Mystery novels have been a beloved genre for centuries, with readers eager to immerse themselves in thrilling and suspenseful stories. But with the rise of audiobooks, mystery enthusiasts can now experience their favorite novels in a whole new way. Audiobooks offer a unique experience, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story while multitasking or relaxing.
When it comes to audiobooks mystery, there are several critical things to consider before making a purchase. The narrator’s voice, the pacing of the story, and the sound quality are all crucial factors that can make or break the listening experience. Additionally, the type of mystery novel you’re interested in, whether it’s a classic whodunit or a modern psychological thriller, can affect your choice of audiobook.
At our publication, we’ve scoured the market to find the best audiobooks mystery for every type of reader. From Agatha Christie’s timeless classics to Gillian Flynn’s gripping novels, our list covers a wide range of mystery sub-genres. We’ve taken into account the narration quality, story pacing, and overall listening experience to bring you the top picks for mystery audiobooks.
Whether you’re a seasoned mystery reader or a newcomer to the genre, our list of the best audiobooks mystery is sure to have something that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Best Mystery Audiobooks
Looking for a gripping mystery to keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than our list of the best mystery audiobooks. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the most thrilling, suspenseful, and engaging stories, all expertly narrated to keep you hooked from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of classic whodunits, gritty crime dramas, or pulse-pounding thrillers, you’re sure to find your next favorite listen on our list. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be transported to a world of mystery and intrigue.
The Secret: A Jack Reacher Novel
If you’re a fan of Jack Reacher novels, then you should definitely consider purchasing “The Secret: A Jack Reacher Novel.”
Pros
- Gripping storyline that keeps you hooked till the end.
- Scott Brick’s narration is superb and enhances the listening experience.
- Fast-paced action and suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Cons
- Some parts of the story may seem predictable.
- The book is relatively short, at just 9 hours and 14 minutes.
- The ending may leave some listeners wanting more.
“The Secret: A Jack Reacher Novel” is a must-have for any fan of the series. The storyline is gripping, and Scott Brick’s narration is exceptional. The fast-paced action and suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the book.
The only downside to this audiobook is that some parts of the story may seem predictable, and the book is relatively short, at just 9 hours and 14 minutes. Additionally, the ending may leave some listeners wanting more.
Overall, “The Secret: A Jack Reacher Novel” is a great addition to the series, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling mystery audiobook.
The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2023
If you’re a fan of mystery stories, you should definitely check out The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2023 audiobook.
Pros
- A great collection of mystery stories from various authors.
- The stories are well-written and engaging.
- The audiobook is narrated by talented voice actors.
Cons
- Some of the stories may not be to everyone’s taste.
- The audiobook is quite long, so it may take some time to finish.
- The price may be a bit steep for some listeners.
This audiobook features a collection of mystery stories from a variety of authors, all carefully selected by editors Amor Towles and Otto Penzler. The stories cover a range of styles and subjects, so there’s something for everyone in this collection.
The stories themselves are well-written and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep listeners on their toes. The voice actors who narrate the audiobook are also very talented, bringing the stories to life in a way that makes them even more enjoyable to listen to.
Of course, not every story will be to everyone’s taste, but that’s to be expected with any anthology. Additionally, the audiobook is quite long, so it may take some time to get through all of the stories. Finally, the price may be a bit steep for some listeners, but if you’re a fan of mystery stories, it’s definitely worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2023 audiobook to anyone who enjoys a good mystery. With its great selection of stories, talented voice actors, and engaging writing, it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.
Murder in the Manor: A Lacey Doyle Cozy Mystery, Book 1
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery audiobook, Murder in the Manor: A Lacey Doyle Cozy Mystery, Book 1, might be worth considering.
Pros
- Gripping and suspenseful plot
- Well-developed and relatable characters
- Narrated by Mary Sarah, who delivers an excellent performance
Cons
- The story might be predictable for some listeners
- Some reviewers mentioned that the book contains some inaccuracies about the UK
- The writing style might not be for everyone
In Murder in the Manor: A Lacey Doyle Cozy Mystery, Book 1, the newly divorced Lacey Doyle arrives in a small English seaside village for a nostalgic holiday but ends up staying to open an antique shop. When a major customer is killed, she becomes the prime suspect and must clear her name. The story is engaging and suspenseful, and the characters are well-developed and relatable.
