In the world of literature, romance has always held a special place, tugging at heartstrings and stirring emotions. But when these tales of love and passion are brought to life through the power of voice, they become even more captivating. Welcome to the realm of romance audiobooks, where every whispered word and heartfelt confession is a melody to the ears. This article is your guide to the top 10 romance audiobooks that have enthralled listeners worldwide. From timeless classics to modern love stories, these audiobooks offer a diverse range of narratives, each unique in its portrayal of love.
1. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Summary
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen is a timeless classic that has been brought to life in the form of an audiobook. The narration is done by Rosamund Pike, who is known for her role in the movie adaptation of “Gone Girl”. Pike’s narration is praised for her ability to bring out the distinct personalities of each character, making the story even more engaging. The audiobook runs for approximately 11 hours, making it a perfect companion for long commutes or relaxed evenings at home.
Review
Listening to “Pride and Prejudice” as an audiobook is an experience that adds a new dimension to the classic tale. Rosamund Pike’s narration is a standout, with her clear and expressive voice perfectly capturing the essence of Austen’s prose. Her ability to differentiate between characters through subtle changes in tone and accent is remarkable, making the dialogue easy to follow and the characters feel more real.
The story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is one that has been loved by readers for generations, and hearing it in audiobook form makes it feel fresh and exciting. The tension, the misunderstandings, and the ultimate resolution between the two characters are all heightened by the immediacy of the spoken word.
What We Loved
The highlight of this audiobook is undoubtedly Rosamund Pike’s narration. Her performance is captivating, drawing listeners into the world of 19th-century England with ease. The pacing of the narration is also excellent, maintaining a steady rhythm that keeps the story moving without rushing through important moments.
Another aspect to love about this audiobook is how it makes the classic story more accessible. For those who may find Austen’s language challenging to read, listening to it can make the story easier to understand and enjoy. Plus, the convenience of being able to listen while on the go is a major advantage.
What We Didn’t Like
While there’s much to praise about this audiobook, it may not be for everyone. Some listeners might prefer a more modern interpretation or a different narrator. Additionally, those who are not fans of classic literature or the romance genre might not find this audiobook to their taste. However, for those who love Jane Austen’s work or are open to exploring classic literature, this audiobook is a fantastic choice.
2. Shanna by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
Summary
“Shanna” is a timeless romance novel by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, brought to life in the audiobook format by the talented narrator, Susan Ericksen. The audiobook spans over 29 hours, immersing listeners in a world of passion, intrigue, and adventure set in the 18th century. The story revolves around Shanna Trahern, a headstrong woman who marries a convict, Ruark Beauchamp, in a desperate bid to fulfill her father’s will. As the tale unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey from London’s high society to a remote island in the Caribbean.
Susan Ericksen, an award-winning narrator, does an exceptional job of bringing the characters to life. Her ability to switch between different accents and tones adds depth to the characters, making the listening experience more engaging. The production quality of the audiobook is top-notch, with clear audio that makes it easy to lose oneself in the story.
Review
“Shanna” as an audiobook is a delightful experience. The story itself is a classic, filled with romance and adventure, but it’s the narration by Susan Ericksen that truly sets it apart. Her performance is nothing short of captivating. She manages to convey the fiery spirit of Shanna and the brooding intensity of Ruark with equal skill, making the characters feel real and relatable.
The pacing of the audiobook is well-balanced, with the narration matching the tempo of the story. The slower, more intimate moments are given the time they need to breathe, while the action-packed sequences are delivered with an energy that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The audio production is also commendable, with no distracting background noises or inconsistencies in volume.
What We Loved
The standout aspect of the “Shanna” audiobook is undoubtedly Susan Ericksen’s narration. Her performance is a masterclass in voice acting, with each character having a distinct voice that fits their personality. The way she switches between different accents and tones is seamless, making the dialogue flow naturally.
