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Summer is the perfect time to curl up (or relax by the pool!) with a captivating thriller. But with so many options, where do you start? Katherine A. Powers, audiobooks reviewer for The Washington Post, has curated a list of three twisty, suspenseful novels that are especially well-suited for the audiobook format. Get ready to be hooked!

Why Audiobooks Are Ideal for Thrillers

Thrillers thrive on atmosphere and suspense, and a skilled narrator can elevate the experience to a whole new level. The pacing, the vocal inflections, the subtle sound effects—all contribute to a truly immersive experience. While reading a thriller is enjoyable, listening to one can be downright addictive, especially when you're on the go or relaxing at home.

The Picks: Three Summer Thrillers to Devour

1. The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz: This clever and intricate novel follows a struggling writer who steals a plot from a deceased student's unpublished manuscript. What starts as a stroke of genius soon spirals into a web of paranoia and suspicion. The audiobook narration by Marin Ireland is simply phenomenal, capturing the protagonist's mounting anxiety and the growing sense of dread. Korelitz's writing is sharp and witty, and Ireland's performance brings the story to life with nuance and intensity.
   Why it's great for audio: The complex plot and shifting perspectives are brilliantly conveyed through narration, making it easy to follow the twists and turns.
2. The Guest List by Lucy Fokley: Set on a remote island off the coast of Ireland, this locked-room mystery is brimming with secrets and red herrings. A glamorous wedding descends into chaos when a body is discovered. The audiobook, narrated by a full cast, adds another layer of depth to the already compelling story. Each character has a distinct voice, and the atmospheric sound design creates a palpable sense of isolation and foreboding.
   Why it's great for audio: The multiple perspectives and intricate relationships are brought to life by the talented cast, enhancing the suspense and intrigue.
3. Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby: This gritty and emotionally powerful novel follows two ex-cons, one Black and one white, as they team up to avenge the murder of their gay sons. The audiobook, narrated by JD Jackson, is a tour de force of storytelling. Jackson's raw and visceral performance perfectly captures the characters' grief, anger, and determination. Cosby's writing is both brutal and beautiful, and Jackson's narration is simply unforgettable.
   Why it's great for audio: Jackson’s performance brings the characters and their emotional journeys to life in a way that’s truly captivating. The intensity of the story is amplified by the audio format.

Ready to Get Listening?

These three thrillers are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat all summer long. So grab your headphones, find a comfortable spot, and prepare to be transported to worlds of suspense and intrigue. Happy listening!