The narration by Mary Sarah is excellent, and she brings the characters to life. However, some reviewers mentioned that the book contains some inaccuracies about the UK, and the writing style might not be for everyone. Additionally, some listeners might find the story predictable.
Overall, Murder in the Manor: A Lacey Doyle Cozy Mystery, Book 1, is a gripping and well-narrated audiobook that might be worth checking out if you’re a fan of cozy mysteries.
The Quarry Girls: A Thriller
If you’re a fan of mystery audiobooks, The Quarry Girls: A Thriller might be worth your time.
Pros
- Gripping plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat
- Well-developed characters that you’ll care about
- Excellent narration that will draw you into the story
Cons
- Predictable in some parts
- The ending might not be satisfying for some listeners
- Some parts of the story might be disturbing to some people
The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is a stand-alone audiobook that tells the story of a small town that is rocked by a series of brutal murders. As the investigation progresses, secrets are uncovered and tensions rise, leading to a shocking conclusion.
Narrated by Jess Nahikian, the audiobook is expertly performed, bringing the characters and story to life. The plot is gripping and will keep you on the edge of your seat, while the characters are well-developed and easy to care about.
However, some parts of the story might be disturbing to some listeners, and the ending might not be satisfying for everyone. Additionally, some parts of the plot are predictable, which might take away from the overall experience.
Overall, The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is a well-crafted audiobook that mystery fans will enjoy. If you’re looking for a gripping story with excellent narration, this might be the audiobook for you.
Resurrection Walk
If you’re looking for a captivating mystery audiobook, Resurrection Walk by Michael Connelly is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat
- Stellar voice acting by Peter Giles, Titus Welliver, and Christine Lakin
- Well-written characters that are easy to connect with
Cons
- Some listeners may find the plot a bit predictable
- Not suitable for those who are sensitive to violence and mature content
- Shorter listening time compared to other audiobooks in the genre
Resurrection Walk is a police procedural mystery that follows Detective Harry Bosch as he investigates a case that hits close to home. The audiobook’s storyline is well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The voice acting in Resurrection Walk is top-notch, with Peter Giles, Titus Welliver, and Christine Lakin delivering stellar performances that bring the characters to life. The characters themselves are well-written, making it easy to connect with them and become invested in their stories.
While some listeners may find the plot predictable, the overall quality of Resurrection Walk makes it a must-listen for fans of the mystery genre. However, it’s worth noting that the audiobook does contain mature content and violence that may not be suitable for all listeners.
Overall, if you’re looking for a gripping mystery audiobook with excellent voice acting and well-written characters, Resurrection Walk is definitely worth checking out.
The Perfect Wife: A Jessie Hunt Psychological Suspense Thriller, Book One
If you’re looking for a psychological suspense thriller, you should consider The Perfect Wife: A Jessie Hunt Psychological Suspense Thriller, Book One.
Pros
- The book has a lot of twists and turns that keep you engaged until the end.
- The characters are well-developed and easy to visualize.
- The scenes are vivid and descriptive.
Cons
- Some of the twists seem unrealistic.
- The plot has a few too many mysteries.
- The main character, Jessie Hunt, can be annoying at times.
The Perfect Wife: A Jessie Hunt Psychological Suspense Thriller, Book One is a fast-paced and engaging book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The book follows Jessie Hunt, an inexperienced detective who is trying to solve a series of murders. As the story progresses, Jessie’s personal life becomes intertwined with the case, making it even more complicated.
One of the best things about this book is the number of twists and turns that it has. Just when you think you have everything figured out, the story takes another unexpected turn. The characters in the book are also well-developed, and it’s easy to visualize them as you read.