Another aspect we loved is the immersive nature of the audiobook. The vivid descriptions of the settings, combined with the atmospheric narration, transport you to the 18th century, making you feel as if you’re living the story alongside the characters.
What We Didn’t Like
While the “Shanna” audiobook is a fantastic listen overall, it does have a few minor drawbacks. The story can feel a bit slow-paced at times, especially in the first few chapters. However, once the plot picks up, it becomes much more engaging.
Additionally, the audiobook’s length might be daunting for some listeners. At over 29 hours, it’s a significant time commitment. However, if you’re a fan of detailed, character-driven stories, this shouldn’t be a major issue.
In conclusion, the “Shanna” audiobook is a must-listen for any romance lover. Its engaging narration, immersive storytelling, and memorable characters make it a standout in the genre. Despite its minor flaws, it’s a listening experience that will leave you wanting more.
3. “Morning Glory” by Lavyrle Spencer
Summary
“Morning Glory” is a heartwarming romance novel written by Lavyrle Spencer and narrated by Kate Forbes. The audiobook, with a runtime of 16 hours and 57 minutes, takes the listener on a journey through the lives of two individuals who find love in the most unexpected circumstances.
The story is set in the backdrop of the 1940s in Gilead, Texas. It revolves around Elly Dinsmore, a widowed mother of two young boys, who is considered an outcast in her small town due to her eccentricities and the rumors surrounding her husband’s death. Will Parker, on the other hand, is a drifter with a troubled past, looking for work and a place to sleep. When Elly hires Will to help around her farm, the two form a bond that evolves into a deep and passionate love.
Kate Forbes’ narration brings the characters to life with her distinct voice and emotional depth. Her ability to capture the essence of each character and the era in which the story is set makes the listening experience truly immersive.
Review
“Morning Glory” is a beautifully crafted romance that stands the test of time. Lavyrle Spencer’s storytelling is compelling and evocative, and the audiobook format only enhances this. Kate Forbes’ narration is nothing short of brilliant. She captures the essence of each character, their emotions, and the overall mood of the story with finesse. Her voice modulation and pacing are spot on, making the characters and their experiences feel real.
The story itself is a slow-burning romance that beautifully explores the themes of love, redemption, and acceptance. The characters are well-developed, with Elly’s strength and resilience and Will’s transformation being the highlights of the book. The setting of the 1940s rural Texas adds a unique charm to the story, and the author’s attention to detail makes it easy for the listener to visualize the scenes.
What We Loved
We loved the depth of the characters and the slow-burning romance that was beautifully narrated by Kate Forbes. The emotional journey of the characters, their growth, and the eventual love they find in each other is heartwarming. The narration added an extra layer of depth to the characters and the story, making the listening experience truly immersive.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Morning Glory” is a beautiful story, it may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced romances. The story takes its time to build the characters and their relationship, which might seem slow to some listeners. However, this is more of a personal preference than a drawback of the book or the audiobook.
4. Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase
Summary
“Lord of Scoundrels” is a timeless romance novel written by Loretta Chase, and the audiobook version brings a new dimension to this beloved story. The audiobook is narrated by Kate Reading, a seasoned voice actress known for her ability to bring characters to life. With a runtime of 11 hours and 39 minutes, this audiobook is a perfect companion for long commutes or cozy evenings at home.
The story revolves around the Marquess of Dain, a notorious rake known for his scandalous behavior, and Jessica Trent, a strong-willed bluestocking who refuses to be another notch on Dain’s bedpost. Their fiery encounters and witty banter are perfectly captured by Reading’s expressive narration, making the audiobook a delightful listening experience.
Review
The “Lord of Scoundrels” audiobook is a masterful rendition of one of the most popular romance novels of all time. Kate Reading’s narration is simply superb. She manages to capture the essence of each character, from Dain’s gruff exterior and hidden vulnerability to Jessica’s intelligence and determination. Her ability to switch between different accents and tones is commendable, adding depth to the story and making the characters feel real.
