Fans of 'Deadwood' should especially like this novel. It's a quest story, like 'Lord of the Rings.' It's set in a richly-drawn alien world (of the past, but still.) Amazing prose, plotting and character work. But I can't imagine any sci-fi/fantasy fan not liking it. It's a western - a genre that, in general, doesn't interest me. *** 'Lonesome Dove' - okay, this doesn't meet your criteria, but it's simply one of the best novels I've read in my life.

But this latter one is a pure 'character book.' Nothing fantasy-ish about it at all. By the same author and also really good: 'A Spot of Bother'. It's narrated by an 'alien mind', a boy with Autism. 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the night-Time' - doesn't meet any of your criteria, but it's a book I imagine most sci-fi fans would like. But in case you want to give it a whirl, this book is really charming and fun. 'A Little History of the World' - you didn't mention history. I also enjoyed a few other King novels from Audible's collection, notably: 'From a Buick 8,' and 'Gerald's Game.' (really fucking scary!)

'The Cell' is a sophisticated Zombie story 'Lisey's Story' is rich, character-based fantasy. In my opinion, King has finally matured as a writer.

* 'Lisey's Story' and 'The Cell' by Stephen King. Audible also has the (non-sci-fi) novel 'Never Let Me Go' by the same author. It's by the author of 'Remains of the Day.' Excellent. * 'When We Were Orphans' - this is sci-fi in the sense that '1984' or 'The Handmade's Tale' is sci-fi. But he's a great writer, and I always enjoy what he has to say. * 'The God Delusion' - I wish Audible had some of Dawkins' evolution books. About the day-to-day lives of people held hostage by freedom fighters. 'Bel Canto' - one of the best novels I've read/heard in my life. I hate politics, but I this book held my interest. 'Charlie Wilson's War' - great novel-like, non-fiction about events leading up to 9/11. * 'Protector' - good 'hard' sci-fi by Larry Niven 'Shadow Divers' - exciting non-fiction book about deep-sea diving (something I have almost no interest in, but I still loved the book) I've starred the ones that seem closest to your criteria. Here are books that I've downloaded and loved. I also love Audible and have been a member since it started.

Best sci fi books on audible