If you're ready to pack up your trunk and bid farewell to Hogwarts for now, don't worry—there's a world of enchanting literature waiting for you. Whether you're in the mood for magical school murder mysteries, spell-teaching academies nestled in the clouds, or low-stakes fantasy adventures, our list has something for every fan of fantastical storytelling. From tales of boarding schools for kids who were once welcomed by mythical portals to heartwarming stories of found family, you'll discover new favorites to rival the magic of the Harry Potter series in 2025. So, grab your wand, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in these spellbinding reads.
Craving more of the wizarding world? Gather your friends and explore Hogwarts together with one of the best Harry Potter board games. For a cinematic experience reminiscent of the Harry Potter films, check out our list of the best movies like Harry Potter.
The Marvellers
If you yearn to relive the excitement of being a new student at a magical academy, Dhonielle Clayton's "The Marvellers" is the perfect book for you. This enchanting novel transports readers to the Arcanum, a global magic school high in the clouds. As the school's first conjurer, Ella is brimming with excitement, but soon discovers that the Arcanum harbors secrets and mistrust behind its gilded doors. Clayton masterfully crafts a world you'll long to join, while never shying away from the grim realities that even magical spaces can't escape. With Ella as a dynamic protagonist, "The Marvellers" will leave you eager for more adventures in her magical 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 both a counterpoint and companion to the Boy Who Lived. "Percy Jackson & the Olympians" introduces readers to a world where the children of gods live among us. The first book follows Percy Jackson, the son of Poseidon, on a dangerous quest to find the thief who stole Zeus' lightning bolts and clear his name. These inclusive and thoughtful stories expertly balance the fantastical with everyday life, featuring a hero with ADHD and dyslexia navigating the challenges of growing up. Originally written for his son, Riordan's immersive world has captured the hearts of readers worldwide, and it's easy to see why.
Percy Jackson & the Olympians Paperback Boxed Set
All five books in the blockbuster Percy Jackson and the Olympians series are collected in a paperback boxed set, complete with a bonus poster! Hardcover and audio CD versions are also available. See it at Amazon.
Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle)
While it doesn't feature a magical academy, Christopher Paolini's "The Inheritance Cycle" is a compelling follow-up for Harry Potter fans. The series follows young Eragon, who discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and dragons. Spanning four books, readers witness Eragon and his dragon grow and confront a formidable enemy bent on destroying everything they love. This young adult fantasy strikes a balance between the worlds of Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.
The Inheritance Cycle
See it at Amazon.
Legends & Lattes
If you loved the sumptuous feasts and visits to Hogsmeade at Hogwarts, Travis Baldree's "Legends & Lattes" is the perfect next read. This cozy fantasy has captivated readers with its tale of an orc who trades her warrior life for the joys of running a coffee shop. Filled with delicious baked goods, steaming hot drinks, and charming customers, this story offers a magical and fantastical experience without the high stakes or violence of traditional fantasy. Instead, it's packed with fun banter, budding romance, and the warmth of found family.
Legends & Lattes
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon.
Cemetery Boys
Aiden Thomas made a significant impact with his debut novel, "Cemetery Boys," about a trans boy named Yadriel who dreams of becoming a Brujo. When a spell goes awry and he summons the wrong ghost—the notorious bad boy Julian—Yadriel must help Julian come to terms with his fate before returning to his normal life. This sweet, scary, and romantic fantasy novel is unlike any other, keeping readers hooked until the very last page.
Cemetery Boys
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. $0 with Kindle Unlimited. See it at Amazon.
Grimoire of the Grave Fates
One of the most innovative additions to the magical school genre, "Grimoire of the Grave Fates" is a collection of short stories that weave together to narrate the tale of the Galileo Academy for the Extraordinary, rocked by a murder. Over 18 chapters, 18 authors—Cam Montgomery, Darcie Little Badger, Hafsah Faizal, Jessica Lewis, Julian Winters, Karuna Riazi, Kat Cho, Kayla Whaley, Kwame Mbalia, L. L. McKinney, Marieke Nijkamp, Mason Deaver, Natasha Díaz, Preeti Chhibber, Randy Ribay, Tehlor Kay Mejia, Victoria Lee, and Yamile Saied Méndez—offer 18 students' perspectives, creating a bracing, subversive, and ultimately radical take on the magic school trope. "Grimoire of the Grave Fates" is the kind of thoughtful fantasy we need more of.
Grimoire of the Grave Fates
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon.
Magic For Liars
Murders seem to be a staple at magical schools, as evidenced by Sarah Gailey's "Magic For Liars." When a gruesome killing occurs at The Osthorne Academy of Young Mages, private detective Ivy Gamble is drawn back into the supernatural world that once rejected her. While her sister Tabitha thrives as a teacher at the academy, Ivy struggles as a PI. Hired to solve the murder at her sister's school, this contemporary twist on the classic magic school tale is witty, adult, and set in a recognizably realistic world with a subtle magical twist. The mystery keeps you guessing, but it's the intricate character work and relationships that truly captivate.
Magic For Liars
Hardcover and Kindle versions are available now. See it at Amazon.
Be Sure
Sean McGuire's "Wayward Children" series, collected in "Be Sure," offers the perfect transition from summer to fall reading. This collection of the first three stories has been enchanting readers since the release of "Every Heart a Doorway." Set in a school for kids who have been expelled from portal worlds—reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland or the Narnia books—the series kicks off with a murder mystery and continues to surprise. With its intriguing characters, unbelievable worlds, and engaging storytelling, "Be Sure" showcases some of the best fantasy stories of the last decade. Get your copy and prepare to fall in love and have your heart broken as you explore what lies beyond the door.
Be Sure
Hardcover version available as well. See it at Amazon.
