Best Action Books January 2025

The Sea of Monsters

Percy Jackson’s summer at Camp Half-Blood is anything but peaceful. When Thalia’s tree, which protects the camp, is poisoned, Percy and his friends embark on a perilous quest to find the Golden Fleece. Battling mythical creatures and facing treacherous waters, they navigate the Sea of Monsters. With humor and heart, Riordan weaves Greek mythology into a modern adventure, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I couldn’t put it down, rooting for Percy every step of the way.

The Naked and the Dead

Mailer’s raw, unflinching portrayal of war gripped me from the first page. His vivid characters, each grappling with their own demons, felt startlingly real. I found myself holding my breath during tense combat scenes, then pondering the deeper questions of humanity the novel raises. It’s a challenging read, but one that has stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Mailer’s masterpiece is truly deserving of its classic status.

The Associate

Kyle McAvoy’s promising legal career takes a dark turn when he’s blackmailed into joining a prestigious law firm. Haunted by a secret from his past, he’s forced to spy on his employer and steal sensitive information. As he navigates the cutthroat world of corporate law, Kyle finds himself caught between his conscience and self-preservation. Grisham’s taut prose keeps you on edge, wondering if Kyle can outmaneuver his blackmailers and salvage his future. A gripping tale of ambition, corruption, and redemption that’ll have you questioning the price of success.

The Caine Mutiny

Herman Wouk’s “The Caine Mutiny” is a gripping tale of naval drama set against the backdrop of World War II. As I devoured this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, I found myself completely immersed in the claustrophobic world of the USS Caine. Wouk’s vivid characters, particularly the enigmatic Captain Queeg, left an indelible impression on me. The tension builds masterfully, leading to a courtroom showdown that had me on the edge of my seat. It’s a powerful exploration of leadership, loyalty, and the moral complexities of wartime decision-making.

Swimsuit

Diving into a world of glamour and danger, “Swimsuit” plunges readers into a heart-pounding thriller. When a beautiful model vanishes during a photo shoot in Hawaii, ex-cop Ben Hawkins is thrust into a deadly game of cat and mouse. As he unravels the mystery, Ben discovers a chilling pattern of disappearances and a killer with an insatiable appetite for fame. Patterson’s signature fast-paced style keeps you on edge, making this beach read anything but relaxing.

Call It Courage

Mafatu, a young Polynesian boy, has always feared the sea. Taunted by his tribe for his cowardice, he embarks on a perilous journey to prove his bravery. Alone on a small canoe, Mafatu faces treacherous waves, hungry sharks, and fierce cannibals. As he battles the elements and his own fears, he discovers an inner strength he never knew he possessed. This gripping tale of survival and self-discovery will inspire readers to confront their own fears and find the courage within themselves.

Kenilworth

Step into the tumultuous world of 16th-century England with Sir Walter Scott’s “Kenilworth.” This gripping tale weaves together romance, intrigue, and historical drama, centering on the ill-fated love between Amy Robsart and Robert Dudley. Scott’s vivid prose brings to life the opulent court of Queen Elizabeth I, where ambition and jealousy threaten to tear apart lives. A masterful blend of fact and fiction, this novel will transport you to a time of chivalry, betrayal, and forbidden passion.

Alex Cross’s Trial

In this gripping historical thriller, James Patterson takes us back to the roots of the Alex Cross family saga. Set in the early 1900s, the story follows Ben Corbett, a young lawyer tasked with investigating lynchings in the Deep South. As Ben uncovers shocking truths, he forms an unlikely alliance with Abraham Cross, Alex’s great-uncle. Together, they face dangerous opposition and confront the harsh realities of racial injustice. Patterson’s vivid storytelling and meticulous research bring this tumultuous era to life, offering a poignant exploration of courage and the fight for equality.

Rob Roy

Immerse yourself in the rugged Scottish Highlands with Walter Scott’s timeless classic, “Rob Roy.” This gripping tale follows the adventures of Frank Osbaldistone, a young Englishman thrust into a world of clan rivalries and political intrigue. As Frank navigates treacherous landscapes and encounters the enigmatic outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, Scott weaves a rich tapestry of history and romance. I was captivated by the vivid descriptions and complex characters, feeling as if I were right there in 18th-century Scotland. A must-read for anyone who loves a good swashbuckling adventure with a dash of social commentary.

Dreamcatcher

In this chilling tale, four childhood friends share a telepathic bond and a dark secret from their past. When a blizzard traps them in the Maine woods, they encounter a mysterious stranger and a terrifying alien force. As they fight for survival, long-buried memories resurface, testing their friendship and sanity. King masterfully weaves horror and nostalgia, creating a gripping story that will haunt readers long after the final page. A thrilling ride through the human psyche and the unknown.