10 Best True Crime Audiobooks 2025 in the United States

'If You Tell: A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood' by Gregg Olsen is a gripping true-crime audiobook. Narrated by Karen Peakes, the audiobook runs for 10 hours and 34 minutes, providing a substantial amount of content for listeners who enjoy deep dives into real-life crime stories.

Karen Peakes' narration is clear and engaging, making it easier for listeners to follow the complex and often disturbing storyline. Gregg Olsen, a well-known author in the true-crime genre, delivers a compelling narrative that keeps the audience hooked from start to finish. The story itself is intricate, exploring dark family secrets and the strong bond between sisters amidst horrifying circumstances.

The production quality is high, with clear audio and professional editing, ensuring a smooth listening experience. However, it's important to note that the content is quite sensitive, dealing with themes of murder and family trauma, which might be distressing for some listeners. This audiobook is well-suited for true-crime enthusiasts who appreciate detailed and emotionally intense stories. While it may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to graphic content, it stands out as a top choice for its high-quality production, compelling narration, and intricate storytelling.

If you're a fan of true-crime audiobooks, 'American Predator: The Hunt for the Most Meticulous Serial Killer of the 21st Century' by Maureen Callahan could be a gripping choice. This audiobook is narrated by Amy Landon, who brings a clear and engaging voice to the chilling tale. Her narration adds depth to the story, making it more immersive for the listener.

At 9 hours and 3 minutes, it strikes a balance between being thorough without feeling overly lengthy, perfect for a few long listening sessions or commutes. The story complexity is high, delving into the intricate details of the investigation and the psyche of the serial killer, which true-crime enthusiasts are likely to appreciate.

Maureen Callahan, the author, is known for her investigative reporting, adding credibility and depth to the narrative. The production quality by Penguin Audio is commendable, with clear sound and good pacing that keeps the listener engaged. Content sensitivity is an important consideration here; the audiobook deals with graphic and disturbing details typical of serial killer accounts, which might be distressing for some listeners. If you have a strong interest in true crime and can handle graphic content, this audiobook is highly ranked and comes from a reputable publisher. However, it might not be suitable for those sensitive to violent and graphic descriptions.

Evil Has a Name: The Untold Story of the Golden State Killer Investigation is a gripping true-crime audiobook narrated by Paul Holes and Jim Clemente. At 6 hours and 13 minutes, it's a relatively short listen, making it perfect for those who don't have the time for longer audiobooks.

The story complexity is high, as it delves deep into the investigation of the Golden State Killer, offering detailed accounts and insights from the authors—Paul Holes, Jim Clemente, and Peter McDonnell—who are experts in the field. This adds a layer of authenticity and expertise to the narrative.

The production quality is commendable, as it is an Audible Original, ensuring a polished listening experience. However, the content can be quite sensitive, dealing with graphic details of crimes, which might not be suitable for all listeners. If you're a true-crime enthusiast looking for a well-narrated, expertly crafted story with a manageable length, this audiobook could be a great choice. Just be prepared for some intense and potentially distressing content.