10 High-Octane Action Books for Fans of Thrillers
Book RaiderLooking for a read that’ll have you white-knuckle gripping the edges of the book and glancing over your shoulder at every creak in your house? Try stepping into the world of High-Octane action thrillers! These literary joyrides aren't just a hard pass on the snooze-fest, they're your ticket to exotic locales, dangerous mission, daring heroes, unpredictably twisty plots - and yes, you'll also get a fair deal of explosions.
Being a fan of thrillers, you probably enjoy the comforting familiarity of your own heartbeat drumming in your ears as you flip through page after adrenaline-packed page. That's what we’re here to serve up. So grab a comforting cup of tea, or a stiff drink (we don't judge), make sure all the doors are locked, and settle in for a guided tour through these heart-racing adventures that make even a trip to your local supermarket seem like it could be the set for the next James Bond escapade. With all the intrigue, you might just find yourself inspecting broccoli for hidden spy gadgets.
Near Dark
by Brad Thor
Why Near Dark is on this list: For those who have a knack for adrenaline-rushing action, Brad Thor's 'Near Dark' would feel like a roller-coaster ride on paper. It perfectly fits the bill.
'Near Dark' is the story of Scot Harvath. Now, if you don't know who Harvath is, imagine James Bond, but with an American accent and whole lot more sarcasm. The poor guy can't even catch a break in sunny Key West without someone trying to assassinate him. This book is like a shot of espresso, packed with high-octane action, conspiracy theories, international espionage and suspense that keeps you flipping pages like crazy. The drama never stops as Harvath takes on a secretive and dangerous enemy. It has a storyline that can get your heart pounding faster than...well, you'll find out.
What readers like: Readers love the book's non-stop action, Thor's razor-sharp writing style, the intrigue, and the suspense that keeps them on their toes. Not to mention Scot Harvath, the badass protagonist who can out-brawl, out-shoot and out-smart just about anyone. They appreciate the mix of humor that occasionally peeks through the high-stakes drama. The sheer unpredictability of the plot also seems to be a big hit, it's like a surprise party for your brain. Except, instead of cake, you get explosions.
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Relentless (Gray Man)
by Mark Greaney
Why Relentless (Gray Man) is on this list: If you're someone who loves to cling to the edge of your seat for hundreds of pages at a time, then Relentless (Gray Man) is a thrilling joyride you'll certainly want to embark on. Greaney's refined penmanship breathes life into action scenes, so expect your adrenaline to skyrocket.
The story stars Court Gentry, a former CIA operative and a freelance assassin. Gentry, codename 'Gray Man', finds himself in an international pursuit where perilous circumstances and dangerous enemies are around every corner. This thrilling chase doesn't just offer action, you're going to find an intricate web of deceit, double-crossing, and espionage.
What readers like: Readers often praise the narrative's breakneck speed and heart-stopping suspense. They appreciate the intellectual stimulation that comes with the twirls and swirls of conspiracy theories in espionage. But most importantly, readers love to root for our ever resilient and intelligent protagonist Gray Man, cherishing the thrilling ride through his high-danger world.
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The Sentinel: A Jack Reacher Novel
by Lee Child
Why The Sentinel: A Jack Reacher Novel is on this list: Hop aboard the rollercoaster of thrill and suspense courtesy of the formidable Jack Reacher in 'The Sentinel'. As raw as a punch in the gut, this book fits right into our list due to its relentless pace, oodles of action, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
In 'The Sentinel', our man Jack Reacher finds himself in a quiet town where trouble rears its ugly head. When an IT manager gets into a pickle, it falls upon Reacher to step in, facing down threats with his quintessential mix of brains and brawn. Trust us when we say, there's enough action in this book to supply a Hollywood movie.
What readers like: Readers love 'The Sentinel' for its masterful blend of intrigue and action. It's like having your cake and eating it too. They also appreciate the crispy writing style and the vividly etched character of Jack Reacher who has them rooting all along. If a whiff of danger and a hard-hitting protagonist is your thing, then buckle up, and get ready for an adventure that feels like being shot from a cannon.
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The Rising Sea
by Clive Cussler and Graham Brown
Why The Rising Sea is on this list: The Rising Sea is a roller coaster of a book, jam-packed with high-speed ch, jaw-dropping revelations and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Any thrill-seeker will find their eyes glued to every page.
With an incredible blend of real science and adventure, 'The Rising Sea' features the iconic character, Dirk Pitt. Earth’s oceans are rising at an alarming rate, swallowing entire islands and threatening to wipe out coastal cities. The plot thickens as Dirk Pitt embarks on a daring mission to discover the cause; from Washington D.C. to the hot sands of Shanghai. It's a race against time to save the world from an environmental catastrophe.
What readers like: Readers love the intricate, fast-paced storyline and plausible scientific explanations that drive the action throughout this thriller. Furthermore, fans appreciate the blend of suspense, humor, and the sense of camaraderie between characters. The book does an excellent job balancing an intense plot with lighter moments. A must-read for folks who appreciate thrills, spills and reading past their bedtime.
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Blindside
by James Patterson and James O. Born
Why Blindside is on this list: Blindside sits perfectly in the 'verge of your seat, racing pulse and knuckle white grip' genre. It's the epitome of high-octane, and will appeal to every thriller fan who likes his novels like he likes his coffee - piping hot and seriously strong.
