Humanity has spread across the solar system, but peace between Earth, Mars, and the Belt hangs by a thread. When a missing-persons case and a derelict ship pull two very different men into the same conspiracy, they uncover something that could tip the whole system into war. “Leviathan Wakes” launches one of modern science fiction’s most acclaimed space-opera sagas.
Get the Leviathan Wakes Audiobook on AmazonListen on Audible · also in Kindle & printWhat Leviathan Wakes is about
“Leviathan Wakes” is the first novel in The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, the pen name shared by authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, it follows two alternating points of view: a ship’s officer caught up in events after a routine run goes wrong, and a hard-bitten detective chasing a missing woman on the sprawling station of Ceres. Their paths converge around a mystery with consequences far larger than either expects.
The book pairs gritty, lived-in space opera with the rhythms of a noir detective story, balancing political tension between Earth, Mars, and the Outer Planets with personal stakes and propulsive plotting. It’s a character-driven adventure that built a devoted following and helped inspire the television adaptation.
| Author | James S.A. Corey |
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Why Leviathan Wakes is great on audio
The alternating-perspective structure works especially well in audio, where the shift between the two lead characters gives each storyline its own distinct voice and momentum. It’s easy to get swept up in on a commute or a long drive, since the chapters tend to end on hooks that keep you reaching for the next one. If you enjoy immersive, plot-forward listening, it’s a strong fit.
Who should listen
Reach for this if you love character-driven space opera that mixes hard-ish science fiction with mystery, political intrigue, and tense action. Fans of The Expanse TV show who want the fuller original story will feel right at home. Listeners who prefer cozy, low-stakes stories or who dislike darker, grittier tones may want to sample first.
If you like Leviathan Wakes, listen to these next
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
- A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
- The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
How to listen to Leviathan Wakes
Leviathan Wakes is available on Audible and Amazon. If you’re new to Audible you can listen with a free trial, or buy the audiobook (also in Kindle and print) on Amazon.
Get the Leviathan Wakes Audiobook on AmazonListen on Audible · also in Kindle & printFrequently asked questions
How can I listen to the Leviathan Wakes audiobook?
You can find it on Audible and Amazon. If you’re new to Audible, you can start with a free trial and use it to begin listening, or you can simply buy the audiobook on Amazon.
Is Leviathan Wakes the first book in The Expanse series?
Yes. It’s the opening novel in The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, so it’s the natural starting point if you’re new to the saga.
Who is James S.A. Corey?
James S.A. Corey is the pen name shared by two authors, Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, who write The Expanse series together.
Is the audiobook a good entry point if I’ve only seen the TV show?
It can be. The novel is the source material for the early part of the show, so it covers familiar ground while offering the fuller, original version of the story.