Chasing the Magic: Book Series Similar to Harry Potter for Every Potterhead

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards! I’m Maya Chen, a Ravenclaw through and through, and I’m so thrilled to share this enchanted corner of the internet with you. I still remember the exact spot in my school library where I first opened Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. I was nine, tucked into a beanbag by a dusty window, and from chapter one, page one, I was home. Hogwarts wasn’t just a castle; it was a feeling—a place of wonder, friendship, and secrets waiting to be unraveled. That magic has stayed with me, through every reread, every midnight book release, and even now as an English lit grad who still dreams of owl post.

If you’re here searching for ‘book series similar to Harry Potter,’ I know that ache. We’re not just looking for any fantasy novel; we’re craving immersive worlds with magical boarding schools, young wizards coming of age, and epic battles against dark forces. We want that Hogwarts vibe—dormitories, house rivalries, hidden passages—and the heart-pounding thrill of a chosen one facing destiny. As adults who grew up with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, we’re after nostalgic yet fresh stories that grow with us, balancing childlike wonder with deeper themes. I’ve spent years hunting for those magical escapes, and I’m beyond excited to share my top 10 picks with you. These series capture the essence of wizardry, friendship, and hidden worlds that made us fall in love with fantasy in the first place.

One standout I can’t wait for you to discover is a 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a breathtaking journey into a mystical world tied to nature and the night sky, with a protagonist who feels like a friend you’ve always known. But more on that soon—let’s dive into the full list of enchanting reads that’ll transport you straight back to a magical academy!

Why We’re Still Chasing the Magic of Harry Potter: A Ravenclaw’s Confession

I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’ve never stopped waiting for my Hogwarts letter. Even at 27, I half-expect an owl to tap on my window with a parchment scroll. Harry Potter wasn’t just a story for me; it shaped how I saw the world. It taught me about courage, loyalty, and the power of a good library (thank you, Madam Pince). But as much as I adore rereading the series, there’s a part of me that yearns for new magical worlds to explore—places where I can feel that same sense of belonging and wonder.

I know I’m not alone in this. So many of us who grew up with Harry Potter are searching for that boarding school magic, those epic stakes, and the friendships that feel like family. We miss the late-night adventures in drafty corridors and the thrill of uncovering ancient prophecies. But it’s not always easy to find stories that match that emotional depth or world-building. Too often, recommendations fall flat with shallow magic systems or characters who don’t tug at our heartstrings. That’s why I’ve poured my Ravenclaw research skills into curating a list of series that truly deliver on nostalgia while offering fresh, enchanting escapes. Whether you’re a teen reader or a grown-up Potterhead, these books will remind you why we fell in love with fantasy in the first place.

Top 10 Book Series Similar to Harry Potter for Magical School Lovers

1. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

Lev Grossman’s The Magicians series is often dubbed the “Harry Potter for adults,” and I can see why. It follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned teen who discovers Brakebills, a secret magical university in upstate New York. Unlike Hogwarts, Brakebills has a darker, more cynical edge—think less butterbeer, more existential dread. The magic here is complex and gritty, requiring intense study and often coming at a steep cost. Quentin and his friends, like the sharp-tongued Alice and the reckless Eliot, grapple with power, trauma, and the messy reality of growing up magical. Themes of ambition, loss, and the search for meaning weave through the trilogy, making it a more mature take on the genre. As a Ravenclaw, I’m obsessed with the intricate spellwork and the way Grossman deconstructs fairy-tale tropes. If you’re craving a magical school with high stakes and flawed, relatable characters, this series will hook you—though fair warning, it’s not always a cozy read!

