Two ensemble narrations, performed by expert narrators, make for excellent and exciting listening. Plus, the latest from S.A. Cosby and new entries in favorite series from Stacey Abrams and Linda Castillo showcase the skill and range of narrators who really know these authors and these characters and demonstrate why audio can be the best way to experience a mystery or thriller.
Looking for more audiobook recommendations? Visit AudioFile’s website to sign up for our newsletters, where we feature narrator and author interviews, audiobook reviews, and more.
THE TWISTED WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB
by Karin Slaughter, Lee Child, et al. | Read by January LaVoy, Andi Arndt, Saskia Maarleveld, Kathleen Early, Nancy Wu, Adepero Oduye, et al.
[Audible, Inc. | 10.75 hrs.]
Mystery audiophiles are in for a treat with this Audible Original, produced in partnership with International Thriller Writers. The collection features short stories by top mystery and thriller authors, and each story focuses—some loosely, some directly—on a monthly book club hosted by self-help author Margaret Richter at her Cape Cod home. The narrators are perfectly cast, with stand-out performances by January LaVoy, Saskia Maarleveld, Nancy Wu, Adepero Oduye, and Andi Arndt. Imaginative writing is paired with expert narration.
CODED JUSTICE: Avery Keene, Book 3
by Stacey Abrams | Read by Adenrele Ojo
[Random House Audio | 15 hrs.]
Narrator Adenrele Ojo returns to portray intrepid attorney Avery Keene and her resourceful crew of talented friends in this chilling story about how technology can radically improve, or possibly undermine, patient care. As ethical questions mount—around privacy, customized pharmaceuticals, venture capital, cybersecurity, and systemic bias—listeners are drawn into a world that feels less like fiction and more like an imminent reality. Ojo’s skillful narration heightens the tension and emotional stakes in this timely, thought-provoking listen.
KING OF ASHES
by S.A. Cosby | Read by Adam Lazarre-White
[Macmillan Audio | 13.25 hrs.]
Narrator Adam Lazarre-White once again immerses listeners in a dark, complex world crafted by S.A. Cosby. This gripping story explores identity, justice, and long-buried family trauma. When Roman Carruthers returns to his hometown to care for his dying father and support his sister, he’s drawn into rescuing his troubled brother. As past and present collide, the mystery of their mother’s decades-old disappearance resurfaces. Lazarre-White masterfully voices a wide range of characters, capturing both external conflict and internal turmoil with emotional depth.
DON’T LET HIM IN
by Lisa Jewell | Read by Richard Armitage, Joanne Froggatt, Tamaryn Payne, Gemma Whelan, Louise Brealey, Patience Tomlinson
[Simon & Schuster Audio | 12 hrs.]
Listeners must pay close attention to follow the many personas of this mystery’s frighteningly sinister main character, expertly performed by Richard Armitage. The man shifts names, identities, and relationships as he jumps from one woman to another—each of whom he’s conning, may be married to, or has children with. The women, all emotionally entangled, are masterfully voiced by an exceptional ensemble of narrators who bring nuance and credibility to their chapters. The twisting plot moves back and forth in time, adding to the complexity.
RAGE: Kate Burkholder, Book 17
by Linda Castillo | Read by Kathleen McInerney
[Macmillan Audio | 9.25 hrs.]
Narrator Kathleen McInerney returns to immerse listeners in the Amish community of Painters Mill and the world of Chief of Police Kate Burkholder. When two young Amish men are found brutally murdered, the case leads to unsettling revelations about the darker side of the community. As Burkholder investigates, she finds herself a target. McInerney’s performance and the strong story make this a compelling and worthy addition to the series.
AudioFile Magazine—About: AudioFile is the place to discover more about audiobooks. Every day, its reviews and recommendations tell you which audiobooks are worth your listening time. AudioFile reviews about 50 audiobooks a week, features narrator profiles, and awards exceptional performances with AudioFile’s Earphones Awards. AudioFile publishes in print, newsletters, and a blog, and podcasts daily recommendations on Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine.
