Looking for the best audiobook narrators? Discover award-winning voices like Bahni Turpin, Simon Vance, and January LaVoy who bring books to life through audio.

Why Audiobook Narrators Are More Important Than You Think

A great audiobook narrator can do more than just read words—they can transform a book into an experience. Whether you're diving into a fantasy epic or soaking up a memoir, the best audiobook narrators don’t just perform—they embody the text.

In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the most celebrated voices in audiobook history, the awards that set them apart, and what makes a narrator unforgettable.

Top Audiobook Narrators You Need to Hear

1. Bahni Turpin

Known for her performances in The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, Turpin’s expressive, emotionally charged narration style has made her one of the most beloved voices in the industry.

• Awards: Audie Award, Earphones Award
• Style: Dynamic, passionate, character-driven

2. Simon Vance

British narrator Simon Vance has brought classics like Dracula, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and Brideshead Revisited to life with elegance and clarity.

• Awards: Audie Hall of Fame, multiple Audie & Earphones Awards
• Style: Smooth, intelligent, and immersive

3. January LaVoy

A versatile powerhouse, LaVoy has narrated everything from Fahrenheit 451 to The Diviners. She’s praised for her range, pacing, and emotional depth.

• Awards: Audie Winner, multiple Earphones Awards
• Style: Rich, controlled, cinematic

More Narrators Who Captivate Audiences

Julia Whelan – Educated, Book Lovers

➤ Author and narrator, Whelan brings warmth and vulnerability to contemporary fiction.

Jim Dale – Harry Potter series

➤ Legendary for voicing over 200 characters in J.K. Rowling’s iconic fantasy world.

George Guidall – Crime and Punishment, The Fountainhead

➤ Known for his steady voice and literary gravitas.

Dion Graham – Just Mercy, The Nickel Boys

➤ A master of narrative nonfiction with calm strength and emotional nuance.

Cassandra Campbell – Where the Crawdads Sing

➤ One of Audible’s most prolific narrators, with a clear and empathetic style.

Scott Brick – Dune, The Lincoln Lawyer, The Firm

➤ Known as the “voice of thrillers,” Brick’s deep, deliberate delivery makes him a go-to for legal, suspense, and sci-fi.

• Style: Polished, authoritative, cinematic
• Awards: Multiple Audie Awards and over 900 audiobooks recorded

Robin Miles – Hidden Figures, The Warmth of Other Suns

➤ With classical training and deep emotional nuance, Miles excels at complex historical and character-rich nonfiction.

• Style: Sophisticated, empathetic, powerful
• Awards: Audie Awards, Earphones Awards, Audible Narrator Hall of Fame

Narrator Awards That Matter

If you're browsing for narrators or looking to hire one, pay attention to these credentials:

• Audie Awards (aka the Oscars of Audiobooks) – Given by the Audio Publishers Association for excellence in narration and production.
• Earphones Awards – Granted by AudioFile Magazine to narrators who deliver exceptional listening experiences.
• Narrator Hall of Fame – Audible’s list of the top audiobook voices of all time.

Why It Matters for Authors and Publishers

Hiring the right narrator can dramatically influence your audiobook’s success. An award-winning or well-reviewed narrator:

• Enhances listener engagement
• Drives positive reviews and word-of-mouth
• Improves your conversion rate on platforms like Audible and Spotify

Whether you’re an author looking to hire, or a listener hunting your next favorite performance, knowing who the best audiobook narrators are will help you make better decisions.

Want Help Finding the Right Narrator?

At Academy Voices, we work with professional narrators who’ve voiced bestselling titles and earned industry recognition. Whether you’re after a warm storyteller, a high-drama performer, or someone who can voice a full cast of characters—we can help you find your perfect match.