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A Must-Read List If You Want to Write Great Action & Adventure Novels
Updated: Jul 28, 2023
What to Write Action Adventure? Than You Better Know These Books.
The action and adventure genre is vast and diverse. It encompasses everything from classic novels to the biggest blockbuster movies and our favorite TV shows. From swashbuckling pirates to treasure hunters and government spies, these stories have captured our imaginations since we as a species have been able to first written them down.
These are stories like my all time fav, The Count of Monte Cristo and The Lost World—classics that have stood the test of time, inspiring countless adaptations and spin-offs over the years.
Of course, there are also plenty of newer stories to discover, like the high-octane Jurassic Park and the Bourne series. Whether you're looking for heart-pounding action, epic battles, or unforgettable characters, there's no shortage of options to choose from in the action and adventure genre.
But we are all about fiction writing here.
I want every writer to at least experiment with action & adventure fiction. It's a genre that can teach you a lot, and those lessons can be readily transferred over to any other genre.
These stories or complex and well-thought out with larger than life characters.
If you are going to be successful in any genre, you must first be familiar with your genre's literary family tree.
So today, we are going to look at some of the best examples of action and adventure, based on my own personal opinion, popularity, and lasting power of the book, and their diversity so I can show you the breadth of this genre.
With reading these books you will be be able to take the action adventure genre by storm.
The Best Action & Adventure Fiction for Writers to Study:
The King of Adventure Fiction: Alexandre Dumas
Alexandre Dumas is widely regarded by me as the king of adventure fiction.
Born in France in 1802, Dumas was a prolific writer who produced some of the most memorable and enduring adventure stories of all time. His books are characterized by their thrilling action sequences, complex characters, and intricate plots.
I am going to start this post off by getting the all time best out of the way, so that we can clear the tarmac for the runner ups.
Just kidding.
All the books on this list are great books, but really, when talking about adventure fiction, there is no comparison to the master.
The Count of Monte Cristo
The Count of Monte Cristo is perhaps the most famous of Dumas's works.
It tells the story of Edmond Dantès, a young man who is falsely imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. After spending years and years in prison, Dantès escapes and sets out to exact revenge on those who wronged him in the smartest ways possible.
The novel is a thrilling revenge tale.
It is complex and full of incredible, well-developed characters.
Here are just a few of the reasons writers should read The Count of Monte Cristo:
Expert Storytelling: This book is renowned for its intricate and captivating storytelling. Written in a third-person omniscient POV, the story is told by a charismatic, funny, and sometimes totally unreliable narrator (in a cute "oops, I forgot to tell you" way). New writers can learn a lot from Dumas's ability to tell stories through expert narration.
Character Development: The novel features a wide array of well-written characters, each with their own motivations, backstories, and journeys. Use this book to study how Dumas can seamlessly weave all this together, creating memorable protagonists and antagonists that readers can root for.
Epic Scope: The scale and sheer ambition of The Count of Monte Cristo serve as a great example of how action and adventure writing can be some of the most epic of all time, encompassing multiple locations, time periods, and interweaving storylines. Exploring how Dumas balances these elements can help you to develop your own grand narrative.
The Three Musketeers
The Three Musketeers is another of Dumas's most famous works. It follows the endless adventures and antics of three musketeers—Athos, Porthos, and Aramis—and their young friend, D'Artagnan.
Together, they fight for justice and defend the honor of the queen against the scheming Cardinal Richelieu. The novel is a swashbuckling adventure filled with duels, romance, and political intrigue.
Side note: If you want to find out what "swashbuckling adventure" is or any of the other action and adventure subgenres, you can find out here in my post Get to Know You Action & Adventure Subgenres: A Full Guide.
This book also has insanely vivid and well-developed characters that would have required a ton of planning. You find yourself absolutely depressed when the book finishes and you can't read it anymore.
Side note: The links to this book are non-affiliate and I cannot vouch for them. It seems that every modern copy I can find is either poorly translated, a bad photocopy, or comes wildly different than what you think you will get (different cover, used etc.). The one I have (image above) apparently doesn't exist anymore. Buyer beware.
