Are you looking for gripping narratives, thrilling mysteries, or surreal adventures? Look no further! Here we delve into a few of the best fiction podcasts that will keep you entertained for hours. Whether you’re into horror, comedy, or sci-fi, our list has something for everyone. From murder mysteries with a comedic twist to post-apocalyptic thrillers, these shows are designed to captivate your imagination. So, grab your headphones and get ready to explore these fantastic audio experiences.

In this list, you’ll find detailed descriptions of some of the most popular and critically acclaimed fiction podcasts available. Each podcast offers a unique story, blending clever writing, top-notch voice acting, and rich sound design. These are creators at the top of their game. From one gripping episode to the next, these shows promise unforgettable journeys. And whether you prefer serialized dramas or anthology series, there’s a perfect podcast waiting for you. Let’s dive into the a few of the best fiction podcasts you shouldn’t miss!

Midnight Burger

If you’re searching for a podcast that blends the thrill of science fiction with the charm of a quirky diner, look no further than the legendary fiction podcast Midnight Burger. This imaginative show follows Gloria, who unwittingly signs up for the ride of a lifetime when she takes a waitressing job at a seemingly ordinary diner just outside of Phoenix. Unbeknownst to her, Midnight Burger isn’t just any eatery – it’s a time-traveling, dimension-spanning diner that pops up at different locations across the cosmos every day.

Each episode introduces listeners to a unique and diverse cast of characters. There’s the galactic drifter with endless stories of the stars, a rogue theoretical physicist who’s always on the brink of a groundbreaking discovery, a sentient old-timey radio that offers more than just music, and the mysteriously enigmatic Caspar. Together, they navigate the unknown, serving customers who always seem to need a bit of comfort and a good cup of coffee.

The beauty of Midnight Burger lies in its unpredictability and the heartwarming interactions that happen at the counter. No one knows who built Midnight Burger or how it works, but its existence brings solace to many. Whether you’re in need of a break from reality or simply enjoy tales that traverse time and space, this podcast is the perfect escape.

The Lovecraft Investigations

Love a good murder mystery? Then meet this reliable classic  “The Lovecraft Investigations,” a fiction podcast with a comedic twist. This trilogy, adapted from HP Lovecraft’s horror novels in 2019, includes “The Case of Charles Dexter Ward,” “The Whisperer in Darkness,” and “The Shadow Over Innsmouth.” Trust us, once you start listening, you won’t be able to stop until every episode has devoured you. With its blend of dark humor and gripping suspense, it’s no wonder this series is hailed as one of the finestfiction podcasts.

Welcome to Night Vale

“Welcome to Night Vale” isn’t just a fiction podcast; it’s a veritable phenomenon in the fiction space. This bimonthly cult classic created by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor is a deadpan community radio broadcast from the fictional town of Night Vale, where the mundane and the bizarre coexist in surreal harmony. It’s a unique mix of horror, comedy, and the wonderfully weird, making it a top pick among the best fiction podcasts. Its success is so widespread, the cast tours the country performing live shows to eager fans.

The Edge of Sleep

Imagine waking up to find that everyone who slept the previous night has died. That’s the chilling premise of “The Edge of Sleep,” a limited series that’s part post-apocalyptic thriller, part mystery. Follow a night watchman and a group of survivors who must stay awake to unravel the cause of this disaster. Produced by popular YouTuber Markiplier, this creepy and psychedelic drama gotr a second season at the end of 2022, solidifying its place among the top fiction podcasts.

The Magnus Archives

Horror anthology podcasts are a dime a dozen, but “The Magnus Archives” stands out. Written by Jonathan Sims, who also stars as the newly-appointed director of the Magnus Institute in London, the series begins as a straightforward horror anthology. However, as Sims delves into the institute’s paranormal archives, things quickly take a darker, more complex turn. This podcast’s chilling tales and immersive storytelling make it a must-listen for horror fans and has earned its place in the pantheon of the most popular fiction podcasts. It has staked a claim for one of the best fiction horror anthology podcasts around.

