1. Erotic Vagrancy by Roger Lewis
Delve into the scandalous love story of Hollywood icons Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in this captivating biography narrated by Justin Avoth. The term “erotic vagrancy” stems from a papal statement regarding the couple’s outrageous antics in Rome while filming Cleopatra, where their yacht frolics were captured by the paparazzi. Though both were married, their tumultuous affair caught the public’s attention.
Available via Riverrun, Duration: 22 hours 58 minutes
2. James by Percival Everett
This Pulitzer Prize-winning adaptation of Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is told from the perspective of Jim, an enslaved Black man and Huck’s friend. Dominic Hoffman’s engaging narration captures the character’s wit and courage, providing a voice to the agency often overlooked in Twain’s original work.
Available via Mantle, Duration: 7 hours 49 minutes
3. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Join the reunion of a family on their Michigan farm during cherry harvest, beautifully narrated by Meryl Streep as matriarch Lara. As Lara and her three daughters delve into stories from her youth—including a past romance during a production of Our Town—you’ll enjoy the blend of nostalgia and familial bonds.
Available via Bloomsbury, Duration: 11 hours 22 minutes
4. You Are Here by David Nicholls
Experience this charming romantic comedy, narrated by Lydia Leonard and Lee Ingleby, about Marnie, a recently divorced copy editor, who joins a hiking group in the Lake District. Initially cold towards her group leader, Michael, they slowly discover common ground amidst their adventures.
Available via WF Howes, Duration: 8 hours 27 minutes
5. The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie
In this thrilling adaptation of Christie’s classic, Peter Dinklage voices Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder at an Essex estate. The plot thickens when Emily, a widow, is found dead in a locked room after a night of disturbance.
Available via Audible Originals, Duration: 3 hours 53 minutes
6. A Voyage Around the Queen by Craig Brown
This innovative portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, narrated by Harriet Walter, intertwines news articles, diary entries, and anecdotes, offering insight into the monarch’s life and her subjects’ perceptions. Prepare for a blend of humor and heartwarming moments.
Available via 4th Estate, Duration: 19 hours 46 minutes
7. The Lost Loves of Boysie Singh by Ingrid Persaud
Set in Trinidad, this fictionalized account of a notorious gangster unfolds through the voices of four women intertwined with his life. With each narrator bringing their own style, the story offers a vivid glimpse into the life of a complicated man.
Available via Faber, Duration: 14 hours 11 minutes
8. The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith
In this engaging rendition of Highsmith’s classic novel, David Menkin brings Tom Ripley to life. Watch as the charming con artist infiltrates the lives of the affluent, exploring themes of identity and deception set against the stunning backdrop of Italy.
Available via Little Brown Audio, Duration: 9 hours
9. Rosarita by Anita Desai
An enchanting exploration of identity and memory, this novella follows Bonita’s encounter with an elderly stranger that leads her to unearth her family’s past. Narrator Meera Simhan masterfully captures the dreamlike essence of Desai’s writing.
Available via Picador, Duration: 2 hours 33 minutes
10. The Summer Book by Tove Jansson
Set on a picturesque Finnish island, this heartwarming tale of a grandmother and granddaughter captures the beauty of nature and childhood wonder. Julie Walters’ narration perfectly embodies their playful interactions, highlighting a touching relationship.
Available via Saga Egmont, Duration: 4 hours 1 minute
Each of these audiobooks offers an opportunity to lose yourself in rich stories while enjoying those sunny summer days!
What do you think?
Show comments / Leave a comment