Top 10 New Audiobooks of 2025: The Best Audiobook Releases You Need to Hear

Looking for the best new audiobooks of 2025? This year has delivered an outstanding lineup of new audiobook releases, featuring bestselling authors, award-winning narrators, and some of the most talked-about stories across fiction and nonfiction.

Below is our curated list of the Top 10 New Audiobooks of 2025, selected based on sales volume, listener ratings, and overall buzz on AudiobooksNow. These titles represent the most popular audiobooks of 2025, and each one offers a standout listening experience. This list is in no particular order.

The Widow

The Widow

Author: John Grisham
Narrator: Michael Beck

John Grisham returns with one of the most anticipated new audiobooks of 2025, delivering another fast-paced legal thriller filled with suspense and moral complexity. The Widow is elevated by Michael Beck’s steady, authoritative narration, making it a must-listen for fans of courtroom drama and bestselling audiobooks.

The Secret of Secrets

Robert Langdon, Book #6

The Secret of Secrets

Author: Dan Brown
Narrator: Paul Michael

One of the biggest audiobook releases of 2025, Dan Brown’s latest Robert Langdon novel plunges listeners into a world of ancient symbols, modern science, and global conspiracy. Paul Michael’s narration keeps the tension high, making The Secret of Secrets a top pick for mystery and thriller audiobook fans.

Nobody’s Girl

A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice

Nobody's Girl

Author: Virginia Roberts Giuffre
Narrator: Thérèse Plummer, Gabra Zackman

Among the most powerful nonfiction audiobooks of 2025, Nobody’s Girl has generated significant listener attention. This deeply moving memoir is brought to life through dual narration, adding emotional depth and authenticity to an important real-world story.

Great Big Beautiful Life

Reese’s Book Club

Great Big Beautiful Life

Author: Emily Henry
Narrator: Julia Whelan

Emily Henry continues her run of popular audiobooks with this Reese’s Book Club selection. Great Big Beautiful Life blends romance, humor, and emotional honesty, while Julia Whelan’s narration makes it one of the most enjoyable and re-listenable romance audiobooks of 2025.

Onyx Storm

The Empyrean, Book #3

Onyx Storm

Author: Rebecca Yarros
Narrator: Rebecca Soler, Teddy Hamilton, Justis Bolding, Jasmin Walker

Fantasy listeners have made Onyx Storm one of the best audiobooks of 2025. This epic continuation of the Empyrean series features a full cast of narrators, immersive world-building, and high-stakes storytelling that shines in audio format.

Poems & Prayers

Poems & Prayers

Author & Narrator: Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey’s unmistakable voice makes Poems & Prayers a standout among new audiobooks in 2025. Part memoir and part reflection, this audiobook feels intimate and personal, especially with the author narrating his own words.

Sunrise on the Reaping

Sunrise on the Reaping

Author: Suzanne Collins
Narrator: Jefferson White

One of the most searched-for audiobooks of 2025, Sunrise on the Reaping expands the Hunger Games universe in dramatic fashion. Jefferson White’s narration adds emotional weight to this highly anticipated return to Panem, making it essential listening for longtime fans.

Atmosphere

A Love Story

Atmosphere

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
Narrator: Kristen DiMercurio, Julia Whelan, Taylor Jenkins Reid

Taylor Jenkins Reid delivers another emotionally rich novel with Atmosphere. Featuring multiple narrators—including the author herself—this audiobook has become one of the top romance and contemporary audiobooks of 2025.

Everything Is Tuberculosis

The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection

Everything Is Tuberculosis

Author & Narrator: John Green

Among the most compelling nonfiction audiobook releases of 2025, John Green’s exploration of tuberculosis combines history, science, and human stories. Green’s narration adds clarity and compassion, making this a standout educational audiobook.

My Friends

My Friends

Author: Fredrik Backman
Narrator: Marin Ireland

Fredrik Backman’s My Friends continues his tradition of heartfelt storytelling. Marin Ireland’s nuanced narration makes this one of the most emotionally resonant new audiobooks of 2025, especially for fans of character-driven fiction.

Discover the Best New Audiobooks of 2025 on AudiobooksNow

These titles represent just a snapshot of the top new audiobooks of 2025. From bestselling fiction and fantasy to unforgettable memoirs and insightful nonfiction, AudiobooksNow is your destination for the latest and best audiobooks.

Explore new audiobook releases, discover popular narrators, and start listening today on AudiobooksNow.

How AudiobooksNow Helps Authors Distribute Audiobooks in Bulk

Audiobooks in Bulk

In today’s fast-moving digital landscape, audiobooks have become an essential part of how readers consume stories and information. For authors, getting their audiobooks into the hands (and ears) of listeners is more important than ever. Whether you’re hosting a book tour, speaking at a conference, or launching a promotional campaign, bulk distribution of your audiobook can be a game-changer.

