12 Best Modern Adventure Books | Paulina’s Favorites

A book guide to the absolute best modern adventure books that I think we should read

Some of the best modern adventure books have a way of pulling you into their world from the very first page. 

I’ve recently read a few that hooked me with their fast-paced plots and interesting characters. 

It’s amazing how much variety this genre has, whether set in the real world or somewhere totally new. 

If you’re into a good adventure, I think you’ll enjoy many of these options and add them your your coffee table books and adventure books list.

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Psst..!!? Looking for more inspiration about dazzling books to read? …. here are a few of my favorite book guides:

Overview: My top modern adventure books

by Neil Gaiman

American Gods is a wild, imaginative ride through the clash between old gods and new. 

The story centers on Shadow, an ex-convict caught up in a bizarre world of forgotten deities living in modern America, led by the mysterious Mr. Wednesday. 

It’s one of the best mystery adventure books out there because it constantly surprises you—nothing is what it seems, and every character has a deeper story. 

The journey across the country felt epic and eerie, with moments that made me question what was real and what was not. 

I found the way Neil Gaiman weaves mythology into modern life fascinating, and the sense of unease keeps building throughout. 

If you’re looking for one of the best modern adventure books that dive into myth, magic, and the hidden corners of America, this one is hard to put down.

by N. K. Jemisin

In The Fifth Season, the world is constantly breaking apart, literally and the story focuses on three women whose journeys are deeply intertwined as they struggle to survive in this brutal, collapsing world.

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are normal parts of life, but people with the power to control the earth—called orogens—are both feared and used by society. 

It’s one of those adventure fiction books for adults that pulls you in with its unique setting and complex characters. 

I was impressed by the intricate and immersive world-building, making every detail feel crucial.

As one of the best modern adventure books, it tackles themes of survival, oppression, and power, all while keeping the tension high. 

The Fifth Season is a compelling mix of heart-wrenching moments and epic, unpredictable twists that kept me hooked all the way through.

By Ed Stafford

Ed Stafford takes you on an incredible journey across some of Earth’s most remote and challenging places with his Adventures for a Lifetime.

From walking the entire Amazon River to surviving on an uninhabited island, his adventures are raw and real, making this one of the best modern adventure books. 

The stories are fascinating because they show the physical challenges and the mental and emotional battles he faced. 

What’s great about this collection is that it’s not just about daring feats but also about what pushes someone to keep going when the odds are stacked against them. 

As far as true adventure books go, this one dives deep into the essence of survival and exploration. 

The vivid descriptions make you feel like you’re with him in the wild, experiencing every triumph and hardship.

by Rebecca Serle  

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle is a heartfelt exploration of love, friendship, and the unexpected twists life can take. 

The narrative follows Dannie, who has everything planned out until she finds herself in a completely different life five years into the future. 

I was drawn into the emotional depth of the characters as they navigate love and loss, making it one of the best romance adventure books I’ve encountered. 

The way the narrative weaves together themes of destiny and choice struck a chord with me. 

In Five Years is a poignant reminder that life rarely goes as planned, and sometimes the most beautiful adventures are those we never see coming. 

If you’re searching for adventure books for adults that touch on both romance and self-discovery, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.

by Sam Ripley

The Rule of Three explores how ordinary people confront extraordinary challenges, revealing their strengths and weaknesses in chaos. 

A small community must adapt quickly to survive when society faces a sudden breakdown. 

I enjoyed the character development, as each person has to make tough choices that test their morals and relationships. 

The Rule of Three offers a fascinating look at survival and the importance of teamwork during difficult times. 

For anyone searching for the best fiction adventure books, this one delivers a compelling mix of tension and emotional depth, making it a great choice among adventure books for ad

by Stephanie Wrobel

This book was such a thrilling read for me. Everything happens in a hotel that seems to have a life of its own, complete with secrets and eerie happenings. 

The characters in The Hitchcock Hotel are intriguing, especially the protagonist, who has a complicated relationship with her mother and the hotel. 

I appreciated how Wrobel explores themes of obsession and identity, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. 

The plot twists are unexpected and add to the suspense, making it hard to put down. 

If you’re looking for one of the best modern adventure books, The Hitchcock Hotel delivers with its mix of mystery and psychological tension. 

by Holly Black

The Darkest Part of the Forest transports you to a mysterious forest where magic and danger intertwine. It follows two siblings, Hazel and Ben, who uncover dark secrets hidden in their small town. 

