Audible Originals: Unlocking the Power of Storytelling
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In today’s fast-paced digital world, content is king, and Audible Originals are leading the charge in revolutionizing the way we consume stories. With a vast library of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive content, Audible has become a go-to destination for story enthusiasts and content creators alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the power of Audible Originals and how they’re shaping the future of storytelling.
What Are Audible Originals And How Do They Work?
Audible Originals are exclusive audiobooks, podcasts, and other audio content produced and published directly by Audible, the audiobook service from Amazon. Unlike most audiobooks, which are released by publishers and sold on various platforms, Audible Originals are only available on Audible and cannot be found elsewhere on the internet. They are similar to Netflix Original series or movies in terms of exclusivity. To access Audible Originals, individuals need to sign up for an Audible account, and they can receive one free audiobook as part of the sign-up process.
Audible has managed to carve out a niche for itself in the competitive digital content landscape. Audible Originals have undoubtedly revolutionized the way we consume stories in the digital age. With their diverse content, innovative technology, and commitment to quality storytelling, they have managed to change the way people perceive and engage with audio content. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Audible Originals continue to shape the future of storytelling and provide endless hours of entertainment to listeners worldwide.
“You can get access to Audible Originals for free by completing a 30-day free trial. So why not start today?”
Der Book Guide®-Editor
Top Audible Originals to Check Out
With thousands of titles to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start with Audible Originals. Here are a few top picks to help you get started:
The Waitress by K. L. Slater
The audiobook The Waitress by K. L. Slater is a gripping psychological thriller narrated by Claudia Jessie. The story follows Alicia, who leaves her young son and sister behind to pursue a new life in London, not just seeking opportunity but also escaping her past. Working as a waitress at The Orbit, an exclusive skyscraper where the city’s elite gather, Alicia is offered a strange deal by the charismatic owner: pretend to be his girlfriend in exchange for a generous salary and an apartment. What starts as a simple arrangement soon spirals into something far more dangerous, as Alicia is drawn into a world of secrets and deception. As her own past begins to catch up with her, she realizes she’s not the only one playing a risky game, and the glossy façade of her new life hides dark truths that threaten everything she cares about.
What Could Go Wrong? by Scott Z. Burns
Scott Z. Burns’ audiobook What Could Go Wrong? is a genre-bending, eight-part Audible Original that follows the acclaimed screenwriter of Contagion as he embarks on a quest to create a worthy sequel to his eerily prophetic film—with the help of artificial intelligence. Reuniting with director Steven Soderbergh, cast, crew, and scientific experts from the original film, Burns also partners with “Lexter,” a sharp-tongued, AI-generated writing collaborator. The series blends personal narrative, industry insights, and lively interviews with figures from Hollywood, science, and technology, delving into the creative possibilities and ethical pitfalls of human-AI collaboration. As Burns and his AI companion navigate the challenges of storytelling, pandemic prediction, and the future of creativity, the series offers a thoughtful, often humorous exploration of what it means to create art—and solve global problems—in the age of artificial intelligence.
Murder at the Patel Motel by Maulik Pancholy
Murder at the Patel Motel is a comedic, Agatha Christie-style murder mystery audiobook written by and starring Maulik Pancholy. The story follows Milan Patel, a high-end event planner from New York, who returns to his family’s rundown motel in small-town Montana only to find himself at the center of a murder investigation when his father mysteriously drowns in the motel pool. As Milan races to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, he must also confront the complicated dynamics of his Indian-American family and the small town’s buried secrets. The audiobook features a star-studded ensemble cast, including Murray Bartlett, Karan Soni, Poorna Jagannathan, Anna Camp, Adam Pally, Margo Martindale, Richard Kind, and others, and is noted for its sharp wit, dark humor, and exploration of identity, family, and belonging.
Oracle Book 1 by Andrew Pyper
Oracle Book 1 by Andrew Pyper is a psychological thriller audiobook that follows Nate Russo, an FBI psychic who aids in solving abductions and homicides by touching those close to the missing persons. His extraordinary gift, however, comes at a great cost: he experiences the terrifying moments just before the victims vanish. The story blends intense crime investigations with supernatural elements and sharp instincts, creating a gripping and high-stakes mystery. The audiobook is narrated by Joshua Jackson and runs for approximately 9 hours and 20 minutes.
Unlicensed by Joseph Fink
Unlicensed is an Audible Original scripted fiction noir created by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, the minds behind Welcome to Night Vale. The story follows Lou Rosen and Molly Hatch, two unlicensed private investigators operating on the fringes of Los Angeles. Lou is a brilliant but disorganized detective, while Molly is recently divorced and trying to find direction in her life. Together, they take on a strange case that leads them into a complex web involving a ransom, a murder, a mysterious wellness center, and a conspiracy reaching high into California’s political elite. The series blends LA noir tropes with dark humor and a deeply human thriller vibe, featuring notable guest voices like Jason Segel and Mara Wilson. It is set in the less glamorous neighborhoods of LA, emphasizing character-driven storytelling alongside suspenseful mystery.