That’s where AudiobooksNow comes in.

Why Bulk Audiobook Distribution Matters

Authors often think of audiobook distribution as a one-at-a-time retail process. But what if you could provide dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of copies to fans, clients, or event attendees—all at once?

Bulk audiobook distribution allows you to:

  • Provide access to listeners at corporate events or book clubs
  • Offer audiobooks as lead magnets for email list building
  • Give away promotional copies to reviewers, influencers, or educators
  • Reward loyal fans with exclusive access during launches

How AudiobooksNow Supports Bulk Distribution

AudiobooksNow makes it easy for authors and publishers to purchase and distribute their audiobooks in bulk through custom download codes and direct access links.

Here’s how it works:

1. Customized Bulk Orders

Authors can work directly with AudiobooksNow to order bulk copies of their audiobooks. Whether you need 10 or 10,000, we tailor the order to fit your goals and budget.

2. Unique Download Codes

Each audiobook can be distributed using unique redemption codes. These codes can be printed on bookmarks, postcards, or emailed to recipients—perfect for giveaways and marketing campaigns.

3. Easy Access for Listeners

Listeners simply enter the code on AudiobooksNow.com or in the AudiobooksNow app to instantly access and download the audiobook—no subscription required.

4. Flexible Pricing & Author-Friendly Support

We understand authors’ needs. That’s why we offer:

  • Competitive pricing for bulk purchases
  • Personal support through every step of the process
  • Reporting and tracking to monitor redemptions

Real-World Use Cases

Here are a few ways authors are already using AudiobooksNow for bulk audiobook sharing:

  • Book Subscription Boxes: Include a download code in a themed box
  • Speaking Engagements: Offer your audiobook as a digital handout
  • Launch Teams & Influencers: Easily distribute pre-release versions
  • Corporate Partnerships: Share business audiobooks with clients or employees

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re an author looking to amplify your reach and give your audiobook the exposure it deserves, AudiobooksNow’s bulk distribution tools can help. Whether you’re self-published or part of a publishing team, we’re here to support your promotional and outreach goals.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you deliver your audiobook—on your terms, in your voice, to the audiences that matter most.

Why is June Audiobook Month?

Girl Listening to Audiobooks Sitting on Chair

June is celebrated as Audiobook Month primarily to raise awareness about the joys and benefits of audiobooks. Here’s why June was chosen and what the month represents:

1. Summer Reading Season

  • June kicks off summer in many parts of the world, especially in the U.S., which is when people often have more free time to read (or listen) during vacations, travel, and long commutes.

  • Audiobooks are especially convenient for travel—on road trips, flights, or beach days—making them a perfect fit for summer.

2. Industry Promotion

  • The Audio Publishers Association (APA) established June as Audiobook Month in 2008 to promote the format, showcase new releases, and highlight the work of narrators, authors, and producers.

  • It encourages people who haven’t tried audiobooks to give them a chance and explores how they can enhance reading experiences.

3. Accessibility & Literacy

  • Audiobook Month also emphasizes how audiobooks support accessibility, especially for people with visual impairments, dyslexia, or other reading challenges.

  • They help improve literacy and language skills by modeling fluent reading and engaging storytelling.


June is Audiobook Month because it aligns with summer reading trends, helps promote the audiobook industry, and celebrates the unique ways audiobooks make stories more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.

How to Listen to Free Audiobooks on AudiobooksNow

Woman Listening to Free Audiobooks

Audiobooks are an excellent way to enjoy books while multitasking, whether you’re commuting, working out, or just relaxing. AudiobooksNow is a popular platform that offers a vast collection of audiobooks, including bestsellers and classics. But did you know that you can listen to audiobooks for free on AudiobooksNow? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to access free audiobooks on the platform.

1. Sign Up for a Free Account

To begin listening to free audiobooks on AudiobooksNow, you’ll first need to create an account. Simply visit the AudiobooksNow website or download their mobile app. Signing up is free, and it only takes a minute.

2. Take Advantage of the Free Trial

AudiobooksNow offers a 30-day free trial of their Club Pricing Plan. During this period, you can enjoy discounts on audiobooks and even get a free premium audiobook to listen to (select titles only). Be sure to check which titles are eligible and make the most of the trial period.

3. Browse the Free Audiobooks Section

AudiobooksNow has a dedicated section for free audiobooks. You can find a selection of titles that are completely free to listen to without any subscriptions or payments. Simply navigate to the “Free Audiobooks” section on their website or app and browse through the available options.

