Ready to leave Hogwarts behind? Fear not, fellow fantasy enthusiasts! This curated list offers captivating alternatives to the Harry Potter series, promising enchanting tales and magical adventures. From murder mysteries in magical academies to cloud-dwelling spell-casting schools, and even low-stakes fantasy narratives, there's something for every reader. Grab your wand, find a cozy spot, and prepare to discover your next literary obsession.
Looking for more Hogwarts magic? Explore the wizarding world with friends through one of the best Harry Potter board games, or delve into our selection of movies similar to the Harry Potter films for a cinematic experience.
The Marvellers
Experience the thrill of attending a magical academy anew with The Marvellers. Dhonielle Clayton transports readers to the Arcanum, a global magic school nestled high in the clouds. Follow Ella, the school's first conjurer, as she navigates the enchanting yet secretive world, uncovering hidden truths behind the academy's gilded facade. Clayton masterfully blends wonder with realistic challenges, creating a captivating world and a dynamic protagonist that will leave you yearning for more.
### The Marvellers
7Hardcover and Kindle editions are available now; paperback pre-orders begin August 29, 2023. Available on Amazon.
Percy Jackson & the Olympians
Rick Riordan's epic fantasy series offers a compelling companion to the Harry Potter saga. Enter a world where the children of gods walk among us. The first book follows Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon, as he embarks on a perilous quest to clear his name and recover Zeus' stolen lightning bolts. These inclusive stories seamlessly blend fantasy with everyday life, featuring a relatable hero with ADHD and dyslexia. Riordan's immersive world has captivated readers worldwide, and it's easy to see why.
Explore our complete guide to the Percy Jackson books, or dive into the new Percy Jackson series on Disney+.
### Percy Jackson & the Olympians Paperback Boxed Set
4A boxed set containing all five paperback books, plus a bonus poster! (Hardcover and audio CD also available). Available on Amazon.
Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)
While lacking a school setting, Christopher Paolini's Inheritance Cycle provides a captivating read for Harry Potter fans. Follow Eragon, a young teenager 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 powerful enemy. This young adult fantasy seamlessly blends elements of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.
### The Inheritance Cycle
1Available on Amazon.
Legends & Lattes
If you cherished Hogwarts' feasts and Hogsmede visits, Legends & Lattes is your next literary destination. Travis Baldree's cozy fantasy has charmed readers with its heartwarming tale of an orc who trades warrior life for a coffee shop. This enchanting story, filled with delicious treats, warm drinks, and charming customers, offers a comforting and low-stakes fantasy experience. Enjoy the witty banter, burgeoning romance, and delightful baking—a perfect escape from high-fantasy anxieties.
### Legends & Lattes
4Hardcover and Kindle editions are available now. Available on Amazon.
Cemetery Boys
Aiden Thomas' stunning debut features Yadriel, a trans boy who dreams of becoming a Brujo. A spell gone wrong summons the ghost of Julian, his school's notorious bad boy. Yadriel must help Julian find peace before returning to his own life. This sweet, scary, and romantic fantasy is unlike any other.
### Cemetery Boys
1Hardcover and Kindle editions are available now. Free with Kindle Unlimited. Available on Amazon.
Grimoire of the Grave Fates
This innovative magical school anthology offers a unique perspective. Eighteen short stories, each penned by a different author, weave together the tale of the Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary, rocked by a murder. Experience the story through eighteen students' viewpoints in this subversive and thought-provoking fantasy.
### Grimoire of the Grave Fates
4Hardcover and Kindle editions are available now. Available on Amazon.
Magic For Liars
Murder strikes again at a magical school in Magic For Liars. Private investigator Ivy Gamble returns to the supernatural world that once rejected her to solve a gruesome killing at the Osthorne Academy of Young Mages, where her estranged twin sister teaches. This contemporary twist on the magic school trope is witty and adult, blending realism with subtle magic.
### Magic For Liars
2Hardcover and Kindle editions are available now. Available on Amazon.
Be Sure
This collection of the first three stories in Seanan McGuire's Wayward Children series is a perfect summer/autumn read. Set in a school for children banished from portal worlds, the series begins with a murder mystery and continues to surprise. Filled with complex characters and captivating worlds, these are some of the best fantasy stories of recent years.
### Be Sure
1Hardcover edition also available. Available on Amazon.