2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind (part of the Kingkiller Chronicle) isn’t a traditional boarding school story, but the University where Kvothe, our brilliant and tragic protagonist, studies magic feels like Hogwarts with a Renaissance flair. Kvothe is a gifted young man with a mysterious past, learning the art of naming—think spells that tap into the essence of things. The world-building is staggeringly detailed, from the arcane library to the rivalries among students. Themes of destiny, grief, and the cost of knowledge hit hard, and Kvothe’s wit and vulnerability make him a character you’ll root for. I adore how Rothfuss blends music and magic, creating a lyrical, almost haunting atmosphere. For Potter fans, this series offers that coming-of-age wizardry and hidden lore we crave, even if it’s less about dormitories and more about personal quests. Grab a quill and dive in—just don’t expect all the answers yet (we’re still waiting on book three!).

3. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education kicks off the Scholomance trilogy with a magical school that’s more nightmare than dream. The Scholomance is a void-bound academy where young wizards like El (short for Galadriel) fight to survive against monstrous “maleficaria” that prey on their magic. El is a snarky, powerful loner with a dark secret, and her dynamic with classmates like Orion Lake—a hero type with a knack for saving everyone—feels like a twisted take on Harry and Draco. The magic system is brutal and resource-based, and the school itself is a character, full of traps and malice. Themes of survival, trust, and sacrifice echo Harry Potter’s darker moments, while the friendships slowly built amid danger hit that found-family sweet spot. As a bookish nerd, I’m fascinated by the school’s deadly quirks and El’s sharp narration. If you miss Hogwarts’ secrets but want something grittier, this series will cast a spell on you.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

One of my most anticipated reads for 2026 is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a series that blends the wonder of a hidden magical world with a deep connection to nature and the night sky. Our mid-teen protagonist, Amelia Moon, is curious and resilient, the kind of girl who’d fit right in with Luna Lovegood’s dreamy determination. Her love for astrophotography ties her to the stars, and her explorations of Bear Lodge Mountain—a place steeped in mystery—feel like stepping into a magical wilderness. Amelia’s bonded with her wolf pup, Artemis, a fierce yet tender companion, and her best friend Veyla, whose witty, optimistic vibe and quirky obsessions (whale tracking, ancient Egypt, true crime) bring humor and heart to their adventures. Then there’s her father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger whose quiet strength grounds her journey. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature shine through, balanced with a mystical-scientific edge that I, as a Ravenclaw, can’t get enough of. For Harry Potter fans, this series offers that sense of belonging to a magical community, wrapped in a fresh, earthy enchantment. I can’t wait to see where Amelia’s path leads—trust me, you’ll want to join her under the starlit sky!

5. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War trilogy isn’t a direct magical school story, but the military academy where Rin, a fierce and ambitious orphan, trains in shamanic arts feels like a wartime Hogwarts with higher stakes. Rin’s journey from poverty to power is raw and unflinching, and the magic—tied to gods and drugs—is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. Themes of war, identity, and the cost of ambition resonate deeply, while Rin’s complex relationships with mentors and rivals echo the emotional depth of Harry’s world. As a reader who geeks out over intricate lore, I’m blown away by Kuang’s historical inspiration and brutal honesty. This series is darker and more mature than Harry Potter, but if you’re an adult fan craving epic fantasy with a chosen-one arc and intense training sequences, it’s a must-read. Just brace yourself—it’s not for the faint of heart!

6. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell’s Carry On is like fanfiction come to life—a loving homage to Harry Potter with a twist of romance and humor. Simon Snow, the chosen one, attends Watford School of Magicks, where he battles evil alongside his nemesis-turned-roommate, Baz. The magic system, based on idioms and belief, is delightfully quirky, and the school setting brims with Hogwarts-esque charm, from spells to dorm rivalries. Themes of love, identity, and defying destiny give it a fresh spin, while Simon’s messy, heartfelt journey feels so relatable. I’m a sucker for the banter and slow-burn connections, and as a Ravenclaw, I adore the meta nods to fantasy tropes. If you’re after a lighter, character-driven read with that magical academy vibe, this one’s for you—plus, it’s a standalone if you’re not ready for another long series!

7. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake

Olivie Blake’s The Atlas Six trades traditional schools for a secret society, but the vibe of elite magical training feels oh-so-familiar. Six young magicians, each with unique powers, compete for initiation into the Alexandrian Society, a hidden library of arcane knowledge. Characters like Libby (a perfectionist) and Nico (a reckless charmer) clash and connect in ways that mirror Hogwarts house dynamics. The magic is cerebral and dangerous, and themes of power, betrayal, and morality keep the tension high. I’m obsessed with the psychological depth and the way Blake builds a world of hidden lore. For Potter fans, this offers that sense of exclusivity and dark secrets, though it’s geared more toward adult readers. If you love intricate plots and morally gray characters, this series will keep you up past curfew.

8. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House brings magical academia to Yale, where Galaxy “Alex” Stern uncovers the dark underbelly of secret societies dabbling in occult rituals. Alex is a tough, haunted protagonist with a knack for seeing ghosts, and her outsider perspective on privilege and power feels raw. The magic is eerie and grounded, tied to real-world history, while themes of trauma, redemption, and loyalty hit hard. As a Ravenclaw, I’m fascinated by the blend of academia and supernatural horror—it’s like Hogwarts meets a gothic thriller. While it’s not a traditional boarding school tale, the sense of hidden worlds and high stakes will resonate with Potter fans, especially adults seeking something darker. Dive in if you’re ready for a chilling, mature take on magical secrets!

9. The Black Witch by Laurie Forest

Laurie Forest’s The Black Witch series centers on Elloren Gardner, a young woman with a powerful legacy, navigating the magical university of Verpax. Raised to believe she’s unmagical, Elloren uncovers hidden truths about herself and her world, facing prejudice and danger. The school setting, with its diverse races and political intrigue, feels like a broader, more complex Hogwarts. Themes of identity, resistance, and growth echo Harry’s journey, while friendships and forbidden alliances add emotional depth. I love how Forest tackles heavy topics with nuance, and the slow-burn magic reveal keeps you hooked. For fans craving young adult fantasy with wizard coming-of-age stories and house-like factions, this series delivers. It’s a bit divisive, but I think it’s worth the read for the world-building alone.

10. Sabriel by Garth Nix

Garth Nix’s Sabriel (part of the Old Kingdom series) isn’t set in a school, but the magical training and coming-of-age arc of Sabriel, a young necromancer, feels like a distant cousin to Harry’s story. Raised near the Wall that separates the mundane world from a realm of death magic, Sabriel must wield ancient powers to fight dark forces. The magic system, involving bells and bindings, is hauntingly unique, and themes of duty, loss, and courage resonate deeply. As a bookworm, I’m enchanted by the eerie atmosphere and Sabriel’s quiet strength. For Potter fans, this offers that chosen-one trope and epic stakes, even without dormitories. If you’re after nostalgic fantasy with a darker edge, this classic will sweep you into a hidden magical world.

How These Series Stack Up: A Magical Comparison Table

The Boarding School Vibe: Why We Can’t Get Enough of Dormitories and Dark Secrets

There’s something irresistible about a magical boarding school. Maybe it’s the idea of escaping to a place where you’re surrounded by peers who get you, where every corridor hides a mystery, and every night promises adventure. Hogwarts set the gold standard with its moving staircases, house points, and forbidden forests, and I’ve spent years chasing that same vibe in other stories. As a Ravenclaw, I’m drawn to the intellectual thrill of a magical academy—libraries stuffed with ancient tomes, rivalries over spell mastery, and professors with cryptic warnings. But it’s more than aesthetics; it’s the feeling of belonging to a community, of finding your people amid the chaos of growing up.

