A guide to some of the top adventure fiction books for adults
I’ve always enjoyed stories that take me on a journey, and adventure fiction books for adults are my go-to.
They pull you into new worlds with interesting characters and challenges that keep you turning the pages.
I love how these stories can inspire a sense of exploration and curiosity. Let me share some of my favorites that capture the thrill of adventure and improve your shelf of coffee table books and adventure books.
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Psst..!!? Looking for more inspiration about dazzling books to read? …. here are a few of my favorite book guides:
Table of Contents
Overview: My Favorite Fiction Adventure Books For Adults
- The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
- Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
- Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
1. Shantaram
by Gregory David Roberts
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts is one of the best adventure books I’ve ever read.
It’s an intense, sprawling tale of a fugitive’s life in Bombay, mixing danger, friendship, and philosophical musings on fate.
The plot takes you on a rollercoaster through the city’s underworld, from slum doctors to mafia deals and even a stint in Afghanistan.
The characters feel larger than life, but they are also rawly honest, especially in how Roberts explores themes of redemption and self-discovery.
As an adventure fiction book for adults, Shantaram is gripping and beautifully written, with vivid descriptions of the chaotic streets of India.
I was completely immersed in the journey—it’s not just about surviving, but about truly living.
Whether you’re into action or deep character development, this one delivers both equally. It’s an unforgettable adventure that lingers long after the last page.
2. Treasure Island
by Robert Louis Stevenson
Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale is a must-read for anyone who enjoys books about outdoor adventures.
It’s a thrilling, swashbuckling tale with everything—pirates, treasure maps, and danger at every turn.
The story follows young Jim Hawkins as he sets sail on a dangerous quest for buried treasure, and the iconic character of Long John Silver keeps you guessing the whole way through.
I was utterly drawn in by the atmosphere—the way Stevenson describes the high seas and the mysterious island makes it feel like you’re right there in the middle of the action.
As an adventure fiction book, Treasure Island is both thrilling and immersive. It’s also surprisingly deep in its themes of loyalty, greed, and courage, making it more than just a pirate story.
3. King Solomon’s Mines
by H. Rider Haggard
This classic tale of treasure hunting and exploration is one of those adventure books for adults with a little bit of everything—danger, excitement, and mystery.
The story follows Allan Quatermain and his crew through uncharted African territory in search of King Solomon’s legendary mines.
It is packed with epic landscapes, perilous journeys, and unexpected dangers.
I was drawn to how vividly the wilderness is described—it felt like I was trekking alongside them through deserts and mountains.
The balance between high-stakes action and the relationships between the characters made it more than just a simple treasure hunt.
What sets King Solomon’s Mines apart is the timeless sense of adventure and the tension of facing the unknown.
As far as great fiction books for adults go, this one stands the test of time. Its mix of exploration, danger, and the thrill of discovery keeps it a gripping read.
4. The Call of the Wild
by Jack London
Buck’s journey as a domesticated dog turned sled dog in the Yukon wilderness is inspiring.
As he navigates the harsh realities of survival, Buck transforms from a pampered pet to a fierce leader, embracing his primal instincts.
What stood out to me was how London masterfully portrays the struggle for survival against the backdrop of an unforgiving landscape.
The Call of the Wild is undoubtedly one of the best survival books fiction has to offer, showcasing the raw power of nature and the resilience of its characters.
It’s also one of those adventure fiction books for young adults that speaks about loyalty, freedom, and self-discovery.
The vivid descriptions of the icy wilderness and Buck’s thrilling experiences keep you on the edge of your seat.
It’s a powerful and emotional tale that resonates long after the last page is turned, making it a must-read for anyone who loves adventure.
5. The Count of Monte Cristo
by Alexandre Dumas
The journey of Edmond Dantès in The Count of Monte Cristo is nothing short of epic.
Wrongfully imprisoned and seeking revenge, he transforms into a master of strategy and manipulation, navigating the complexities of love and betrayal.
This novel beautifully intertwines themes of adventure and romance, making it one of the top adventure fiction books for adults. It also delves into the intricacies of human relationships.
The depth of Edmond’s transformation and quest for justice is thrilling and poignant.
Moments of intense passion and heart-wrenching loss add layers to the story, making it more than just a tale of revenge.
As a fan of romance books for adults, I appreciated how love plays a significant role in shaping Edmond’s journey.
6. The Lost World
by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
I had a lot of fun reading The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It’s an exciting adventure that takes you to uncharted territories.
Following the eccentric Professor Challenger and his team, the story unfolds as they embark on a journey to a remote plateau in the Amazon basin, where dinosaurs and other ancient life forms still roam.
Doyle skillfully blends science fiction with fantasy elements, making it one of those fantasy fiction books for adults that explores the boundaries of imagination and exploration.
The interplay of skepticism and wonder adds depth, especially with Challenger’s bold personality clashing with the more cautious characters.
The Lost World is a story about adventure and intrigue that keeps you turning the pages. It’s a classic that entertains and sparks the imagination about what might exist beyond the known world.
7. Ready Player One
by Ernest Cline
Ready Player One is an exhilarating ride through a vividly imagined future where virtual reality takes center stage.
