If you’re craving the mix of action, espionage, and high-stakes drama that NCIS: LA delivers, these books will scratch that same itch. From elite operatives to globe-trotting missions, here are eight page-turners (plus a bonus pick for Hetty fans).
🔍 1. The Gray Man by Mark Greaney
Think: G. Callen meets Jason Bourne
Follow a former CIA operative turned legendary assassin as he’s hunted across the globe. Packed with high-tech gadgets, relentless action, and nonstop tension, this series is impossible to put down.
🧨 2. Without Remorse by Tom Clancy
Think: Sam Hanna’s loyalty + tactical action
A gritty origin story of John Clark, a Navy SEAL turned black ops agent. Emotional, realistic, and filled with intense military strategy, perfect for fans of Sam’s courage and discipline.
🎯 3. Terminal List by Jack Carr
Think: Deeks if he went dark
A former Navy SEAL seeks revenge after a government betrayal. Brutal, fast-paced, and emotionally charged, written by a real SEAL for authentic thrills.
🕵️♀️ 4. I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
Think: A Hetty-approved masterpiece
A retired intelligence agent is pulled back into action to stop a global catastrophe. Complex, intelligent, and utterly gripping—a spy thriller with brains and heart.
💻 5. American Assassin by Vince Flynn
Think: NCIS meets CIA rookie
Follow Mitch Rapp’s transformation from college graduate to one of the CIA’s deadliest covert operatives. Great for fans who loved watching Nell or Fatima rise through the ranks.
🎧 6. The Cleaner by Mark Dawson (John Milton series)
Think: Callen going rogue
An assassin for a secret British agency tries to escape his violent past. Redemption, tension, and slick operations make this series addictive.
🛰️ 7. The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor
Think: High-stakes ops with global threats
Scot Harvath, an ex-Navy SEAL turned Secret Service agent, faces political intrigue and terrorism worldwide. Perfect for readers who love globe-trotting adventures and pulse-pounding missions.
🧬 8. The Athena Protocol by Shamim Sarif
Think: Kensi undercover, but younger
A rogue female operative defies orders to stop human traffickers. Female-led, fast-paced, and emotionally intense—a story fans of Kensi will adore.
📖 Bonus Pick for Hetty Fans:
• The Secret Pilgrim by John le Carré
Spycraft, memory, and subtle tension—this one captures Hetty Lange’s cunning and mentorship perfectly.
