From a star-studded cast, this collection includes five of the most exciting science fiction classics of the twentieth century. Narrated by actors as beloved as David Tennant and Hugh Bonneville, these short stories are from the famous ‘Father of Science Fiction’. From an alien invasion of the South of England in War of the Worlds, to a space embarkation by two run-of-the-mill men in The First Men in the Moon, and tales of two twisted scientists in The Island of Dr. Moreau and The Invisible Man, this collection is filled with intergalactic and absurd adventures. H.G. Wells: The Science Fiction Collection also includes H.G. Wells’ most famous tale, The Time Machine. When a time traveller moves between the past and the future, he encounters amazing creatures… From tiny humanoid creatures to mysterious ape-like beings, giant crabs, and big black blobs, the future definitely seems strange.
James Herbert was a best-selling writer of chillingly scary fiction in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. The Rats is the first in his incredibly popular series, now firmly thought of as a modern fiction classic. Bought to life by accomplished and charismatic actor, David Rintoul, it’s a thrilling horror story that even Stephen King was “too horrified to put down.” The book begins when London is under attack. No one is safe. There’s nowhere to escape to. The onslaught is deadly and unstoppable. Deaths are rising. What’s happening? Huge rats are storming the city… What can Londoners do? Run? Or fight!
This is the book that inspired one of the most famously shocking movies in the world. This special 40th anniversary edition includes new dialogue, characters, and scenes allowing for a completely new and unforgettably chilling experience. Read by the author himself, William Peter Blatty, this edition of The Exorcist perfectly captures both the gripping terror of the story and the heart-wrenching emotional drama of a listen that at its heart, simply revolves around a family. Strange noises, odd smells, and icy chills escalate into terrifying changes in the character of eleven-year-old Regan. When no one can provide any explanation, the priest is called in. Is exorcism the only way to save her?
The Haunting of Hill House“Makes your blood chill and your scalp prickle…” (New York Times Book Review) As seen on Netflix, directed by Mike Flanagan, this is the 1959 gothic horror tale of an abandoned mansion and the four characters that are keen to explore its brooding halls. In an unsettling and intensely frightening chain of events, all four inhabitants experience mysterious noises, strange writings, and ghosts that roam the building, leaving them questioning their sanity. It’s considered one of the best horror novels of the late 20th century due to its subtlety and skilled writing. The Haunting of Hill House isn’t just about a scary old house, it delves into the true meaning of sanity and reality and provides incredible psychological insight into each character’s mind.
Made into both a TV series and a 1994 movie starring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, Anne Rice’s celebrated story chronicles the life story of a vampire, Louis de Pointe du Lac. Interview With The Vampireis written from the perspective of a reporter who is interviewing Louis as he provides a detailed account of 200 years of thrilling life experiences. Louis starts life as a plantation owner in 1791 Louisiana but following the death of his brother, he too wishes for death. When a vampire approaches him, he begs to be bitten. For years they roam around the world as eternal companions, feasting on humans as they go. But is immortality a blessing or a curse?
Henry James is renowned for famous classics like A Portrait of a Lady and The Turn of the Screw. He is celebrated for his astute psychological characterisations, original tone, and nuanced descriptions of relationships. The Turn of the Screw follows a governess, living in a remote mansion in Essex, who begins to fear that the house is haunted by dead servants. It’s a heartbreaking and horror-filled tale of fear, sanity, childhood, and the supernatural. This edition is narrated by Stephanie Beacham, a seasoned narrator, who has read titles from authors as varied as George Eliot and Roald Dahl. This title’s language and narration will masterfully transport you to a ghostly, horror-filled Victorian England.
The Call of Cthulhuis a beloved occult story first published in 1928. Lovecraft is famous for his dark fantasy stories which often explore humanity’s place in the universe, the nature of knowledge, the decline of civilization, and science. This collection of stories is no exception. The Call of Cthulhu centers on Francis Wayland Thurston as he administers his late great-uncle's belongings. Thurston finds a mysterious locked box, a dog-eared manuscript on the “Cthulhu Cult”, and a bizarre sculpture of a part octopus-dragon-human creature. What follows is a wonderfully weird investigation into the ominous “Cthulhu Cult”. Whilst Lovecraft’s work can be complex, William Roberts narrates this collection with “engaging and dramatic” delivery, allowing for “a perfect introduction for newcomers who are interested in Lovecraft’s work.” (Audiofile Magazine)
Over 150 years ago, Robert Louis Stevenson first published the incredibly famous and world-renowned novella - The Strange Case of Jekyll and Hyde. Since then, millions of people have enjoyed Stevenson’s complex psychological gothic tale. Yet with Paapa Essidu’s vibrant narration, this title is perfect for a 21st Century listen. When a lawyer uncovers strange goings on with his friend (Dr. Jekyll) and a menacing figure (Mr. Hyde), he becomes entangled in a thrilling and terrifying mystery. The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde masterfully questions the meaning of individuality, morality, and friendship, whilst also taking the listener on a riveting and engrossing mystery.