Set in a dystopian world, the story follows Wade Watts as he embarks on a quest to find an Easter egg hidden in the OASIS, a vast virtual universe filled with 80s pop culture references.
I was completely immersed in this exciting mix of gaming, nostalgia, and adventure.
Ernest Cline brilliantly combines science fiction and adventure fiction elements, making it one of those must-read science fiction books for adults.
The high-stakes competition and intricate puzzles keep the pace fast and engaging, and the characters are relatable and well-developed.
Ready Player One focuses on friendship, identity, and the implications of living in a digital world.
It’s a fun, thought-provoking read that celebrates geek culture while keeping you on the edge.
8. Swiss Family Robinson
by Johann David Wyss
The Swiss Family Robinson is about a family that is shipwrecked on a deserted island and struggles to adapt and survive.
I was captivated by how they utilized their skills to create a new life in the wilderness, from building shelters to discovering ways to thrive off the land.
This book is one of those adventure novels for adults that brilliantly showcases the power of teamwork and creativity in overcoming challenges.
The vivid descriptions of the island’s flora and fauna made me feel like I was right there with them, experiencing their triumphs and struggles.
Swiss Family Robinson is also a reflection on family bonds and resilience that resonated deeply with me and after reading it I recommend it to anyone I knew.
It’s one of the good fiction books for adults that leaves you appreciating the spirit of exploration and the importance of family.
9. Heart of Darkness
by Joseph Conrad
Reading Heart of Darkness was a profound experience that took me deep into the complexities of colonialism and the human psyche.
Charles Marlow’s journey into the African Congo reveals not only the darkness of the land but also the darkness within humanity itself.
Joseph Conrad’s rich, evocative prose paints haunting imagery of both the landscape and the moral dilemmas the characters face.
As one of the best action books of all time, it’s not just about adventure but the exploration of power, civilization, and the thin veneer that separates order from chaos.
The deeper Marlow travels, the more he confronts the unsettling truths about imperialism and human nature.
Heart of Darkness was a thought-provoking read that lingered long after I turned the last page. It’s a classic book that should be on your reading list.
10. Harry Potter Series
by J. K. Rowling
The Harry Potter series is a magical journey that captures the essence of friendship, bravery, and the struggle between good and evil.
The books follow Harry, Hermione, and Ron through their years at Hogwarts and are filled with incredible adventures, dark secrets, and unforgettable characters.
I was wholly immersed in Rowling’s world, where each book builds on the last, revealing deeper mysteries and challenges.
As one of the adventure story books for adults, it perfectly balances lighthearted moments with serious themes, making it appealing to readers of all ages.
The detailed descriptions of magical creatures, enchanting spells, and the complex relationships among the characters make the series a rich and rewarding experience.
It’s remarkable how the story evolves, becoming darker and more complex as the characters grow.
11. Outlander
by Diana Gabaldon
Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander is a captivating story that follows Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who mysteriously travels back to 18th-century Scotland.
It was incredible how Claire managed to adapt to her new world, struggling to keep her secret and also trying to find a way back to her own time.
As one of the adventure story books for adults, it discusses the challenges of survival in a tumultuous era.
The vivid descriptions of the Scottish Highlands and the intricacies of clan life made me feel like I was right there alongside Claire.
The themes of love, resilience, and the fight for survival are beautifully woven into the narrative, making it an adventure and a deep exploration of human connection.
12. Life of Pi
by Yann Martel
Life of Pi is a mesmerizing story that seamlessly blends adventure with profound philosophical insights.
The narrative is both thrilling and thought-provoking, following the journey of Pi Patel, a young boy stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger.
I found myself completely absorbed in Pi’s struggle for survival, captivated by the way he navigates the challenges of the vast sea while forging an unexpected bond with his fierce companion.
Yann Martel’s lyrical writing beautifully captures the isolation and beauty of the ocean, making the setting almost a character in its own right.
The themes of faith, resilience, and the quest for meaning are woven throughout the story, making it resonate on many levels.
It’s one of those easy fiction books for adults that balances adventure with introspection, leaving you with much to ponder long after you’ve turned the last page.
This book is truly a unique journey that stays with you.
My final thoughts on adventure fiction books for adults
Exploring adventure fiction books for adults has truly enriched my reading experience.
Each story offers a thrilling escape, inviting me to embark on journeys filled with excitement and unexpected twists.
These novels entertain and challenge me to think about the world and my place in it.
The diverse settings and compelling characters often inspire me to embrace my adventures, big or small.
So, if you want to ignite your sense of adventure, I encourage you to dive into these captivating tales—you might discover something remarkable about yourself along the way!
FAQ about adventure fiction books for adults
What are the best adventure fiction books for adults?
Some of the best adventure fiction books for adults are Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, or Ready Player One by Ernest Cline.
What are the best modern adventure novels?
Some of the best modern adventure novels are The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, American Gods by Neil Gaiman, or Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.
What are the best fantasy adventure books for adults?
Some of the best fantasy adventure books for adults are A Game Of Thrones by George RR Martin, The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, or The Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
