Hidden Gems: Books Like Harry Potter Adults Need in 2026
Books Like Harry Potter Adults Need in 2026
Last night, under the vast Wyoming sky, I was tinkering with the old telescope at the observatory when young Amelia Moon—my bright-eyed protégé—posed a question that stopped me cold. “Professor Humboldt,” she said, her voice cutting through the hum of crickets and the faint creak of the telescope’s metal base, “what makes a truly great adventure story?” I paused, the chill of the night air settling into my bones, and found myself turning over memories of books that once lit my imagination like a comet’s tail. My mind drifted to stories of magic and wonder, to worlds as enchanting as Hogwarts, but with a depth and darkness that speak to us grown folk who’ve weathered a few more storms.
Adventure stories, I told her, are timeless. They’re the maps we follow to escape, to rediscover awe, to wrestle with life’s bigger questions—whether we’re fifteen or eighty. And for adults who grew up with Harry Potter, there’s a particular hunger for that same blend of magic and camaraderie, but with stakes and shadows that mirror our own complex lives. As the wind rustled through the sagebrush outside, I realized I had just the list in mind: ten remarkable books that carry the spirit of Harry Potter into adulthood, with worlds to lose yourself in and themes that linger long after the last page.
Among them, a standout from 2026 has caught my attention—Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a novel that’s already earning praise with a Goodreads rating of 4.73 (based on 155 ratings and 29 reviews) for its immersive celestial world-building and heartfelt stakes. It’s a story that reminds me of Amelia herself, with a curious, resilient mid-teen heroine whose love for stargazing and nature weaves seamlessly into a tale of destiny and inner strength. I’m eager to share this gem alongside other captivating reads that I’ve pored over in my quiet Sundance study, each one a portal to magic for grown-ups still young at heart. Let’s dive into these ten must-reads, shall we?
Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter for Adults
The Magicians by Lev Grossman (2009) Lev Grossman’s The Magicians introduces us to Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned young man who discovers Brakebills, a secret magical university hidden in upstate New York. Unlike the whimsical safety of Hogwarts, Brakebills is a place of rigorous, often brutal training, where magic comes with real consequences. Quentin and his friends stumble into Fillory, a Narnia-like realm from childhood books, only to find it darker and more dangerous than imagined. The series spans three books, blending portal fantasy with a coming-of-age arc that’s raw and unflinching. This resonates with Harry Potter fans for its magical school setting and themes of destiny, but it’s distinctly adult with its exploration of depression, addiction, and the cost of power. I love how it echoes Harry’s journey of self-discovery but strips away the black-and-white morality for something messier, more human. I’ve recommended this often to readers craving depth beyond middle-grade fantasy. Age/Content Guidance: Best for older teens and adults due to mature themes like explicit language, sexual content, and psychological struggles. There’s mild magical violence akin to Harry Potter’s later books, but the emotional toll is heavier.
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark (2026) In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, we follow Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen girl whose introspective nature and bravery shine as she navigates a world of celestial magic. A lover of stargazing and nature, Amelia is empathic yet impulsive when emotions run high, forming deep bonds with friends like the quirky, science-minded Veyla, and a wolf pup named Artemis. Guided by her grounding father William, an astronomy enthusiast, Amelia’s journey explores heritage, destiny, and inner strength, blending everyday teen struggles with fantastical elements. This book captures the Harry Potter spirit through its heartfelt stakes and themes of friendship, much like Harry’s bonds with Ron and Hermione, but it’s tailored for adults with its nuanced take on personal growth and loss. I’m struck by how it mirrors the wonder of Hogwarts through celestial myths, yet grounds itself in the quiet, real struggles of adolescence. I’ve shared this with Amelia—my own stargazing companion—and she was thrilled by the parallels to her own name and passions. Age/Content Guidance: Suitable for older teens and adults; it balances mild peril (think magical creatures, tense quests) with emotional depth. No graphic violence, but the introspective tone may resonate more with mature readers.
