Action & adventure
Action and adventure fiction novels draw readers into fast-moving stories shaped by danger and pursuit. With moments of suspense and unexpected turns, these narratives maintain a strong sense of momentum as they follow characters through situations that push their boundaries.
Whether set across distant landscapes or closer to home, they offer immersive reading that is difficult to put down. Browse our popular books for the most widely read and talked-about titles.
The thrilling and long-awaited new Robert Langdon novel from globally bestselling author Dan Brown.
Jack Reacher, \"the coolest continuing series character\" (Stephen King), returns in 2025 with his 30th adventure - a brand new, pulse-pounding read from global No.1 bestselling authors Lee and Andrew Child.
The unmissable new mystery in the bestselling, record-breaking Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman
Featured action and adventure fiction novels highlight the stories that stand out through pace, scale and storytelling.
Judge Stone, written by James Patterson and Viola Davis, centres on a respected judge facing the most controversial case the South has seen. Faced with an impossible decision, she is determined to fight for justice for the people and place she loves.
In Antihero, Gregg Hurwitz returns with the former black ops assassin Orphan X and a dangerous mission that tests the limits of loyalty, judgement and purpose.
Matt Dinniman’s Operation Bounce House presents a high-concept tale where technology and entertainment intersect, reshaping one character’s world.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir unfolds as a science-driven odyssey where ingenuity and discovery shape a mission with far-reaching consequences.
Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman delivers a darkly comic and fast-moving story, where an ordinary life is transformed by a surreal, game-like world.
In Exit Strategy, Lee Child and Andrew Child follow Jack Reacher as a chance encounter leads to a situation that quickly escalates, testing instinct and resolve.
From morally complex courtroom dramas and high-stakes missions to science-driven odysseys and surreal worlds, these books showcase the range and ambition of the genre.
These are the acclaimed action and adventure fiction novels continuing to enthral readers.
For those new to the genre, these books offer a strong place to begin, while returning readers can revisit familiar narratives shaped by intrigue and revelation.
Looking for something more specific? Penguin’s book lists showcase curated action and adventure titles.
From fast-paced plots and high-risk missions to journeys across unfamiliar landscapes, these lists make it easier to find your next read.
Everything you need to know about the Jack Reacher books. Learn about Lee and Andrew Child, figure out which order to read them and quiz your Reacher knowledge.
Here’s what you need to know about Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon series – including which order to read the books!
Cole Wright is sitting in the rear seat of a black up-armored Chevy Suburban, one of three in a convoy speeding its way down Route 125 in the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire.
Read an extract to sample the writing and get a sense of the story before choosing your next book.
What are action and adventure novels?
Action and adventure titles centre on propulsive storytelling, following characters through situations shaped by risk, conflict, pursuit and resolution to keep readers engaged.
These stories also frequently overlap with genres such as thriller books, spy books and science fiction books, bringing together elements of suspense, intrigue and imaginative settings.
Dive into your next adventure here
Explore these action and adventure fiction novels to find your next read and uncover stories that keep the pages turning. You can also browse our bestsellers or experience them in a new way with our audiobooks.