Here are just a few of the reasons writers should read The Three Musketeers:
Swashbuckling Action: The Three Musketeers is known for its thrilling sword fights, daring escapades, and high-stakes action sequences. By delving into the novel, writers can analyze Dumas's skill in crafting exciting and fast-paced action scenes.
Historical Context and World-building: The novel is set in 17th-century France, and Dumas effortlessly transports readers to this time period, complete with its political tensions, social dynamics, and cultural nuances (even if it is not 100% historically accurate). Writers can learn how to create a rich and immersive world, drawing inspiration from the historical context and ensuring their action adventure stories are well grounded.
Dynamic and Engaging Characters: As with everything Dumas touches, The Three Musketeers showcases a diverse group of characters with distinct personalities, strengths, and flaws. Aspiring action and adventure writers can learn from his ability to craft well-rounded and relatable characters. Some of the best you will come across.
The Man in the Iron Mask
The Man in the Iron Mask is the final installment in Dumas's Three Musketeers series.
It tells the story of a mysterious prisoner who is forced to wear an iron mask to conceal his identity. The musketeers must uncover the truth behind the prisoner's identity and free him from his captivity.
The novel is a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, and you may have seen the DiCaprio movie based on this book. Next to the first Musketeers, this one is the next best option (though all Dumas's books are muah—Italian yummy kissy hand thing).
Here are just a few of the reasons writers should read The Man in the Iron Mask:
Crafting a Strong Premise: The Man in the Iron Mask presents a captivating mystery surrounding the identity and fate of the mysterious prisoner in the iron mask. Writers can study Dumas's ability to create a unique premise that drives the narrative and keeps readers hooked.
Themes of Identity and Power: The novel delves into themes of identity, power, and the struggle for freedom. You can use this books to analyze how Dumas explores these complex themes, examining the character dynamics and moral dilemmas presented in the story, and incorporate similar depth and introspection in your own works.
Political Intrigue: The Man in the Iron Mask weaves a web of political intrigue and manipulation, featuring schemes, betrayals, and power struggles. Writers interested in adventure can learn how Dumas incorporates these elements, creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere that propels the plot forward with lots of momentum.
Overall, Alexandre Dumas's works are timeless classics that have captivated readers for generations. His stories are filled with adventure, romance, and intrigue, and his characters are some of the most memorable in all of literature.
If you're trying to learn how to write thrilling and complex adventure fiction, you can't go wrong with any of Dumas's works. You will find him to be a very generous teacher.
But now, let's move on to the rest of the books on this list. All are great examples of action & adventure fiction and all deserve our recognition. Starting with my next favorite book and favorite film as well.
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
The Princess Bride is a timeless tale of true love and high adventure, blending comedy, fantasy, and romance.
The story follows Westley and Buttercup, separated by fate and reunited through daring exploits. Goldman's unique framing device as an "abridged" retelling adds depth and gives us a glimpse of his own childhood.
The book's adaptation into a beloved film faithfully captures its humor and romance. It really is one of those rare "actually as good as the book" adaptations. It is a must-read for adventure lovers and introduces us to some of the coolest characters ever written.
Here are just a few of the reasons writers should read The Princess Bride:
Humor and Wit: The novel is widely celebrated for its humor, evident in both the narrative and dialogue. Aspiring writers can analyze Goldman's clever wordplay, banter, and comedic timing, understanding how humor can enhance the overall entertainment value of their action and adventure stories.
Unique Narrative Structure: The Princess Bride stands out for its unconventional narrative structure, presenting itself as an abridged version of a larger fictional work. Take your time to study Goldman's innovative approach to storytelling and how he incorporates humor, suspense, and romance within this framework.
Incorporation of Multiple Genres: The novel seamlessly blends elements of action, adventure, romance, comedy, and fantasy, creating a captivating and multi-dimensional story. Writers can examine how Goldman successfully combines different genres, creating a work that appeals to a wide range of readers.
The Revenant by Michael Punke
Not all action adventure is light-hearted and witty. I did tell you that this genre was vast and varied, did I not? Some of it is down-right gruesome.
