20 Best Fantasy Audiobooks for Escaping Reality

20 Best Fantasy Audiobooks for Escaping Reality

Few audiobooks provide as much of an escape as those in the fantasy genre. Each of the best introduces us to an entirely new world (or a new version of this one), a diverse cast of complexly constructed characters, and a story so mesmerising that we’re reluctant to return to real life. But because the genre is so full of talent, it can be difficult to know what to listen to next — so look no further than this list of our 20 best fantasy audiobooks to get you started.
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  • Outlander cover art

    • Outlander

    • Outlander, Book 1
    • By: Diana Gabaldon
    • Narrated by: Davina Porter
    • Series: Outlander, Book 1
    • Length: 32 hrs and 38 mins
    • Release date: 12-10-2020
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,296 ratings
    • Now known internationally for the acclaimed television adaptation, Outlander is a story about time travel and love — but not in the way one might expect. Both a fantasy and a love story, Claire’s journey takes her first to Scotland, on holiday with her recently returned war veteran husband, and then deep into the past after a ritual accidentally transports her to the year 1743. Captured both by time and then by the young, dashing and kind Laird Jamie Fraser, Claire is forced to decide whether to cling to her old life and love or embrace the new ones she’s found. Fans of the series will find that Hall of Fame narrator Davina Porter’s performance brings Claire Randall’s story to life in a clear and captivating fashion, adding an additional element of beauty to this magnificent tale of time, love, and war on the Scottish highlands.

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  • The Sandman cover art

    • The Sandman

    • By: Neil Gaiman, Dirk Maggs
    • Narrated by: Riz Ahmed, Kat Dennings, Taron Egerton, Neil Gaiman, James McAvoy, Samantha Morton, Bebe Neuwirth, Andy Serkis, Michael Sheen
    • Series: The Sandman, Book 1
    • Length: 11 hrs and 2 mins
    • Release date: 15-07-2020
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,568 ratings
    • Some audiobooks come in epic proportions, and Neil Gaiman’s impressive The Sandman is no exception. This New York Times best-selling series is finally done justice in this listen, adapted and directed by award-winner Dirk Maggs and performed by an all-star cast including James McAvoy, Riz Ahmed, Taron Egerton and Kat Dennings. Brought to life through these celebrated performers, this sonic experience is able to take you even further into its atmosphere with an original musical score by British Academy Award winner James Hannigan. And as for The Sandman himself? Also known as Lord Morpheus, the immortal kings of dreams, stories and imagination finds himself pulled from his realm and imprisoned on Earth. On his escape, a multi-layered story unravels as he works to restore his lost power, encountering a range of characters, from DC comic books to ancient myths along the way. This is not simply a story, but a complete revelation — we recommend switching off, putting on your headphones and allowing yourself to be totally transported.

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  • Red Rising cover art

    • Red Rising

    • By: Pierce Brown
    • Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
    • Series: Red Rising, Book 1
    • Length: 16 hrs and 12 mins
    • Release date: 28-01-2014
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,489 ratings
    • Darrow, a member of the red caste in a colour-coded society, works day and night to make the surface of Mars livable for his fellow humans, who will eventually move there with him. Darrow’s work is brutal, but he finds honour and peace in giving his life in service of a greater good. That is, until he realises the move is already complete, and he’s been lied to. Society already flourishes on Mars, and he and his fellow Reds have been betrayed and enslaved in the planet’s mines for no reason other than greed. The first person perspective of Red Rising calls for a narrator who can lend passion and anger to Darrow’s story as he starts a revolution and sacrifices everything for justice. And Irish-accented narrator Tim Gerard Reynolds delivers just that energy at a perfect pace. Once you start listening, you won’t want to stop until you’ve finished the next four titles in the series.