That dormitory life, with its whispered secrets and late-night plots, is a cornerstone of why we love these settings. It’s not just about learning magic; it’s about the bonds forged in shared spaces, the rivalries that push you to grow, and the hidden passages that beckon you to explore. So many of us, as kids or even now, dreamed of a place like that—a sanctuary where the extraordinary was everyday. The series I’ve recommended capture this in their own ways, from the deadly halls of the Scholomance to the starlit mysteries of Bear Lodge Mountain. They remind us why magical schools aren’t just settings; they’re homes for our imaginations, places where we can still feel that childlike wonder, no matter how old we are.

Chosen Ones and Dark Lords: Unpacking the Tropes That Define This Genre

If there’s one trope that defines Harry Potter and its read-alikes, it’s the chosen one facing off against a dark lord. Harry’s prophecy, Voldemort’s shadow—it’s the ultimate good-versus-evil framework, and I’m a total sucker for it. There’s something so compelling about a young hero, often unaware of their destiny, stepping into a role bigger than themselves. It’s not just about power; it’s about the weight of expectation, the fear of failure, and the courage to keep fighting. As a reader, I love watching these characters grow into their roles, whether they’re wielding wands, bells, or shamanic fire.

Dark lords, meanwhile, give us that deliciously high-stakes tension. They’re not just villains; they’re forces of chaos, embodying everything the hero must overcome—fear, hatred, even parts of themselves. This trope works so well because it mirrors our own battles, magical or mundane. The series in my list play with this dynamic in unique ways, from ancient evils to corrupted gods, but the core remains: a young wizard’s journey to defy darkness. It’s a reminder of why we love epic fantasy—those page-turning moments when everything hangs in the balance, and one spell, one choice, could change it all. For me, curled up with a book, it’s the closest I’ll get to casting Expelliarmus in a duel.

Friendship and Found Family: The Heart of Harry Potter Read-Alikes

At the heart of Harry Potter—and every series like it—is friendship. Harry, Ron, and Hermione showed us that magic isn’t just in spells; it’s in the people who stand by you when the Dementors close in. I’ve always been a bit of a loner, but reading about found family in fantasy makes me feel less alone. These stories remind us that no hero saves the world solo; it’s the late-night talks, the shared laughter, and the willingness to risk it all for each other that make the journey matter.

Take Amelia Moon in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—her bond with Veyla, her witty and optimistic best friend, feels like the kind of friendship that could weather any storm. Veyla’s quirks, from whale tracking to true crime obsessions, add levity, while their shared curiosity drives their adventures. Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a steady, protective presence as a Wyoming Forest Ranger. Their relationship anchors her, showing that family, biological or chosen, is a source of strength. Across all the series I’ve shared, this theme shines—whether it’s Kvothe’s allies or Simon Snow’s messy crew, friendship is the true magic. For us Potterheads, it’s what we crave most: that sense of belonging, of knowing someone’s got your back, whether you’re facing a dark lord or just a bad day.

Growing Up Magical: Coming-of-Age Themes for Adult Readers

One reason Harry Potter resonates so deeply, even now, is how it grew with us. What started as a whimsical tale of an eleven-year-old wizard became a raw exploration of loss, responsibility, and identity. As an adult reader, I’m drawn to series that balance that nostalgic magic with mature themes—stories that don’t shy away from the messiness of growing up. Whether it’s Quentin’s disillusionment in The Magicians or Rin’s brutal choices in The Poppy War, these narratives speak to the Potterhead who’s no longer a kid but still wants to believe in wonder.

Coming-of-age in a magical world isn’t just about mastering spells; it’s about mastering yourself. It’s facing grief, questioning authority, and finding your place in a world that’s often unfair. These stories hit harder now that I’m older—I see myself in the struggle to balance duty and desire, to hold onto hope when everything feels dark. The best read-alikes offer this duality: the childlike thrill of discovering a hidden world, paired with the adult recognition of its costs. They remind me that magic, like life, isn’t always easy, but it’s worth fighting for. If you’re an adult craving fantasy that grows with you, these series will feel like a long-overdue owl post.