The Revenant is about a frontiersman, Hugh Glass, who fights for survival and seeks vengeance after being brutally mauled by a bear and left for dead by his fur trading expedition companions.
This book is packed with grueling survival and ruthless revenge in mother nature's icy, never nurturing, frontier. Trust me, this book is a savage piece of work...in a good way of course. And as someone who regularly has bears exploring her backyard, this one left a dent on me.
Why writers should read The Revenant:
Gritty and Visceral Survival Story: The Revenant is a gripping tale of survival, set in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness of the American frontier. Action and adventure writers should study Punke's ability to create a vivid and immersive portrayal of survival against all odds, learning how to evoke a visceral sense of danger, resilience, and determination in their own works.
Authentic Historical Backdrop: The novel is based on true events and set in the 1820s, during the fur trade era. Punke expertly weaves historical details and settings into the narrative, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by frontiersmen and indigenous peoples of that time. Study the book to learn how historical accuracy, research, and world-building can enhance the authenticity of a story.
Evocative Descriptions: Punke's descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of the harsh landscapes, weather conditions, and the protagonist's physical suffering. Writers can analyze his use of sensory language to transport readers into the story, allowing them to experience the environments and conditions alongside the characters.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
Another one on the dark side of adventure is The Road. A story about a father and son who must traverse a post-apocalyptic wasteland in search for a semblance of hope and safety.
This book has the dreary landscapes and gripping suspense of which McCarthy is known for—and this one is enough to make you a basket-case.
McCarthy got a Pulitzer for this book, and you'll see why when you get started. It's not your everyday beach read, rather it's an emotional and anxiety inducing ride. Maybe just learn how to meditate first so you can reground yourself when you put in down.
Why writers should read The Road:
Poetic and Moving Prose: Cormac McCarthy's writing style in The Road is often described as poetic and hauntingly beautiful. Aspiring action and adventure writers can study McCarthy's use of expressive language and vivid imagery and learn how to create atmosphere and evoke emotions through their own descriptions.
Emotionally Charged Storytelling: Likewise, McCarthy masterfully captures the emotional depth of the human condition in the raw vulnerability of the characters. Study his techniques for creating emotional resonance, examine how he elicits empathy and connection with readers, even in the midst of the harsh and unforgiving world he's painted.
Sparse but Impactful Dialogue: There is not a tone of dialogue in the book, but it makes an impact when there is, adding weight and resonance to the characters' interactions. Writers should analyze how he employs dialogue to reveal character traits, convey tension, and reveal key plot points, and hone their own skills in crafting meaningful and purposeful dialogue with no dead weight.
Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton
I shouldn't have to tell you what Jurassic Park is about, but I will for consistency's sake.
In this survival adventure, a team of scientists and visitors find themselves trapped on an island inhabited by, you guessed it, dinos. It all leads to a fight for survival against the prehistorical creatures running amok.
You probably have seen the films, but the book is a classic page-turner that is more than worth your time and affection.
Why writers should read Jurassic Park:
Thrilling Action: The novel is filled with high-stakes action sequences, including intense encounters with escaped dinosaurs and life-threatening situations. Writers can study Crichton's mastery of pacing, tension-building, and creating suspenseful moments to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Immersive World-building and Settings: The island where Jurassic Park takes place, serves as a vividly described and immersive setting. Writers would do well by analyzing Crichton's world-building skills, studying how he constructs an island filled with danger, wonder, and scientific marvels and allows readers to vividly visualize the environment.
Creating Strong Themes Amidst the Action: Jurassic Park delves into numerous ethical dilemmas and the consequences of playing with nature's balance. The book proves that just because your story has a high entertainment value, it can still have a strong and deeper overall theme.
Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne
Around the World in Eighty Days is the story of wealthy Englishman, Mr. Phileas Fogg. He accepts a daring wager to circumnavigate the entire globe in 80 days and encounters a variety of obstacles and adventures that put him to the test.
It is filled with quirky characters and eccentric adventuring in a nail-biting ticking clock scenario.