However, some of the twists in the book seem unrealistic, and the plot has a few too many mysteries for some readers. Additionally, the main character, Jessie Hunt, can be annoying at times, which may be a turn-off for some readers.
Overall, if you’re a fan of psychological suspense thrillers, you should definitely consider The Perfect Wife: A Jessie Hunt Psychological Suspense Thriller, Book One.
The Best Mystery Stories of the Year: 2021
If you’re a fan of mystery stories, then you should definitely consider purchasing The Best Mystery Stories of the Year: 2021.
Pros
- Features 20 intriguing and well-crafted short stories from various authors
- Perfect for those who enjoy reading mystery anthologies and short stories
- Narrated by skilled voice actors Matt Godfrey and Emily Sutton-Smith
Cons
- Some stories may not appeal to all readers
- A few stories may not fit the traditional mold of a mystery story
- Narration may not be to everyone’s liking
This collection of short stories edited by Lee Child and Otto Penzler features 20 mystery stories from various authors, each with its own unique plot and style. The stories are well-crafted and engaging, making it a great read for those who enjoy mystery anthologies and short stories.
The audiobook version of The Best Mystery Stories of the Year: 2021 is narrated by Matt Godfrey and Emily Sutton-Smith, both of whom are skilled voice actors. Their narration adds another layer of depth to the stories and enhances the overall listening experience.
However, it’s important to note that some stories may not appeal to all readers, and a few may not fit the traditional mold of a mystery story. Additionally, while the narration is well-done, it may not be to everyone’s liking.
Overall, if you’re a fan of mystery stories and enjoy reading short stories and anthologies, The Best Mystery Stories of the Year: 2021 is definitely worth checking out.
The Echo of Old Books: A Novel
If you’re looking for a captivating mystery audiobook, then The Echo of Old Books: A Novel is worth considering.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish
- Expertly narrated by Vanessa Johansson, Steve West, and Sarah Zimmerman
- Perfect blend of historical mystery and magical realism
Cons
- Some readers may find the storyline a bit predictable
- The book is quite lengthy, so it may not be suitable for those who prefer shorter audiobooks
- A few reviewers noted that the ending felt rushed
The Echo of Old Books: A Novel tells the story of a bookshop owner who discovers a mysterious manuscript that leads her on a journey to uncover a decades-old mystery. With a mix of historical fiction, magical realism, and family drama, this audiobook is perfect for fans of mystery and romance.
Narrated by Vanessa Johansson, Steve West, and Sarah Zimmerman, the audiobook is expertly performed and brings the characters to life. The storyline is gripping and keeps you engaged from start to finish, with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end.
However, some readers may find the storyline a bit predictable, and the book is quite lengthy, clocking in at over 13 hours. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the ending felt rushed. Despite these minor drawbacks, The Echo of Old Books: A Novel is a must-listen for anyone who loves a good mystery audiobook.
I Am Watching You
If you’re in the market for a thrilling audiobook that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Gripping and suspenseful plot that will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Well-developed and relatable characters that you’ll find yourself rooting for.
- Narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden, whose performance brings the story to life.
Cons
- Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times.
- The story deals with some heavy themes that may not be suitable for all listeners.
- The ending may be a bit predictable for some mystery enthusiasts.
From the very first chapter, I Am Watching You grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. The story follows the aftermath of a teenage girl’s disappearance, and the impact it has on everyone involved. As the plot unfolds, secrets are revealed and suspicions arise, making for a truly gripping listening experience.
One of the things that makes this audiobook so enjoyable is the well-developed characters. Each one is unique and relatable, and you’ll find yourself invested in their stories as the plot progresses. Elizabeth Knowelden’s narration is also top-notch, bringing each character to life in a way that makes them feel real.
While the pacing of the story may be slow at times, it’s worth sticking with it for the payoff at the end. That being said, some listeners may find the themes of the story to be heavy and difficult to listen to. Additionally, the ending may be a bit predictable for those who are well-versed in the mystery genre.
Overall, if you’re looking for a thrilling audiobook with well-developed characters and a gripping plot, then I Am Watching You is definitely worth checking out.