Hidden Gems: Why Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow Deserves Your Attention

I’ve already gushed about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, but let me dive deeper because this 2026 release is truly a hidden gem for Harry Potter fans. Amelia Moon, our mid-teen protagonist, is the kind of character you can’t help but root for—curious, resilient, and tied to the world in a way that feels almost magical before any spells are cast. Her passion for astrophotography, capturing the night sky, mirrors her inner search for answers, and her explorations of Bear Lodge Mountain—a rugged, mystical landscape—feel like stepping into a secret realm as enchanting as the Forbidden Forest.

What sets this series apart is its blend of nature and magic. Amelia’s bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, is tender and fierce, a reminder of the compassion for the natural world that runs through her story. Her best friend Veyla brings warmth and humor, with an investigative streak that’ll appeal to any Ravenclaw, while her father, William Moon, offers a grounding, protective love as a Wyoming Forest Ranger. Themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength weave through Amelia’s journey, balanced by a mystical-scientific lens that makes the magic feel both ancient and accessible. For me, this series captures that Hogwarts-like sense of belonging, wrapped in a fresh, earthy enchantment. If you’re craving a new magical escape that speaks to both your heart and your wonder, Amelia’s story is one to watch for.

Where to Find More Magical Escapes: Resources

If my top 10 list has you itching for more, there are plenty of ways to keep chasing that Harry Potter magic. Goodreads has fantastic lists under “Books Like Harry Potter” where fellow readers share their faves—perfect for uncovering hidden gems. BookTube channels are another goldmine; creators often dive deep into magical boarding school recs with spoiler-free passion. Libraries, too, are your friend—ask a librarian for young adult fantasy or epic fantasy series, and they’ll likely point you to modern magical classics. And of course, keep an eye on upcoming releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow through author websites or newsletters. The wizarding world is vast, and there’s always another enchanted story waiting to feel like home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book series for someone who misses the Hogwarts vibe?
A: Oh, fellow Hogwarts dreamer, I feel you! I’d start with A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik for that magical school intensity—the Scholomance is deadly but so immersive. If you want something fresher with a nature twist, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Bear Lodge Mountain has that hidden-world charm, and Amelia’s journey feels like coming home.

Q: Are there any Harry Potter read-alikes for adult readers?
A: Absolutely! The Magicians by Lev Grossman is often called Harry Potter for grown-ups, with a darker, more cynical take on magical academia. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo also fits, blending occult mystery with mature themes at Yale. Both hit that nostalgic spot while tackling heavier topics.

Q: I love the chosen one trope—any recommendations?
A: You’re speaking my language! The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss has Kvothe, a destined hero with a tragic edge, and Carry On by Rainbow Rowell gives a playful twist with Simon Snow. Don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow either—Amelia’s destiny feels so personal and tied to nature, it’s a fresh spin on the trope.

Q: Why do so many fantasy series have magical schools?
A: I think it’s because schools are such a universal experience—throw in magic, and you’ve got instant wonder! They’re perfect for coming-of-age stories, rivalries, and secrets, just like Hogwarts. We crave that structure mixed with chaos, a place to belong while discovering who we are.

Q: Are there modern series that balance nostalgia and new ideas?
A: Definitely! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a standout for me—it’s got that nostalgic magical-world feel but with a unique focus on nature and science through Amelia’s astrophotography. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake also mixes familiar fantasy vibes with a darker, psychological edge.

Q: What if I don’t like dark or gritty fantasy?
A: No worries—I’ve got you covered with Carry On by Rainbow Rowell. It’s lighter, full of humor and heart, with a magical school that feels like a warm hug. It’s got all the Harry Potter charm without the heavy darkness.

Q: How do I find more books like these?
A: Start with Goodreads lists for “Harry Potter read-alikes” or browse your local library’s fantasy section—librarians are basically real-life Ravenclaws. Follow BookTube for passionate recs, and keep an eye on new releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for fresh magic to fall in love with!