Elephant riding, steamers, sledges, and more make this book an unforgettable classic adventure story. Especially if you plan on writing in the adventure genre, reading classics such as this is going to be a smart move on your part.
Why writers should read Around the World in Eighty Days:
Unique Characters: The novel features a memorable cast of characters, each with their own quirks and personalities. From the stoic and calculated Fogg to the humorous and resourceful Passepartout, Verne demonstrates how distinct character traits can add depth to an adventure story.
Race Against the Clock: The time constraint of 80 days adds an element of urgency to the story. This time pressure creates a thrilling narrative where every moment counts, showing you how to build tension and excitement through a ticking clock.
Impact of Character's Choices: The novel highlights how each decision made by the characters has consequences, both positive and negative. This aspect can serve as a valuable lesson in crafting a compelling cause-and-effect narrative where characters actively move the plot.
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
Jack London's The Call of the Wild is a riveting tale that dives into the heart of a sled dog tapped into his primitive instincts in the cold Yukon.
With furry fierceness and survivalist swagger, this isn't just an adventure, it's a gritty exploration of nature versus nurture. Thought of by some as a kids' book, it really isn't. Buck's journey from domesticated pet to wilderness alpha raw, and utterly captivating.
It's a classic that's sure to make your own heart howl for the wild.
Sorry. That was lame. I won't do it again.
Why writers should read The Call of the Wild:
Transformation and Character Growth: Buck undergoes a profound transformation from a domesticated pet to a wild, independent creature. Study this book to deepen your understanding of the elements of character growth and development in an action-packed setting.
Literary Style: London's prose is known for its clarity and vividness. Writers can learn from his straightforward yet evocative writing style, which allows readers to easily envision the world he presents.
Pacing and Tension: The novel is filled with exciting and suspenseful moments as Buck faces challenges in the wild. Read it to learn how to maintain a gripping pace and build tension throughout your own adventure stories.
The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum
This thriller action novel follows a man with amnesia who turns out to actually be a highly trained assassin, go figure.
The Bourne Identity is saturated with spine-chilling action and super intense scenes. It's a sophisticated blend of mystery and spy action adventure that will keep you fiercely page-flipping.
Ludlum seamlessly marries complex characters with an intriguing plot where nothing is as it seems, and it results in a book that will probably find its way to the beloved classics list in the future.
Why writers should read The Bourne Identity:
Intense Action Sequences: The novel is filled with heart-pounding action scenes that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Writers can learn how to craft fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping action sequences that drive the plot forward.
Complex Identity: Jason Bourne, suffers from amnesia, and the story revolves around him trying to piece together his identity while being hunted by various adversaries. Study this book to learn how to create multi-layered characters with intriguing backstories and internal conflicts.
Intricate Plotting: The novel's plot is intricately woven, with layers of mystery and intrigue. Writers can learn from it how to construct a complex and engaging plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper
I really hope that this isn't the first time you are hearing about The Last of the Mohicans, but I realize that this is sometimes the reality of generations younger than mine existing.
But I'm doing my duty to future literary generations by demanding you read this incredible story about forbidden love, honor, and tribal warfare in the wilderness of 18th century America.
The story's hero, Hawkeye, must protect a British officer's daughters while navigating the treacherous wilderness and the French-Indian War. Prepare for a tear-jerker with this one.
Why writers should read The Last of the Mohicans:
Diverse Characters: The Last of the Mohicans features a diverse cast of characters from different cultures and backgrounds, including the Mohican chief Chingachgook and his son Uncas. Writers can study how to create well-rounded characters that represent various perspectives and cultures that contrast and juxtapose each other.
Exploration of Themes: The novel touches on themes such as friendship, loyalty, sacrifice, and the clash of cultures. Use this book to learn how to weave various strong themes into you own adventure stories to add depth and resonance.
Epic Journey: The characters embark on a perilous journey through the wilderness, facing numerous challenges and dangers along the way. Writers can use it to study how to structure an epic adventure that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy
The Hunt for Red October is a tense, maritime chess game of nuclear proportions.
The book follows the cat-and-mouse pursuit of a technologically advanced Soviet submarine, Red October, by both the United States and the Soviet Union, as they race against time to prevent a potential global crisis.
