53 Best Fantasy Audiobooks of All Time

Dive into a world of whimsy with the best fantasy audiobooks on Spotify & Audible: from giggle-worthy YA sci-fi to sultry dark romance, all curated for the young and young-at-heart.

Best Fantasy Audiobooks That Inspire Wanderlust & Imagination

53| Flyaway by Kathleen Jennings, 2020

Let’s give a warm welcome to Kathleen Jennings, whose first book is going to be published at the end of July. 

Probably every fantasy lover is going to remember her name and will be fondly waiting for the next mesmerizing piece.

This suspenseful fairy tale mixed with gothic horror couldn’t be a better way to début with a big bang. If you are a huge fan of dark contemporary fantasy, then Flyaway is the best book to pick up for a scary, yet enchanting time.

Fortunately, we have been blessed with a number of great fantasy audiobooks in 2020, and Jenning’s piece is certainly going to be a great addition to your audiobook collection.

The book takes us to Australia, where magic and monsters are very much present. Our protagonist is trying to uncover the mystery about her family.

Flyaway is a great and probably the best of all contemporary gothic dark fantasy audiobooks 2020 with suspense. A magical, yet dark fairy tale for all dark fantasy lovers.

52| To Sleep in a Sea of Stars by Christopher Paolini, 2020

The talented author who brought to us Eragon and the Inheritance cycle series now sets foot in a completely different world. 

After achieving huge success at a fairly early age with his captivating fantasy books, now he puts himself to the test in sci-fi writing. He passes the test for sure as the To Sleep in a Sea of Stars in Jennifer Hale’s narration is easily going to top all sci-fi fantasy audiobooks 2020 lists.

The story sounds pretty simple, xenobiologist Kira Navárez finds some alien relic during an expedition on an unknown planet and an epic space opera-style journey begins.

While Kira tries to figure out how to find the mysterious species, she finds herself being the key figure to save humanity.

If you are in search of good upcoming sci-fi fantasy audiobooks in 2020, then you don’t have to wait much longer; this September we are launching to space with Christopher Paolini.

51| The Girl and the Stars by Mark Lawrence, 2020

Ever since his début with Prince of Thorns in 2011, fantasy lovers were very fond of Lawrence and his works. He proved to be incredibly imaginative with a fantastic style of writing and unique characters. 

We can imagine how anxiously fans are waiting for a new story by him and luckily there is another remarkable addition to his collection. Undoubtedly one of the greatest new fantasy audiobooks of 2020 has seen so far was published this April.

The Girl and the Stars proves that Lawrence has much more to offer than the series we have read so far (The Broken Empire, The Red Queen’s War, Book of The Ancestor).

Probably Yaz’ adventures in the Book of The Ice series will top many lists of the best fantasy books as well.

The Girl and the Stars by Mark Lawrence is definitely among the most exciting new dark fantasy audiobooks in 2020 with an outstanding female lead.

50| Cinder by Marissa Meyers (Author), Rebecca Soler (Narrator), 2012

Marissa Meyer invites us to a legendary journey in New Beijing with the cyborg mechanic, Cinder. 

Her family is by far not the most loving and supporting, her stepmother and stepsisters are not easy on her. Cinder has to get by on her own. Does it sound familiar? Yes, it is inspired by the tale Cinderella and every book of the series is inspired by various fairytale stories.

Cinder wouldn’t have imagined that one day she will become one of the most important people in the galaxy. At least not until she crosses paths with the irresistible Prince Kai, who quickly tries to catch her attention, but Cinder is cautious as she has a secret of being part human, part machine.

The evil Lunar Queen is going into battle to rule the Earth, in which Cinder gets involved, and stands up against darkness as a brave heroine should.

She is a superb, bad-ass female lead, of whom we just cannot have enough.

Cinder is one of the best romance sci-fi fantasy audiobooks you ought to listen to as soon as you can.

49| Eragon by Christopher Paolini (Author), Gerard Doyle (Narrator), 2002

Eragon has made history when it was first published and became a hit. Christopher Paolini was only 19 years old at that time, which is pretty impressive for such an incredibly well crafted, imaginative fantasy book. 

We have included this book and the Inheritance Cycle in our list of best fantasy book series with dragons.

Poor village boy Eragon finds a blue stone thinking it may be covering their bread for the winter. But it is something much more precious than just a rock. It is a dragon egg, that will change the world.

From one moment to another, the poor little boy has to transform into the savior of the land.

With his new companion, they set out to the dangerous lands of the kingdom ruled by a dark and feared king.

Follow Eragon’s adventures and see how far his newfound bravery can take him.

The Inheritance Cycle is one of the best fantasy audiobook series that will inspire you to travel more adventurously.

48| Ready Player One by Ernest Cline (Author), Wil Wheaton (Narrator), 2011

How bright do you think our future is going to be? Well, Ernest Cline is not that so positive about the not-so-far future.

In 2044, the world has run down pretty badly. The gap between the rich and the working class had just been growing and most people live in a world, where no person would want to.

That is why OASIS came in the picture and became world-widely played. In this reality, almost everyone is capable of getting to the top.

Wade Watts’ life revolts around the virtual reality game and soon his life is about to change.

The creator of OASIS is quite obsessed with puzzles and scavenger hunts, launching a big clue hunt in the game offering a reward, everyone dreams about.

As Wade finds the first clue, he determined to find all of them. At the cost of huge struggles and sacrifices, he eventually does become the ultimate champion.