The pacing of the narration is well-balanced, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the plot without feeling rushed. The production quality is also top-notch, with clear sound and no distracting background noises.
The story itself is a classic enemies-to-lovers tale, filled with witty dialogue, emotional depth, and a romance that is both passionate and tender. Loretta Chase’s skillful writing shines through in the audiobook, making it a must-listen for any romance fan.
What We Loved
We absolutely loved Kate Reading’s performance. Her ability to bring each character to life and convey their emotions through her voice is truly remarkable. The chemistry between Dain and Jessica is palpable in her narration, making their love story even more compelling.
We also appreciated the high production quality of the audiobook. The sound is clear and crisp, allowing the listener to focus solely on the story without any distractions.
Finally, the story itself is a standout. Loretta Chase has crafted a romance that is both heartwarming and exciting, filled with characters that are complex and relatable. The plot is engaging, with enough twists and turns to keep the listener hooked from start to finish.
What We Didn’t Like
While there’s much to love about the “Lord of Scoundrels” audiobook, it’s not without its flaws. Some listeners might find the pacing a bit slow in certain parts, particularly in the beginning where the backstory is being set up. However, this is a minor issue and doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the audiobook.
Additionally, while Kate Reading’s performance is generally excellent, there are a few instances where her interpretation of certain characters might not align with the listener’s perception. This is a subjective issue, though, and largely depends on personal preference.
In conclusion, “Lord of Scoundrels” by Loretta Chase is a fantastic audiobook that offers a captivating listening experience. Despite a few minor flaws, it’s a must-listen for any fan of romance novels.
5. Indigo by Beverly Jenkins
Summary
“Indigo” is a historical romance novel written by Beverly Jenkins and brought to life in the audiobook format by the talented narrator, Robin Eller. Set in the heart of the 19th century, the story revolves around Hester Wyatt, an escaped slave who now helps others flee to freedom via the Underground Railroad. When she finds a man near death in her garden, she doesn’t hesitate to help, not knowing that he is the famous Black Daniel, a conductor of the Underground Railroad.
The audiobook, with a runtime of approximately 13 hours, immerses listeners in a world of danger, bravery, and unexpected love. Robin Eller’s narration is a highlight, her voice capturing the essence of the characters and the era, making the story even more compelling.
Review
The audiobook version of “Indigo” is a captivating experience. Robin Eller’s narration is nothing short of brilliant. She brings each character to life with unique voices and accents, making it easy for listeners to distinguish between characters. Her portrayal of Hester is particularly noteworthy, capturing her strength, determination, and vulnerability in equal measure.
The pacing of the audiobook is well-executed, with the tension and excitement of the story never letting up. The historical context is presented in a way that’s engaging and informative, and the romance between Hester and Black Daniel is both heartwarming and intense.
The sound quality of the audiobook is excellent, with clear and crisp audio that allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in the story. The production team has done a commendable job in ensuring a seamless listening experience.
What We Loved
What stands out in the “Indigo” audiobook is the depth and authenticity of the characters, brought to life by Robin Eller’s skilled narration. The chemistry between Hester and Black Daniel is palpable, making their romance all the more engaging.
The historical backdrop of the story is another aspect we loved. The audiobook doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the era, providing a stark contrast to the blossoming romance. This balance between romance and historical realism makes the audiobook a compelling listen.
What We Didn’t Like
While the “Indigo” audiobook is largely a fantastic listen, there were a few minor issues. At times, the pacing felt a bit slow, particularly in the middle sections of the book. Additionally, some listeners might find the historical details a bit overwhelming, potentially detracting from the central romance.
Despite these minor issues, “Indigo” by Beverly Jenkins is a must-listen for fans of historical romance. The compelling characters, engaging narration, and well-researched historical context make it a standout audiobook.
