Top Picks for Harry Potter Fans: Next Reads

If you're ready to pack your trunk and leave Hogwarts behind, fear not—there are plenty of other enchanting books waiting to fill the magical void in your reading list. From thrilling murder mysteries set in magical schools to cloud-based academies teaching spells, to lighthearted low-stakes fantasy and tales of boarding schools for those rejected by mythical realms, our curated list has something for every fan of fantastical storytelling. So, grab your wand, find a cozy spot, and prepare to discover new favorites reminiscent of the Harry Potter series to enjoy in 2025.

Still craving more of the wizarding world? Gather your friends and immerse yourselves in the magic with some of the best Harry Potter board games. Alternatively, indulge in a cinematic journey with our selection of movies similar to the Harry Potter films.

The Marvellers

For those yearning to experience the thrill of being a new student at a magical academy, Dhonielle Clayton's "The Marvellers" is your perfect gateway. This enchanting novel transports you to the Arcanum, a global magic school nestled in the clouds. Follow Ella, the school's first conjurer, as she navigates the excitement and underlying secrets of this seemingly idyllic institution. Clayton masterfully builds a world you'll long to join, while not shying away from the darker realities that can infiltrate even the most magical places. Ella's compelling journey will leave you eager for more adventures in her fascinating new world.

The Marvellers

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

Percy Jackson & the Olympians

Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson & the Olympians" series offers a delightful counterpoint to the Harry Potter saga. Dive into a world where the offspring of gods walk among us, as you follow Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon, on his quest to retrieve Zeus' stolen lightning bolt and clear his name. These inclusive stories beautifully balance the fantastical with the everyday, featuring a hero with ADHD and Dyslexia, and addressing the challenges of growing up. Originally crafted for Riordan's son, this immersive world has captivated readers worldwide. Don't miss our complete guide to the Percy Jackson series or the new adaptation on Disney+.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians Paperback Boxed Set

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

Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)

While lacking a magical school setting, Christopher Paolini's "The Inheritance Cycle" is a must-read for Harry Potter fans. Follow young Eragon as he discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world filled with magic, peril, and dragons. Across four books, witness Eragon and his dragon's growth as they battle a formidable enemy intent on destruction. This young adult fantasy bridges the gap between Harry Potter and the Lord of the Rings, offering a richly woven tale of adventure and maturation.

The Inheritance Cycle

See it at Amazon

Legends & Lattes

If the feasts at Hogwarts and trips to Hogsmeade were your highlights, then Travis Baldree's "Legends & Lattes" is the cozy fantasy you need. This heartwarming story of an Orc who trades her warrior life for running a coffee shop has captured hearts online. Dive into a world of delectable pastries, warm beverages, and charming patrons. This low-stakes fantasy is all about found family, light romance, and the joy of baking, offering a magical yet stress-free reading experience.

Legends & Lattes

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

Cemetery Boys

Aiden Thomas's debut, "Cemetery Boys," is a groundbreaking fantasy novel featuring Yadriel, a trans boy aspiring to be a Brujo. When a spell goes awry and he summons the ghost of Julian, his school's notorious bad boy, Yadriel is thrust into a journey of helping Julian find peace. This sweet, spooky, and romantic tale will keep you turning pages until the very end.

Cemetery Boys

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

Grimoire of the Grave Fates

"Grimoire of the Grave Fates" offers a fresh and innovative take on the magical school narrative. This anthology, set at the Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary, unfolds a murder mystery through 18 chapters, each written by a different author, from the perspectives of 18 students. This collaborative effort by renowned authors delivers a thought-provoking and radical exploration of the magic school trope, making it an essential read for fantasy enthusiasts.

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, murder disrupts the magical Osthorne Academy of Young Mages, drawing private detective Ivy Gamble back into the supernatural world that once rejected her. While her sister Tabitha thrives as a teacher at the academy, Ivy, a struggling PI, is hired to solve the crime. This contemporary twist on the magic school narrative is witty, adult, and set in a realistically nuanced world with a magical edge. The mystery will keep you guessing, but it's the deep character development and relationships that will truly captivate you.

Magic For Liars

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

Be Sure

"Be Sure" brings together the first three enchanting stories from Seanan McGuire's Wayward Children series. Set at a school for children who've been expelled from portal worlds, this collection kicks off with a gripping murder mystery and continues to surprise. With compelling characters, extraordinary worlds, and McGuire's captivating storytelling, these novellas are some of the most poignant fantasy tales of the last decade. Get ready to fall in love and have your heart broken as you explore what lies beyond the door.

Be Sure

Hardcover version available. See it at Amazon