Ready Player One is an amazing book, with loads of action and excitement. If you are in the mood of listening instead of reading, why not enjoy one of the best dystopian sci-fi fantasy audiobooks?

If you’re into GameLit or LitRPG books you should check out this fun and thrilling fantasy audiobook series.

47| The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo (Author), Bill Homewood (Narrator), 1831

This French classic that was key to the evolution of French literature is a beautiful historical fantasy, that is still very much relevant even almost 200 years later its first publication. Let this beautiful novel take you to medieval Paris through a tale filled with emotions, struggles, and friendship. 

The Hunchback, Quasimodo, bell keeper of Notre-Dame, and his guardian, Archdeacon Claude Frollo live in the magnificent cathedral.

Esmeralda, the gypsy girl, whose beauty no man can resist, is the desire of Frollo, however, as rules dictate, he is not allowed to touch her. He then orders Quasimodo to kidnap her.

In the attempt, he gets caught and sentenced to be flogged and left out in the pillory for most of the day.

He cries out for water but everyone ignores him except Esmeralda, who gives him water.

Later the girl is accused of attempted murder and sentenced to death by hanging. Our hero saves by swinging down the bell ropes and pulling her back in the cathedral.

The law of sanctuary protects Esmeralda for a while, but soon this protection is lifted by the court of parliament.

Complications don’t end here; when the gypsies unite to help Esmeralda, Quasimodo thinks he has to protect her from them and when the royal guards come to convict her, The Hunchback thinks they are on her side.

Do not expect a happy ending; this is one of the saddest, yet best historical fantasy audiobooks of all time.

46| The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury (Author), The Colonial Radio Players (Narrator), 1950

Ray Bradbury is one of the most respected and beloved authors in fiction/fantasy/sci-fi circles. His stories are always depicting a challenging scenario, in which humanity may once find itself. He was also a great storyteller of human emotions and feelings. 

The Martian is becoming more and more actual as we are now shooting for the big red globe.

It is the story of humanity trying to conquer the planet and overcoming all the challenges such a project may pose. Naturally, it’s not everything is scientifically proven, but sure is a great read about how we would react to some of the situations and prompts us to think whether it is only applicable to a Mars colonization.

From the first ship sent to Mars until the last, we meet all sorts of issues we are all trying to cope with. The sickness Bradbury calls the Great Loneliness, which makes people feel they don’t belong anywhere to the sink into complete despair and feel they have never been born.

The native Martians, who imprison the humans thinking they are delusional.

Ray Bradbury’s creativity and vision when it comes to science fiction and psychology are just fascinating.

If you are a sucker for imaginative sci-fi fantasy audiobooks, then this is your next favorite.

45| Storm Front by Jim Butcher (Author), James Marsters (Narrator), 2000

Jim Butcher’s Storm Front, the first of the Dresden Files series is quite a new angle to the whole magic-wielding fantasy lovers. 

Meet the odd, Harry Dresden, a wizard whose main motivation is money. He is the gatekeeper between magic and the regular world. Or at least he likes to think of himself something similar to that.

He does whatever is necessary to earn some money and keep magic at a sustainable level.

He doesn’t trust magic and those close to it, so he finds a lot of joy in the process. Chicago P.D. asks for his help to find the perpetrator of a murder committed by black magic.

Being so sure of his abilities, he doesn’t even hesitate to help, but things are just not as easy as he first thought.

Storm Front is one of the most exciting urban fantasy audiobooks you can find.

44| Dark Lover by J. R. Ward (Author), Jim Frangione (Narrator), 2005

J. R. Ward’s suspenseful and sexy blood pressure raising book made our best romantic fantasy books list as well. 

If you are looking for a superb ride in the dark corners of New York, Dark Lover will take you to hunting places you’ll find both intriguing and spooky.

If you are into steamy romance stories with a hot but firm pure-bred vampire, then this book will become your new favorite.

Wrath, the only pure-bred vampire, and leader of the Black Dagger Brotherhood are trying to avenge his parents’ murders. He goes cruelly after all the slayers he knows of. One day one of his best fighters is slain and he has to save his half-breed daughter, Beth by taking her away.

Beth and Wrath are unable to withhold their attraction that could cause a lot of trouble for both of them.

The Black Dagger Brotherhood is one of the best romantic fantasy audiobook series you can listen to.

43| We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal (Author), Fiona Hardingham (Narrator), Steve West (Narrator), 2019

While Hafsah Faizal was born in the USA, still, she is very close to her Muslim roots and that’s one of the many reasons the world of We Hunt the Flame is inspired by ancient Arabia. 

This magnificent book gives you an extraordinary heroine, who is never afraid of anything and always has the best interest of her people in mind.

Zafira is fearlessly going on quests that will benefit her homeland. She sets out to the dark and feared forest of the Arz impersonating a man as her identity cannot be revealed. Zafira’s bravery would not be recognized if people got to know she is not a man.

To save the land threatened by war and the darkening shadows of the Arz, she has to retrieve an artifact that will put a stop to all evil. But the dictatorial sultan’s son, Nasir, the Blood Prince is up against her to prevent Zafira from finding the artifact.

This outstanding book surely deserves to be among the top fantasy audiobooks you can listen to on the road to make your travels magical.

42| Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami (Author), Sean Barrett (Narrator), Oliver Le Sueur (Narrator), 2002

Haruki Murakami is a master of creating a world of magical realism. He has a style of writing that just flows into your imagination and makes even the most improbable things normal… Well, almost normal. 