It's about a New York detective, Michael Bennett who finds himself in the grip of a most unfamiliar kind of war. The mayor has a daughter who's missing, a wife who's dying. Now Bennett is threatening to resign from the department for personal reasons. But before he could, a series of horrific events make him realise that New York City might just be on the edge of disaster. The investigative leads in Bennett's hands are scary and shocking, leading him straight into the dark abyss.
What readers like: Readers love Blindside for its fast-paced narrative, intelligent plot twists and turns, and the drift of adrenaline that stays long after the book is done. And of course, there's Patterson's signature storytelling - like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get, but you know it's gonna be good.
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The New Girl
by Daniel Silva
Why The New Girl is on this list: The New Girl is the kind of thriller that's so fast-paced, you might get a ticket for speed-reading. Jam-packed with intrigue, suspense, and unexpected twists, it's exactly the adrenaline rush you thrill seekers are hunting for.
A classy private school in Switzerland is the scene for the unexplained abduction of a mysterious girl. Legendary spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon gets thrown into the mix when he's called upon to find her. As Allon digs deeper, he uncovers disturbing secrets and a mad quest for vengeance, leading him on a wild whirlwind journey across the globe.
What readers like: Readers love the masterful storytelling of Daniel Silva, his knack for creating likable, complex characters in Gabriel Allon, and the way he weaves in gritty geopolitical drama into the plot. The New Girl serves up a satisfying mix of spy-thriller action, suspenseful drama, and a tiny brushstroke of art history. Also, it's been reported that several readers have developed a sudden urge to inspect art for forgery after reading this one. So, if you rediscover any lost Van Goghs, don't forget to thank Daniel Silva.
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Walk the Wire
by David Baldacci
Why Walk the Wire is on this list: You're in for a treat if you're hunting for that perfect combo of suspense, action and mystery. Walk the Wire doesn't just walk the line between nerve-wracking and exhilarating - it takes off running, doesn't look back, and smashes through that line like it's made of candy floss.
Walk the Wire follows FBI agent Amos Decker who, trying to solve a murder in a remote part of North Dakota, stumbles upon incidents both bizarre and dangerous. This is a story that twists and twirls like an acrobat, taking you from a small town jugular to the highest echelons of power. It’s all there- cover-ups, conspiracies and the face-off with a ruthless killer.
What readers like: Readers love the signature Baldacci style- plot that unfolds like origami, characters they form a bond with, and of course, the occasional dust up. They also dig how Baldacci explores the interaction between society, politics and regular people. So if you're in for a can't-put-down book, Walk the Wire, friends, is just the ticket.
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Hour of the Assassin
by Matthew Quirk
Why Hour of the Assassin is on this list: If you're nodding off while reading those slow-burn literary novels, this is the antidote. Hour of the Assassin is a full-throttle action-packed thriller that will keep your heart rate buzzing like a stolen sports car.
The book tells the story of Nick Averose, an ex-Secret Service agent who now does security checks for the government's elite. His job is to think like an assassin and expose the weaknesses in their security. All goes pear-shaped when he ends up framed for murder and on the run. It's a crazy game of cat-and-mouse and you'll barely have time to breathe between plot twists.
What readers like: Readers love its fast-paced narrative, relentless action, and the smart, resourceful main character. It's like the Bourne series got married to a Tom Clancy novel and had a wickedly exciting baby called 'Hour of the Assassin'. Dull moments? Nope, not a single one around here.
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Amelia Anne is Dead and Gone
by Kat Rosenfield
Why Amelia Anne is Dead and Gone is on this list: This is not just an action thriller, it's a mesmerizing mix of mystery and small-town intrigue. Rosenfield's brilliant plotting and skillful narrative keeps you guessing till the end, making it a perfect fit for readers craving high-octane adventures.
The book is a deep dive into two intertwined mysteries - the brutal murder of a girl Amelia Anne, and the unraveling life of the book's protagonist. It reads like a gut punch straight from the first page and doesn't let up with constant twists and turns till the very end. The secrets and tragedies of a small town are revealed in a chilling narrative as the tension ratchets up, making it impossible to put the book down.
What readers like: Fans applaud Rosenfield's nail-biting narrative style and the way the suspense never eases up. Amelia Anne's story hits the ground running and never slows its pace, making for a relentless, breathless read. Definitely one for the night owls out there - this book will keep you hooked long after bedtime.
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Blacktop Wasteland
by S. A. Cosby
Why Blacktop Wasteland is on this list: S. A. Cosby's 'Blacktop Wasteland' is a high-speed ride through the underbelly of life. It's a perfect fit for this list because it's filled with high-risk, adrenaline-pumping action and nail-biting suspense that fans of thrillers and action novels will absolutely eat up.
This book takes us on journey with Beauregard “Bug” Montage, an honest mechanic who moonlights as a getaway driver. When Bug gets lured back into his life of crime, what was supposed to be 'one last job' spirals out of control. Bug finds himself drawn further into the violent world he was trying to escape, as he juggles his dual life which keeps you glued to the pages until the very end.
What readers like: Readers who have devoured this book rave about the gritty realism, well-developed characters, and the raw, atmospheric backdrop. Plus, who doesn't love a book that makes you squeeze the armrests, gives you chills down the spine and keeps your heart pounding so hard you could use it as a drum?
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