A good narrator can make or break a book. There have been times I’ve really wanted to listen, but the narrator was a no-go for me. On the other hand, I’ve waded into audiobooks with low expectations and stayed for the soothing sounds of my favorite voices like Julia Whelan, Scott Brick, or Santino Fontana.

But a real game-changer for audiobooks can be full cast narration. While it’s truly mesmerizing when a single narrator can manipulate their voice into 10 different characters, an ensemble cast (plus music and sound effects) can elevate your book to the next level. Multiple narrators tends to work especially well for books like epic fantasy or sci-fi that often have sprawling worlds and large casts of characters. But other dialogue-heavy titles, anthologies or short stories, interviews, or multiple POVs can shine when given the full cast treatment.

Immerse yourself in a theatrical treat with these popular full-cast audiobooks available on the Libby app.

House of Flame and Shadow, Part 1 by Sarah J. Maas

Speaking of epic fantasy, this stunning third book in the Crescent City series features a full cast of professional actors as Bryce and Hunt’s world is brought to the brink of collapse.

Of course, if you haven’t listened to the whole series, start with House of Earth and Blood (Part 1 and Part 2) and then House of Sky and Breath (Part 1 and Part 2).

The immersive sound effects and cinematic music add another layer of excitement!

Pick-Up by Nora Dahlia

Although this one doesn’t have quite as large of a narration crew, Teddy Hamilton, Gilli Messer, and Eunice Wong do an excellent job bringing all the emotions and feels to this swoon-worthy rom-com enemies-to-lovers romp that whisks us from the stress of city life to lush Caribbean beaches.

The Squad by Christina Soontornvat

Middle-grade novels often have a strong focus on relationships and dialogue, making full cast narration a natural fit.

This stand-alone companion to The Tryout promises even more cheer, higher stakes, and relatable middle-school drama.

The Memory Palace: True Stories of the Past by Nate DiMeo

You may recognize the voice of big-name actor Ryan Reynolds or popular podcaster Nate DiMeo, creator of the award-winning podcast by the same name as this book.

Along with a full cast, they narrate incredible true stories that conjure lost moments and forgotten figures who are calling out across time to be remembered.

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

This dual-timeline novel about two playwrights living centuries apart is the perfect fit for narrators Billie Fulford-Brown and Laura Benanti, who alternate chapters.

They’re joined by a full cast in a story about two women who are determined to create something beautiful despite the prejudices they face.

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

The third book in Yarros’ mega-popular Empyrean series was just released, and if you haven’t jumped on board yet, start with Fourth Wing, the first in the series. And what better way to go all in than with this full cast performance?

Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders and listen to both Part 1 and Part 2 for the full story—produced with a full cast of 40+ actors.

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

For this recent Netflix adaptation, read it (or actually listen to it) before you see it! Narrator Bailey Carr, the voice of main character Pip, is joined by a full cast to bring this story of an investigation turned obsession into life.

If you love twists and turns, complete the trilogy with Good Girl, Bad Blood and As Good As Dead.

Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

If you caught this original series on Prime, you’ll remember the story of the whirlwind rise of an iconic 1970s rock group and their eventual fall from grace. Written as a transcribed oral history, it’s the perfect listen on audiobook, narrated by a star-studded cast including Jennifer Beals (Daisy), Pablo Schreiber (Billy), Benjamin Bratt (Graham), and more.

Even if you caught the TV series, the electric performance of the cast of this audiobook shouldn’t be missed.

Horse by Geraldine Brooks

If historical fiction is your thing, then this book, based on the remarkable true story of the record-breaking thoroughbred Lexington, will be a winner.

Read by James Fouhey, Lisa Flanagan, Graham Halstead, Katherine Littrell, and Michael Obiora, this talented group gives voice to an enslaved groom, a gallery owner, and a Smithsonian scientist that spans time from 1850, 1954, and 2019.

Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

It’s not just fiction that can benefit from a host of narrators. In his book that illuminates how we can elevate ourselves and others, Grant acts as the primary narrator while adding in a cross-section of experts, creatives, and achievers that bring their own experiences to Grant’s message.

The groundbreaking evidence, surprising insights, and vivid storytelling takes us from the classroom to the boardroom, the playground to the Olympics, and underground to outer space.

One of Us Is Dead by Jeneva Rose

The Real Housewives meets murder in this deliciously savage and wildly entertaining thriller, narrated by a cast of five.

Built on multiple perspectives, secrets, and shifting dynamics, this story is a perfect setup for full cast narration, amplifying the drama and tension.

Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

Forget one narrator. This audiobook features 166! Award-winning actors and musicians like Nick Offerman, David Sedaris, Carrie Brownstein, Lena Dunham, Ben Stiller, and many more make up the voices in this moving and original father-son story featuring none other than Abraham Lincoln.

A number of the author’s family, friends, and members of his publishing team also make audible appearances in this theatrical panorama of voices that ask a timeless, profound question: How do we live and love when we know that everything we love must end?

*Title availability may vary by library & region.

Are you a full cast fan? Head on over to the Libby app to listen to these audiobooks for free from your library.

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