Kafka on the Shore is going to take you on an epic journey in a fictional version of Japan, where anything can happen, even fish rain. A teenage boy, Kafka Tamura flees home in search of his mother and sister. He is also trying to get away from a terrible prophecy.

He has a companion, who is not necessarily making his journey easier; Nakata, who is still traumatized by World War II. Their way ahead brings new surprises and beings, that for sure will leave a mark in their memories.

Dive into this captivating book, where every page is going to make you forget about real life. Interesting challenges and plenty of surprises for sure.

Kafka on the Shore is one of the best fantasy audiobooks that will take you to the furthest places of human imagination.

41| Raavan: Enemy of Aryavarta by Amish Tripathi (Author), Sagar Arya (Narrator), 2019

Join Amish Tripathi on a mind-blowing journey back in time to ancient India. Almost 5500 years ago, the area today’s India was a land of desperation. 

A lot of people were just silently in pain and he could hardly bare the weight of their terrible lives.

A small number of people tried to overcome their misery by going violent and not giving in to the pain.

Meet the God-blessed Raavan, prepared for the worst by a wise man. He has to face terrible challenges and tasks no other could endure.

His courage knows no ends while being a little inhuman sometimes, which helps him keep going.

With such a hero in focus, we have to say that Raavan is one of the best dark fantasy audiobooks you can get your hands on. You are not going to get an all good, merciful hero. No, Raavan is not thinking twice; he just slays his opponents in cold blood.

This barbaric-looking man is quite a surprise though, he is knowledgeable and may just be the key to a better future for all.

40| The Winter of the Witch by Katherine Arden (Author), Kathleen Gati (Narrator), 2019

The last one of the Winternight books is surely a good listen for those who like to plug in good fantasy audiobooks on the road or at home while enjoying a good bath. 

This time Vasya and Morozko have to prove their skills by going extraordinary lengths to save Moscow.

Katherine Arden makes Vasya work hard for success in a fairy-tale-like world, we just cannot have enough of.

The book is full of action as the ruthless Grand Prince destroys everything in his way and a horrible demon surfaces again to ruin everything starting with Moscow. Vasilisa knows no impossible to save all that is dear to her.

This beautifully written book has caused a lot of grief to fans, as it is the last of this fascinating series.

If you are new to this magical fantasy book series then you are in for a treat of a lifetime.

39| Inkheart by Cornelia Funke (Author), Lynn Redgrave (Reader), 2003

Beloved author and illustrator Cornelia Funke has once again pulled something that will make all children fall in love with reading. 

The Inkheart trilogy is surely among the best children fantasy audiobooks on the market.

Little Meggie enjoys her father’s bedtime stories but one day a dark character escapes from the pages and steps into their house. Just like that, in a moment Meggie is in the middle of an adventure of a lifetime.

After reading and hearing about brave heroines, she has to now overcome the magic that brought evil upon them and send it back.

It is a fun read with superb, encouraging lines for little ones. Naturally, it was written to entertain younger readers, therefore it is a quite easy but still fun read for adults.

We are certain this fantasy book series with magic and some steampunk goodies will sweep you off your feet while listening to this great fantasy audiobook.

38| The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman (Author), Susan Duerden (Narrator), 2014

The Invisible Library is the first book of the series, and it’s also one of the best fantasy audiobook series for young adults and adults as well. 

Vigorous spy and detective Irene works for a library that is by far not an ordinary place for books.

She has to chase down all sorts of fictions and dangerous elements from other realities with her assistant, Kai.

They are now sent to a London in a reality, where supernatural creatures roam the streets along with unforeseeable magical elements, making this world incredibly dangerous for them.

They have retrieved a book that poses danger to all realities, which has gotten in the wrong hands.

As they dive into the dark secrets of this reality’s London, Irene soon realizes that her mysterious assistant has a few tricks up in his sleeves.

37| The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier (Author), Richard Poe (Narrator), 2006

Kevin Brockmeier came up with a new angle to the whole death and apocalypse ideas. For those who are searching for the meaning of life and trying to find out whether there is something after we die, The Brief History of the Dead gives a great alternative. 

After people die in their physical bodies, their spirit lives on in an otherworldly city as long as someone can remember them. Everyone carries on with their lives, having all the same struggles, issues.

They all have a chance to maybe change their lives or just to enjoy as everything stays as before.

However, one day the city begins losing its population. What’s causing the swift decrease of dead people? A terrible virus is wiping out the living world’s population, causing all the dead to be forgotten.

The book also takes us to an Antarctic research station, where Laura Byrd is racing against time and starvation.

The Brief History of the Dead is an outstanding fantasy audiobook in Richard Poe’s narration.

36| A River of Royal Blood by Amanda Joy (Author), Soneela Nankani (Narrator), 2019

A River of Royal Blood is a North-African inspired world, where ascending to the Ivory Throne is no child’s play. Only the most fearless and merciless aspirant can claim the throne. 

Eva, the sixteen-year-old princess is born with terrifying magick, that hasn’t been seen for a long time. Fables tell the story of Queen Raina, who almost completely wiped out the Khimaer royalty and killed thousands.

That was the beginning of the tradition of the Rival Heir, where everyone wanting to sit on the throne has to beat their rival in a battle. The one alive is worthy enough.

Eva is up against her sister, but it turns out it isn’t only Isa who wants her dead.

With the support of a handsome Khimaer prince and a powerful Fey, she grows stronger and unstoppable.

Amanda Joy’s captivating young adult book is one of the best fantasy audiobooks 2019 entertained us with.

35| Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind (Author), Sean Barrett (Narrator), 1985

Patrick Süskind’s novel will take you to a busy, often smelly, but a still blooming 18th century Paris, where scents and perfumes played a significant role in a noble person’s life. 

Baptiste Grenouille was born under a table in the market and left to die by her mother shoved under the table between the rotting fish intestines. However, he cried out and his life was saved.

He is a unique being; while he doesn’t seem to have any sort of scent his sense of smell has no match anywhere in the world.

After he had been saved and taken to an orphanage, he was sold to be a leather tanning assistant, in despicable conditions. One day, he delivers some sampling leather to an acclaimed perfume mixer, where Grenouille shows his incredible skills by recreating a perfume after only one sniff.

The perfumer takes the boy in as an assistant and teaches him how to preserve the smell of flowers and other herbs.

Becoming obsessed, he aims to capture unique smells to create a perfect perfume. After flowers, he dives into liquidizing smells of items no one would ever consider to be an ingredient of a perfume, such as books, clothes, wood and so on until his obsession goes to pretty dark places.

Patrick Süskind is a fantastic writer, with a stunning sense of descriptions of smells, feelings, and pretty much all things. His remarkable writing skills make Perfume one of the best horror audiobooks you’ll ever listen to.

34| Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel (Author) Yareli Arizmendi (Narrator), 1989

If you are a foodie reader, then Laura Esquivel’s enchanting romance fantasy audiobook will surely give you joyful moments. 

The book has a strong emphasis on food and cooking, each of the 12 chapters begins with a recipe. There are twelve chapters for months to convey more the passing of time.

Life in Mexico is very much dependant on traditions and superstitions and in the all-female De La Garza family rules are dictated by them as well.

The youngest girl in the family, Tita is forbidden to marry as she is destined to look after her mother. As loving of her mother as one can be, she still manages to fall in love with Pedro, who soon reciprocates after being enchanted by Tita’s magical food.

Pedro marries her sister hoping to remain close to his love. Their love can only be fulfilled following a number of tragedies, but at last, they can be together.

It is surely one of the best magical realism romance fantasy audiobooks.

33| The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter (Author), Prentice Onayemi (Narrator), 2017

No wonder how Evan Winter has such a vivid imagination; he had a childhood rich in culture. He was born in England to South American parents, but he was raised in Africa due to his Xhosa ancestry. 

The first book of the Burning series takes us the terrifying wars of the Ohemi people. It has been long going and seems to be a war they will never win. Their traditions and lifestyle are based on warfare.

Most soldiers die or suffer terrible injuries that will never allow them to live a full life. But there are some, only one in two thousand women are born with the ability to call dragons for help.

There are somewhat more, one in a hundred men who can turn into a much more evolved killing machine.

Ordinary Tau has everything figured out with his life; he doesn’t want to participate in the bloodshed. He wants to escape, start a family, have his own little piece of land and take on farming.

It all sounds great until the day when all his loved ones are slain and he is left alone. Alone and angry.

Tau swears revenge on all those who hurt his family and friends. He begins training to be a swordmaster and sets out to find the people who double-crossed him.

The Rage of Dragons is an African (Xhosa) inspired epic fantasy book you can also enjoy as an audiobook.

32| The Summer Prince by Alaya Dawn Johnson (Author), Rebecca Mozo (Narrator), Lincoln Hoppe (Narrator), 2013

Set in a dystopian Brazil, June Costa lives in Palmares Tres, a lively city filled with people of all kinds. In a time, when humanity is limited to only a few cities amid devastating natural disasters. 

June is a passionate artist, who spends every day with her creations and thinking about creating a bigger buzz around herself. She is pretty self-confident; She’s convinced of her originality and often reminds herself of being the best of the bests.

In the city, everything changes when the time comes to the Summer King to be chosen. Every five years, a person gets to be indulged for a year to then be sacrificed. The current sacrifice’s name is Enki, everyone falls in love with the young man coming from the poor corners of the pyramid city of Palmares Três.

June thinks much more of him than just a piece of sexy meat. For her, Enki could be the one that can complete her art. But shortly she has to realize, Enki has different intentions with art; he wants to reach everyone who needs implants and make them available for the poor as well.

These implants, which can cure diseases and make someone look more attractive, were only available for the rich.

It is one of the top science fiction/fantasy audiobooks for young adult readers.

31| Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi (Author), Bahni Turpin (Narrator), 2019

Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi invites you to an Africa inspired adventure full of action and surprises with her second book of the Legacy of Orïsha series. The Legacy of Orïsha trilogy tells the story of Zélie and Amari, two kick-ass heroines. 

When they brought magic back to the lands of Orïsha by reviving the maji, they unknowingly awakened other powerful forces as well. Amari has to claim her right to the throne, however, the monarchy is plotting against her.

Zélie is a strong fighter, who doesn’t know the word impossible and never gives up. She holds up until the very end to protect Amari’s way to the throne while keeping safe the new maji as well.

If you are in the search for great YA dark fantasy audiobooks, Children of Virtue and Vengeance is a fantasy-inspired story full of action and twists and is set in a fictional country based on Nigeria.

30| The Beautiful Dead: A Tale of K-Pop, Ghosts, and Nine-Tailed Fox Women by Jun Prince (Author), Amy Landon (Narrator), 2017

Yubin knows she’s different than the other girls in the pop group SIITY. She gave up schooling and signed long contracts with no guarantee of success, but she knows that’s how Korean stars are made. 

