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Criminals, siblings, and a portrait of an independent woman gather in some of the top films to screen this month.
PREMIUM
Entitlement
An unsettling novel about the corrosive power of wealth and the slippery nature of class, race, and social constructs. Recommended for readers of Yasmin Zaher’s The Coin or Romesh Gunesekera’s Suncatcher.
PREMIUM
Katharine, The Wright Sister
This fictionalized portrait of Katharine Wright captivates and is recommended for fans of aviation and women’s history. Pair with Patty Dann’s The Wright Sister, which has a different take on Katharine’s life.
PREMIUM
Plays Well with Others
Bringing to mind Emma McLaughlin’s The Nanny Diaries and Amy Poeppel’s Small Admissions, this is highly recommended for those who enjoy stories about how one’s love for one’s children can make any parent lose track of priorities and self.
PREMIUM
The Women
A moving, skillfully narrated story about women’s friendships and the ongoing physical and mental consequences of war.
PREMIUM
A Reason To See You Again
An intricate portrait of one family’s struggles and triumphs over nearly four generations. Recommended for fans of contemporary Jewish American fiction and authors such as Lynda Cohen Loigman, Taffy Brodesser-Akner, and Nicole Krauss.
PREMIUM
The Seventh Veil of Salome
While fans of Moreno-Garcia’s supernatural, horror-tinged novels may be surprised by the author’s foray into atmospheric historical fiction, this intricately plotted book about stardom, passion, and betrayal delivers.
The best audiobooks of the season span fiction, mystery, horror, romance, SFF, and a range of nonfiction.
Together with the Audio Publishers Association (APA), in September 2024 Library Journal and School Library Journal fielded a survey about audiobooks in the United States’ public libraries. Nearly 500 librarian respondents provided insight into audio format demand, budgeting, licensing terms, and selection influences.
PREMIUM
Gaslight
Filmmaker Joris-Peyrafitte and YA author Shepard (the “Pretty Little Liars” series) offer a tense thriller that will have listeners deeply invested in the characters’ unraveling lives.
PREMIUM
The Crimson Crown
Walters’s (Misrule) slow-burn fantasy introduces a lush world and offers a captivating portrait of a young witch destined for villainy. Share with fans of fairy-tale retellings and those who enjoyed Marianne Gordon’s The Gilded Crown.
PREMIUM
All I Want Is You
Highly recommended for fans of The Roughest Draft by Emily Wibberley Austin Siegemund-Broka and for readers who enjoy open-door intimacy with their holiday romance reads.
PREMIUM
Karaoke Queen
A stellar queer rom-com, highly recommended for fans of Alexis Hall and Casey McQuiston or Andrew Grey’s Dragged to the Wedding.
PREMIUM
Exposure
A decades-spanning story exploring grief, guilt, and missed opportunities. This engaging coming-of-age tale is recommended for fans of the author and those who appreciated Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.
Harrington’s spellbinding performance of Stokes-Chapman’s gothic novel, which also brilliantly explores issues of class, religion, and science versus. folklore, makes this an excellent choice for historical mystery fans and listeners who appreciate richly drawn characters in lovingly crafted settings. (In her author’s note, Stokes-Chapman describes the book as a love letter to Wales.)
PREMIUM
The Heartbeat Library
With this heartwarming tale, Imai Messina reminds listeners of the enduring power of love and the transformative nature of shared experiences. This unforgettable tale is sure to resonate with anyone who has faced loss and sought healing through connection.
This book will appeal to those with backgrounds in music and medicine and listeners curious about music’s effects on health.
PREMIUM
Colored Television
A rich blend of humor and social critique, recommended for those who enjoyed Percival Everett’s Erasure and R.F. Kuang’s Yellowface.
This is a must-listen for fans of Novik’s novels and those who appreciate new takes on fantasy and folk tales. With wide-ranging genres, appealing characters, and beautifully described settings, this collection offers something for every listener.
A sensitively narrated account, providing a window into the toll addiction takes and how it is possible to come out on the other side. Listeners will connect to Hoppe’s story of simultaneously longing for and losing control.
Across a range of genres and subjects, skilled narrators deliver nuanced, striking, and comforting listens, as spring arrives with performances that reveal new insights about old favorites and introduce fresh aural experiences not to miss.
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The demand for audiobooks continues to grow year-over-year. Publishers are responding to consumers’ ever-increasing audiobooks appetite by looking beyond the latest front-list titles to expand catalogs and production in creative ways.
