Literary Fiction Audiobooks | Fiction & Literature

Pulp fiction just got a whole lot scarier... Few books ever become loved. Most linger on undead, their sallow pages labyrinths of old, brittle stories and screeds of forgotten knowledge... And other things, besides: Paper-pale forms rustle softly through their leaves. Ink-dark shapes swarming in shadow beneath faded type. And an invitation... Harris delights in collecting the unloved. He wonders if you'd care to donate. A small something for the odd, pale children no-one has seen. An old book, perchance? Neat is sweet; battered is better. Broken spine or torn binding, stained or scarred - ugly doesn't matter. Not a jot. And if you've left a little of yourself between the pages - a receipt or ticket, a mislaid letter, a scrawled note or number - that's just perfect. He might call on you again. Hangover Square meets Naked Lunch through the lens of a classic M. R. James ghost story. To hell and back again (and again) through Whitby, Scarborough and the Yorkshire Moors. Enjoy your Mobius-trip. - Bartholomew Richard Emenike Bennett was born in Leicester, the middle son of an American father and English mother. He has studied and worked in the US and New Zealand, and has a First Class Honours degree in Literature from the University of East Anglia. The Pale Ones is his first published work, although he has been writing fiction, long-form and short, since 2002.

Bartholomew Bennett (Author), Homer Todiwala (Narrator)

Audiobook

Flock without Birds

A genre-bending, mind-altering novel about the illusions that make up our world. Flock without Birds comes in two volumes, with neither one first or second—it’s up to the listener to start with the Story or the Book. In the Story, an aging philosopher tells the tale of the Book—a tale of love that spans centuries, continents, and precious texts. Adam, who will one day write the Book, is a young PhD student torn between love and his obsession—coding an algorithm to sift the world’s data and find God, dead or alive. But a series of mysterious paintings lead him on a winding journey from Cambridge through a Faustian bargain to the edge of reason. Meanwhile in his library, Toito the philosopher calls into question everything there is to believe about Adam—and our world. The Book—Adam’s journal from a foreign prison—promises to cure the divisions that plague the world. Their root cause isn’t politics, capitalism, race, religion, or media. A deeper layer, obvious and invisible, forms what we think, believe, and do. It shapes our wars and our relationships. Unless we confront these illusions, we will remain slaves to the obvious and lose the greatest freedom—the freedom to create a different world. The code—and the key—is within the human mind. But will Adam himself manage such a feat? Can he escape the prisons of the body and of the mind, and regain his love? After reading both volumes, Adam’s story—and our society—will look very different in the end. Two tales, separate and intertwined, ask the question: Where does the whole end and the part begin? What is a flock without birds?

Filip Dousek (Author), Jonathan Davis, Scott Brick (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Last White Man: The New York Times Bestseller 2022

Brought to you by Penguin. From the internationally bestselling author of Exit West, a story of love, loss, and rediscovery in a time of unsettling change One morning, Anders wakes to find that his skin has turned dark, his reflection a stranger to him. At first he tells only Oona, an old friend, newly a lover. Soon, reports of similar occurrences surface across the land. Some see in the transformations the long-dreaded overturning of an established order, to be resisted to a bitter end. In many, like Anders's father and Oona's mother, a sense of profound loss wars with profound love. As the bond between Anders and Oona deepens, change takes on a different shading: a chance to see one another, face to face, anew. Praise for Exit West 'Hamid's enticing strategy is to foreground the humanity. . . . [He] exploits fiction's capacity to elicit empathy and identification to imagine a better world.' - The New York Times Book Review 'Lyrical and urgent . . . peels away the dross of bigotry to expose the beauty of our common humanity.' - O, the Oprah Magazine 'Powerful, vivid, poignant . . . Hamid is the master' The Sunday Times 'Astonishing' Zadie Smith '[An] exceptionally moving and powerful novel' The Guardian © Mohsin Hamid 2022 (P) Penguin Audio 2022

Mohsin Hamid (Author), Mohsin Hamid (Narrator)

