Books Like...
"The Magicians" by Lev Grossman is a novel that has been compared to Harry Potter for adults, blending elements of magic, fantasy worlds, and coming-of-age themes. The story follows Quentin, an anxious and unhappy genius who discovers the existence of magic and is invited to a wizard school. However, as Quentin navigates through this world, he faces challenges, makes questionable decisions, and struggles with issues of self-identity and maturity. The book has been praised for its unique take on the magic school genre, incorporating elements of darkness, angst, and flawed characters reminiscent of those in "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt.
If you liked The Magicians, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.
By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it. Spring had come on grudgingly; pale blue mornings failed to deepen, turning instead to moist, sullen af... - #2
A Deadly Education follows the story of El, a loner student at the Scholomance, a magical school where students must survive deadly creatures and classmates without any help from teachers or guardians. The protagonist, El, navigates the treacherous environment while forming alliances to increase her chances of survival. The book is narrated in a first-person, stream-of-consciousness style, providing insights into the dark magic world, classmates, and rules of the school.
I DECIDED that Orion needed to die after the second time he saved my life. I hadn’t really cared much about him before then one way or another, but I had limits. It would’ve been all right if he’d sav... - #3
"Midnight Riot" in the series "Rivers of London" by Ben Aaronovitch follows the story of Peter Grant, a police constable in London, who unexpectedly becomes an apprentice wizard after encountering a ghost at a crime scene. Grant's new role leads him to work on solving supernatural crimes with Chief Inspector Nightingale, blending magic and modern police work in a parallel London where magic is real but hidden from most people. offers a mix of contemporary London life, magical elements, and a touch of humor, creating an engaging and unique urban fantasy setting.
IT STARTED at one thirty on a cold Tuesday morning in January when Martin Turner, street performer and, in his own words, apprentice gigolo, tripped over a body in front of the West Portico of St. Pau... - #4
'Every Heart a Doorway' by Seanan McGuire is a fantasy novella set at Eleanor West's Home for Wayward Children, where children who have visited fantasy worlds and returned to the real world gather. The story follows Nancy and other misfit children as they navigate the challenges of adjusting to reality after experiencing magical realms. The writing style is described as beautiful, lyrical, and seamlessly weaving world-building and character development to explore themes of self-acceptance, fitting in, and longing for a place to call home.
THE HABIT OF NARRATION, of crafting something miraculous out of the commonplace, was hard to break. Narration came naturally after a time spent in the company of talking scarecrows or disappearing cat... - #5
'Vita Nostra' by Marina Dyachenko is a unique and surreal tale that follows the journey of Sasha Samokhina, a young girl who is coerced into attending a mysterious and unsettling school where she undergoes a transformation unlike anything seen before. The narrative is described as strange, engaging, and thought-provoking, blending elements of magical realism and metaphysical exploration. The plot defies traditional storytelling, focusing on the protagonist's growth and transformation in a school that challenges the boundaries of reality and human existence.
The writing style of 'Vita Nostra' is often praised for its beauty, complexity, and philosophical depth. Readers are drawn into a world where the boundaries between magic and science blur, and where characters undergo profound changes that challenge their understanding of themselves and the world around them. The book is noted for its slow pace that paradoxically keeps readers engaged, leading them through a narrative that is both compelling and enigmatic.
The prices—oh, the prices were simply ludicrous! In the end, Mom rented a tiny room in a five-story building twenty minutes from the shore, with windows facing west. The other room in the one-bedroom ... - #6
"The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Kvothe, a young prodigy who becomes a famous minstrel, wizard, swordsman, and hero. The book features a dual narrative structure, with Kvothe recounting his past while living as an older man. The world-building is extensive and immersive, drawing readers into a vast and fantastical universe filled with mysterious spirits and powerful characters. The writing style is engaging and descriptive, capturing the reader's attention with lyrical prose and intricate details.
The plot of the book revolves around Kvothe's quest to uncover the truth behind his parents' murder and his journey to master the power of naming. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through Kvothe's life, filled with challenges, adventures, and moments of self-discovery. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of magic, travel, death, and storytelling, creating a compelling and intricate narrative that keeps readers captivated from beginning to end.
Old Cob was filling his role as storyteller and advice dispensary. The men at the bar sipped their drinks and listened. In the back room a young innkeeper stood out of sight behind the door, smiling a... - #7
'Storm Front' in 'The Dresden Files' series by Jim Butcher follows the protagonist Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator in Chicago. The story combines elements of noir detective mystery with urban fantasy, as Harry navigates through supernatural events while solving crimes and facing challenges from both human and magical worlds. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and humorous, with a blend of classic detective storytelling and paranormal elements that keep readers entertained.
I heard the mailman approach my office door, half an hour earlier than usual. He didn’t sound right. His footsteps fell more heavily, jauntily, and he whistled. A new guy. He whistled his way to my of... - #8
'Magic for Liars' by Sarah Gailey is a murder mystery novel set in a school for mages, where the protagonist, Ivy Gamble, a non-magical private investigator, is called to solve a murder that has occurred at the school where her magical twin sister teaches. The story explores themes of jealousy, family dynamics, and self-discovery as Ivy navigates through the magical world to uncover the truth behind the murder. Gailey's writing style combines elements of mystery, fantasy, and character-driven narrative to create a unique and engaging story that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships within a magical setting.
The book is praised for its originality, well-written character development, and unexpected plot twists that keep the readers engaged. Gailey's storytelling weaves together elements of magic, mystery, and family dynamics, offering a fresh perspective on the high school for wizards trope. The narrative challenges traditional magical school tropes by focusing on realistic teenage behavior and social structures, making the magical world feel more relatable and authentic to readers.
IT MIGHT TAKE A LITTLE while to get there, but I’ll tell you everything, and I’ll tell you the truth. As best I can. I used to lie, but when I tell you the story, you’ll understand why I had to lie. Y... - #9
In "Neverwhere" by Neil Gaiman, readers are taken on a fantastical journey through the parallel worlds of London Above and London Below. The protagonist, Richard Mayhew, finds himself invisible to the people of London Above after helping a woman named Door, leading him to navigate the dangers and mysteries of London Below. The book is described as a dark fantasy filled with creepy and atmospheric elements, featuring a cast of eccentric characters and a captivating storyline that delves into power struggles and hidden realms beneath the surface of the familiar city.
SHE HAD BEEN RUNNING for four days now, a harum-scarum tumbling flight through passages and tunnels. She was hungry, and exhausted, and more tired than a body could stand, and each successive door was... - #10
'A Darker Shade of Magic' by V.E. Schwab follows Kell, a magician who can travel between four parallel worlds - White London, Red London, Grey London, and Black London. The story revolves around Kell's journey to return a forbidden talisman, installed with dangerous magic, to Black London. Along the way, he is aided by Delilah Bard, a thief from Grey London, as they navigate through different Londons with varying levels of magic and power struggles. The plot is fast-paced, filled with action, adventure, and plot twists, making it an engaging read for fans of urban fantasy and epic fantasy genres.
The first thing he did whenever he stepped out of one London and into another was take off the coat and turn it inside out once or twice (or even three times) until he found the side he needed. Not al...