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  • The Name of the Wind cover art

    • The Name of the Wind

    • The Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1
    • By: Patrick Rothfuss
    • Narrated by: Rupert Degas
    • Series: Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1
    • Length: 28 hrs and 3 mins
    • Release date: 06-03-2012
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 7,220 ratings
    • For fans of Neil Gaiman who seek a similarly multi-layered narrative style, The Name of the Wind combines elements of medieval culture, religion, wizards, and more in a modern take on the hero’s journey. As he develops the richly illustrated fantasy world of Temerant, Patrick Rothfuss allows the story to unwind with care, creating space for listeners to become fully immersed in the places he creates. All the while, narrator Rupert Degas’ shape-shifting performance makes it feel as though the citizens of Temerant are standing in the room alongside you. In this first instalment of the fantasy landmark series The Kingkiller Chronicles, you’ll be introduced to Kvote, one of the most darkly powerful magicians in his world’s history. Follow along as he recounts the steps, from his early orphan-hood to his acceptance to a legendary school of magic, that lead him to his notorious strength. It’s no wonder the story has been praised by the likes of Lin-Manuel Miranda and George R.R. Martin — it’s a truly beautiful, spellbinding work of fantasy that easily earns its place among the best in the genre.

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  • The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring cover art

    • The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

    • The Fellowship of the Ring
    • By: J. R.R. Tolkien
    • Narrated by: Rob Inglis
    • Series: The Lord of the Rings, Book 1
    • Length: 19 hrs and 53 mins
    • Release date: 26-12-2004
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 2,648 ratings
    • Whether it’s a fantasy novel that you’ve never found time to tackle, or a well-loved favourite that you return to time and again, no listen of The Lord of the Rings will fail to transport you into an entirely new realm. This classic by narrator Rob Inglis offers a complete and unabridged immersion into Middle-Earth and the epic adventure of Frodo Baggins. With Sauron, the Dark Lord, threatening to rule all with possession of the One Ring, it’s up to hobbit Frodo to leave his sleepy village in the Shire and destroy the Ring. There are few universes within the fantasy genre which are created and known so truly and intricately as that of Middle-Earth, and there’s no better way to acquaint yourself or deepen your relationship with it than through the magnificent depths of this unabridged version.

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  • American Gods cover art

    • American Gods

    • By: Neil Gaiman
    • Narrated by: Neil Gaiman, Dennis Boutskiaris, Daniel Oreskes, Ron McLarty, Sarah Jones
    • Series: American Gods, Book 1
    • Length: 19 hrs and 36 mins
    • Release date: 12-04-2012
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,210 ratings
    • If you thought the ancient pantheons were crowded, the full list of deities in American Gods might just knock you out. But Neil Gaiman’s cast of characters — that includes ancient Greek, Norse, and Egyptian gods alongside ‘deities’ like the media, pop culture, globalisation, and technology — is brought to life in this audiobook by a full cast of narrators, including Gaiman himself, so that the listening experience feels immersive rather than cramped. The story follows down-on-his-luck ex-convict Shadow as he begins a new job as a bodyguard and errand boy for the mysterious Mr. Wednesday — a career choice that plummets him into a world of unimaginable wonder. The sheer number of mythological elements in this audiobook is staggering, so we don’t recommend trying to do any complicated chores while you listen. This title is best experienced if you’re able to kick back, relax, and immerse fully into your auditory adventure.

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  • The Eye of the World cover art

    • The Eye of the World

    • Book One of The Wheel of Time
    • By: Robert Jordan
    • Narrated by: Kate Reading, Michael Kramer
    • Series: The Wheel of Time, Book 1
    • Length: 29 hrs and 57 mins
    • Release date: 31-12-2006
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,652 ratings
    • The Wheel of Time is likely one of the most beloved fantasy series ever written, and The Eye of the World is your introduction to the expansive and winding universe in which it takes place. The dynamic pairing of narrators Kate Reading and Michael Kramer make each line feel fresh and interesting, even if this is your hundredth listen. For fans of detailed worldbuilding, Robert Jordan’s writing is a treat. The story begins when five strangers are forced to flee their besieged town, The Two Rivers, and join forces in order to survive in a dangerous, unknowable wilderness that holds surprising treasures and dangers alike. Their shared journey is an unforgettable adventure that’s perfect for fans of high fantasy epics.