Audiobook

eden

eden opens with a summons. The gardeners of eden are called by their masters, the angels, to see a dead body. It is that of a bird, a creature who has strayed beyond the garden walls. The garden’s inhabitants live an eternal and unblemished life – surrounded by bountiful fields, orchards and lakes, a place where the lord’s bidding is done. But outside, where there is poverty and sickness and death, this bird has met a fate that is beyond their imagining. For the gardeners, this summons is a warning. Because something is wrong in eden. Years after the fall of Adam and Eve, a woman called Tabi has escaped, and the angels fear further rebellion. They know gardener Ebon and Jamin, the angel with the broken wing, would both follow Tabi anywhere, would risk the world outside if only they could find her. Perhaps another fall is coming . . . Deliciously intriguing and utterly propulsive, eden by Jim Crace is both a love story and a song to freedom, a novel that toys with creation myth and asks, where does authority lie? Who commands fear? And what – outside of hallowed ground – is an angel but a bird? 'One of our most original and inventive novelists' - Observer

Jim Crace (Author), Ben Allen (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Full Catastrophe: A Novel

The Full Catastrophe is the story of Charlie Minkoff, a thirteen-year-old boy born with intersex traits, and his grandfather, Oscar, a ninety-year-old Holocaust survivor and Charlie’s best friend and confidante. Because the Nazis disrupted Oscar’s opportunity for a bar mitzvah, Charlie decides to right the historical wrong and arrange for a joint bar mitzvah for himself and his zeide. Living with his artist mother in a derelict loft in downtown Winnipeg, perpetually wondering about the Orthodox Jewish father who abandoned him, and tormented in school because of his biological differences, Charlie navigates assorted catastrophes thanks to his grandfather’s love and the makeshift family who surround him: his mother’s best friend Weeza, a couple of elderly shut-in neighbours, a mysterious girl in his class who has dark secrets of her own, and his desperately needy and perpetually flatulent dog, Gellman. The Full Catastrophe is a novel of psychological complexity, tenderness, humour, and community. It is about becoming men; a novel of secrets and the journeys these secrets propel.

Méira Cook (Author), Josh Bloomberg (Narrator)

Audiobook

Lambda

Whoever the lambdas might be, and wherever they really come from, they're already here among us. Outwardly alien arrivals from a distant sea, the lambdas are genetically human. The government has noticed them. So has a whole gamut of extremist groups. Cara Gray has noticed them too, first as a haunting presence in her otherwise ordinary childhood, then as the impossibly shifting target of her work as a police officer. When a bomb goes off at a school, Cara finds herself the weak point in a surveillance regime that has failed to prevent the worst terrorist atrocity in decades. A nebulous group of lambda extremists claims responsibility for the attack-but how could a vulnerable community of tiny aquatic humans, barely visible in society and seemingly indifferent to their own exploitation, be capable of such a horrific act? In Cara's world a family member can be replaced with an app, a police quantum computer has the power to decide who dies, and objects are legally alive. As her relationship with the lambdas deepens, Cara must decide whether to submit to the patterns of technology, violence and obsession, or to take action of her own.

David Musgrave (Author), Bruce Mann, Kristin James (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Gable House

Two old rivals. One dream job. And a summer they'll never forget. Freya Johanssen needs a fresh start. A recently heartbroken and newly-qualified veterinarian, she will take any job that gets her away from Seattle-for now. Her plan is to spend two years in the small town of Whisper Falls, and then head back to the city and civilisation. And then Trent Crossley shows up, and her carefully laid plans are blown to pieces. He's the last person she expected-or wanted-ever to see again. This is the guy who thinks he's God's gift to women; who breezed through vet school without studying and who betrayed her in a way she'll never forgive. She thinks he's an arrogant party boy; he thinks she's an uptight perfectionist. Now he's in her clinic, and the fluttering in her stomach must mean she's still mad at him. It seems they have both been hired for the same job-and now neither is backing down. But as Freya works to outdo Trent at every turn, she starts to see a different side to the man she thought she knew. Falling in love was never part of her plan. And if she wants the new beginning she's worked so hard for, can she afford to give away her heart? A totally unputdownable feel-good read about finding yourself, and love, in the most unexpected places. Fans of Virgin River, Debbie Macomber, Jill Shalvis and Carolyn Brown will love The Gable House. Readers can't get enough of Ellyn Oaksmith: 'Kept me hooked from start to end, I read it in one sitting... heart-warming.' Bookworm 86, 5 stars 'I found myself staying up through the night swooning and sniffling in this heart-wrenchingly amazing romance... I was hooked from the very first page.' Nurse Bookie, 5 stars 'I adored it... Some funny little things that made me smirk and some sad ones that broke my heart AND a scene that made my eyes well up and my heart melt. Great ingredients mixed into a wonderful story.' B for Bookreview, 5 stars. USA Today bestselling author - Ellyn Oaksmith is the USA Today and Kindle bestselling author of the Blue Hills Series, featuring the Alvarez family. After graduating from Smith College and attaining her MFA from The American Film Institute, Ellyn began her writing career as an award-winning screenwriter in Hollywood. Her books explore the same themes as her screenplays: grit, humor, family and love. Ellyn lives on one of Seattle's many hills with her husband and spends as much time as possible on the water as part of a competitive rowing team.

