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Minister of Loneliness

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Minister of Loneliness

Written by: Matt Boren
Narrated by: Billy Crudup, Minnie Driver
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About this listen

A bittersweet love story told in four phone conversations, starring Minnie Driver and Billy Crudup.

Julia Fletcher takes her job seriously. Even as she’s planning to leave her post as the U.K.’s Minister of Loneliness, a government role designed to address the emotional epidemic plaguing modern citizens, Julia is invested in her successor, choosing to conduct the interviews herself. When an internet rabbit hole leads her to Henry Hall, a writer and iconoclastic, beloved professor at New York University, Julia’s interest is piqued. Henry is an unlikely choice: an academic located an ocean away from the Minister’s office in London, but Julia sees something in his writings that makes him a standout candidate in her eyes.

During a series of unorthodox, thought-provoking phone interviews, Julia asks Henry tough, philosophical questions aimed to get at deep truths. And Henry doesn’t hold back, displaying a vulnerability neither of them were expecting, even getting Julia to open up as well. Within their deep and winding conversations, the two of them quickly develop a comedic language all their own, the kind of which is usually reserved for life-long friends or soulmates. Well into middle age and at inflection points in their careers, both Henry and Julia are contemplating life, legacy, what it’s all for. Whom it’s all for. Soon, Henry has answered all of Julia’s questions and is left with one, burning question for her: Why is she leaving this job she’s clearly so passionate about? It’s the one question Julia isn’t ready to answer.

Lines are blurred—personal, professional. Circumstances and emotions get complicated. And somehow, two people acutely acquainted with loneliness form an unshakable connection.

Available in Dolby Atmos on Audible.

©2025 Matt Boren (P)2025 Audible Originals, LLC.
Contemporary Editors Select Entertainment & Performing Arts Women's Fiction

Editorial Review

So much more than a job interview
Who knew that a series of phone calls between the current “Minister of Loneliness” and her prospective replacement could be filled with so much witty banter? Performed by Minnie Driver and Billy Crudup, this short listen will leave you enthralled and wanting more. I found myself examining the same big questions these characters explore (maybe I’d make a good Minister of Loneliness?). These two definitely have a vibe going and, at certain moments, I felt like a third wheel. It’s the kind of storytelling that leaves a lot to be imagined on the part of the listener—all we have are these few phone calls. How would you want their lives to converge? Where might it all go on from here? After just one hour and 42 minutes of listening, I’ve spent days contemplating the possibilities.—Tricia F., Audible Editor

All stars
Most Relevant
This was very unexpected! This audiobook was a completely new listening experience for me. I really enjoyed it, and the two actors chosen to read the story did an excellent job!

Very different, very interesting!

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Totally adored this book.
So honest and thoughtful and inspiring for someone who wants to release all emotions and emotional baggage that weighs down.
Revealing your authentic self to yourself!
Molly Anne StClaire.

Good EGO!

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At first, I wasn’t sure what to think. It was just two people conversing on the phone. I enjoyed it very much however, figuring out where it would all go. Lovely story.

Great listen

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loved this. thought provoking, engaging, entertaining, with likeable characters. Would have loved if it was longer.

a 10 from the Canadian judge

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Relatable characters, interesting topic that made me think about my own life choices & expectations. What steps to follow to have a less lonely life

Easy listening

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