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  • A Discovery of Witches cover art

    • A Discovery of Witches

    • All Souls, Book 1
    • By: Deborah Harkness
    • Narrated by: Jennifer Ikeda
    • Series: All Souls, Book 1
    • Length: 23 hrs and 59 mins
    • Release date: 14-02-2011
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,270 ratings
    • A Discovery of Witches starts with every scholar’s dream; a one-of-a-kind academic discovery. Diana Bishop is working late one night in the library when she comes across a long-lost alchemical manuscript. That discovery alone would be enough for her, but the manuscript also just happens to be enchanted. For Diana, whose ancestors were witches, the discovery is akin to finding the holy grail. With the help of her love interest Matthew — who’s also a vampire geneticist! — Diana explores the magical world the manuscript unlocks. Thus begins an incredibly entertaining journey, made more so by narrator Jennifer Ikeda’s playful style, that spans a trilogy and has captured the hearts of fans across the world.

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  • Year One cover art

    • Year One

    • Chronicles of The One, Book 1
    • By: Nora Roberts
    • Narrated by: Julia Whelan
    • Series: Chronicles of The One, Book 1
    • Length: 12 hrs and 20 mins
    • Release date: 05-12-2017
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 902 ratings
    • Best-selling author Nora Roberts leaves the genre of romance that she’s known for behind in the post apocalyptic dystopian fantasy Year One. Disease strikes, and everything in a world once ruled by order has turned to chaos. For lovers Lana and Max, it’s time to leave the ravaged New York City and head west. Accompanied by other travellers in a world scored with witchcraft and mystery, it’s hard to know if the next person you encounter will be savage or saviour. Fast-paced, and thought-provoking, this portal into the trilogy will no doubt have you gripped, not least by narrator Julia Whelan’s captivating performance.

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  • The Way of Kings cover art

    • The Way of Kings

    • The Stormlight Archive, Book 1
    • By: Brandon Sanderson
    • Narrated by: Michael Kramer, Kate Reading
    • Series: The Stormlight Archive, Book 1
    • Length: 45 hrs and 29 mins
    • Release date: 26-05-2011
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 4,499 ratings
    • Narrating partners Kate Reading and Michael Kramer previously won praise and a fan following for their work together on the Wheel of Time saga, and their performance here merits no less acclaim. Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings builds and intertwines the stories of three characters — a slave soldier longing for freedom, a king’s brother, and a young scholarly thief — all living in the intemperate realm of Roshar. Everything about the realm of Roshar says life should be impossible — terrible storms rage, and the kingdom is being torn apart by a war with a cause no one remembers. But then each of the three protagonists stumbles upon ancient secrets of a once-famous, long-dead order called The Knights Radiant, finding long-awaited answers to forgotten mysteries. An impressive introduction to a series with a detailed and enthralling world, The Way of Kings is a must-listen for fans of complex, character-driven fantasies.

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  • The Shadow of What Was Lost cover art

    • The Shadow of What Was Lost

    • The Licanius Trilogy, Book 1
    • By: James Islington
    • Narrated by: Michael Kramer
    • Series: The Licanius Trilogy, Book 1
    • Length: 25 hrs and 28 mins
    • Release date: 10-02-2015
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,418 ratings
    • For fans of Brandon Sanderson looking for intricate and sophisticated worldbuilding, James Islington’s Licanius trilogy will not disappoint. This first entry into his fantastical world will introduce you to Davian, who discovers he has forbidden magic powers which must both be honed yet hidden in a land torn by earlier revolution and war. Alongside Davian, you’ll meet Asha, Wirr and Caeden as their worlds collide in this coming-of-age meets fantasy adventure. The story is told from their four different perspectives, with each embodied effortlessly and enchantingly by award-winning narrator, Michael Kramer, so you truly feel that you’re joining each individual character on their journey. Interweaving battles, magic, complex character-building and amazing history, it’s easy to see how this debut has made such an impact.

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  • A Game of Thrones cover art

    • A Game of Thrones

    • Book 1 of A Song of Ice and Fire
    • By: George R.R. Martin
    • Narrated by: Roy Dotrice
    • Series: A Song of Ice and Fire, Book 1
    • Length: 33 hrs and 45 mins
    • Release date: 03-11-2015
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 5,122 ratings
    • There really is only one word that completely describes this first portal into the Game of Thrones series: epic. With enough audio to occupy listeners for over an entire day without pause, the monumental A Song of Ice and Fire introduces its audience to the world of Westeros. It’s a brutal, bleak existence for most, filled with morally ambiguous figures with dark, entangled histories. The story opens when Ned Stark, Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, goes south to visit the capitol (and his old friend, the King) to investigate the suspicious death of his brother-in-law, Jon Arryn. From there, the narrative takes off in different directions, following different characters on their many intertwining paths across the Seven Kingdoms. For fans brought to the series by its television iteration, A Song of Ice and Fire brings a familiar story to an incredibly detailed new level, making this a worthwhile listen, whether or not you’ve made the trek to Westeros before.