This is an engaging listen with its premise neatly laid out, organized into easily consumable chunks, and delivered with tight narration. Howes’s work fills a gap in most library collections, and the audio could be a draw for fans of history podcasts.
PREMIUM
This Motherless Land
Perfect for readers who enjoyed Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half and Ishi Robinson’s Sweetness in the Skin, this heartfelt literary family saga is not to be missed.
PREMIUM
Against the Grain
This story about beginnings, endings, and possibilities will resonate with listeners contemplating change and those who just like a good mystery.
PREMIUM
Casket Case
Evans’s bittersweet paranormal romance debut is highly recommended for those seeking a warmhearted contemporary romance with an unusual premise. Fans of Ashley Poston’s The Dead Romantics will want to check this out.
PREMIUM
Anima: A Wild Pastoral
Narrator Pela skillfully conveys Kassabova’s vivid account of the harsh realities of mountain life and the impact of limited government subsidies and restricted grazing rights on Bulgaria’s shepherding population. A thoughtful account of a changing way of life.
Oates’s many fans will be enthralled by this pitch-perfect collection of that combines psychological thriller, mystery, and suspense. Oates doesn’t miss a beat.
Lewis’s work gives listeners a starting point to assess how visual stereotyping in the U.S. continues to shape views of the Other. Her rich account is well documented and draws on the work of Frederick Douglass and W.E.B. Du Bois alongside Toni Morrison and critical race theorists who contend that visual persuasion became a normalizing strategy to make the United States a place where racial injustice thrived.
PREMIUM
Bournville
Coe’s (Middle England) rich historical novel examines the evolving lives of individuals set against the backdrop of larger events. Recommended for those seeking a complex and touching history of British society.
PREMIUM
Under Loch and Key
A highly recommended paranormal monster romance with an excellent setting, memorable main characters, and lots of open-door intimacy. This may also appeal to fans of monster-romance writers such as Ruby Dixon, Ashley Bennett, or Kimberly Lemming.
Though some listeners might wish for more hard evidence to back up the author’s accounts of the inexplicable, Milford’s debut memoir will appeal to fans of the paranormal and those seeking alternate lenses for approaching unexplained phenomena.
PREMIUM
Bad Houses
Stintzi’s haunting collection invites listeners to question the boundaries of reality while reflecting on common themes of identity and home. A richly descriptive yet never overwrought narrative that lingers long after the book comes to a close.
PREMIUM
Puppy Love at Mistletoe Junction
This feel-good holiday love story works as a stand-alone and is sure to please readers who like contemporary romance with adorable canine companions. Recommended for fans of Lizzie Shane, Susan Mallory, and Debbie Macomber.
PREMIUM
Perfect Storm
While it’s possible to read this as a stand-alone, listeners familiar with the action in previous series entries will derive the most enjoyment from this book. Pair with Margaret Mizushima’s “Timber Creek K-9” mystery series.
PREMIUM
The Spice Gate
Srivatsa offers a lushly described yet fast-paced debut fantasy, recommended for fans of Roger Zelazny’s Lord of Light or Tasha Suri’s “The Burning Kingdoms” series.
PREMIUM
Johnny-Boy
A raw and intense crime narrative, recommended for fans of suspenseful and gritty fiction by authors such as Tracy Clark and Karin Slaughter.
PREMIUM
Vilest Things
Listeners should prepare for the heavy lift of numerous characters and a slow-paced beginning but will ultimately be pleased with Yi’s strong pacing, spot-on sarcastic banter, and delivery of a tenacious heroine.
PREMIUM
This Will Be Fun
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a witty, whimsical fantasy and reunion rom-com mashup. Recommended for fans of Sarah Beth Durst, Travis Baldree, and Rebecca Thorne.
PREMIUM
The Rich People Have Gone Away
This deftly narrated story of conflict and resolution should appeal to listeners seeking a prismatic view of class, race, and friendship in extraordinary times.
Fast-paced, fun, and unpredictable in the best way possible. Expect this intricately plotted, unputdownable psychological thriller to fly off the shelves.
PREMIUM
You Have Gone Too Far
O’Connor creates a complex psychological drama, underlining the lasting effects of trauma. This mystery will keep listeners guessing.
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a steamy historical romance full of flirtatious and cunning characters. Recommended for fans of Grace Burrowes, Martha Waters, and Sabrina Jeffries.