The Yellow Wallpaper is an influential American feminist text from 1892. It’s particularly important because of its uniquely historical illustration of women’s mental health. Gilman’s tale is a remarkably modern look at the oppression of women in the 19th Century. The short story is written from the perspective of diary entries written by a woman trapped by her husband in her household nursery. It’s an inventive, interesting, and chilling short story of one woman’s struggle with depression. At 40 minutes in length, it’s an insightful story to immerse yourself in in a single sitting.
This special anniversary edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray commemorates 50 years since the commencement of the English 1967 Sexual Offences Act. This act was inaugural as it permitted homosexual acts between two consenting adults. Oscar Wilde is famous not only for his vivid and exceptional stories, but also for his bravery in his personal life and his writing. The Picture of Dorian Grey is about a beautiful, vain, and unbridled socialite who can beguile those around him with his good looks. But beauty has a cost. How far should one go to maintain their youth? This edition of Oscar Wilde’s gothic masterpiece is narrated by actor, Russell Tovey, as seen in The History Boys, The Night Manager, and Pride. As both an amazing actor and an ardent campaigner for LGBTQ+ rights, Tovey delivers a heartfelt and magical performance of this suspenseful literary classic.
From a star-spangled cast comes this award-nominated Audible Original adaptation of a dark, mysterious, and lustful vampire story. Carmilla was written in 1872, predating even Bram Stoker’s famous Dracula. It’s aninfluential text to many Gothic authors and was forward-thinking in its portrayal of female sexuality. The tale is about a blood-thirsty female vampire who longs for and preys upon a young teenage girl. Starting as friends, their relationship develops into a passionate and complex bond of pleasure and pain. This engaging dramatisation is brought to life by an exciting cast including Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey) and David Tennant (Doctor Who and Broadchurch).
Frankenstein hardly needs an introduction. From movies to TV shows, T-shirts to Halloween costumes, the formidable figure of Frankenstein’s monster has become infamous around the world. This edition, narrated by Jamie Bell (As seen in Billy Elliot and Film Starts Don’t Die in Liverpool) is a haunting and moving telling of Mary Shelley’s trail-blazing masterpiece. Shelley’s novel delves into the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who miraculously creates a grotesque yet sentient creature. What follows is a profound moral and ethical examination of the consequences of his creation. This title explores ambition, nature, love, and most importantly, monsters...
In this twisty psychological piece of sinister fiction, Kafka tells the story of a bank clerk who is arrested and condemned guilty by an unknown and elusive entity. Greatly inspired by Dostoevsky’s seminal work, Crime and Punishment, The Trial is a terrifying look at bureaucracy, government, and law. It’s a truly unique listen. Whilst Kafka was not well known in his lifetime, he is now considered one of the most important thinkers of the 1900s due to his original perspective on the human experience. Whilst Kafka’s writing can be difficult to dive into, with Kohna Holdbrook-Smith's lively narration, The Trial is as intense and creative as the written text, whilst being more accessible than ever.
Featuring a dynamic ensemble of acclaimed actors, this Audible Original edition presents an enthralling reimagining of the iconic tale of Dracula. Narrated by esteemed performers such as Daisy Edgar-Jones (known for Normal People and Where the Crawdads Sing), Theo James (Divergent), and Patricia Allison (Sex Education), this multi-cast production offers a contemporary interpretation of the 19th-century classic. Composed in the form of letters, diary entries, and newspaper clippings, Bram Stoker's Dracula was groundbreaking in its narrative structure. The narrative commences with Jonathan Harker, a young solicitor embarking on a journey to Transylvania to assist Count Dracula with his personal affairs. As inexplicable events unfold, Jonathan, along with his diverse group of companions, vows to thwart Dracula's sinister plans. Will they emerge victorious?