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  • The Fifth Season cover art

    • The Fifth Season

    • The Broken Earth, Book 1
    • By: N. K. Jemisin
    • Narrated by: Robin Miles
    • Series: The Broken Earth, Book 1
    • Length: 15 hrs and 27 mins
    • Release date: 19-11-2015
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,319 ratings
    • At once deeply personal and ambitious in scope, The Fifth Season is the first in a trilogy that won N.K. Jemisin three consecutive Hugo Awards. In the monolithic continent called The Stillness, orogenes — humans with the at-times dangerous ability to control physical energy — are strictly monitored and controlled by the government. To cling to her personal freedom, Essun keeps her orogenic status a secret, until a tragedy occurs that sends her on a perilous journey to protect her family and find some peace. Hall of Fame narrator Robin Miles uses her strong, powerful voice to inhabit Jemisin’s characters wholly and completely, performing Essun’s epic adventure across an unyielding land in a way that builds suspense in all the right places.

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  • The Blade Itself cover art

    • The Blade Itself

    • The First Law: Book One
    • By: Joe Abercrombie
    • Narrated by: Steven Pacey
    • Series: The First Law Trilogy, Book 1
    • Length: 22 hrs and 15 mins
    • Release date: 03-06-2010
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,016 ratings
    • With a wide enough variety of characters to make a compelling Dungeons & Dragons campaign, this wild and hilarious account of old rivalries, murder plots and conspiracies unfurls as you listen. It all starts with barbarian Logan Ninefingers, who finds himself out of space to run when old enemies come calling. Steve Pacey is consistently praised for his nuance in crafting distinct character voices — and this performance is no different. Regarding his narration of The Blade Itself, one Audible listener commented, ‘’The voice acting is probably the best I’ve ever heard’. A nonstop, fun-filled ride, this listen is a character-driven romp that will leave you with soft spots in your heart for all those who you meet along the way.

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  • Daughter of the Empire cover art

    • Daughter of the Empire

    • By: Raymond E. Feist, Janny Wurts
    • Narrated by: Tania Rodrigues
    • Series: Riftwar Cycle [Chronological Order], Book 6, The Empire Trilogy, Book 1, Riftwar Cycle [Publication Order], Book 5
    • Length: 19 hrs and 47 mins
    • Release date: 24-04-2014
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 984 ratings
    • Whether your interests lie in political intrigue or human drama, Daughter of the Empire will no doubt deliver. Intricately woven together by established writers Raymond E. Feist and Janny Wurts, this entry into the Empire trilogy begins as protagonist Mara learns of the death of her brother and father in battle and that she must take up the mantles of Ruling Lady. An inexperienced political player, she soon learns the truths behind her family’s loss and must navigate a complex and dangerous world in order to secure the future for her family. Slip on your headphones and seamlessly dive into the twists and turns of this one-of-a-kind story. Entrancing, entertaining and engaging, it’s a fantasy listen like no other.

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  • Uprooted cover art

    • Uprooted

    • By: Naomi Novik
    • Narrated by: Katy Sobey
    • Length: 17 hrs and 20 mins
    • Release date: 05-05-2016
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 604 ratings
    • Nestled in a peaceful valley is the town in which Agnieszka grew up, and it would be a perfect haven if not for its proximity to the nearby corrupted forest that threatens it. To keep these dangers at bay, the town must offer up a young woman every ten years to an immortal wizard called Dragon, who protects the town in exchange. As the date of Dragon’s next selection nears, Agnieszka preemptively mourns the loss of her beautiful, charming best friend whom everyone is certain will be chosen. But when the day comes, she couldn’t be more wrong. Naomi Novik’s fantasy audiobook sounds and feels like a newly discovered Grimm fairytale: dark, mysterious, and enticing. Narrated by Audie-award nominated Kate Sobey, this listen is as immersive and all-encompassing as the dark, looming woods it features.

