Road trips can be long, tedious affairs. While the open road can be scenic and exciting, hours upon hours of sitting in a car can quickly become monotonous. That’s where audiobooks come in. Not only do they provide a great alternative to traditional radio or music, but they also allow you to lose yourself in a story and let the miles fly by. And for those who love a good mystery, there’s no better way to make a road trip pass quickly than by diving into a gripping whodunnit. In this article, we’ll explore why mystery audiobooks are perfect for road trips, recommend some of our top picks, and offer tips on how to choose the right audiobook for your journey.
Mystery audiobooks offer some of the most compelling storylines in literature. From classic whodunnits to modern thrillers, these stories often feature intricate plotlines, complex characters, and unexpected twists and turns. By immersing yourself in these stories on a road trip, you’ll be able to pass the time in a way that’s not only entertaining but engaging. As you listen to the audiobook, you’ll find yourself trying to figure out what’s going to happen next, keeping your mind occupied and your imagination stimulated.
For example, you could listen to the classic mystery novel The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle. This gripping story follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. With its eerie moors, suspicious characters, and unexpected plot twists, this audiobook is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Enhancing the Atmosphere of Your Journey
The right mystery audiobook can also help to create a unique atmosphere for your road trip. Whether you’re driving through a remote wilderness or a busy cityscape, a mystery story can help to create a sense of intrigue and excitement. By listening to a chilling murder mystery, for example, you’ll feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand up as you imagine the dark twists and turns that are coming next. This can help to make your journey more exciting and memorable, even if the actual driving is mundane.
One great audiobook to create a chilling atmosphere is The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins. This psychological thriller follows a woman named Rachel as she becomes entangled in a missing persons case. With its unreliable narrator, shocking revelations, and suspenseful plot, this audiobook is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and make your road trip unforgettable.
Making Long Drives Feel Shorter
Perhaps the best reason to listen to mystery audiobooks on a road trip is that they have a way of making long drives feel much shorter. When you’re lost in a gripping story, time seems to fly by. Instead of counting down the hours until you get to your destination, you’ll find that the miles pass without even noticing. And by the time you reach your final destination, you’ll feel like far less time has elapsed than it actually has.
If you’re looking for a long audiobook to make the time pass quickly, try The Stand by Stephen King. This post-apocalyptic novel is over 47 hours long, making it the perfect choice for a cross-country road trip. With its epic scope, memorable characters, and terrifying plot, this audiobook will keep you entertained for hours on end.
Top Mystery Audiobook Recommendations
If you’re a fan of mystery novels, then you know that there’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good audiobook. Not only does it allow you to immerse yourself in the story, but it also gives you the freedom to listen while you’re on the go. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, a great mystery audiobook can make the journey all the more enjoyable.
Classic Mystery Audiobooks
“The Maltese Falcon,” by Dashiell Hammett
When it comes to classic mystery audiobooks, there are few that can compare to the likes of “The Maltese Falcon,” by Dashiell Hammett. This iconic noir detective novel set the standard for the genre and is a must-read for any mystery lover. The story follows private detective Sam Spade as he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse while searching for a valuable statue.
“Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie
Another classic option is Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express.” This beloved novel features the famous detective Hercule Poirot as he attempts to solve a murder on a luxurious train ride through Europe. The novel is a masterclass in whodunit storytelling and will keep you guessing until the very end.
“The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Arthur Conan Doyle
If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you can’t go wrong with Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” This classic novel features the famous detective as he attempts to solve a supernatural mystery on the moors of England. The story is both atmospheric and suspenseful, making it a perfect choice for a rainy day.
Modern Mystery Audiobooks
“Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
For those looking for something a bit more contemporary, there are plenty of great modern mystery audiobooks to choose from. One standout option is “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn. This psychological thriller keeps you guessing until the very end and is perfect for a long road trip. The story follows a man named Nick Dunne as he becomes the prime suspect in the disappearance of his wife, Amy. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems.
“The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
Another excellent option is “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins, which offers a similarly thrilling storyline that will keep you engaged for miles. The novel follows a woman named Rachel as she becomes embroiled in a missing persons case after witnessing something strange on her daily commute. The story is both suspenseful and thought-provoking, making it a great choice for fans of the thriller genre.