6. The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn
Summary
“The Viscount Who Loved Me” is a captivating romance audiobook by Julia Quinn, narrated by the talented Rosalyn Landor. This audiobook, part of the Bridgerton series, is set in the Regency era and tells the story of Anthony Bridgerton, the eldest of the Bridgerton siblings, and his unexpected love interest, Kate Sheffield. The audiobook spans over 16 hours, immersing listeners in a world of high society, witty banter, and unexpected romance.
Rosalyn Landor’s narration brings the characters to life, her voice perfectly capturing the essence of each character. Her ability to switch between characters seamlessly, giving each one a unique voice, enhances the listening experience. The pacing of the narration is well-balanced, keeping the listener engaged throughout the story.
Review
“The Viscount Who Loved Me” is a delightful listen. Julia Quinn’s storytelling is engaging and filled with humor, making the audiobook a joy to listen to. The characters are well-developed, with their own quirks and personalities that make them relatable and real. The chemistry between Anthony and Kate is palpable, making their love story all the more engaging.
Rosalyn Landor’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her voice is soothing and expressive, making it easy to get lost in the story. She captures the nuances of each character, making them feel real and relatable. Her narration enhances the humor and wit in Julia Quinn’s writing, making the listening experience even more enjoyable.
The production quality of the audiobook is top-notch. The sound is clear, and the volume levels are consistent throughout the audiobook. The pacing of the narration is just right, neither too fast nor too slow, making it easy to follow the story.
What We Loved
We loved the chemistry between Anthony and Kate. Their banter and interactions are a highlight of the audiobook. The humor in the story is another aspect we enjoyed. Julia Quinn’s writing is witty and engaging, making us laugh out loud at times.
Rosalyn Landor’s narration is another aspect we loved. Her voice is soothing and expressive, making the characters come alive. Her ability to switch between characters and give each one a unique voice is impressive.
What We Didn’t Like
While the audiobook is generally well-produced, there are a few moments where the pacing feels a bit slow. This is particularly noticeable in the middle of the audiobook, where the story seems to drag a bit. However, this is a minor issue and does not significantly impact the overall listening experience.
7. Delaney’s Desert Sheikh by Brenda Jackson
Summary
“Delaney’s Desert Sheikh” is a captivating romance audiobook by Brenda Jackson, narrated by the talented Pete Ohms. The audiobook, which spans approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes, is the first installment in the Westmoreland series. The story revolves around Delaney Westmoreland, a strong and independent woman, and Jamal Ari Yasir, a powerful and enigmatic sheikh. The audiobook takes the listener on a journey of passion, intrigue, and love set against the backdrop of the Arabian desert.
Pete Ohms’ narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. His deep, resonant voice brings the characters to life, adding depth to their personalities. He masterfully switches between accents and tones, reflecting the diverse characters and settings in the story. The pacing of his narration is well-balanced, ensuring an engaging listening experience.
Review
“Delaney’s Desert Sheikh” is a compelling audiobook that successfully combines romance and adventure. Brenda Jackson’s storytelling is vivid and engaging, drawing the listener into the world of the characters. The chemistry between Delaney and Jamal is palpable, and their interactions are filled with tension and passion. The plot is well-structured, with a good balance of romance, drama, and action.
Pete Ohms’ narration elevates the listening experience. His voice is versatile and expressive, capturing the emotions and personalities of the characters. His narration of Jamal’s character, in particular, is noteworthy for its authenticity and depth. The way he portrays Jamal’s strength, charisma, and vulnerability adds a layer of realism to the character.
The production quality of the audiobook is also commendable. The sound is clear, and the volume levels are consistent throughout. The subtle use of background music at key moments enhances the mood and atmosphere of the story.
What We Loved
We loved the chemistry between Delaney and Jamal. Their relationship is complex and dynamic, making for an engaging listen. Brenda Jackson’s skillful character development shines through in this audiobook, creating characters that are relatable and compelling.
Pete Ohms’ narration is another highlight. His ability to bring the characters to life adds a layer of immersion to the listening experience. His portrayal of the different characters, their emotions, and the setting contributes significantly to the overall appeal of the audiobook.