The Guilty by James Patterson
The audiobook The Guilty by James Patterson, co-written with Duane Swierczynski, is a gripping Audible Original murder mystery set backstage during the debut of a highly anticipated Broadway play by the enigmatic writer/director Osmond Box. As the play unfolds, what starts as a theatrical event turns dark when a stage gun fires a real shot, leading to a murder investigation by two NYPD detectives. The audience is locked inside, phones confiscated, creating an intense, immersive experience filled with suspense and unexpected twists. The full cast performance, including John Lithgow, enhances the drama, making it a compelling listen that keeps the listener guessing until the surprising conclusion. The audiobook runs about 3 hours and 20 minutes, offering a short yet thrilling story.
Young Rich Widows by Kimberly Belle
The audiobook Young Rich Widows by Kimberly Belle is a thrilling mystery set in 1985, centered on four widows whose mafia-affiliated law firm partners die in a suspicious plane crash. The widows—Justine, a former model; Camille, a young second wife; Krystle, a devoted mother; and Meredith, a stripper involved with the firm’s only female partner—unite to uncover hidden secrets and dangerous truths behind the crash and a large sum of cash that burned with the plane. This edge-of-your-seat story blends ’80s nostalgia with suspense, strong language, and intense situations, making it a compelling listen for fans of female-driven thrillers and mysteries.
Better Luck Next Time by Cara Bastone
Better Luck Next Time by Cara Bastone is an Audible Original audiobook that blends sci-fi and romantic comedy in a timeslip story. It follows Mona and Duncan, former best friends turned frenemies, who accidentally drive through a wormhole and find themselves stuck in an alternate timeline where they are married and going through a divorce. Stranded indoors by a storm, they navigate this strange reality and their complicated feelings, exploring themes of missed chances, unresolved emotions, and the messy, real nature of relationships. The audiobook features a full cast including Mae Whitman and Colin Woodell, and is praised for its sharp humor, emotional depth, and realistic dialogue, though some find the repeated relationship conflicts a bit tiresome. Overall, it is a fun, heartfelt story about second chances and the complexities of love across different realities.
Oracle 3: Murder at the Grandview by Andrew Pyper
Oracle 3: Murder at the Grandview by Andrew Pyper, co-written with Craig Davidson, is a psychological thriller audiobook narrated by Joshua Jackson. It follows FBI psychic Nate Russo as he investigates a tragic event during a reunion of longtime friends at an isolated island hotel. Nate must use his psychic abilities and sharp instincts to uncover whether the incident was an accident or a cold-blooded murder, while uncovering dark secrets and a sinister presence lurking within the Grandview Hotel. This installment is noted as the best in the Oracle series, blending crime investigation with supernatural elements and intense suspense.
Secret Sister by Sarah A. Denzil
“Secret Sister” by Sarah A. Denzil is a gripping domestic noir audiobook set on the Yorkshire moors. It follows celebrated author Faye Mathis, who is grappling with early-onset dementia while trying to write her memoir. When a disturbing photograph of a disheveled woman resembling her goes viral, Faye embarks on a quest to uncover the true identity of the woman in the picture. As she delves deeper, unsettling family secrets come to light, forcing her to question everything she thought she knew. The story is narrated by Jessica Gunning and Joanne Froggatt and is praised for its suspenseful twists and emotional depth, making it a compelling listen for fans of psychological thrillers.
Tell Me Lies by J. P. Pomare
The audiobook Tell Me Lies by J.P. Pomare is a gripping psychological thriller narrated by Aimee Horne, lasting about 6 hours and 20 minutes. It follows psychologist Margot Scott, whose seemingly perfect life unravels after a tragic incident involving one of her clients on a train platform. As Margot’s family and practice come under threat—including firebombings—she must navigate a web of lies and deceit among her patients, leading listeners to question who can truly be trusted. The story is fast-paced, well-crafted, and explores themes of truth, trust, and manipulation, making it a compelling listen for fans of psychological crime thrillers.
The Sisters by Dervla McTiernan
The audiobook The Sisters by Dervla McTiernan is a gripping thriller set in Ireland, focusing on two sisters, Carrie and Aifric, who are starting their careers in Dublin’s criminal justice system. Carrie is an ambitious police officer eager to prove herself, while Aifric is a newly qualified barrister defending a man accused of murdering his girlfriend. The story revolves around their intertwined professional and personal lives as they navigate a complex murder case that could change their futures. Narrated by Aoife McMahon, the audiobook delivers a powerful and authentic performance, enhancing the suspense and emotional depth of the story. It serves as a prequel to McTiernan’s bestselling novel The Ruin and explores themes of family dynamics, workplace challenges, and justice.
Once Upon a Crime by Brynn Kelly
Once Upon a Crime by Brynn Kelly is an engaging audiobook that blends mystery, romance, and humor into a fast-paced, entertaining story. The plot centers on Lana Fleming, a librarian whose sister disappears from a TV show set, leading Lana to team up with Griffin Hart, a famous movie star, to uncover a Hollywood scandal. The audiobook is praised for its enjoyable twists, lovable characters, and the natural chemistry between the leads. Listeners appreciate the clever use of the librarian protagonist’s knowledge and the balance of suspense and lighthearted moments, making it a fun and heartwarming listen with a satisfying happy ending.