However, Yubin doesn’t even like the girls she has to sing with. She only has one real connection and it is with her best friend Jieun but they can only communicate through texts.

When her group SIITY joins a famous reality show she discovers that Jieun has been dead five years and is actually haunting her.

However, as her connection grows towards the other girls in the group she realizes she’s not the only one with issues.

If this wasn’t enough something is trying to kill them and they have to work together if they want to survive.

The Beautiful Dead is a fun YA fantasy audiobook perfect for K-pop fans and for those who enjoy stories that are set in Korea and inspired by Korean folklore.

29| Forest of the Pygmies by Isabel Allende, 2004

The last book of the Memories of the Eagle and the Jaguar trilogy takes our beloved heroes Alexander Cold and Nadia Santos to Kenya where Alex’s grandmother is writing an article on safaris in Africa. 

A Catholic missionary stumbles into their camp looking for his party, who have mysteriously disappeared.

Their investigation leads our heroes to a clan of Pygmies, who are in terrible conditions. They are being exploited and forced into slavery and poaching.

Nadia and Alex call on their totem animals for help and their strengths to get into an epic fight against evil.

Will they be able to free the Pygmies and succeed with ending corruption?

This engaging young adult fantasy audiobook will surely take you on a memorable adventure.

28| The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang (Author), Emily Woo Zeller (Narrator), 2018

The Poppy War is another exceptional military fantasy book that brings a major issue into the light such as racial, ethnic roots or social status. 

It is surely one of the best fantasy audiobooks 2018 had given us.

In the dark, war-shaken 20th century China, the military is in constant lookout for new talents. It is to everyone’s surprise that Rin, a servant orphan from the poor Rooster Province managed to pass the most important test, the Keju with flying colors.

She gets admitted to the most prestigious military school, where her life doesn’t get much easier. All her schoolmates are picking on her, because she is a girl, has dark skin and looks much less privileged than the others.

As she is advancing in her studies, she discovers her inhuman abilities and art of shamanism that makes her way more powerful than anyone.

After a short period of peace, war is upon the empire and Rin knows, she could be the key to saving her land.

This is the first of the Poppy War Trilogy, the second book is among the best fantasy audiobooks from 2019.

27| Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor (Author), Nneka Okoye (Narrator), 2010

Set in a post-nuclear fallout Africa, where the Nuru chase and slay the other tribe called Okeke. This dark fantasy audiobook by Nnedi Okorafor brings a lot of issues, that unfortunately apply to nowadays as well. 

The writing is very enlightened with a lot of issues being tackled in unusual and smart ways. Okorafor has some really great ideas on how to solve the water shortage issue for example.

The story revolves around the sole survivor of a raid on an Okeke village. After being raped, she manages to get away and gives birth to a girl with hair and bright, sand-colored skin. She knows straight away, her daughter is destined for something big. She names her: Onyesonwu (Who Fears Death?).

As Onyesonwu is growing, she sees clearly; she is destined to end cruelty and put a stop to the genocide of her people.

It is surely an astonishing book with magic, struggles, strong female characters and love that’s stronger than anything. Who Fears Death is definitely one of the best post-apocalyptic fantasy audiobooks.

26| Servant of the Underworld by Aliette de Bodard (Author), John Telfer (Narrator), 2012

If you are looking for good fantasy audiobooks inspired by the Aztec Empire, then Aliette de Bodard’s servant of the Underworld will be your new favorite. 

This remarkable story takes place in the Aztec Empire. The balance of the Earth can only be kept with human sacrifice. Avoiding the end of the world, blood must be shed.

One day, a priestess disappears without much clue and now it is up to Acatl, the high priest to find her. Can he find her without opening up the border between the dead and the living?

His search for the priestess uncovers much more than he expected.

This is surely one of the best fantasy audiobooks, the first of the Obsidian and Blood series and it is full of magic, a little Aztec politics, and thrilling secrets.

25| The Simoqin Prophecies (GameWorld Trilogy #1) by Samit Basu (Author), Ramon Tikaram (Narrator), 2004

Samit Basu is one of the best Indian fantasy writers of our generation. His thrilling book The Simoqin Prophecies is a humorous, imaginative and action full fantasy audiobook that mixes various cultures, mythology, and history mainly from Asia. 

You are going on an adventure throughout lands that may seem familiar, yet much more enchanting. Where you get to meet creatures you would consider incredibly odd and intriguing at the same time.

While being excited about Prince Asvin’s and Kirin’s adventure in an India inspired magical world, you will also get to laugh out loud every once in a while.

We are so lucky to have Samit Basu in the landscape as his writing style is amazingly hilarious. Fortunately, we now have the chance to listen to one of the best humorous fantasy audiobooks colored with Indian culture and mythology.

24| Blood of Elves (Witcher, #1) by Andrzej Sapkowski (Author), Peter Kenny (Narrator), 1994

Blood of Elves was the first story that brought Geralt of Rivia into our lives. He is a feared and strong assassin, who is willing to do whatever it takes in order to succeed in his quests. 

According to a prophecy, a girl is about to be born, who is so strong, he can bring eternal darkness or endless brightness to the world.

A war is about to erupt that will be devastating the lands and everyone is in the search for the girl. The Witcher takes on the responsibility to save both the child and the land.

It is an outstanding fantasy book with witches and Peter Kenny puts a really good spin on the originally amazing story with his voice acting.

Blood of Elves is the first book of the Witcher saga and is one of the greatest fantasy audiobooks.