Wooden Overcoats

While sci-fi and horror can seem to dominate the fiction podcast scene, “Wooden Overcoats” offers something totally different. It’s a refreshing change of pace: a delightful British sitcom about rival undertakers on a fictional Channel Island. The brilliantly acted show follows the grimly practical Rudyard Funn and his flashy competitor Eric Chapman, delivering laughs and charming portrayals of island life for the quirky residents. Its unique premise and humorous storytelling make it a standout classic in the world of fiction podcasts. This show too hosts the occasional live performance; a testament to its cultish popularity and staying power in the realm of audio fiction.

Limetown

“Limetown” is the fiction podcast that may have arguably propelled the whole medium forward. A gripping podcast reminiscent of “The X-Files,” it follows journalist Lia Haddock as she investigates the mysterious disappearance of residents at a self-contained scientific research facility. Season one explores her descent into the unknown, while season two shifts focus to a new character, Charley Lattimore, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. This classic podcast’s intriguing plot and suspenseful twists make it one of the best fiction podcasts standards you need to hear.

The Amelia Project

Imagine a secret agency that helps people fake their deaths and start over. That’s the quirky premise of “The Amelia Project,” a British comedy podcast that follows bizarre and eccentric clients looking for a fresh start. Each episode introduces a new case with a twist, ensuring the show never gets old. With its dark humor and creative storytelling, this podcast is a true gem in the fiction podcast landscape.

Earth Eclipsed

Selected for the Tribeca Festival in 2021, “Earth Eclipsed” follows a brilliant neuroscientist who’s on the verge of a groundbreaking discovery, only to be kidnapped by a rogue miner. As she fights to complete her project and save millions, this immersive sci-fi audio series explores utopian ideals and the lengths people will go to preserve humanity. Its compelling narrative and high production quality make it a top fiction podcast worth your time.

Girl in Space

“Girl in Space,” created by Sarah Rhea Werner, tells the story of X, a quirky scientist with a love for cheese, drifting through space on a decaying ship. What starts as a small-scale adventure quickly evolves into a full-blown space opera. Despite wrapping up its first season in 2019, fans eagerly await the promised second season. This podcast’s mix of humor and sci-fi elements makes it a top pick among fiction podcasts.

Curious Matter Anthology

Curious Matter Anthology is a multi-award-winning fiction podcast that adapts stories from the world’s best sci-fi and horror writers into fully immersive audio movies. Strap in and let your ears take you on an adventure to the most imaginative places in the literary universe. Season 3, launching June 18th, is a bold leap forward. We’re transitioning to a seasonal anthology format, dedicating the entire season to a single epic story titled “The Exile.” This audacious adventure will take listeners to the fledgling colony of Mars, where humanity’s fate hangs in the balance. “Curious Matter Anthology” offers a rich and immersive listening experience, making it one of the best fiction podcasts available.

FAQs

What makes a good fiction podcast?

A good fiction podcast starts with compelling storytelling. Sometimes shows feature a single voice, and sometimes they have entire casts, and often they lie somewhere in between. High-quality sound design can make for a more cinematic experience, but sometimes simplicity serves the story most effectively. Engaging voice acting can bring a story to life, while sometimes the soothing voice of a single narrator is what the story needs. In the end, there is no one definition of a good fiction podcast, but the story on which its based plays the most critical role. In creating an immersive audio experience

Are there any new fiction podcasts to look out for?

Yes, new fiction podcasts are released nearly every day. Keep an eye on the Apollo App for the latest releases of fiction episodes and new shows.

How do I find the best fiction podcasts?

You can find and listen to the best fiction podcasts all through the Apollo app. If you’re fortunate enough to know friends who also listen to audio fiction, their recommendations, and lists like the one in this article, are a good way to discover the top shows.

Can fiction podcasts be as engaging as audiobooks?

Absolutely! Fiction podcasts often feature episodic storytelling in manageable sizes, making them just as engaging, if not more so, than traditional audiobooks. It really depends on what you love!

Are there any fiction podcasts suitable for children?

Yes, there are many fiction podcasts designed specifically for children, featuring age-appropriate stories and themes.