billy scream, if you will) at his fans, and the only way to truly enjoy his story is to hear it directly from him. We dare you not to laugh out loud at the antics you're about to encounter. "The production blends extra audio elements into the memoir, giving it additional layers."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

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Rescue pup owner Isabel Klee, the mind behind the social media phenomenon Simon Sits, tells stories of love, loss and, most importantly, the dogs who keep us company along the way. Narrated by the social media star herself, this is a joyful listen for Isabel Klee and dog fans everywhere.

 

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There can be a fine line between loving and loathing, and Belle Burden examines what went wrong after her husband of twenty years exits her life with no warning. Narrated by Burden, this is "[a] measured, empathetic, and modern response to an enraging callousness."-Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

 

Notes From Your Bookseller

Patrick Radden Keefe uncovers the gripping true story of a young man whose life is cut short after he becomes entangled in London’s dark underworld. As his parents launch a harrowing search for answers, the case exposes danger, corruption and one family’s devastating loss.