What We Didn’t Like
While the audiobook is generally well-produced, there are moments where the pacing feels a bit rushed, particularly in the climactic scenes. This can make it challenging for the listener to fully absorb the events and emotions in these scenes.
In conclusion, “Delaney’s Desert Sheikh” is a captivating romance audiobook that offers a well-rounded listening experience. With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and excellent narration, it’s a must-listen for fans of romance and adventure.
8. Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
Summary
“Dark Lover,” the first book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series by J.R. Ward, is a gripping tale of vampire warriors who defend their race against de-souled humans. The audiobook, narrated by Jim Frangione, brings the story to life with his deep, resonant voice that perfectly captures the dark and dangerous world of the Brotherhood. Frangione’s narration adds a layer of intensity to the story, making the characters and their emotions feel real and palpable.
The story revolves around Wrath, the last purebred vampire on the planet, and his mission to protect the daughter of one of his closest friends. The daughter, Beth, is unaware of her vampire heritage and is on the brink of transitioning, a process that could kill her if not properly managed. Wrath, despite his reluctance to get involved, finds himself drawn to Beth in ways he didn’t anticipate.
Review
The “Dark Lover” audiobook is a thrilling ride from start to finish. Jim Frangione’s narration is a standout, his voice lending a sense of gravitas to the story that enhances the overall listening experience. His portrayal of Wrath is particularly noteworthy, capturing the character’s strength, determination, and underlying vulnerability with remarkable skill.
J.R. Ward’s writing is rich and immersive, and the audiobook format allows the listener to fully appreciate the depth of her world-building. The lore of the Black Dagger Brotherhood is complex and intriguing, and Ward’s detailed descriptions are vividly brought to life through Frangione’s narration.
The relationship between Wrath and Beth is central to the story, and the audiobook does an excellent job of conveying the intensity of their connection. The romantic scenes are tastefully done, with just the right amount of passion and tenderness.
What We Loved
We loved the depth and complexity of the characters in “Dark Lover.” Each character has a distinct personality and backstory, which adds depth to the narrative. The chemistry between Wrath and Beth is palpable, making their romance believable and engaging.
Jim Frangione’s narration is another highlight. His deep, soothing voice is a perfect match for the dark and intense atmosphere of the story. His ability to convey emotion through his voice adds an extra layer of immersion to the listening experience.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Dark Lover” is an excellent audiobook, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing can be a bit slow at times, particularly in the middle of the book. Additionally, some listeners might find the language and terminology used in the book to be a bit confusing at first, although it becomes more familiar as the story progresses.
Despite these minor issues, “Dark Lover” is a captivating start to the Black Dagger Brotherhood series and a must-listen for any fan of paranormal romance.
9. Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie
Summary
“Bet Me” is a delightful romantic comedy audiobook written by Jennifer Crusie and narrated by Deanna Hurst. The story revolves around Minerva Dobbs, a curvy actuary who doesn’t believe in love, and Calvin Morrisey, a charming man who makes a bet that he can get Min to sleep with him in a month. The plot thickens when Min overhears the bet and decides to play along, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming events.
The narration by Deanna Hurst is exceptional. She brings the characters to life with her distinct voices and inflections, adding an extra layer of depth to the story. The pacing of the narration is perfect, keeping the listeners engaged throughout the audiobook. The audiobook runs for approximately 12 hours, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience for the listeners.
Review
“Bet Me” is a breath of fresh air in the romance genre. The audiobook is filled with witty dialogues, quirky characters, and a plot that keeps you hooked till the end. Jennifer Crusie’s writing is sharp and humorous, making the story enjoyable and relatable. The chemistry between Min and Cal is palpable, and their banter is one of the highlights of the audiobook.
