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It's time to pack up your trunk and leave Hogwarts behind for a while. If you're not planning to dive back into the Harry Potter series anytime soon, don't worry—there's a whole world of fantastical literature waiting to enchant you. From thrilling magical school murder mysteries to enchanting academies in the clouds, low-stakes fantasy adventures, and boarding schools for those rejected by mythical portals, our curated list is brimming with titles that will capture your imagination. So, grab your magic wand, find a cozy spot, and prepare to discover your next favorite books for 2025.
Yearning for more Hogwarts magic? Gather your friends and immerse yourselves in the wizarding world with some of the best Harry Potter board games. Or, for a cinematic treat, explore our list of movies similar to the Harry Potter series.
The Marvellers
If you're eager to experience the thrill of being a new student at a magical academy, "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton is your perfect read. This book transports you to the Arcanum, a global magic school perched high in the clouds. As the first conjurer at Arcanum, Ella is brimming with excitement, but soon discovers that the school harbors secrets and mistrust behind its gilded doors. Clayton masterfully crafts a world you'll long to join, while not shying away from the darker realities that can infiltrate even the most magical of places. With Ella as a dynamic protagonist, you'll finish "The Marvellers" eager for more adventures in her enchanting world.
The Marvellers
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now, while the paperback is up for pre-order on August 29, 2023. See it at Amazon
Percy Jackson & the Olympians
Rick Riordan's epic fantasy series serves as a fantastic counterpart to the Harry Potter saga. It introduces readers to a world where the children of gods walk among us. The first book follows Percy Jackson, the son of Poseidon, on a perilous 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. Originally written for Riordan's son, the series has captivated readers worldwide with its immersive world and compelling narratives.
Percy Jackson & the Olympians Paperback Boxed Set
All five books in the blockbuster Percy Jackson and the Olympians series are available in paperback, collected in a boxed set perfect for demigods, complete with a bonus poster! (Hardcover and audio CD also available). See it at Amazon
Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)
While it doesn't feature a magical school, "The Inheritance Cycle" by Christopher Paolini is a must-read for Harry Potter fans. The series follows Eragon, a young teen who discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and dragons. Spanning four books, readers witness the growth of Eragon and his dragon as they confront a formidable enemy bent on destruction. This young adult fantasy strikes a balance between the charm of Harry Potter and the epic scope of The Lord of the Rings.
The Inheritance Cycle
Legends & Lattes
If the feasts at Hogwarts and trips to Hogsmeade were your favorite parts, "Legends & Lattes" by Travis Baldree is the cozy fantasy you need. This enchanting tale follows an Orc who trades her warrior life for a coffee shop, creating one of the most heartwarming and magical stories in recent years. Filled with delicious baked goods, steaming hot drinks, and charming customers, this low-stakes fantasy focuses on found family, fun banter, and burgeoning romance, offering a delightful escape 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 debut novel, "Cemetery Boys," is a stunning exploration of identity and magic. It follows Yadriel, a trans boy aspiring to become a Brujo, who accidentally summons the ghost of his school's notorious bad boy, Julian. As Yadriel helps Julian come to terms with his fate, the story unfolds with sweetness, scares, and romance, offering a unique and compelling fantasy narrative that will keep you hooked until the very end.
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" is a groundbreaking anthology that reimagines the magical school genre. Set at the Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary, this collection of short stories, penned by 18 different authors, follows 18 students as they navigate a murder mystery. This innovative and subversive take on the magic school trope offers a thoughtful and radical fantasy experience that is both bracing and necessary.
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, murders at magical schools take center stage. Private detective Ivy Gamble is drawn back into the supernatural world she was rejected from when she's hired to solve a murder at The Osthorne Academy of Young Mages, where her estranged twin sister teaches. This contemporary twist on the magic school narrative is witty and adult, set in a realistic world with a subtle magical overlay. The mystery keeps you guessing, but it's the intricate character development and relationships that truly captivate.
Magic For Liars
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon
Be Sure
"Be Sure" is a captivating collection of the first three stories in Seanan McGuire's Wayward Children series. Set at a school for children who have been expelled from portal worlds, the series kicks off with a murder mystery and continues to surprise. With its rich cast of complex characters and enchanting worlds, these novellas are some of the most compelling fantasy stories of the last decade. Prepare 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
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