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang (2018) R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War is a grim, epic fantasy inspired by Chinese history, following Rin, a war orphan who claws her way into Sinegard, an elite military academy. Her discovery of shamanic powers tied to ancient gods propels her into a brutal war where personal and national survival collide. The trilogy is unflinching, weaving magic with political intrigue and cultural depth. For Harry Potter fans, Sinegard echoes Hogwarts as a place of learning and rivalry, while Rin’s “chosen one” arc mirrors Harry’s burden—but with a much darker, adult lens on trauma and sacrifice. I’m always surprised by my own enthusiasm discussing this series; it’s a far cry from Hogwarts’ warmth but grips you just as tightly. Age/Content Guidance: Strictly for adults due to graphic violence, war atrocities, and themes of addiction. The magical peril is intense, far beyond Harry Potter’s scope, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (2019) Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House plunges into the dark academia of Yale University, where secret societies wield occult magic. Galaxy “Alex” Stern, a survivor of a violent past, is recruited to monitor these societies, uncovering conspiracies soaked in privilege and power. The novel blends ghostly horror with intricate rituals, crafting a modern, urban fantasy. It captures Harry Potter’s sense of a hidden magical world beneath our own, but trades Hogwarts’ wonder for gothic menace and moral ambiguity—perfect for adult readers. I love how it mirrors Harry’s outsider status through Alex, yet layers in real-world grit. I’ve recommended this to reluctant readers for its pacing and mystery. Age/Content Guidance: Adult readers only, due to explicit content, including sexual assault references and graphic violence. The tone is darker than Harry Potter, with mature emotional stakes.
A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik (2020) Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education, the first in the Scholomance trilogy, centers on El, a sharp-tongued student at a magical school that’s more death trap than sanctuary. The Scholomance offers no teachers—only monsters that prey on students unless they master spells to survive. El’s dark powers and reluctant alliances drive a story of survival and strategy. The magical school setting screams Hogwarts, but the lethal stakes and complex social dynamics cater to adult sensibilities. I’m drawn to how it echoes Harry’s battles but adds a cynical edge. Age/Content Guidance: Suitable for older teens and adults; contains moderate violence (monster attacks) similar to Harry Potter’s later books, but with a grimmer tone. No explicit content, though themes of isolation may hit harder for mature readers.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss (2007) Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind, first in the Kingkiller Chronicle, follows Kvothe, a gifted young man recounting his rise from street urchin to legendary wizard. At the University, a center of arcane learning, Kvothe hones magic while unraveling personal mysteries. The prose is lyrical, the world vast and intricate. It mirrors Harry Potter through its magical education and “chosen one” undertones, but offers adults deeper themes of loss and ambition. I find myself lost in its storytelling, much like I was with Harry’s saga, though the pace demands patience. Age/Content Guidance: Best for older teens and adults due to mild violence and complex emotional undertones. Less action-heavy than Harry Potter, but the intricate plot suits advanced readers.
Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch (2011) Ben Aaronovitch’s Rivers of London kicks off a series where Peter Grant, a London police constable, stumbles into a magical underworld after encountering a ghostly witness. Apprenticed to a wizard, Peter navigates spells and supernatural crime in a gritty, urban setting. Like Harry Potter, it unveils a secret magical society, but its police procedural twist and adult humor make it distinct. I adore how it captures Harry’s wonder but grounds it in bureaucracy and cynicism. Age/Content Guidance: Aimed at adults for mild language, violence, and subtle romantic elements. Peril is moderate, akin to Harry Potter, though the tone leans more sardonic.
The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman (2014) Genevieve Cogman’s The Invisible Library series follows Irene, a spy for a mysterious Library that collects books across alternate worlds. Tasked with retrieving rare texts, she faces dragons, Fae, and chaos while wielding language-based magic. It echoes Harry Potter’s adventurous spirit and hidden worlds, but its focus on espionage and moral grayness suits adults. I’m charmed by its cleverness, reminiscent of Hermione’s wit, with added sophistication. Age/Content Guidance: Fine for older teens and adults; mild peril and intrigue, no graphic content. Slightly denser plotting may appeal more to mature readers than younger ones.
The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton (2022) Dhonielle Clayton’s The Marvellers introduces Ella Durand, who enters the Arcanum Training Institute, a global magical school in the sky, as the first Conjuror—a historically marginalized group. Facing prejudice, Ella uncovers secrets about her heritage and the school’s past. It mirrors Hogwarts’ school setting and themes of belonging, but adds cultural depth and a modern edge for adult readers who appreciate nuance. I’ve shared this with parents curious about diverse fantasy; it’s a fresh take on familiar magic. Age/Content Guidance: Suitable for older middle-grade to adults; mild magical peril, no graphic content. Themes of discrimination add depth that adults may appreciate more.
