National Storytelling Week: Top Audiobook Narrators to Help You Fall in Love with Listening
Created by the Society for Storytelling, National Storytelling Week celebrates the ancient art of oral storytelling and the power of stories. And what better way to mark the occasion than by spotlighting the very people who bring so many tales to life – audiobook narrators.
With the popularity of audiobooks rising significantly in recent years, with the Publishers Association reporting audio downloads grew by 31% from 2024 to 2025, narrators are now key figures in this growing industry. Their performances can transform a listening experience, immersing audiences into brand new worlds and unforgettable characters.
If you’re wondering where to begin with audiobooks, look no further, as we’ve put together a list of five exceptional narrators whose performances are the perfect introduction to the joys of this medium.
Julia Whelan
Affectionately known as the ‘Adele of audiobooks,’ Julia is one of the most beloved - and busiest - narrators working today, with more than 700 audiobooks to her name! The award-winning performer also recently earned the impressive distinction of being Spotify’s top audiobook narrator of 2025.
Best known for her long-running collaborations with authors Emily Henry and Taylor Jenkins Reid, Whelan is one of the most versatile narrators in contemporary fiction, romance, thrillers and literary fiction. Her acting background plays a key role in her ability to embody a wide range of characters, each with their own distinct voice. She also excels at creating immersive listening experiences which truly bring stories to life.
We’d recommend: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid and Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.
Listen to more of Julia Whelan’s narrated audiobooks here.
Sir Stephen Fry
Along with being Listening Books’ patron, Sir Stephen Fry is one of Britain’s most beloved and iconic voices, known for his wonderful wit, charm and warmth. His narration of the Harry Potter series remains one of the most celebrated audiobook performances of all time – and some of our most popular titles - spotlighting his ability to create memorable character voices without overshadowing the story.
Beyond fantasy, Fry has narrated several genres, spanning memoir, mythology, history and classic literature. His storytelling style feels both comforting and incredibly engaging - perfect for listeners trying out audiobooks for the first time.
We recommend: Mythos by Stephen Fry and Paddington Book 1: A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond.
Listen to more of Stephen Fry’s narrated audiobooks here.
Richard Armitage
Richard Armitage has become a fan favourite among audiobook fans thanks to his rich and commanding voice and his incredibly atmospheric performances. Like Julia Whelan and Stephen Fry, his background in stage and screen acting has lent itself perfectly to this medium, as he’s developed a gripping performance.
Best known for his long-running collaboration with thriller and mystery author Harlan Coben, Armitage is one of the best narrators in the business when it comes to thrillers, mysteries and darker, more dramatic stories. This is thanks to his tension, pace and emotional range, drawing listeners in from the very first line to the final chapter.
We’d recommend Missing You by Harlan Coben and The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner.
Listen to more of Richard Armitage’s narrated audiobooks here.
Bahni Turpin
Bahni Turpin is one of the most acclaimed audiobook narrators working today, celebrated for her powerful and nuanced performances. Whether she’s voicing critically acclaimed contemporary fiction, YA, memoir or fantasy, her storytelling is incredibly expressive and character‑driven.
A former actor and award-winning narrator, Turpin has an impressive ability to shift seamlessly between voices, accents and emotional tones, bringing extraordinary depth and added authenticity to every story she narrates. Her performances often elevate the text, creating an immersive experience that stays with listeners long after finishing the book.
We’d recommend: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Faebound by Saara El-Arifi.
Listen to more of Bahni Turpin’s narrated audiobooks here.
David Tennant
The beloved Scottish actor – best known for his time as the Doctor in Doctor Who – has also brought his impressive stage and screen experience to the audiobook medium. His energetic, charismatic and incredibly engaging style has quickly made him a fan favourite with many listeners.
Known for his distinct voice and dynamic range, he excels at creating colourful characters and maintaining a lively and energetic pace - especially in fantasy and children’s fiction such as Cressida Cowell’s much loved How to Train Your Dragon series. His narrations are warm and full of personality, making them ideal for listeners who love performance driven audiobooks.
We’d recommend Doctor Who: Dead Air by James Goss and How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell.
Listen to more of David Tennant’s narrated audiobooks here.
Whether you’re completely new to audiobooks or simply looking for your next 5 star listen, these incredibly talented narrators are a perfect place to start!