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  • The Last Wish cover art

    • The Last Wish

    • By: Andrzej Sapkowski
    • Narrated by: Peter Kenny
    • Series: The Witcher
    • Length: 10 hrs and 27 mins
    • Release date: 27-02-2014
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,210 ratings
    • This is the first entry into the international phenomenon of the Witcher universe made famous by the video game franchise and television series, but it’s the stories themselves that truly steal the show. The Last Wish introduces listeners to Geralt of Rivia — a Witcher whose magic powers and lifelong training have made him a fearless fighter and merciless assassin. But in a land shrouded by myth, monsters and magic, not everything is as it might seem. As you delve deeper into this complex and fascinating world, imbued with the mystery and intricacies of Eastern European folklore and led by the enchanting performance of Peter Kenny, you’ll struggle to press pause as the great fighter twists and turns through a lifetime’s worth of trials and adventures.

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  • Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Book 1 cover art

    • Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Book 1

    • By: J.K. Rowling
    • Narrated by: Stephen Fry
    • Series: Harry Potter, Book 1, Wizarding World, Book 1
    • Length: 8 hrs and 25 mins
    • Release date: 20-11-2015
    • Language: English
    • 5 out of 5 stars 10,514 ratings
    • Stephen Fry’s narrative performance of the entire Harry Potter series has acted as a childhood — and grown up — friend to many a listener, and it’s easy to understand why. His narration of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone lovingly brings Potter’s story to life while imbuing the entire universe with magic, wit and joy. If you haven’t yet met Harry, the orphan boy who finds out he’s a wizard upon whom the fate of the world depends, we wholeheartedly recommend that adults and children alike unwind with this first entry into an unforgettable seven-title series. But even if you’re a bonafide Potterhead who can expertly explain the rules of Quidditch, we still think you’ll adore this nostalgic version as much as the newly initiated listener.

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  • The Lies of Locke Lamora cover art

    • The Lies of Locke Lamora

    • By: Scott Lynch
    • Narrated by: Michael Page
    • Series: Gentleman Bastard Sequence, Book 1
    • Length: 21 hrs and 59 mins
    • Release date: 21-01-2011
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,632 ratings
    • The Lies of Locke Lamora is most definitely a fantasy — it is, after all, set on Camorra, an island city that’s been constructed on the ruins of a mystical alien race. But, the plot follows amateur thief Locke Lamora’s rise to power among the members of an underground crime family called the Gentleman Bastards, so that it could easily be considered a slick work of crime fiction as well. In fact, author Scott Lynch blends the two genres so seamlessly that this is one listen that will likely appeal even to those who aren’t typically fantasy fans. Audie Award winner Michael Page’s superb narration and Lynch’s exceptional worldbuilding combine to create a world both realistic and fantastical, further illustrating that, in a story where no one is without fault, it can be fun to root for the bad guys.

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  • The Rage of Dragons cover art

    • The Rage of Dragons

    • The Burning, Book One
    • By: Evan Winter
    • Narrated by: Prentice Onayemi
    • Series: The Burning, Book 1
    • Length: 16 hrs and 15 mins
    • Release date: 18-07-2019
    • Language: English
    • 4.5 out of 5 stars 303 ratings
    • Evan Winter’s debut novel was originally self-published as an e-book, but it became so popular that it was picked up for formal publication. And it’s easy to understand how the story garnered so much enthusiasm. Discover a compelling warrior tale of personal sacrifice and honour that follows Tau, a pacifist with plans to leave the military and flee with his family, until a sudden loss awakens his thirst for revenge. But what’s really unique about the world of The Rage of Dragons is its fantasy element. In the society Winter has crafted, one in every 2,000 women is able to call dragons, and one in 100 men are inhumanly strong. With these game pieces in play, Tau’s personal quest — and the war that rages on around him — take on new layers of complexity and intrigue that draw the listener in and hold them there until the very last word. The talented voice of Audie Award finalist and Hall of Fame narrator Prentice Onayemi, who is celebrated for his unique, lyrical style, adds an additional layer of magnetism.

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