PREMIUM
Queen MacBeth
Fans of Outlander and dramatic historical fiction will love this insight into one of Shakespeare’s most notorious couples.
Shield’s inspiring and insightful narrative resonates. This fresh conversation will be a valuable addition to any collection focused on gender, personal growth, or aging.
PREMIUM
I’ll Be Home for Mischief
For listeners seeking a cozy Christmas mystery about a small-town innkeeper-cum-amateur detective. Recommended for fans of Vicki Delany, Ellie Alexander, and Jenn McKinlay.
This audiobook is a tale of the past and a cry for the future, urging listeners to appreciate and support these cherished spaces. Whether it’s discussing the unique smells of bookstores or sharing stories of literary spaces, this is a must-listen for anyone who loves books or bookstores.
PREMIUM
Hotel Lucky Seven
Fans of this propulsive series will enjoy the further exploits of unlucky but efficient assassin Nanao as he accidentally kills one man while saving a desperate woman from her would-be killers.
PREMIUM
The Wedding Witch
Full of paranormal fun, magic spells, ghosts, and more, this fun time-travel romance is a strong addition to Sterling’s bestselling series. Highly recommended for fans of India Holton, Hazel Beck, and Kate Johnson.
PREMIUM
All’s Fair in Love and Treachery
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a fun, fast-paced Regency mystery with lots of suspense and a dash of romance. Recommended for fans of Amanda Quick, Ava January, and Stephanie Barron.
PREMIUM
Imposter Syndrome
Listeners will enjoy the complexities of this intricate story and twisty thriller.
PREMIUM
Dogs and Monsters: Stories
With his latest collection of genre-defying short fiction, Haddon horrifies, provokes, and disorients, bringing classic tales and figures from the ancient past into newly imagined realms. Recommended for listeners seeking an astute mix of horror, fantasy, and literary fiction.
PREMIUM
The Jewel of the Isle
An over-the-top, slow-burn romance full of adventure and heart, perfect for fans of The Lost City movie.
PREMIUM
The Whitewashed Tombs
History and mystery combine in Quartey’s riveting, shocking, satisfying, and whip-smart crime thriller.
PREMIUM
After Oz
Though certainly not a traditional Oz story, this audio may resonate with listeners seeking a new twist on a beloved character. Recommended for those who appreciate retellings and are interested in exploring how one community might have responded to Dorothy’s return.
PREMIUM
All the Water in the World
Caffall takes her inspiration from the archivists and curators who stayed behind in Iraq, Leningrad, and other areas in wartime to preserve art and antiquities. All this, including Wong’s narration, makes for a heart-wrenching and all-too-imaginable scenario. Highly recommended for fans of Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven.
PREMIUM
The Black Bird Oracle
Fans of Harkness’s beloved series will be well satisfied with this beautifully built world and its ever-growing characters.
PREMIUM
The Serpent and the Wolf
Listeners who enjoy romantasies such as Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass or political intrigue like O.O. Sangoyomi’s Masquerade will devour Robinson’s heady debut.
A roller-coaster ride of a story, full of mystery and insight, recommended for fans of the author as well as Christopher Moore and Carl Hiaasen.
PREMIUM
My Darling Boy
For listeners seeking an intricate, unputdownable psychological thriller about female friendship and small-town secrets. Recommended for fans of Lisa Jewell, Paula Hawkins, and Shari Lapena.
Montague’s debut offers an intricate and tender look into grief, self-discovery, and the many complexities of friendship. This sensitive, late-in-life-coming-of-age story satisfies.
PREMIUM
How To Leave the House
Insightful and dryly witty, this slice-of-life portrait of an occasionally raunchy but still endearing young man makes an impact.
PREMIUM
Tooth and Claw
Series fans will enjoy this bone-chilling tale that pits Walt and Henry against their most formidable enemies. Highly recommended for those who crave adventure suspense.
This audiobook is a superb addition to Montgomery’s rich portfolio of works on the natural world. Both educational and entertaining, it offers listeners a fresh perspective on chickens and highlights the author’s skill in blending science with personal narrative.
PREMIUM
Munichs
A faithful retelling of the 1958 disaster, complete with period-accurate details and a sensitivity to the impact this event had in a still-fragile postwar England.
