A guide to the fun adventure books for adults that should be on any bookshelf
I often find myself reaching for fun adventure books for adults when I want to escape for a while.
With me always being on the move and traveling, I need books that pull me into different worlds filled with excitement and unexpected twists.
These stories have a unique way of sparking my imagination and keeping me engaged. I’m excited to share some of my top picks with you and add to your coffee table books and adventure books collection.
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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: Fun adventure books for adults
- Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
- The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
1. The London Eye Mystery
by Siobhan Dowd
When Ted’s cousin mysteriously disappears during a visit to the London Eye, Ted and his sister Kat decide to solve the case themselves.
The London Eye Mystery unfolds through Ted’s unique perspective, making the mystery even more intriguing as they follow clues that adults seem to miss.
I liked how Ted’s different thinking plays a big role in the adventure—it’s clever without being over the top.
This book is perfect if you’re looking for fun books for adults that also keep you guessing.
Though it’s not your typical high-action thriller, the pacing and mystery will keep you hooked until the end.
The London Eye Mystery is an enjoyable and smart read for anyone who loves a well-crafted puzzle.
2. The Midnight Library
by Matt Haig
Nora finds herself in a unique library where each book contains a version of her life, depending on the different choices she could have made.
From a rock star to a glaciologist, she lives through many possible paths, experiencing different adventures in each one.
The Midnight Library stands out for how each life presents new opportunities for growth and understanding, showing how small decisions can have a huge impact.
It’s a refreshing twist on fantasy adventure books for adults, blending everyday life with a magical concept in a meaningful way.
I’m definitely in love with stories about self-discovery wrapped in adventure, and The Midnight Library offered me a thoughtful journey through possibilities.
3. The Three Musketeers
By Alexandre Dumas
Everyone know the story of The Three Musketeers, a story of adventure and camaraderie as a young man teams up with three skilled swordsmen.
Plenty of duels, daring escapes, and clever schemes occur against a backdrop of political intrigue and secret plots.
The action keeps moving, but the friendship between the Musketeers makes the story memorable.
It’s one of those classic adventure fiction books for adults that balances excitement with deeper themes of loyalty and honor.
The Three Musketeers is considered one of the greatest adventure books of all time, it’s still an entertaining and engaging read, even years after it was first written.
4. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
I did mention The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in another article and it’s mainly because I grew pretty attached to this books.
In this intense mystery, an investigative journalist works with a brilliant but troubled hacker to uncover the truth behind a decades-old disappearance.
The plot of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo revolves the story of an investigative journalist who works with a brilliant but troubled hacker to uncover the truth behind a decades-old disappearance.
The partnership between the two main characters is gripping, and their differences only add to the intrigue.
What I found interesting is how the book manages to balance action with a complex and create a layered story, full of twists and turns.
If you’re in the mood for good adventure books for adults that mix mystery, action, and sharp characters, this one won’t disappoint.
5. The Princess Bride
by William Goldman
This story talks about romance, adventure, and humor that kept me engaged from start to finish.
The Princess Bride is about Buttercup, a young woman whose true love, Westley, must rescue her from an evil prince.
The cast of characters is memorable, including a skilled swordsman and a giant, each adding their flavor to the narrative.
Goldman’s witty writing style shines through as he infuses the tale with clever dialogue and unexpected twists.
The themes of love, loyalty, and bravery resonate throughout the story, making it more than just a fairy tale.
The pacing is perfect, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. This book is among the top adventure books for adults, offering lighthearted fun and deeper reflections on relationships.
The Princess Bride is perfect for those looking for an entertaining escape into a world of fantasy and adventure.
6. The Lost Bookshop
by Evie Woods
Clara stumbles upon a mysterious bookshop that appears only to those who truly need it, as the main plot for The Lost Bookshop.
As she explores these hidden treasures, she encounters various fascinating characters and books that lead her on an unexpected journey.
Each story she discovers inside the shop reflects her struggles and aspirations, helping her to navigate her complicated life.
The narrative beautifully intertwines themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the impact of literature on our lives.
Evie Woods captures the magic of books and their ability to provide solace and inspiration. Her writing is engaging, making the characters relatable and their journeys meaningful.
If you’re interested in a story that celebrates the power of reading, this is definitely among the best fantasy adventure books for adults.
I believe that some stories can transform our lives and the connections we make and The Lost Bookshop is a good reminder for that.
7. Don Quixote
by Miguel de Cervantes
Don Quixote is the story of an aging nobleman who becomes so enchanted by tales of chivalry that he decides to become a knight himself.
Armed with a rusted sword and his trusty horse, he sets out on a series of whimsical adventures, mistaking windmills for giants and inns for castles.
His loyal companion, Sancho Panza, offers a humorous contrast to Quixote’s lofty ideals.
The novel delves into themes of reality versus illusion and the nature of heroism, often in a lighthearted manner.
Cervantes captures the essence of adventure through Quixote’s relentless spirit and imagination.