23| The Girl with Ghost Eyes (The Daoshi Chronicles #1) by M.H. Boroson (Author), Emily Woo Zeller (Narrator), 2015

M.H. Boroson’s The Daoshi Chronicles is a great piece of fantasy literature. The Girl with Ghost Eyes takes us to 19th century San Francisco, where spiritual forces are held back by the Chinatown’s ghost hunters. 

Li-Lin is the daughter of a very well known and respected Daoshi exorcist, who has yin eyes. That means she can see the spirit world.

Due to a series of dark events, the fate of her family and Chinatown is in her hands.

If you are looking to read an imaginative fantasy audiobook with an awesome female lead, then The Girl with Ghost Eyes will be your new favorite.

In case you are not in the mood for reading, you can also listen to the audiobook.

22| Signal to Noise by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (Author), Ana Bayat (Narrator), 2015

If you need magic in your life, Signal to Noise is a great choice because it floods readers’ homes with an enchanting story. 

Silvia Moreno-Garcia has a captivating style of writing and the story is overall built very interestingly.

Three fifteen-year-old friends living in Mexico city, Meche, Sebastian and Daniela are not the coolest people of all, but they are great friends for sure.

Meche has a ton of vinyl records and she wouldn’t have imagined that her love of music is going to change her life.

She learns that she can cast magic with music. The three friends decide to change their lives for the better, using magic.

21 years later Meche returns to Mexico city to her father’s funeral she hasn’t spoken to for a while.

What went wrong and is there any magic to aide her pain?

This is is one of the best fantasy audiobooks with a gripping story that feels real and will surely stays with you long after listening to it.

21| Enchanted Inc. (Enchanted Inc. #1) by Shanna Swendson (Author), Eva Wilhelm (Narrator), 2005

Enchanted Inc. is a great fantasy audiobook that will fly you into a world, where magic is much more common than you would think. 

Join Katie Chandler in her delightful adventures that kick off once she moves to New York.

Everything is full of magic, but she is a regular person, with no special powers whatsoever. First, it seems she will never stand out from the colorful crowd.

But her luck turns when she is recruited by Magic, Spells, and Illusions, Inc., where she can actually be a great asset by not possessing magical powers.

After a short while, Katie finds herself in the middle of a black magic situation, which means the world’s fate is in her hands. And by saving the world she maybe able to finally catch the attention of the super handsome and hardworking colleague, the head of the R&D department.

Enchanted Inc. is one of the best and most fun romantic urban fantasy audiobooks.

20| Serpentine by Cindy Pon (Author), Emily Woo Zeller (Reader), 2015

Cindy Pon’s Serpentine is a great young adult fantasy book about coping with coming of age changes. 

Skybright is the handmaid of the youngest girl of a wealthy family and she has a secret she doesn’t know how to understand just yet. She is trying to cope with the darkness that visits her at night.

She feels she has to fight for the light and never give in to the darkness.

Serpentine is based on Chinese mythology and folklore and is set in the ancient Kingdom of Xia. It’s a great coming of age story that can help all young people understand more about their feelings even if it is not the menacing darkness that is after them.

This great fantasy audiobook is narrated by Emily Woo Zeller.

19| The Lightning-Struck Heart (Tales From Verania #1) by T.J. Klune (Author), Michael Lesley (Narrator), 2015

This fantastic and humorous book by T.j. Klune was also included in our best romantic fantasy books list. It deserves the light on the stage as the unbelievable adventures of Sam Haversford is going to entertain everyone who picks this book up. 

If you like action, magic, and surprises then this fantasy book is surely for you.

There are so many great characters and fun turn of events, which no one would have anticipated.

Thanks to Michael Lesley, it is one of the best LGBTQIAP romance fantasy audiobooks.

18| The Unknown Shore by Patrick O’Brian (Author), David Case (Narrator), 1959

Patrick O’Brian’s successful Golden Ocean book is now followed by The Unknown Shore. He drew inspiration for the explorations of George Anson, 1st Baron Anson in the mid 18th century. 

His ship is wrecked by a reef and the crew now has to find a way to co-operate and find a way to survive.

Not all do, at least a handful of people get to the safe Valparaiso with the help of a small group of Native Americans.

It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy voyages and historical fantasy stories.

Now you can also listen to one of the best historical fantasy audiobooks.

17| A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore (Author), Fisher Stevens (Reader), 2006

Christopher Moore has a grim sense of humor that made him stand out from the crowd. His hilarious fiction/fantasy audiobook A Dirty Job is just another superb example of how much fun his style is which is also on our funny books for adults list. 

Charlie Asher, who is the textbook example of normalcy is having a great time living his absolute normal life.

He is happily married, has a steady job and the first child is on the way. Everything seems to be just normal. Until he begins to feel the presence of something odd. Something dark. People seem to be dying around him and a strange shadow whispers to him anywhere he goes.

That’s right; Charlie gets a new profession. He becomes Death.

This amusing comedy-urban dark fantasy book is set in San Francisco and it is also available as an audiobook.

16| Under Heaven (Under Heaven, #1) by Guy Gavriel Kay (Author), Simon Vance (Narrator), 2010

The first book of the Under Heaven series is about the story of grief-torn Shen Tai. His father, the loyal and well-respected general of the Emperor has passed away and Shen Tai spends two years to bury the dead of his father’s last battle. 

After the deed of respect, he is given a message that someone wants to reward him with 250 Sardian Horses. It is not a small reward. Five would have already turned heads in the noble circles.