Clancy beautifully blends technical precision with high stakes tension. And though considered more thriller than action adventure, I have added it in here because it has everything you would want from both genres.
This novel is considered on of the most beloved American novels.
Why writers should read The Hunt for Red October:
Realism: Tom Clancy's meticulous research and attention to detail in military operations and technology lend authenticity to the story. Aspiring writers can learn how to incorporate realistic and well-researched elements into their own action adventures.
Multiple Perspectives: The Hunt for Red October features many points of view, including those of both American and Soviet characters. This approach allows readers to gain insight into the motivations and strategies of the various players, and can teach you how to use multiple perspectives to enrich your stories.
Strategic Pacing: Clancy skillfully balances action sequences with moments of strategic planning and tension. Writers can learn how to maintain momentum while incorporating quieter moments that contribute to the overall narrative.
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
This one takes you on a careful and intricate art-infused, cryptic adventure—one that's got more twists than a pretzel.
With religious art, secret societies, and a whodunit plot, it's like an intellectual scavenger hunt. The Da Vinci Code centers on the ominous murder of a museum curator at the Louvre and leads to a high-stakes quest that rivals the classics. It twists through hidden symbols, ancient secrets, religious controversy, and of course, danger at every turn.
Though criticized for it's simplistic writing style, it is no doubt that this book has won the hearts of readers anyway. And that is because when it comes to adventure, Dan Brown knows what he is doing.
Why writers should read The Da Vinci Code:
Puzzles and Codes: The book incorporates many puzzles, which add an element of intellectual challenge and intrigue to the adventure. Writers can learn how to develop clever puzzles or twists that engage readers' minds and keep them actively involved int the story.
Thrilling Escapes and Pursuits: The novel is filled with thrilling escape sequences and pursuits, with the characters racing against time and adversaries. Aspiring writers should use this books to study how to create high-stakes, and close-call action scenes that drive the narrative forward and add tension.
Blend of History and Fiction: Dan Brown blends real historical facts with fictional elements, creating a sense of authenticity and plausibility in the story. Reading this book can help you understand how to research and integrate historical details into your own adventures.
Shōgun by James Clavell
Shōgun is an epic book of adventure and political intrigue, following the journey of English sailor John Blackthorne as he becomes embroiled in the complex power struggles of feudal Japan during the 17th century.
Prepare for sword fights, love affairs, political games, and an engrossing crash-course in Japanese culture (whether totally historically accurate or not.)
This book is one wild rickshaw ride into another time and place.
With an enormous cast of great characters, it's a shame this book isn't as popular with new generations of readers as it was in the 70's.
Complex Plotting: Shōgun weaves together multiple plotlines and subplots, creating a layered and engrossing story. Reading this one, aspiring writers can learn how to construct intricate plots that keep readers captivated.
Intricate Political Intrigue: Shōgun is filled with political machinations and complex power struggles. Writers can use it to study how to weave intrigue and political dynamics into their adventure plots.
Epic Journey: John Blackthorne, undergoes a remarkable journey from being a stranded English navigator to navigating the complex world of feudal Japan. This novel will teach you how to develop transformative character arcs in an adventure setting throughout a complex, weaving plot.
The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle
The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was first published in 1912.
The novel follows a daring expedition to a remote South American plateau, where a group of explorers encounters prehistoric creatures and unknown dangers, leading to a thrilling adventure filled with scientific curiosity and survival.
In a world where civilization meets savage and time stands still, it is clear why this book has influenced so many in the genre. Dinosaurs, adventure, and a hint of whimsy make this a nostalgic good read where you can just get swept away in adventure.
Just a few of the reasons writer's should read The Lost World:
High-Stakes Expeditions: The characters embark on perilous expeditions to explore the hidden world, encountering danger and excitement along the way. Writers can study how to create high-stakes adventures that keep readers engaged.
Evolution of Relationships: Throughout the novel, the characters' relationships evolve and deepen as they face challenges together. Use it to explore how to use the adventure setting to develop meaningful relationships between characters.