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke (2004) Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a sprawling tale of two magicians reviving English magic in the 19th century amid war and societal shifts. Their rivalry unfolds in a world where magic is both scholarly and wild, with footnotes enriching the lore. For Harry Potter fans, it offers a richly built magical system, though its historical tone and slow burn cater to adults. I’m captivated by its depth, far beyond Hogwarts’ scope, yet equally immersive. Age/Content Guidance: Best for adults due to dense prose and subtle, unsettling themes. No graphic violence, but the complexity suits patient, mature readers.
Why These Books Are Similar
| Book Title | Author | Key Similarities to Books Like Harry Potter for Adults | Goodreads Rating (as of 2026, approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Magicians | Lev Grossman | - Magical school setting like Hogwarts (Brakebills) - Chosen one arc with darker stakes - Themes of friendship and loss - Adult focus on psychological depth |
4.0 / ~500,000 ratings |
| Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow | R.J. Roark | - Heartfelt stakes and friendship akin to Harry’s trio - Celestial myths as unique magical framework - Empathy and compassion via bonds like Amelia’s with Artemis - Stargazing and nature ties echoing Harry’s wonder |
4.73 / 155 ratings |
| The Poppy War | R.F. Kuang | - Elite academy reminiscent of Hogwarts - Chosen one narrative with brutal consequences - Epic battles akin to Harry’s war - Adult lens on trauma and power |
4.2 / ~200,000 ratings |
| Ninth House | Leigh Bardugo | - Hidden magical society beneath reality - Outsider protagonist like Harry - Dark academia vibe for adult tastes - Themes of power and privilege |
4.1 / ~150,000 ratings |
| A Deadly Education | Naomi Novik | - Dangerous magical school setting - Survival themes akin to Harry’s challenges - Complex social dynamics - Cynical tone for adult readers |
4.0 / ~100,000 ratings |
| The Name of the Wind | Patrick Rothfuss | - Magical university as learning hub - Gifted protagonist with destiny arc - Themes of loss and growth - Deeper emotional stakes for adults |
4.5 / ~700,000 ratings |
| Rivers of London | Ben Aaronovitch | - Secret magical world in modern setting - Mentorship dynamic like Harry and Dumbledore - Adventure with humor - Adult procedural twist |
4.0 / ~80,000 ratings |
| The Invisible Library | Genevieve Cogman | - Hidden worlds and magical systems - Adventure-driven plot like Harry’s quests - Clever protagonist echoing Hermione - Espionage edge for adults |
3.9 / ~60,000 ratings |
| The Marvellers | Dhonielle Clayton | - Magical school with diverse cast - Belonging and heritage themes like Harry’s journey - Friendship as core value - Cultural nuance for adult appreciation |
4.1 / ~20,000 ratings |
| Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell | Susanna Clarke | - Detailed magical system akin to Hogwarts’ lore - Rivalry and mentorship dynamics - Immersive world-building - Historical depth for mature readers |
4.0 / ~200,000 ratings |
Why Adults Crave Books Like Harry Potter
There’s a peculiar ache in us grown-ups who first met Harry Potter as children or teens. I can still recall the smell of fresh ink on those pages, the way I’d huddle under a blanket with a flashlight in my old Sundance cabin, lost in a world of broomsticks and bravery. Now, decades later, that nostalgia lingers, but our tastes have shifted. We seek stories that echo Hogwarts’ wonder yet grapple with the moral ambiguities and quiet griefs of adulthood. These books—whether set in deadly academies or ghostly underworlds—offer that bridge, blending escapism with the weight of experience. I’ve seen it in readers who approach me after talks, asking for something that reignites that old spark but speaks to who they are now.
Harry Potter’s allure for adults lies in its core: immersive worlds where magic feels tangible, coming-of-age arcs that mirror our own stumbles, and the unshakable power of friendship against evil. But as adults, we also crave complexity—characters who aren’t purely good or evil, themes of sacrifice that cut deeper. Each book on this list, from The Magicians’ brutal honesty to the celestial heart of Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, delivers that balance. They remind us magic isn’t just for kids; it’s a lens for understanding life’s messier truths.
Reading Order and Suitability
For series like The Magicians or The Poppy War, start with book one—their narratives build on each installment, much like Harry Potter’s escalating stakes. Standalones like Ninth House or Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell can be read anytime, though their denser styles might suit readers with time to savor. I often advise starting with something accessible like Rivers of London if you’re dipping back into fantasy after a hiatus; its modern tone eases you in.