The adventure begins as he has to claim his reward in person.

While Under Heaven was written by a Canadian author it is set in a fantasied Tang China. This historical fantasy book will surely make your next fantasy audiobook a great one.

15| The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe by Kij Johnson (Author, Narrator), 2016

Kij Johnson has come up with a fun new angle of a fantasy world with an outstanding female lead. It’s a dark fantasy story that revises H. P. Lovecraft’s The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath from the viewpoint of a woman. 

Vellitt Boe is a professor at the illustrious Ulthar Women’s College. Everything goes fine until one of the most promising students takes off with a dreamer.

She has to retrieve them but the journey seems to uncover much more about her past as well then she would have ever expected.

It is surely one of the top fantasy audiobooks you can pass your relax time with. The world-building is great, while Vellitt Boe is an overall interesting character.

14| Luck in the Shadows by Lynn Flewelling (Author), Raymond Todd (Narrator), 1996

If you enjoy adventure books that are full of surprises and colorful characters, then Luck in the Shadows is a great match for you. 

The story starts with Alec who has been imprisoned for a crime he has not been part of.

Just when he is about to give up on his life, it turns out, his cellmate is one fellow full of surprises for sure. Seregil of Rhiminee has done everything one could imagine, he is a thief, spy and much more.

He agrees to take Alec under his wings and after they escape, the two embark on an adventure Alec would have never anticipated.

It is a great story and just the beginning of the thrilling Nightrunner series. The two main characters are attracted to each other, making it one of the best LGBTQIAP fantasy audiobook series you can find.

The audiobook is read by Raymond Todd, who gives an amazing voice to his fantastic book.

13| Coraline by Neil Gaiman (Author, Narrator), 2002

Coraline has empowered so many children and adults over the years and even if you had no time to read, you could listen to the enchanting audiobook narrated by none other than Neil Gaiman himself or NeilHimself if you like. 

It is a fantastic story of a little girl who fights off her own fears and copes with changes in her life. Coraline moves to a new city with her parents where she discovers a small door that leads to another dimension to her other mother, other father, and other everything.

It’s a creepy and somewhat chilling story perfect for kids and for those who enjoy goosebumps and want to read a truly imaginative story.

The stop motion movie was also amazing, not to mention the beautifully illustrated book.

In our opinion, the audiobook makes a great present for parents, so they can play it to their little ones. Neil Gaiman has a great voice that makes all his audiobooks fantastic and magical to listen to.

12| The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger by Stephen King (Author), George Guidall (Narrator, 1982

Most readers are familiar with Stephen King’s capabilities of creating something so realistically creepy that it will hunt your dreams. The Gunslinger is the first book of The Dark Tower series where you get to know this world of emptiness, which very much looks like ours. 

In that world, there is Roland of Gilead, The Last Gunslinger. We follow him to an adventure that raises the hair on everyone’s back.

He is powerful and somewhat scary who prefers to live a solitary life.

Despite his preferences, he makes an unlikely friend from Earth in his pursuit of the Man in Black.

It’s a perfect book for those as well who enjoy books set in the Old West since the story takes place in a world similar to the American frontier but in a parallel universe.

It was even turned into a movie in 2017, but before that, we got to enjoy the reading of George Guidall making it one of the best fantasy audiobook series.

11| Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson (Author), Michael Kramer (Narrator), 2006

Brandon Sanderson has written something truly remarkable. It is for sure not your typical hero and heroine succeeding kind of book. No, it is dark, often violent and the characters are just stunning. 

In a world, where the hero failed and things are not going so bright anymore, we follow Kelsier, a charismatic thief, who assembles a crew to pull the biggest heist in history.

He also has plans of eliminating the dark Lord Ruler, but it seems his plans are destined to fail. Only until he meets a kick-ass Mistborn girl, Vin.

It is an entertaining story that will certainly get you hooked on the series. It is for sure one of the best fantasy audiobook series that will ignite your imagination.

10| Everfair by Nisi Shawl (Author), Allyson Johnson (Narrator), 2016

Evarfair is a fascinating book that we wish wasn’t inspired by true events at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th. The sad events of the Belgian colonization of Congo had lead to 10-15 million deaths. That is an incredibly devastating event, not enough people know about. 

Nisi Shawl is a talented African-American fantasy and sci-fi writer who has written an outstanding book based on how things could have turned out if Congo’s population had been more technologically advanced at the time of the invasion.

If they would have been in possession of steam power technology, probably they would have been able to protect their lands, families, and culture.

Everfair is set in Central Africa and it’s a meaningful and imaginative book, which we are delighted to say can be listened to as an audiobook as well.

9| The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch (Author), Michael Page (Narrator), 2006

Locke Lamore has beaten the odds by staying alive and not ending up as a slave. In the island city of Camorr he managed to stay alive and thanks to the teachings of a con artist, he soon became the leader of a group of thieves, the Gentleman Bastards. 

He is fearless, not worried about tricking dangerous dark figures of the streets.

Our hero has to realize, there is a far more dangerous being coming after him who may be a major threat to him and his gang. It’s set in the fictional city of Camorr, based on late medieval Venice.

The Lies of Locke Lamore by Scott Lynch is a superb fantasy book acclaimed by well known fellow authors.

Read by Micheal Page which really helped the story to become one of the most outstanding fantasy audiobooks.

8| Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J. K. Rowling (Author), Stephen Fry (Narrator), 1997

Harry Potter became one of the biggest global household names of the century. The first book, which brought magic even closer to us and will remain a go-to book for many until the end of time. 