Dragon Day by Bob Proehl
“Dragon Day” by Bob Proehl is a gripping full-cast audiobook that unfolds as a fictional oral history chronicling the aftermath of dragons suddenly emerging on Earth. The story is compiled by journalist Neve Pride, who, along with her daughter, travels through the devastated landscape gathering recordings from survivors, scientists, military leaders, and others trying to understand and combat the dragon threat. The narrative explores the human struggle for survival and hope amid chaos, with a rich cast including Hayley Atwell and Michael Chiklis bringing the characters to life. The format resembles a documentary-style archive, offering a dark, immersive experience similar to “World War Z” but with dragons instead of zombies.
The Signal by Eric Buchman
The Signal by Eric Buchman is a sci-fi mystery audiobook centered on Dr. Veronica Chapel, a disgraced astrophysicist who teams up with journalist Malcolm Feldman and astronomer Ada Park to investigate a strange pulsing signal detected from deep space. The discovery triggers a government lockdown and raises the stakes with two possible realities: the signal could be a military threat or proof of extraterrestrial life. As they delve deeper, they confront government secrets, corporate interference, and ethical dilemmas, all while Dr. Chapel seeks redemption for her damaged reputation. The story is noted for its complex technological concepts and well-developed characters, though some critics find it derivative of Carl Sagan’s Contact. The audiobook is praised for its compelling narration and immersive production, making it a gripping listen for fans of thoughtful sci-fi mysteries.
Constituent Service by John Scalzi
John Scalzi’s audiobook Constituent Service is a witty, fast-paced sci-fi comedy set in a city district where aliens outnumber humans. The story follows Ashley Perrin, a recent college graduate who starts her job as a community liaison for the Third District, only to be immediately overwhelmed by bizarre constituent complaints—from illegal alien pets and noisy parades to a dangerous infestation of alien hornets threatening the entire city. As Ashley navigates these outlandish challenges (and even faces the terror of office karaoke night), Scalzi delivers a clever blend of interspecies politics and the absurdities of local bureaucracy. Narrated by Amber Benson, the novella is praised for its humor, engaging narration, and quirky cast of characters, making it a delightful listen for fans of lighthearted sci-fi and short stories.
10 Rules for the Perfect Murder by James Patterson
James Patterson’s audiobook 10 Rules for the Perfect Murder, co-written with Chris Tebbetts, is a fast-paced Audible Original thriller featuring NYPD homicide detectives Jacob Jackson and Caitlin Grimes. After the murder of a prominent mob lawyer, the detectives begin receiving chilling notes—each outlining a “rule” for committing the perfect murder, such as “Evidence is your enemy. Leave none behind.” As Jackson (voiced by Reid Scott) and Grimes (voiced by Cobie Smulders) race to catch the killer, they are drawn into the city’s criminal underworld and a deadly game with a perpetrator who delights in taunting them. The story is brought to life with a full cast, immersive sound effects, and a cinematic feel, making it an engaging listen for fans of crime dramas and mysteries. The audiobook is recommended for mature audiences due to its violence and strong language.
Getting Real by Emma Chase
“Getting Real” by Emma Chase is a sexy, hilarious, and emotional contemporary romance audiobook featuring Connor Daniels, a successful ER doctor and single father of three boys, who unexpectedly finds himself starting over in the dating world. Violet Robinson, an ER nurse who has secretly admired Connor for a long time, becomes the object of his affection after a charming encounter. The story explores the challenges of dating, family life, and finding love when life gets complicated, delivering warmth, humor, and heartfelt moments. Narrated by Andi Arndt and Zachary Webber, the audiobook brings to life the alternating perspectives of Connor and Violet, making it a feel-good story about discovering what truly matters and the person you want by your side through it all.
Wishes and Wellingtons by Julie Berry
“Wishes and Wellingtons” by Julie Berry is a middle-grade fantasy audiobook narrated by Jayne Entwistle, running about 9 hours and 29 minutes. It follows Maeve Merritt, a spirited and rebellious girl at a strict London boarding school, who discovers a foul-tempered djinni trapped in a sardine tin. The story unfolds as Maeve navigates magical adventures, outwitting villains and learning important lessons about wishes, courage, and integrity in a fast-paced, humorous, and heartwarming Victorian setting. The audiobook is praised for its clever plot, memorable characters, and balance of wit and wisdom, making it an enjoyable listen for young fantasy readers.
Zero G by Dan Wells
The audiobook Zero G by Dan Wells is a middle-grade sci-fi adventure featuring a young boy named Zero, who awakens prematurely from stasis aboard a spaceship carrying 20,000 colonizers on a century-long journey to a new planet. Alone and awake, Zero must outsmart a family of space pirates who attempt to hijack the ship and take the colonizers hostage. The story combines humor, action, and a space setting, with a full cast performance that enhances the immersive experience, including 3D audio effects recommended with headphones. While it is geared toward younger listeners and features some over-the-top characters, it offers an engaging and fun cosmic caper with a likable protagonist.