4. Look for Limited-Time Free Offers

The platform frequently offers limited-time deals on audiobooks, including free promotions on select titles. Keep an eye out for these special promotions by checking their website or subscribing to their mailing list for updates.

5. Utilize Public Domain Audiobooks

AudiobooksNow provides access to a variety of public domain books, which are free to listen to. These include classic literature, such as works by Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Mark Twain. Since they are no longer under copyright, they can be enjoyed at no cost.

Final Thoughts

AudiobooksNow provides multiple ways to enjoy free audiobooks, whether through their free book selection, limited-time promotions, or public domain titles. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can build an extensive audiobook library without spending a dime. Happy listening!

Have you discovered any great free audiobooks on AudiobooksNow? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Children vs Young Adult Audiobooks

Children Audiobooks

We are often asked what the difference is between children’s audiobooks and young adult audiobooks. Children’s audiobooks and young adult audiobooks are two distinct categories of literature, each crafted with its audience’s age, developmental stage, and emotional maturity in mind.

Children’s audiobooks are designed to spark curiosity and imagination in younger minds. These audiobooks tend to have themes that revolve around simple, universal ideas like friendship, adventure, and moral lessons. The language is accessible, and the plots are straightforward, reflecting the world through the lens of youthful wonder. Normally, children’s books are full of illustrations, so talented narrators must create those pictures in the child’s mind using only words.

In contrast, young adult (YA) audiobooks cater to the complex emotional and intellectual landscapes of teenagers. While still rooted in compelling stories, YA literature delves deeper into the complexities of identity, love, societal pressures, and personal struggles. The language is more sophisticated, and the themes are more mature—dealing with real-world issues that resonate with a teen’s journey toward adulthood. YA audiobooks often tackle darker, more intense subjects like mental health, social justice, and personal loss, with characters who wrestle with their place in the world. Unlike children’s audiobooks, YA novels are less reliant on visual cues, focusing instead on character-driven narratives and emotional depth.

Children’s Audiobooks (age range)

  • (5–7 years) – Short sentences, simple vocabulary
  • (8–10 years) – Longer stories with simple chapters and more developed plots
  • (11–12 years) – More complex storytelling, longer books and themes of friendship, adventure, and identity

Young Adult Audiobooks (age range)

  • (12–15 years) – Characters in the story are typically 12-15, with themes of coming-of-age, friendships, and early romantic experiences
  • (15–18 years) – More mature themes like identity, relationships, and societal issues. Characters in the story are usually 16-18 years old


In short, children’s audiobooks are typically aimed at younger kids with simpler stories, while young adult audiobooks tackle more complex themes suited for teens. The tone and writing style reflect the intended age group and their cognitive and emotional maturity.

What is Auto-Narration?

Auto Narrated Book

In recent years, the rise of artificial intelligence, and advanced digital technologies has led to the development of many innovative tools and techniques in the realm of storytelling. One of these innovations is auto-narration, a concept that is quickly gaining ground, especially in the fields of literature

But what exactly is auto-narration, and how does it work? Let’s take a closer look.

Defining Auto-Narration

At its core, auto-narration refers to the process in which a system, typically powered by artificial intelligence (AI), narrates a story without human intervention. The idea is that a machine, rather than a human storyteller, assumes the role of the narrator, creating an experience that mimics traditional storytelling.

While auto-narration systems can vary in complexity, they often rely on algorithms that process large volumes of data—such as books—to produce narratives that are coherent, engaging, and contextually relevant.

How Does Auto-Narration Work?

The process behind auto-narration involves several components of AI technology, including:

  1. Data Input: To create a narrative, auto-narration systems need vast amounts of data. This data could be drawn from books, articles, social media posts, or even user-generated content. By feeding the system with diverse input, it learns language patterns, narrative structures, and even emotional cues.
  2. Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP is a subfield of AI that focuses on enabling machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language. In auto-narration, NLP algorithms help the system analyze the data and structure it into coherent sentences, paragraphs, or even entire stories.
  3. Narrative Structure: Auto-narration systems must also understand the key components of storytelling, such as plot, character development, conflict, and resolution. Depending on the complexity of the system, it can generate basic stories or more elaborate narratives that include intricate story arcs and character evolution.
  4. Voice Synthesis (Optional): In some cases, auto-narration involves voice synthesis, where a machine-generated voice delivers the story. This is particularly common in audiobooks and podcasts. Modern voice synthesis systems use deep learning algorithms to replicate natural human speech, adding emotion, tone, and rhythm to the narrative.

Conclusion

Auto-narration is an innovative and rapidly developing field that is reshaping how stories are told and consumed. From personalized educational experiences to immersive storytelling, the potential applications are vast. As AI technology continues to advance, auto-narration will likely play a significant role in how we interact with content, communicate, and even experience the world of literature.