I learned about about courage, friendship, and the absurdities of life while reading Don Quixote and it for was for sure fun.
This makes it one of those fun adventure books for adults that you can read multiple times and still find something new.
8. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
by Douglas Adams
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a hilarious journey that starts with the destruction of Earth, thrusting an average man named Arthur Dent into a wild intergalactic adventure.
Alongside his friend Ford Prefect, an alien researcher, Arthur navigates through bizarre worlds and meets an array of eccentric characters, all while trying to make sense of it all.
The humor is clever and sharp, poking fun at everything from bureaucracy to existential questions.
One of the memorable bits is the guide itself, which offers absurd yet practical advice, like always knowing where your towel is.
This blend of satire and science fiction makes it a refreshing read that entertains you.
With its quirky narrative and witty dialogue, it captures the essence of fun adventures for adults.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy makes you laugh while also pondering life’s bigger questions.
9. The Great Alone
by Kristin Hannah
The Great Alone tells the story of the Allbright family as they move to Alaska in the 1970s, seeking a fresh start.
This adventure book for adults captures their struggle to adapt to the harsh wilderness and the impact of their father’s PTSD.
As winter approaches, the family faces the brutal Alaskan elements and internal conflicts that threaten their unity.
The narrative weaves together themes of survival, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Kristin Hannah does a great job of portraying the beauty and danger of the wild, making you feel the weight of every challenge the characters endure.
The Great Alone fits perfectly into the category of fiction survival books, exploring how people confront both nature and personal demons.
It’s an engaging read that sticks with you, prompting reflection on the strength found in both family and the human spirit when faced with difficult circumstances.
10. Eat, Pray, Love
by Elizabeth Gilbert
I have to be honest with you, I couldn’t put Eat, Pray, Love down. It follows Elizabeth Gilbert’s journey of self-discovery as she travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia after a difficult divorce.
This book offers a unique perspective on life, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and the quest for balance.
It’s not just about traveling; it’s a deep dive into the experiences that shape us.
Gilbert’s relatable storytelling makes it feel like you’re chatting with a close friend, sharing her struggles and triumphs.
Each destination brings new insights, whether savoring delicious food in Italy, finding peace in an Indian ashram, or discovering love in Bali.
This is a great pick for true adventure books, as it highlights both physical and emotional journeys.
Eat, Pray, Love is also one of those fun adventure books for adults that has a special place on my shelves and heart as well.
11. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
by Mark Twain
In this classic tale, Huck Finn journeys down the Mississippi River with Jim, an escaped slave.
Their adventure is filled with encounters revealing human nature’s and society’s complexities.
Through their travels, Huck grapples with questions of morality, freedom, and friendship, adding depth to the story beyond the outdoor escapades.
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is often celebrated among books about outdoor adventures, as it beautifully captures the spirit of exploration and the beauty of the American landscape.
The unique characters Huck meets along the way bring humor and insight into their experiences, making the book memorable.
I believe with all my heart that it is one of the great adventure books for adults, inviting reflection on important themes while providing a captivating story.
12. To the Wild Horizon
by Imogen Martin
To the Wild Horizon by Imogen Martin is an adventure novel that explores the depths of human resilience, love, and the quest for freedom.
Set against the rugged backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness, the story follows the protagonist, Ellie, who embarks on a daring journey after a personal tragedy leaves her questioning her life’s purpose.
Ellie’s character is well-crafted, embodying both vulnerability and fierce determination as she navigates the harsh environment, battling not only the unforgiving elements but also her inner demons.
Martin’s descriptive writing brings the wild landscape to life, making me feel the cold bite of the wind and the vastness of the uncharted terrain.
The author skillfully portrays the wilderness’s isolation and beauty, emphasizing survival challenges, while the fast-paced plot with unexpected twists and tension keeps readers engaged.
Ellie’s encounters with other characters along the way add depth to the story, presenting different perspectives on loss, courage, and the pursuit of new beginnings.
In my opinion, the Wild Horizon is not just an adventure tale; it’s a moving reflection on finding strength in adversity.
My final thoughts on fun adventure books for adults
It’s amazing how fun adventure books for adults can ignite our imaginations and inspire a sense of wanderlust.
Each story offers a unique escape, filled with characters I could root for and plots that kept me guessing.
I find that these tales not only entertain but also encourage us to step outside our comfort zones.
I’m excited to keep discovering new titles that promise excitement and inspiration along the way.
FAQ about fun adventure books for adults
What are the best fiction fun adventure books for adults?
Some of the best fiction fun adventure books for adults are the Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, or Under a Greek Moon Carol Kirkwood.
What are the best fantasy adventure books for adults?
Some of the best fantasy adventure books for adults are The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin, or The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson.
What are the best adventure book series for adults?
Some of the best adventure book series for adults are The Hobbit by J.R.R.Tolkien, Outlander by Diana Gabaldon or A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin.
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! 🌍🚀