PREMIUM
Magically Black and Other Essays
Using humor to address prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions, Walker unfurls a critical perspective on racial disparities in the contemporary world. This is a must-listen for listeners seeking a candid and thought-provoking account of the experiences of a Black father, writer, and educator.
PREMIUM
Hampton Heights: One Harrowing Night in the Most Haunted Neighborhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Though this is marketed as a horror book for adults, this has the feel of a younger listen, with an emphasis on nostalgic spookiness rather than gore. A perfect fit for fans of the Netflix series Stranger Things or Christopher Golden’s menacing, 1980s-set novel All Hallows.
PREMIUM
Blue Graffitti
A literary meditation on small-town life, dotted with gorgeous, poetic prose. Recommended for those seeking bittersweet, character-driven fiction with a touch of romance, and perfect for fans of Kent Haruf’s Our Souls at Night.
Aduba’s affecting memoir is a testament to resilience, cultural heritage, and self-discovery. This audio will resonate with fans of Orange Is the New Black and those interested in immigrants’ experiences and mother-daughter relationships.
PREMIUM
Graveyard Shift
A quick and entirely captivating listen, full of surprises and satisfying character portraits. Though listeners may wish for a more fleshed-out story, they will enjoy this thrilling ride.
PREMIUM
The Repeat Room
A haunting listen, laying bare the full impact of unchecked judgment and totalitarian rule. Ball’s chilling depiction of the future is not to be missed.
With its blend of investigative journalism and cultural critique, this must-have audiobook will spark timely conversations. A richly told series of essays, essential for those interested in social justice, politics, and the personal narratives of the working-class United States.
A heartbreaking and illuminating listen, laying bare the social and political climate of the time and the lasting impact of a horrifying hate crime.
Listeners will enjoy the many hijinks of Frederick and his friends, laughing out loud at the absurdity while also hoping for the best for everyone. Perfect for fans of Fredrik Backman.
PREMIUM
An Academy for Liars
Henderson (House of Hunger) crafts a unique magical system in a dark academia setting. The narrative performance provides a conflicting interpretation of the main character, so listeners may want to compare their audio experience to print.
PREMIUM
The Hearing Test
A debut novel for listeners seeking an emotionally rich stream-of-consciousness story full of poignant imagery and observations. For those who enjoy the work of Rachel Cusk and Fleur Jaeggy.
PREMIUM
A Sea of Unspoken Things
An evocative, suspenseful audio that will have listeners sinking deep into Young’s vivid worldbuilding and Lakin’s captivating narration.
PREMIUM
Now or Never
A fun and fast-paced adventure, blending romance and mystery. This is a must-read for series fans and anyone seeking a lighthearted mystery.
A blend of romance and mystery for the holiday season, enhanced by pitch-perfect narration. Suggest to fans of Knives Out or Falon Ballard’s All I Want Is You.
PREMIUM
Death in the Air
Murali’s debut is a richly detailed Himalayan mystery, recommended as an unusual addition to any audio whodunit collection.
A thoughtful and well-researched compilation of unsolved crimes, perfect for any true crime collection. Listeners interested in more of Renner’s work may also want to check out Little, Crazy Children and the forthcoming Scout Camp.
PREMIUM
Booked for Murder
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a gentle mystery about bookshops, small towns, and secrets. Recommended for fans of Tamara Berry, Amanda Flower, and Ellery Adams.
This well-researched work illuminates the deep connections between sexual politics and broader social and political movements. Recommended for social science collections everywhere.
PREMIUM
Perfect Fit
Despite the occasionally rocky narration, Gilmore’s (Love Interest) low-heat workplace romance may appeal to fans of Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game or Emily Henry’s Funny Story.
PREMIUM
Memorials
With moments of tenderness and even levity, as well as true terror, longtime horror fans, including newcomers to Chizmar’s works, will enjoy this. Recommended for listeners seeking a sinister mix of folklore, nostalgia, and creeping dread.
PREMIUM
One on One
A thoughtful enemies-to-lovers romance, recommended for the ever-growing number of sports romance fans.
PREMIUM
The Close-Up
Beyond the plodding exposition, this audio becomes an intricate, atmospheric suspense. This may appeal to fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid or Janelle Brown, but it is an optional purchase for libraries on a budget.
PREMIUM
Batman: Resurrection
This entertaining yet brooding journey to a ’90s-era Gotham City will pull in fans of Burton’s Batman and others who enjoy the superhero genre.
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