Underrated Gems in the Mystery Genre
One great option is “The Dry” by Jane Harper
If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, there are plenty of underrated mystery audiobooks to choose from as well. One great option is “The Dry” by Jane Harper. This Australian murder mystery offers a unique setting and a compelling storyline that will have you hooked from the first few minutes. The story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his hometown to investigate a brutal crime that may be connected to a tragedy from his past.
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
Another great but lesser-known option is “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides. This psychological thriller is both dark and cinematic and makes for a great listening experience. The story follows a psychotherapist named Theo Faber as he attempts to unravel the mystery behind a woman named Alicia Berenson, who has been convicted of murdering her husband but has refused to speak since the crime.
Whether you’re a fan of classic mysteries, modern thrillers, or underrated gems, there’s no shortage of great mystery audiobooks to choose from. So why not grab a pair of headphones and get lost in a great story today?
Tips for Choosing the Right Mystery Audiobook
Are you planning a road trip and looking for the perfect mystery audiobook to keep you entertained along the way? With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you choose the right mystery audiobook for your next adventure:
Consider the Length of Your Road Trip
One of the first things to consider when selecting a mystery audiobook for your road trip is the length of your journey. If you’re only driving for a few hours, you’ll want to choose a shorter book that can be finished in that time. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as you complete the book before reaching your destination. On the other hand, if you’re embarking on a multi-day journey, you may want to choose a longer book that will keep you engaged throughout your trip. This will give you something to look forward to each day and help to pass the time on those long stretches of highway.
Match the Audiobook’s Tone to Your Travel Mood
Another important factor to consider when choosing a mystery audiobook is the tone of the book and what will best match your travel mood. If you’re feeling lighthearted and carefree, a comedic mystery may be the right choice. These types of books are often filled with witty banter and humorous situations that will keep you laughing and entertained. If you’re in a more serious or introspective mood, a darker psychological thriller may be more appropriate. These books are often more intense and thought-provoking, and will keep you on the edge of your seat as you navigate the twists and turns of the story.
Look for Engaging Narrators
The narrator of an audiobook can make or break the listening experience. You’ll want to choose a narrator who is engaging, expressive, and who is able to convincingly convey the characters and atmosphere of the story. Look for audiobooks with narrators who have received positive reviews and who have won awards for their performances. This will ensure that you have the best possible listening experience and that the story comes to life in your mind as you travel down the road.
By considering these factors when choosing a mystery audiobook for your road trip, you’ll be sure to find the perfect book to keep you entertained and engaged throughout your journey.
How to Access Mystery Audiobooks for Your Road Trip
Audiobook Subscription Services
There are many great audiobook subscription services available, such as Audible, which offer a wide selection of mystery audiobooks for download. These services usually offer a free trial as well, giving you the opportunity to try out a few different books before committing to a subscription.
Public Library Apps and Resources
If you don’t want to pay for an audiobook subscription, your local public library is a great resource. Many libraries offer audiobook downloads for free through their apps or websites. All you need is a library card to gain access to thousands of great audiobooks.
Purchasing Audiobooks Online
If you prefer to own your audiobooks outright, you can purchase them online through sites like Amazon or iTunes. While this option can be more expensive than a subscription service, it allows you to build a library of your favorite audiobooks to enjoy again and again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mystery audiobooks are the perfect companions for a long road trip. They offer gripping storylines, enhance the atmosphere of your journey, and make the miles pass by much quicker. Whether you prefer classic detective novels or modern thrillers, there’s a mystery audiobook out there that’s perfect for you. Use our recommendations and tips to find the right one for your next road trip.
FAQs
Why should you listen to mysteries as a family?
Mysteries can be one of the best genres to listen to as a family because they can encourage group problem-solving conversations and spark debates about characters and potential outcomes.
What are the best mysteries for a long car journey?
A Flicker in the Dark by Karin Slaughter, The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, and Good Girl, Bad Girl by Michael Robotham are all good listens. However, not wholly appropriate for families with young children.
What are the best mysteries suitable for the whole family?
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson is a good adventurous mystery suitable for all ages.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
