Top Picks for Harry Potter Fans: Next Reads

If you've packed your trunk and are ready to leave Hogwarts behind for a while, fear not—there's a world of enchanting books waiting to whisk you away on new magical adventures. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of a magical school murder mystery, eager to learn spells at an academy in the clouds, or looking for low-stakes fantasy fun, our curated list has something for every Harry Potter fan. So, grab your wand, find a cozy nook, and prepare to discover your next favorite reads in 2025.

Craving more of the wizarding world? Engage in magical fun with your friends through some of the best Harry Potter board games. For a cinematic experience akin to the Harry Potter films, check out our list of the best movies like Harry Potter.

The Marvellers

For those yearning to experience the excitement of being a new student at a magical academy, The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton is the perfect choice. This enchanting tale transports you to the Arcanum, a global magic school nestled high in the clouds. Follow Ella, the school's first conjurer, as she navigates the allure and secrets of this prestigious institution. Clayton's vivid storytelling creates a world you'll long to join, while not shying away from the darker realities that can pervade even the most magical of places. Ella's journey is compelling, leaving readers eager for more.

### The Marvellers

Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now, while the paperback is up for pre-order on Aug 29, 2023. See it at Amazon

Percy Jackson & the Olympians

Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series offers a fantastic alternative to the Harry Potter universe. Dive into a world where the children of gods walk among us, following Percy Jackson, the son of Poseidon, on his quest to retrieve Zeus' stolen lightning bolt and clear his name. These stories beautifully balance the fantastical with the everyday, featuring a hero with ADHD and dyslexia navigating the challenges of growing up. Riordan's creation, initially inspired by his son, has captivated readers worldwide with its immersive storytelling.

For a complete reading experience, check out our guide to the Percy Jackson books in order, or explore the new series on Disney+.

### Percy Jackson & the Olympians Paperback Boxed Set

All five books in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series are available in paperback, collected in a boxed set complete with a bonus poster! (Hardcover and audio CD also available). See it at Amazon

Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)

While The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini doesn't feature a magical school, it's a compelling follow-up for Harry Potter fans. Follow Eragon, a young teen who discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and dragons. Spanning four books, the series chronicles Eragon and his dragon's growth as they confront a formidable enemy. This young adult fantasy strikes a balance between the charm of Harry Potter and the epic scope of Lord of the Rings.

### The Inheritance Cycle

See it at Amazon

Legends & Lattes

If the feasts at Hogwarts and visits to Hogsmeade were your favorite parts, Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree is your next must-read. This cozy fantasy follows an Orc who trades her warrior life for a coffee shop, offering a magical and heartwarming tale. Filled with delicious treats, warm drinks, and charming characters, this low-stakes story focuses on found family, romance, and the joy of baking, without the high tension of traditional fantasy.

### Legends & Lattes

Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon

Cemetery Boys

Aiden Thomas's Cemetery Boys is a stunning debut that follows Yadriel, a trans boy aspiring to become a Brujo. When a spell goes awry, he summons the ghost of Julian, the school's notorious bad boy, instead of his cousin. Together, they must navigate Julian's unfinished business before Yadriel can return to his life. This novel blends sweetness, scares, and romance into a unique and captivating fantasy.

### Cemetery Boys

Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. $0 with Kindle Unlimited. See it at Amazon

Grimoire of the Grave Fates

Grimoire of the Grave Fates offers an innovative take on the magical school genre. This anthology, featuring 18 authors and 18 students' perspectives, unfolds the story of the Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary, rocked by a murder. This collection provides a bracing, subversive, and radical exploration of the magic school trope, delivering thoughtful fantasy that challenges and delights.

### Grimoire of the Grave Fates

Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon

Magic For Liars

In Magic For Liars by Sarah Gailey, a murder at The Osthorne Academy of Young Mages draws private detective Ivy Gamble back into the magical world she was rejected from. While her sister Tabitha thrives as a teacher at the academy, Ivy struggles as a PI until she's hired to solve the case. This contemporary twist on the magic school narrative is witty and adult, set in a world that feels real with a subtle magical overlay. The mystery and intricate character relationships will keep you hooked.

### Magic For Liars

Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon

Be Sure

Seanan McGuire's Wayward Children series, collected in Be Sure, is perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. Set at a school for children rejected from portal worlds, the series kicks off with a murder mystery and continues to surprise. These novellas feature complex characters, incredible worlds, and McGuire's engaging storytelling, making them some of the best fantasy reads of the last decade.

### Be Sure

Hardcover version available as well. See it at Amazon