Spotify Explores Romantasy, Modern Classics, and Future Trends

Audiobooks have become an integral part of daily life for listeners around the world, with 2025 marking a significant milestone for the format. For the first time, audiobooks appeared in Spotify Wrapped, showcasing the number of titles listeners finished alongside their top audiobook and genre. This inclusion highlights the growing popularity of audiobooks and reaffirms their status in book culture.

Trends in Audiobook Listening for 2025

The year 2025 saw a dive into the realms of spicy romance and romantasy. Popular series like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas topped Spotify’s audiobook charts. This trend reflects the ongoing fascination with books that blend romance and fantasy elements.

The Rise of Modern Classics

Another key trend was the emphasis on the “backlist,” where many of the top audiobooks were originally released in previous years. Listeners curated a new generation of “modern classics.” Fiction dominated the top 10, but music memoirs also gained traction, with releases from well-known artists such as:

• Mark Ronson
• Mark Hoppus
• Cher

Insights from Audiobook Experts

Spotify’s global Audiobook Editorial team shared their observations on the evolving audiobook landscape. Associate Director Katie del Rosario noted a surge in romantic audiobooks and music memoirs, alongside a notable interest in “dystopian anxiety.” This trend reflects a growing fascination with both classic and contemporary works addressing social issues, climate change, and technological advancements.

Manager Roshni Radia emphasized that romantasy has captivated diverse audiences. Communities like BookTok have played a crucial role in popularizing this genre. Historically appealing to women, romantasy has also attracted male listeners, who now represent about 15% of the audience in its steamier subgenres.

Memorable Moments in 2025

This year featured significant cultural moments. Noteworthy instances included celebrating Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy through titles like I Am Ozzy. Additionally, linking Tina Knowles’ book Matriarch to fans in the context of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour showcased Spotify’s unique ability to connect varied cultural formats.

Looking Ahead: Audiobook Trends for 2026

The outlook for 2026 appears promising. Experts predict that romantasy will remain popular due to upcoming major titles. Additionally, the appetite for horror is expected to grow. There will likely be heightened interest in genre-blending and climate fiction that addresses environmental concerns.

As audiobooks continue to integrate into the broader cultural universe of music and podcasts, Spotify is enhancing how listeners interact with literature. Innovations like recaps and engaging formats are enriching the audiobook experience, encouraging discovery and connection with stories.

Visit El-Balad for personalized insights on your 2025 Wrapped experience and more on this year’s audiobook trends.