Classic Literary Influence: The Lost World has left a lasting impact on adventure literature, inspiring subsequent works in the genre. Aspiring writers must study this classic novel to understand its contributions to adventure storytelling and its lasting power.
The Martian by Andy Weir
This adventure sci-fi is the mother of all survival stories.
The Martian is about astronaut Mark Watney, who finds himself stranded on Mars and has to rely on his ingenuity and resourcefulness to survive. In the meantime, NASA and his crew mates work to rescue him, making this a tense and riveting story.
Potatoes? Check. Duct tape? Check. Astronaut who makes Tom Hanks in Castaway a yawn fest? Check.
It's gritty, funny, and nail-bitingly suspenseful. Everything a good adventure needs.
Just a few of the reasons writer's should read The Martian:
Survival and Ingenuity: Mark Watney is stranded on Mars and has to fight for survival using his scientific knowledge and wits. Writers can learn how to create intense survival situations and develop resourceful characters without them feeling like superheroes.
Solitude and Psychological Strain: This book uses a killer crucible to increase tension and build character depth. It delves into the psychological strain of isolation on Mars and the mental challenges faced by the protgonist. This book will teach you how to write a great crucible that challenged your character and how to give them the determination required to persevere.
High-Stakes Action: The novel features intense action sequences, such as the daring rescue attempts and life-or-death situations. Aspiring writers can study how to build tension and excitement in action-packed scenes.
King Solomon's Mines by H. Rider Haggard
Racist by modern standards or not, King Solomon's Mines is one of the best books ever written. An oldie but a goodie, first published in 1885. And if you haven't read it, then you are missing out on a pivotal classic.
The novel is an action-packed adventure that follows Allan Quatermain and his companions on a perilous expedition to find the legendary diamond mines of King Solomon in Africa. It is a classic adventure tale that combines thrilling encounters with exotic landscapes and mysterious cultures.
African treasure, tribal warfare, and a charming Victorian hero who smokes danger for breakfast. It's full of sharp wit and non-stop adventure.
Just a few of the reasons writer's should read King Solomon's Mines:
Use of Foreshadowing: Haggard skillfully employs foreshadowing to create anticipation and suspense throughout the novel. It can teach you how to use this technique to hint at future events and build anticipation in your own writing.
Descriptive Prose: The novel features descriptive prose that vividly brings the African landscapes and settings to life. Use it to study the use of descriptive language to paint vivid pictures in readers' minds.
Dialogue and Characterization: King Solomon's Mines includes well-crafted dialogue that reveals the personalities and motivations of the characters. Aspiring writers can learn how to use dialogue effectively to develop characters and move the plot forward.
Final Words
Whether you're looking to write a thrilling tale of survival, an epic journey through uncharted territory, or a heart-pumping action-packed adventure, the stories on this list are sure to help you get there.
Each one has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers of all ages.
...Well...maybe not the particularly dark and violent ones, some should be strictly adult only.
It's important to note that this list is by no means exhaustive.
There are many other fantastic action and adventure stories out there that are worth exploring and the reasons I gave for why you should read them just barely scratch the surface. However, the stories listed here are a great place to start for anyone starting an exploration into adventure fiction writing.
By reading and studying these timeless works, action and adventure writers can hone their writing structure, prose, and techniques. These novels serve as guiding stars, illuminating the path to crafting enthralling tales that leave a lasting impact on readers. Armed with the wisdom of their literary ancestors, writers can embark on their own quests, venturing into uncharted territories to pen stories that ignite imaginations, and stir emotions.
Who knows, maybe your action and adventure story will be on one of these lists someday.
So, whether you're a seasoned reader/writer or just starting out, be sure to check out some of these amazing action adventure books. You won't be disappointed. Until then, keep writing and don't forget to keep reading too.
How do you write an action adventure story with a large cast of characters?
One of the best parts about this genre is often the sheer breadth of the stories within it. They are action-packed, complex, and have huge casts of unforgettably characters. But writing that many characters into a story well can be very difficult to pull off. Learn how to write big glowing casts of unique characters for you action adventure story right here.
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