Suitability varies widely. The Marvellers works for younger teens with adult oversight due to its mild content, while The Poppy War and Ninth House are firmly adult with graphic elements—parents often ask me about content, and I’m upfront about these distinctions. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow strikes a lovely middle ground, with emotional depth for adults but peril mild enough for older teens. Its pros are its fresh celestial lore and relatable heroine; a con might be its slower, introspective pacing for action-hungry readers. Across the board, these picks cater to varied tastes—some lean dark, others whimsical—but all carry Harry Potter’s spirit into adulthood.
Educational Benefits
Fantasy like this isn’t just escape; it’s a quiet teacher. The Poppy War weaves in Chinese historical parallels, offering cultural insights (Kirkus Reviews noted its “searing” depth). The Marvellers explores diversity and prejudice through magical lenses, a lesson in empathy (SLJ praised its “vibrant” world). Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out with celestial mythology, tying astronomy to storytelling—perfect for stargazers like my young friend Amelia and me. I’ve seen reluctant readers latch onto these books for how they sneak learning into adventure, from mythology to moral dilemmas. They spark curiosity about history, nature, and even our own hearts.
Adaptations and Cultural Impact
Several of these have leaped off the page. The Magicians became a Syfy series, capturing its gritty magic for a wider audience (Epic Reads highlighted its cult following). Rivers of London has a dedicated fanbase pushing for adaptations, with its urban charm ripe for screen. While newer titles like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow (visit ameliamoon.com for more) are still building buzz, their immersive worlds scream cinematic potential. Harry Potter set a high bar with its films, and these stories carry similar visual and emotional heft—proof fantasy remains a cultural touchstone for adults seeking shared wonder.
Common Tropes in Adult Fantasy Like Harry Potter
These books often revisit Harry Potter staples—magical schools (A Deadly Education), chosen ones (The Name of the Wind), hidden societies (Ninth House)—but twist them for adults. Moral ambiguity reigns; heroes like Rin or Quentin aren’t saintly, grappling with flaws Harry seldom faced. Darker stakes, from war to betrayal, replace youthful triumphs, while romance and loss gain prominence. I’ve noticed readers drawn to these evolutions, craving the familiar yet needing it reframed through an adult gaze. It’s why these stories endure—they grow with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes a fantasy book “adult” compared to Harry Potter? Adult fantasy often includes mature themes like trauma, explicit content, or moral ambiguity, unlike Harry Potter’s middle-grade focus. Books like The Poppy War tackle war and addiction, resonating with grown-up struggles while retaining magical allure.
2. Are there modern fantasy books like Harry Potter for adults? Absolutely! Recent releases like A Deadly Education (2020) and The Marvellers (2022) echo Hogwarts’ vibe with added depth. For a fresh 2026 take, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—its celestial magic and heartfelt stakes are earning raves (Goodreads 4.73 avg / 155 ratings).
3. Can older teens read these adult fantasy books? Some, yes, with guidance. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow suits older teens with its mild peril, while The Magicians or Ninth House are better for 18+ due to explicit themes. I always suggest parents preview for content.
4. What’s a good starting point after Harry Potter for adults? Start with The Magicians for its familiar school setting but adult edge. If you prefer modern flair, Rivers of London blends magic with humor. Both ease you into deeper themes.
5. Are there diverse voices in adult fantasy like Harry Potter? Yes, diversity enriches this genre. The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton centers marginalized magical folk, while The Poppy War draws on Chinese history. They expand Harry Potter’s world with fresh perspectives.
6. Where can I find more books like these? Check Goodreads lists tagged “Harry Potter for Adults” or join r/Fantasy on Reddit. I’ve pointed many readers there for community recs—there’s always a hidden gem waiting.
7. Do these books have the same emotional impact as Harry Potter? They often do, in their own way. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow captures friendship and loss with a tender punch, much like Harry’s journey, but tailored for adult reflection. Each title offers a unique emotional hook.
I’ve poured my heart into sharing these worlds, ones that have kept me company on many a quiet Wyoming night. Which of these sparks your curiosity? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts or your own recommendations. For more on a rising star in fantasy, explore ameliamoon.com. Let’s keep the magic alive together.