Deanna Hurst’s narration is a standout. She captures the essence of each character, making them feel real and relatable. Her voice modulation for different characters is spot on, making it easy for the listeners to distinguish between them. The emotion she brings to the narration enhances the overall listening experience.
The production quality of the audiobook is top-notch. The sound is clear, and there are no distracting background noises. The pacing of the narration is just right, neither too fast nor too slow, making it easy for the listeners to follow the story.
What We Loved
We loved the character development in “Bet Me”. Each character is well fleshed out with their unique quirks and personalities. The relationship between Min and Cal is beautifully portrayed, making the listeners root for them.
Deanna Hurst’s narration is another aspect we loved. Her voice is pleasant to listen to, and her narration style is engaging. She does an excellent job of bringing the characters to life, making the listeners feel like they are part of the story.
The humor in the audiobook is another highlight. The witty dialogues and humorous situations add a light-hearted touch to the story, making it a fun listen.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Bet Me” is a delightful listen, it does have its shortcomings. The plot is somewhat predictable, and some listeners might find the constant bickering between Min and Cal a bit tiresome after a while.
The audiobook could also benefit from a bit more depth in terms of the secondary characters. While the main characters are well developed, the secondary characters feel a bit flat and could use more fleshing out.
Despite these minor issues, “Bet Me” is a charming and entertaining audiobook that will leave you with a smile on your face. It’s a must-listen for any romance audiobook lover.
10. A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole
Summary
“A Hunger Like No Other” is an enthralling audiobook by Kresley Cole, narrated by the talented Robert Petkoff. This audiobook is a part of the Immortals After Dark series, which is a collection of paranormal romance novels. The story revolves around the characters Lachlain MacRieve, a Lykae warrior who has been tortured for centuries, and Emmaline Troy, a half-vampire, half-Valkyrie woman who is the only one who can soothe his rage.
The audiobook is a captivating blend of romance, fantasy, and action, with a runtime of approximately 11 hours and 34 minutes. Petkoff’s narration brings the characters to life, his voice perfectly capturing the intensity of the emotions and the thrilling pace of the story.
Review
“A Hunger Like No Other” is a gripping tale of passion and redemption, brought to life by the exceptional narration of Robert Petkoff. The audiobook is a roller coaster of emotions, taking the listener through the tumultuous journey of Lachlain and Emmaline as they navigate their feelings for each other amidst a world of supernatural beings.
The story is well-paced, with the tension between the characters building up gradually, making their eventual union all the more satisfying. Petkoff’s narration is a highlight of the audiobook, his deep, resonant voice perfectly embodying the character of Lachlain, while his softer tones capture Emmaline’s vulnerability and strength.
The audiobook is a testament to Cole’s storytelling prowess, with the plot intricately woven and the characters well-developed. The world-building is immersive, drawing the listener into the realm of the Immortals After Dark. The romance is intense and passionate, with the chemistry between Lachlain and Emmaline palpable.
What We Loved
What stands out in “A Hunger Like No Other” is the depth of the characters and the complexity of their emotions. The transformation of Lachlain from a tortured soul to a loving partner is beautifully portrayed, as is Emmaline’s journey from a timid, unsure woman to a confident, powerful being.
The narration by Robert Petkoff is another aspect that we loved. His ability to switch between the gruff, Scottish accent of Lachlain and the softer, more refined tones of Emmaline is commendable. His narration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, making the listening experience truly immersive.
What We Didn’t Like
While “A Hunger Like No Other” is a compelling audiobook, it does have its shortcomings. The initial interactions between Lachlain and Emmaline can be uncomfortable to listen to, with the power dynamics skewed heavily in Lachlain’s favor. Additionally, the story sometimes leans too heavily on the trope of the alpha male, which might not appeal to all listeners.
In conclusion, “A Hunger Like No Other” is a captivating audiobook that offers a unique blend of romance and fantasy. Despite its flaws, it’s a must-listen for fans of paranormal romance, with its engaging plot, complex characters, and exceptional narration.
