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I’ve done something a little differently lately, my friend Katy recommended Audible books to me. Like me, she spends a lot of time in the car ferrying her kids around and walking the dogs. So this year, I’ve jumped into a few Audible books, and it’s been a game-changer. They’ve kept me company not only in the car, but also while I’ve been doing DIY around the house.

I have a Prime membership and didn’t realise I had Audible credits just sitting there waiting to be used. So maybe check your account, you might have a little surprise waiting for you, like I did.

I’ve also tried them out on a few holidays, they’re great in the car on a road trip, and perfect with headphones by the pool if your brain’s not quite in reading mode.

So here’s my latest list of 11 books to pack in your suitcase (or download to your Kindle)…

And if you’re still looking for your next read, check out these lists I’ve written before:

• 9 Books to Pack in your Suitcase
• 9 Books to Transport you Around the World from the Comfort of your Sofa
• 9 Books to Read from your Pool Lounger, Aeroplane Seat or the Comfort of your Sofa
• 8 Must-Read Books to Pack for Your Next Trip

1. The Wedding People, by Alison Espach  This is the Audible book that started it all. And while the story is intrinsically about suicide, there are so many other threads woven through, including a destination wedding. It was gritty, raw, and so, so refreshing. Shop Now

2. The Book of Beginnings, by Sally Page, While this one didn’t blow me away, it was more of a palate cleanser, an easy listen. You’ll love the setting: a stationery shop the main character is looking after for her sick uncle. It made me want to make friends with people of all ages… and buy a new pen. Shop Now

3. Horse, by Geraldine Brooks I would listen to this every chance I had, I couldn’t wait for my next five-minute car journey to devour more. It’s easily one of my favourite books ever. It’s based on the legendary racehorse Lexington, and the people who shaped his life, even when they weren’t aligned with what was asked of them. It’s a complex storyline, but a really compelling one. Shop Now

4. Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt If you’d told me I’d love a book half-narrated by an octopus, I’d have thought you were bonkers. But here we are… I loved this one. I listened to it in the car, and it was “PG” enough for the kids to follow along. I adored the grandmother the story centres around, I really found myself rooting for her. I even sat in the driveway more than once just to hear a few more minutes. Super excited to hear this week that Netflix are working their magic on this one. Shop Now

5. Sheltering Rain, by Jojo Moyes I loved this so much I passed it on to a friend in Dubai after I finished it. Jojo Moyes always delivers, and I fell hard for the parts set in Hong Kong, especially the plucky character who gets married on a whim. Add in some generational trauma and complex family relationships, and you’ll be hooked. Shop Now

6. How to Read a Tree, by Tristan Gooley  I first spotted this in a bookstore in Margate and was intrigued by the idea of understanding more about the forests I walk through every day with my dogs. I often wonder what stories the trees could tell. So when I saw it again in a gorgeous little shop in Dorset, I snapped it up. It hasn’t been a quick read, I often stop to head outside and observe what I’ve just learned. But every day, my husband and kids are asking for my latest tree facts and forest treasures. Shop Now

7. The Divorcees, by Rowan Beaird  The whole concept of a “divorce camp” is bizarre to me, that women had to spend six weeks in Nevada at a ranch just to be allowed to divorce their husbands. What unfolds in the book is the story of one woman’s time at one of these camps, where the women let loose and party hard. It’s an intriguing look at a strange slice of history, with all the emotional messiness you’d expect. Shop Now

8. Pachinko, by Min Jin Lee   I’ve wanted to read this book ever since I saw it on Courtney Adamo’s Insta feed, and wow, it did not disappoint. I felt like I was living in Japan alongside the main character. It’s fast-paced, but I loved how the story evolved and how much time it spanned. Sweeping, emotional, and beautifully written. Shop Now

9. Hamnet, by Maggie O’Farrell I’ve been ticking off a few must-reads from my book list, and while I wouldn’t say I’m an avid Shakespeare follower, I really enjoyed this glimpse into his world. The book focuses more on his family and the part of England they lived in, all beautifully woven into a richly imagined work of fiction. It’s emotional and atmospheric, with writing that pulls you right into the time period without feeling heavy. I especially loved how it gave a voice to the women in his life, something history often skips over. A slow burn, but a rewarding one. Shop Now

10. Lucky, by Marissa Stapley   I have to thank Reese’s Book Club for this one. The story follows a con artist who gets stitched up by her partner, and how she copes with only a few pennies to her name. It’s a fast-paced, character-driven read that keeps you rooting for her even when she’s doing all the wrong things. What I loved most was how layered Lucky’s character is, flawed, vulnerable, but fiercely determined. There’s just enough suspense and heart to make it the kind of book you don’t want to put down, perfect for a holiday binge! Shop Now

11. Maybe Next Time, by Cesca Major  This one broke my heart. Imagine having to relive your worst day ever, over and over again. How would you try to break the cycle? What would you lean into, or away from? The story follows a woman doing everything she can think of just to make it to the next day. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and full of those little life details that make you pause and reflect. I found myself wondering what I’d do differently if I had the same chance and how much of the everyday we take for granted. Shop Now