Ellyn Oaksmith (Author), Jennifer Woodward (Narrator)

Audiobook

Love to Hate You

Can your worst enemy become the love of your life? A fun, feisty, feel-good romance for fans of Sophie Kinsella and Meg Cabot. Jennifer and Ian have known each other for seven years. They are leaders of two different teams in the same London bank, and are constantly engaged in a running battle to be number one. Ian is a handsome, wealthy and sought-after bachelor; Jennifer is a feisty, independent lawyer. When they are thrown together to work on the same project, Ian makes Jenny an offer she can't refuse: to have free reign of their rich client if she pretends to be his girlfriend. Soon, it becomes more and more difficult to tell the difference between fiction and reality... What readers are saying about LOVE TO HATE YOU: 'A light-hearted novel about love, (im)possibilities and challenges in the workplace' Tu Style. 'Anna Premoli, for me, is the best of the genre. This book made me laugh and fall in love - I read it four times!' 'I loved this novel from beginning to end... If you want a book that is fun and romantic at the same time, I would definitely recommend it.' - Anna Premoli is a bestselling author in Italy. She began writing to relieve stress while working as a financial consultant for a private bank. Her novel, 'Love to Hate You' won the Bancarella prize in 2013.

Head Of Zeus (Author), Lizzie Wofford (Narrator)

Audiobook

Small Town Secrets

Stepping off the Greyhound bus, I look at the town glinting in the distance beyond a crystal-clear mountain lake. The lines I've memorized from the ad are on repeat in my mind: accommodation and employment provided to women willing to relocate to a historic town with a shortage of women. When Virginia first sees the ad, her breath catches. Female? Check. Small-town seclusion needed? Check. Currently without a home or a job? Check and check. She dabs an extra layer of concealer over the bruise on her cheek, bundles up her belongings, and her secrets, and escapes her life in Savannah. But arriving at Fortune Springs, Colorado, Virginia realizes that her plan to lay low and heal her tattered heart won't stand up against the prying questions from Calla, the brusque older woman who gives her a place to live. She's on the brink of leaving when Calla's twelve-year-old granddaughter arrives at the house, abandoned and alone. Virginia recognizes the feeling, and she realizes she can't be another adult to let the girl down. Then there's the handsome, aloof firefighter Owen, whose company is giving her a whole 'nother reason to stay... But when she returns one day from a walk amongst the wildflowers to find a face from her past waiting for her, Virginia realizes that a secret she's kept has exposed the people around her to a new world of danger. Can she find the strength to fight for the life, and love, she's found in Fortune Springs? An emotional, gripping story full of family drama. Fans of Carolyn Brown, Robyn Carr and Debbie Macomber will be hooked. Readers love Alys Murray: 'Swept me away in its warmth. I couldn't stay away until I finished... feels and fun, family and love.' Goodreads reviewer 'Fabulous. Will remain with you long after you've reached the last page... HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.' Brook Cottage Books Blog 'The warmth of the story enveloped my soul.' Goodreads reviewer 'Full of lovely characters, witty dialogue and wonderful settings, the kind of place where you'd like to live.' Goodreads reviewer The first book featuring the Anderson family, The Magnolia Sisters, reached #40 in the US top 100. Alys' previous title, The Christmas Company, was turned into a Hallmark movie For fans of Jenny Hale, Debbie Macomber and Carolyn Brown - Alys Murray writes novels for the romantic in all of us. Born and raised in New Orleans, she received her BFA from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and her Master's in Film Studies from King's College London. Though she's moved away from home, she'll always be a Southern girl at heart.