The tension builds as they navigate their complex relationships and the world of faeries, keeping you hooked.

I loved how the characters grapple with their own desires and fears, making the story feel real despite the fantastical elements. 

The enchanting yet eerie setting makes The Darkest Part of the Forest one of the best modern adventure novels ever. 

Black’s storytelling truly captures the essence of outdoor adventures with its lush descriptions of the forest that pull you in. 

This book is perfect for anyone looking to escape into a world filled with intrigue and adventure!

by Markus Zusak

Ed Kennedy is an ordinary guy who suddenly finds himself on a wild mission when he receives a playing card with a message. 

His journey leads him to help various people in his community, each task revealing deeper layers of his character. 

I enjoyed how I Am the Messenger captures the essence of empathy and the impact one person can have on others. 

Zusak’s writing is both poignant and humorous, making it engaging and relatable. It’s no wonder that many consider it one of the best adventure books and among the best teen adventure books. 

The blend of adventure and emotional growth makes it a memorable read that makes you to think about your connections with people.

by Maryrose Wood

In Why I Let My Hair Grow Out, Maryrose Wood takes us through middle school’s vibrant and sometimes chaotic world, where the pressures of fitting in can be overwhelming. 

The story unfolds in a familiar setting—a bustling school environment filled with quirky characters and relatable challenges. 

I found it refreshing how Wood captures the essence of growing up, exploring themes of self-identity and the quest for acceptance. 

The protagonist’s decision to let her hair grow becomes a metaphor for embracing change and finding one’s voice, making it a compelling read for anyone who has ever felt out of place. 

This book highlights the importance of self-acceptance and resilience through humor and heartfelt moments. 

Why I Let My Hair Grow Out is one of those best modern literature books that remind us that growing up is a messy, beautiful process filled with valuable lessons about who we are and want to be.

 by Saad Z. Hossain

Escape from Baghdad is a darkly comic, chaotic ride through post-invasion Iraq. 

It’s about three unlikely companions—a former torturer, an entrepreneur, and an American soldier—as they navigate the wreckage of war-torn Baghdad, trying to survive while uncovering a hidden fortune. 

What makes it stand out from other war stories is how it mixes humor with the harsh realities of war, making it one of the best modern war books I’ve come across. 

The absurdity of their situation, combined with their surreal encounters, creates a story that’s as bizarre as it is gripping.

I found the characters’ banter and the unpredictable plot to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Escape from Baghdad is not your typical war novel, but it perfectly captures the madness and unpredictability of life in a conflict zone. 

If you’re up for something different, this book brings a fresh and memorable perspective on war and survival.

by Robin Sloan

A young web designer named Clay takes a job at a mysterious bookstore with very few customers and uncovers a secret society obsessed with decoding ancient texts. 

His curiosity leads him on an adventure blending technology and old-world mystery as he tries to solve the puzzle behind the bookstore’s peculiar clientele.

Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore is one of the best new adventure books I’ve read recently, with a plot that keeps you hooked without being over the top. 

It’s part adventure, mystery, and exploration of how books connect people unexpectedly.

by Rachel Gillig

Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig is my last addition to the best modern adventure books, a tale of dark fantasy with intrigue and magic.

The story follows protagonists whose destinies intertwine in a kingdom on the brink of chaos, filled with political intrigue and ancient secrets.

The rich, immersive world-building sets a vivid stage for the characters’ struggles as they navigate a realm ruled by ambition and dark forces.

Gillig’s skillful writing weaves suspense and unexpected twists, keeping readers invested in every chapter.

The plot’s pacing strikes a balance between action and character development, making it easy to connect with the protagonists’ challenges and growth.

While some elements may feel familiar within the fantasy genre, “Two Twisted Crowns” stands out for its strong character arcs and atmospheric setting, solidifying its place among the best modern adventure books.

My final thoughts on fun adventure books for adults

Reading the best modern adventure books has been an exciting escape for me. 

They have a way of drawing me into unpredictable worlds and keeping me on edge with every twist. 

What I appreciate most is how these stories push the boundaries of traditional adventure. There’s always something unexpected that keeps things fresh and engaging. 

I’ll keep exploring more of these modern gems, and I think you’ll find them just as thrilling.

FAQ about fun adventure books for adults

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! 🌍🚀