Welcome to the world of epic fantasy audiobooks! Below are the top 10 audiobooks for any fan of the genre:
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1. “The Wheel of Time” by Robert Jordan:
As a classic epic fantasy series, I was enthralled by Rand al’Thor’s efforts to save the world from the Dark One. The narrators, Kate Reading and Michael Kramer, bring the story to life, and I found the prophecy of the Dragon Reborn to be a gripping twist.
Not only did the prophecy of the Dragon Reborn grip me, but the rich cultural landscape and the growth of other characters like Mat and Perrin added depth. The complex plot threads weaving through time and destiny made this an unforgettable journey.
2. “The Kingkiller Chronicle” by Patrick Rothfuss:
This coming-of-age story captivated me with the growth and development of Kvothe, a young wizard and musician. Narrated by Nick Podehl, the audiobook takes you on a remarkable journey filled with challenges and triumphs.
Kvothe’s story is one of loss, discovery, and redemption, and I was fascinated by the way music is used as a form of magic. His time at the University, learning and mastering skills, creates an immersive learning experience for listeners.
3. “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin:
In Westeros, the power struggle among noble houses is riveting. I was pulled into a world filled with unpredictable twists and turns, where alliances shift and the Iron Throne is the ultimate prize.
The multiple perspectives provide a multifaceted view of a treacherous world, where loyalty is scarce, and betrayal is common. The unpredictable nature of characters like Tyrion and Arya made the power struggle even more engaging.
4. “The Malazan Book of the Fallen” by Steven Erikson:
I was impressed by the rich world-building in this series. Adventure and magic abound in an incredibly complex setting where gods and mortals interact, weaving a tale that’s epic in scope.
The intertwined stories of soldiers, gods, and ordinary people create a sprawling, yet cohesive narrative. Themes of power, loyalty, and memory resonated with me throughout the series.
5. “The First Law Trilogy” by Joe Abercrombie:
This dark fantasy series is rife with political intrigue and brutal realism. The characters are multi-dimensional, and I found myself deeply invested in their personal struggles.
The exploration of themes like vengeance, redemption, and humanity’s darker instincts gave the story a deeper resonance. Characters like Logen Ninefingers and Sand dan Glokta provide compelling contrasts and complex moral dilemmas.
6. “The Mistborn Trilogy” by Brandon Sanderson:
Following Vin’s transformation into a Mistborn was breathtaking. I was fascinated by the unique magic system and the fight against the oppressive Lord Ruler.
Beyond the fight against the Lord Ruler, the social dynamics between the nobility and the skaa (lower class) provided an intriguing backdrop. The alloy-based magic system, Allomancy, added a scientific touch that fascinated me.
7. “The Broken Empire Trilogy” by Mark Lawrence:
Jorg Ancrath’s rise to power in this dark series is both thrilling and chilling. His ruthlessness as he becomes a feared ruler kept me on the edge of my seat.
The story doesn’t shy away from dark themes and moral ambiguity, portraying a world where brutality is a means to an end. Jorg’s journey is both horrifying and captivating, reflecting a character-driven plot.
8. “The Riftwar Saga” by Raymond E. Feist:
Magic and adventure are the heart of this series. I was transported to a vibrant world filled with diverse cultures and a battle between two realms.
The rift between two worlds leads to a clash of civilizations, giving the story a grand scale. Character relationships, particularly between the young protagonists, create emotional depth that complements the epic battles.
9. “The Black Company” by Glen Cook:
This series stands out for its gritty depiction of a mercenary band. I was drawn into the morally gray world and the characters’ navigation through a land riddled with political schemes.
The mercenaries’ camaraderie, contrasted with the harsh realities of war, provides a unique perspective on heroism. The struggle between the Lady and the Rebel forces draws you into a world where morality is often gray.
10. “The Lies of Locke Lamora” by Scott Lynch:
Locke Lamora’s cunning heists and schemes are endlessly entertaining. The treacherous streets of Camorr came alive for me, and the camaraderie among the thieves was a highlight.
Locke’s wit and audacity are matched by the intricacy of the cons he orchestrates. The rich world-building of Camorr, with its Venetian flair, lends charm and vibrancy to the thrilling heists.
You may find these audiobooks on platforms like Audible, Google Play books or Apple Books. In conclusion, fantasy and sci-fi audiobooks are filled with endless adventures and possibilities.
If you, like me, enjoy epic tales of magic and adventure or dark stories of political intrigue, there’s something here for you. Why not escape into a world of magic and technology and experience the thrill of a good audiobook today? I hope this list of top 10 must-listen fantasy and sci-fi audiobooks has inspired you to start your next adventure. Happy listening!
If you are planning a road trip, you can find our road trip audiobook recommendations here.