The Best Books to Read Next If You Loved the Harry Potter Series

Ready to leave Hogwarts behind? Fear not, fellow magic enthusiasts! This list unveils a captivating array of fantasy reads to satisfy your craving for enchanting storytelling. From magical academy mysteries to cloud-dwelling spell schools and low-stakes fantasy adventures, there's something here for everyone. Grab your wand, find a cozy spot, and prepare to discover your next literary obsession.

Beyond Hogwarts: Fantastic Reads for 2025 and Beyond

1. The Marvellers

Experience the thrill of attending a magical academy anew with The Marvellers. Dhonielle Clayton transports you to the Arcanum, a breathtaking global magic school nestled high in the clouds. Follow Ella, the school's first conjurer, as she navigates secrets and mistrust within the seemingly idyllic setting. Clayton masterfully blends captivating world-building with relatable challenges, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

2. Percy Jackson & the Olympians

Rick Riordan's legendary series offers a compelling counterpart to the Harry Potter saga. This series introduces readers to a world where the children of Greek gods live amongst 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.

3. Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)

While lacking a school setting, Christopher Paolini's Inheritance Cycle provides a thrilling alternative for Harry Potter fans. Follow young Eragon as he discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and epic battles. This four-book series chronicles the growth of Eragon and his dragon as they confront a formidable enemy. It's a captivating young adult fantasy that bridges the gap between Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.

4. Legends & Lattes

For those who cherished Hogwarts' feasts and Hogsmeade visits, Legends & Lattes is a must-read. Travis Baldree's charming cozy fantasy follows an orc who trades her warrior life for the tranquility of a coffee shop. This heartwarming tale is filled with delicious treats, delightful customers, and a blossoming sense of community. It's a low-stakes fantasy brimming with humor, romance, and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

5. Cemetery Boys

Aiden Thomas' debut novel is a captivating story about Yadriel, a trans boy who accidentally summons the wrong ghost while attempting to prove his identity as a Brujo. This poignant and thrilling tale explores themes of identity, family, and acceptance. The unexpected pairing of Yadriel and Julian, the ghost of the school's notorious bad boy, creates a unique and unforgettable reading experience.

6. Grimoire of the Grave Fates

This innovative collection of short stories reimagines the magical school trope. The Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary is rocked by a murder, and the narrative unfolds through the perspectives of eighteen students, each chapter penned by a different author. This diverse and thought-provoking anthology offers a fresh and subversive take on the genre.

7. 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 crime at the academy where her estranged sister teaches. This contemporary twist on the classic magic school tale blends mystery, wit, and compelling character development.

8. Be Sure

This collection of Seanan McGuire's Wayward Children novellas is a perfect choice for summer or fall reading. The series follows children who have been expelled from portal worlds, and the stories are full of intriguing characters, unbelievable worlds, and captivating storytelling.