8 Podcasts That Feel Like Literary Novels

“Harlem Queen” is an audio drama steeped in Black historical fiction, focusing on the life of Madam Stephanie St. Clair, a fierce and influential woman of the Harlem Renaissance. Set between 1926-1928, this engaging story examines her impact on the Harlem community both above and below ground. Written and independently produced by Yhane Washington Smith, an A' Leila Bundles Scholar at Columbia University, this podcast aims to entertain, educate, empower, and uplift listeners. You can follow them on social media at @Yhane.Writes.Audio and @AudioHarlem. For more information, visit HarlemQueen.org.

“Homecoming” is an intriguing psychological thriller that debuted on November 2, 2018. Centered around the concept of therapy for soldiers returning home, this narrative seamlessly explores themes of memory, trauma, and the quest for redemption. With a finely woven storyline, it gives listeners an experience akin to diving into a compelling literary work.

Featuring a stellar cast including Kristen Wiig and Ethan Hawke, “Sandra” tells the story of Helen, a woman who takes a job at a company that produces the beloved A.I., Sandra. However, working behind the scenes reveals that this job may not be the escape she envisioned. With a compelling narrative and excellent production quality, this podcast immerses listeners into a world where artificial intelligence meets human emotion.

“Wyrd Woman” invites listeners into a dreamlike experience, where a woman’s nocturnal adventures unfold in surreal narratives that blend reality with fantasy. Over nine nights, she encounters a vividly peculiar collection of women, each representing different aspects of existence. This limited series from Broads and Books Productions is full of twists and emotional depth, captivating listeners at every turn.

Delving into the rich history of the Anterran Civilization, this podcast offers a fascinating course-like format examining ancient literature and thought. Discussing archeological discoveries that redefine our understanding of early human societies, “Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature” resonates with intellectual curiosity and historical insight. This podcast is perfect for listeners who crave deeper engagement with narratives that challenge conventional histories.

“Mabel” is a mesmerizing fiction podcast that tackles themes of ghosts, family secrets, and the eerie connections we often overlook. With a beautifully layered narrative and emotional depth, each episode unfolds like the pages of a haunting novel, drawing listeners into a world where the past affects the present profoundly.

For those intrigued by the world of beef and dairy production, “Beef And Dairy Network” takes a humorous approach, blending comedy with agricultural narratives. This podcast is unlike any other on this list, combining elements of satire with genuine love for the subject matter, creating a unique listening experience that can only be likened to witty literature.

This horror/fantasy serial drama follows two acolytes, Carpenter and Faulkner, as they seek revelations from their outlawed god along a menacing river. As they delve deeper into their sacred journey, they uncover mysteries that intertwine with the unsettling truths of their world. “The Silt Verses” offers a gripping narrative that challenges our perceptions of belief and the unknown.