The Exchange: After The Firm
If you’re a fan of legal thrillers and suspense, you should consider purchasing The Exchange: After The Firm audiobook.
Pros
- Gripping storyline
- Narrated by Edoardo Ballerini
- Unabridged version
Cons
- Ending is rather abrupt
- Not as good as the original
- Some plot twists are predictable
In this audiobook, John Grisham brings back Mitch and Molly McDeere from “The Firm” in a new tale that takes place 15 years after Mitch McDeere burned the Bendini law firm. The McDeeres are now living in New York, and Mitch is at the top of his game as a partner in a prestigious law firm. However, their lives are turned upside down when they become the target of a deadly blackmail scheme.
The Exchange: After The Firm has a gripping storyline that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The audiobook is narrated by Edoardo Ballerini, who does an excellent job of bringing the characters to life. The unabridged version allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story and experience all the details.
However, the ending is rather abrupt and may leave you wanting more closure. Additionally, while the audiobook is good, it’s not as good as the original “The Firm.” Some plot twists are also predictable, which may detract from the suspense.
Overall, The Exchange: After The Firm is a solid audiobook that is worth considering if you enjoy legal thrillers and suspense.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best audiobooks in the mystery genre, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the best audiobooks:
Narrator
The narrator of an audiobook can make or break the listening experience. A good narrator should be able to bring the characters to life by using different voices and accents for each character. They should also be able to convey the emotions of the characters effectively.
Plot
The plot is the backbone of any mystery novel. When choosing an audiobook, it’s important to consider the complexity of the plot and how well it is executed. A good mystery should keep you guessing until the very end, and the plot should be well-constructed and cohesive.
Length
The length of an audiobook is an important consideration, especially if you have a busy schedule. Longer books may offer more value for money, but they can also be more time-consuming to listen to. Shorter books, on the other hand, may be easier to fit into your schedule but may not offer as much depth.
Production Quality
The production quality of an audiobook can greatly impact the overall listening experience. Look for audiobooks that have been professionally produced with high-quality sound and editing.
Reviews
Reading reviews from other listeners can be a great way to gauge the quality of an audiobook. Look for reviews that mention the factors that are important to you, such as the narrator or the plot.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best audiobook in the mystery genre that meets your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best mystery audiobook series to listen to?
If you’re looking for a great mystery audiobook series, we recommend checking out the “Harry Bosch” series by Michael Connelly, “The Cormoran Strike” series by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling), and “The Dublin Murder Squad” series by Tana French. These series are all well-written, engaging, and have great narrators.
Which family-friendly mystery audiobooks are worth checking out?
If you’re looking for family-friendly mystery audiobooks, we recommend “The Enola Holmes” series by Nancy Springer, “The Mysterious Benedict Society” series by Trenton Lee Stewart, and “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin. These books are all appropriate for younger listeners and have engaging mysteries that will keep the whole family entertained.
What are some of the best cozy mystery audiobooks to listen to?
If you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery, we recommend “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie, “The Cat Who” series by Lilian Jackson Braun, and “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” series by Alexander McCall Smith. These books have charming settings, lovable characters, and intriguing mysteries.
Where can I find free mystery audiobooks to listen to?
If you’re looking for free mystery audiobooks, we recommend checking out your local library’s digital collection. Many libraries offer free audiobooks through apps like Libby or OverDrive. You can also check out sites like Project Gutenberg or Open Library for free public domain audiobooks.
What are some of the best British mystery audiobooks to enjoy?
If you’re a fan of British mysteries, we recommend “The Inspector Lynley” series by Elizabeth George, “The Agatha Raisin” series by M.C. Beaton, and “The Ruth Galloway” series by Elly Griffiths. These books have great narrators, intriguing mysteries, and charming British settings.
What are some of the best thriller audiobooks to listen to in 2023?
If you’re looking for a thrilling audiobook, we recommend “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, “The Chain” by Adrian McKinty, and “The Institute” by Stephen King. These books are all gripping, suspenseful, and will keep you on the edge of your seat.