As the story unfolds and we get to know the magical world and Harry Potter along with his friends, the more and more do wish to be part of it as well. You’ll get to go on adventures in London and in one of the most magical schools ever created, Hogwarts.

You also get to go on a pretty amazing train ride with the Hogwarts Express and you can visit the beautiful filming site at the breathtaking Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland.

Even if you have read the books multiple times and watched the movies, one of the best fantasy audiobooks will create a special experience once again.

Another superb narration by the remarkable Stephen Fry, which you are going to fall in love with.

7| Havana by Stephen Hunter (Author), William Dufris (Narrator), 2003

It is 1953 and Cuba is living one of its darkest times. All sorts of gangs, criminals and corrupt government officials take their good share of what that paradise-like island can offer. 

There is a person of interest at the beginning of the Cold War; Fidel Castro. Thanks to his charm, his followers are growing rapidly.

USA special agencies are keeping tabs on him and decided to bring their big gun; Earl Swagger, the heroic gun expert, who single-handedly won wars before. Is he going to be able to take down the disaster that’s bewing?

Stephen Hunter’s book is full of action and excitement, thanks to the narration of William Dufris, it is one of the best fiction audiobooks.

6| Uprooted by Naomi Novik (Author), Katy Sobey (Narrator), 2015

Uprooted is surely an exciting read. Agnieszka’s quiet village is being protected by a wizard called Dragon. 

Every outsider thinks something is not right with the village, next of which stands the dark Wood.

Menacing powers seem to be lurking around the villagers and the Dragon protects them in exchange for a girl every ten years.

Some think those girls cease to exist once taken, but the villagers are convinced all of them keep on living happily ever after.

As great a read is Naomi Novik’s book, however, thanks to Julia Emelin, it is also one of the best dark fantasy audiobooks.

Uprooted takes place in the fictional village of Dvernik in the kingdom of Polnya inspired by Easter Europe.

5| The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (Author), Jim Dale (Narrator), 2011

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is such a great book, we had to include it in more than just one of our lists. It technically made all of our fantasy-related lists, because we feel everyone must know about this magical wandering circus. 

Now, fortunately, there is an audiobook as well narrated by Jim Dale.

This enchanting story will surely be a delight to listen to as well after reading.

Take the magic of the Night Circus with you everywhere and hear out how the two magicians end up in their duel.

The Night Circus will not only inspire your imagination but also your wanderlust since The Night Circus travels all over the globe and visits beautiful cities like Prague and Victorian London.

4| Crier’s War (Crier’s War #1) by Nina Varela (Author), Kim Mai Guest (Narrator), 2019

AI uprising has long been one of humanity’s biggest fears. Nina Valera put this interesting concept into a fantasy world, where Automae, a human-made race takes over the kingdom of Rabu. 

It is exciting, full of action and love. We peek into the life of Ayla, a human servant girl, who soon becomes a hero finding love in the person thought to be her biggest enemy.

Her plan is to take revenge on her rulers by killing the Sovereign’s daughter, Lady Crier.

As they get to know each other, they fall in love despite their social and racial differences and figure; they will have to fight for their rights.

This is an amazing LGBT fantasy book, which thanks to Kim Mai Guest it is one of the best fantasy romance audiobooks.

Cier’s War is a unique fantasy story that will surely ignite your imagination and creativity.

3| A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin (Author), Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (Narrator), 1968

We have already included Ursula K. Le Guin’s great fantasy book in our best fantasy book series with dragons list. The thrilling story of the powerful sorcerer Sparrowhawk does certainly make a good read. 

But if you are driving or on the road, a lot and reading wouldn’t work, we highly recommend to listen to one of the top fantasy audiobooks to make sure you are not losing precious time.

Narrated by Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, it is a guaranteed fun time for all magic lovers.

Sparrowhawk is on the quest of learning more and becoming ever so powerful. During his exploration, he unleashes a shadow that threatens the world and now it is up to him to save it.

2| Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke (Author), Peter Lontzek (Narrator), 2004

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke is a superb book that will bring magic onto your bookshelves once again. During the threatening times of the Napoleonic wars, magic is only a memory no one practicing it anymore. By the 1800’s it seems to have completely disappeared. 

Thanks to a wealthy Yorkshire man, Mr. Norrell a large library still keeps all there is to know about magic.

Mr. Norrell is a quiet, solitary man who actually still has magic. Jonathan Strange, a handsome and sociable man becomes Mr. Norrell’s student of magic but it turns out they have different ideas of how their magic should be used.

If you are looking for good fantasy audiobook, this one presented by Peter Lontzek is really entertaining, it feels like you are sitting by the fire while listening to a story of a lifetime. It’s the perfect book to listen to and have a magical and adventurous armchair traveling experience to England.

However, if you enjoy real-life adventures you can also visit the locations in the UK mentioned in the book.

1| The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien (Author), Ian Holm (Narrator), 1954

J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece needs no introduction as it has conquered the world over the past decades. We have been blessed with the fascinating Lord of the Rings books along with the visually stunning movies and amazing games as well. 

Thanks to Ian Holm’s fascinating reading, you can relive the excitement in a beautiful presentation. It feels like you are listening to a tale you could hear out another dozen times.

With the background music to make the adventures even more living, it is one of the greatest audiobook series you can make your travels even more fascinating. You can famously visit the beautiful filming locations in New Zealand and even wander around in the charming Hobbiton movie set.

Thank you for reading!