10 Escapist Audiobooks to Listen to This Summer
There’s something magical about being gently on the move while slipping into a good story. Whether you’re walking through shaded woodland, pacing your garden with a cool drink, or heading out on an early morning stroll, audiobooks can turn even the simplest walk into an adventure.
This post is part of my Summer Reading Lifestyle series — soft, intentional ways to bring books into your everyday. Whether you’re in the mood for cosy fantasy, slow romance, or something a bit pacey to keep your steps going, these are my top picks for your earbuds this season.
☀️ Catch up on the previous post: Bookish Summer Self-Care Ideas (That Don’t Involve Screens)
Wrap up the full series with: Your Romantic Summer Reading Bucket List
1. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
A sweeping, glamorous, and surprisingly emotional story told through interviews and memories. Monique’s narration pulls you in, and Evelyn’s story keeps you hooked. This is one of my all time favourite audiobooks, I was obsessed from start to finish – plus the narrator has an incredibly engaging voice.
Why it’s perfect: Emotional depth + steady pace + phenomenal narration = ideal for long, gentle walks.
Listen on Audible
✨ 2. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
A warm, low-stakes fantasy that feels like a hug. Cosy coffee shop vibes, found family, and cinnamon rolls. Great for those looking for easy and calm audiobooks with a heartfelt storyline.
Why it’s perfect: Easy to follow, sweet pacing, and Travis himself narrates — and does it beautifully.
Listen on Audible
3. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
A group of pensioners solving crimes from their retirement village? Surprisingly funny, clever, and addictive. Narrator Lesley Manville is a joy.
Why it’s perfect: Witty, charming, and keeps your mind gently engaged while walking.
Listen on Audible
4. The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst
A warm, bookish fantasy about a librarian-turned-magical-bookseller rebuilding her life on a quiet island. Full of talking books, second chances, and gentle magic.
Why it’s perfect: Cosy, immersive, and full of heart. Ideal for peaceful walks with a touch of whimsy.
Listen on Audible
5. Beach Read by Emily Henry
Smart, sharp, and full of chemistry. A romance between two writers — one who writes literary fiction, the other romantic comedies — learning to swap genres and fall in love.
Why it’s perfect: Fast enough to energise your walk, but easy to follow and full of quotable lines.
Listen on Audible
6. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
Haunting, lyrical, and unexpectedly hopeful — this story follows Susie Salmon as she observes her family from the afterlife. It’s both beautiful and deeply emotional, with a narration that’s steady and immersive. For those who don’t mind shedding a tear whilst listening to their audiobooks!
Why it’s perfect: Captivating and gentle enough for slow walking, with emotional depth that lingers.
Listen on Audible
7. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
Cosy, magical, and gently humorous. Mika Moon is a witch in hiding who finds herself taking care of three magical children and finding a place to belong.
Why it’s perfect: Whimsical, warm, and gentle — great for a de-stressing walk.
Listen on Audible
8. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
A romantasy with high-stakes trials, vampires, and intense tension. If you want something fast and addictive, this one’s a winner.
Why it’s perfect: Keeps you hooked with cliffhangers — great for walking that little bit further!
Listen on Audible
9. Circe by Madeline Miller
A slow, lyrical retelling of the myth of Circe. Dreamy, introspective, and filled with beautifully written reflections.
Why it’s perfect: Ideal for reflective evening walks when you want something thought-provoking and lovely.
Listen on Audible
10. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Funny, grumpy, heartwarming. Ove is the kind of character who stays with you, and the narration captures every nuance of his prickly-soft heart.
Why it’s perfect: The perfect balance of sad, sweet, and satisfying. Good for walks when you need a little perspective.
Listen on Audible
✨ Amy’s Note:
Audiobooks help me bring stories into the moments I used to spend scrolling — and turning my daily walks into bookish adventures has been a small but beautiful shift.
Whether you’re exploring woodland trails or just pacing your garden while the kettle boils, these stories are ready to walk with you.
Let’s Chat:
What’s your go-to audiobook for walking or doing chores? Do you prefer fantasy, thrillers, something soft and funny? Let’s build a walking TBR together!
✨ Loved this post? There’s more cosy summer inspiration waiting for you on the blog — including the full Summer Reading Lifestyle series. Come and explore what else to pack, sip, and read next.
Amy x