Alys Murray (Author), Olivia Kustermans (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Hidden Truth: The gripping and suspenseful story of love, heartbreak and one devastating confess

Brought to you by Penguin. The suspenseful new novel from the million-copy bestselling author of Thursdays in the Park, The Anniversary, The Lie and The Affair He was meant to be the perfect man, until she discovered the hidden truth ... A gripping story of love, heartbreak and one devastating confession that changes everything. Sara Tempest has been alone since her husband died and daughters left home. But over the course of one summer she meets and falls in love with the charming Bernard. The years of heartache and loneliness are finally behind her. She quickly moves into his beautiful home on the wind battered cliffs of Hastings. But, after a while, she begins to wonder if Bernard is all he seems. He's barely in touch with his children and with stifling reminders of his wife everywhere Sara looks, the walls begin to close in. Then comes Bernard's confession and Sara's newfound happiness starts to crumble around her . . . Praise for Hilary Boyd 'Hilary Boyd nails family dynamics and misplaced loyalties with pin-sharp precision in an impressively well-written tale' Daily Express 'I was ripping through this book . . . addictive' Evening Standard 'Boyd is as canny as Joanna Trollope at observing family life' Daily Mail © Hilary Boyd 2022 (P) Penguin Audio 2022

Hilary Boyd (Author), Anna Wilson-Jones (Narrator)

Audiobook

A Year at Appleyard Farm

Down a winding lane lined with honeysuckle and wild flowers, there's a beautiful orchard beside the rushing River Wye. There, in a little farmhouse in the furthest corner, a young woman has a difficult and life-changing decision to make... Life on Appleyard Farm is all Freya Sherbourne has ever known. Having spent her childhood playing between the blossom-heavy apple trees, Freya can't imagine calling anywhere else home. But times have been hard since her father's sudden death, and now that she's being forced to put the farm up for sale, her world is about to come crashing down. Holding back the tears, she starts packing boxes while waiting for a buyer. Now the river no longer sparkles and the apples taste a little less sweet. She hasn't felt this lost since she ran from the altar fifteen years ago to escape a loveless marriage. But when her childhood friend Sam re-appears in town, more handsome and attentive than she ever remembered, Freya's eyes begin to twinkle once again. She loves the sound of his laugh and the way he makes her feel, but she is still hesitant. Can she trust Sam when he is so similar to the man she nearly married? How does she know she won't make the same mistakes again? Falling in love is scary, especially when you don't know what the future holds. And when Freya discovers that Sam has been keeping a secret, one that threatens the future of farm and their rekindled relationship, she finds herself at an impossible crossroads. Will Freya turn her back on love for the second time and choose to save the farm? Or will she be brave enough to finally follow her heart? A gorgeous story about love, friendship and new beginnings. Fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson should grab a cup of hot chocolate, curl up on the sofa and prepare to be carried away! A Year at Appleyard Farm was previously published separately as: Merry Mistletoe, Spring Fever, Gooseberry Fool, and Blackberry Way. What readers are saying about A Year at Appleyard Farm: 'It's books like this one which makes me feel so honoured to have the gift of reading. It's books like this which just highlights why Emma Davies is one of my all-time favourite authors... the perfect escapism. The ideal pick me up... beautifully written and an absolute joy to read - if you read just one book this year, please make it A Year at Appleyard Farm. You won't regret it.' The Writing Garnet 'Touching... got just what I bargained for: an excellent read. One that was utterly compelling... made my heart sing... captivated my attention from beginning to end.' Robin Loves Reading 'The perfect book to read when you want to feel good and smile... uplifting, heart-warming and cosy... highly enjoyable and engrossing... I was hooked and read it in one sitting... I strongly recommend.' Scrapping and Playing For fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson - Emma once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun, humorous, and not necessarily true anecdote about herself for their website. She wrote the following: 'I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty-something mother of three.' Well the job didn't work out but she's now a forty-something mother of three and happy to report the rest of her dream came true. She now lives in rural Shropshire with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs where she writes full time from a shed in the garden.

Emma Davies (Author), Colleen Prendergast (Narrator)

Audiobook

Rites of Passage: A Revolutionary Audiobook

Blending comedy, romance and magical realism, Rites of Passage, immerses the listener in a 6-hour mystical adventure featuring the Jefferson Airplane's Somebody to Love as part of a unique sound design with over 85 pieces of world-wide music, hundreds of sound effects and a cast of 26 actors playing 37 comic characters caught in the midst of the Sexual Revolution in the backwoods of Northern California in the late 1960's where... everyone is trying to figure out what to do with their lives.

R David Stephens (Author), R David Stephens (Narrator)

Audiobook

Literary Fiction Audiobooks in Fiction & Literature