If you're a Harry Potter fan, you undoubtedly understand how it feels to end the books and then look for anything new that will enthral you just as much. It can be difficult to find novels that can match the whimsy, adventure, and enchantment of J.K. Rowling's masterwork, but don't worry, dear reader! Eight titles that are equally gripping as Harry Potter have been uncovered by my extensive search in the literary world. Therefore, take your wand and get ready to investigate these magical possibilities!

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Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan

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The series follows the adventures of its titular hero, Percy Jackson, a schoolboy and unsuspecting demigod who learns he is the son of Poseidon and must save the world from the wrath of the Greek gods. The fast-paced action, lovable characters, and Greek mythology references will make you feel like you're back in the wizarding world. The story has a lot of similarities with Harry Potter, as both protagonists are teenagers and are thrust into a world that they never knew existed. Percy is also a character with a lot of wit, heart and bravery, making him easy to root for. Being told from Percy's point of view, the humor in the books is top-notch as well, and the action sequences are gripping, keeping you turning pages until the very end.
 

The Magicians by Lev Grossman

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In this book, Quentin Coldwater enrolls at Brakebills, a covert school for magic. 

Although the novel is darker than Harry Potter and more directed at older audiences, it still has magical creatures, spells, and endearing people. Due to its magical components and themes of coming of age and selfdiscovery, The Magicians has been likened to Harry Potter many times. The plot is more complex, and the characters struggle with more serious problems like despair and addiction. You'll be on the edge of your seat the entire time thanks to its intricate and multilayered narrative, great characters and fascinating magic.

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The Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud

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This trilogy takes place in an alternative London, one where magicians may command spirits to carry out any task they desire. Fans of Harry Potter will love the series because of its comedy and wit. The series' protagonist, Bartimaeus, is a snarky and crafty djinni who brings a lot of humor to the narrative. The books in this trilogy have a strong focus on worldbuilding, with intricate and well-developed magical systems that make the story feel both fantastical and realistic. The characters are also incredibly well-developed, with layers of complexity that make them feel like real people.
 

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

While not a magical story, The Hunger Games is a dystopian tale of survival that, to many, is just as engrossing as Harry Potter. I personally absolutely fell in love with the way Suzanne Collins structured her first novel as well as the nuanced characters and challenging themes. The series follows Katniss Everdeen as she is forced to compete in a brutal fight to the death for the entertainment of the Capitol. Like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games has a strong theme of good versus evil (even though the lines might be more blurred for Katniss than for Harry) and fighting for what's right against oppressive forces. The story is intense and often brutal, but also heartwarming and tender in its portrayal of the bonds between characters like Katniss, Peta and Prim. The fast-paced action and high stakes will keep you glued to the pages.
 

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

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In this book, the protagonist, Jacob learns about a shelter for kids with unusual talents like levitation and invisibility. Vintage photographs are included in the book, which furthers the story's spooky, Gothic ambience and haunting quality. Compared to Harry Potter, the book's magical components are less prominent, but the atmosphere and character development are equally compelling. I promise you that you'll be on the edge of your seat as a result of the storyline twists and the well-developed, relatable characters.

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The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare

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In this series, Clary Fray explores a world filled with warlocks, demons, and shadowhunters. 

The plot of the novels is similar to that of Harry Potter, with Clary as the main character bein exposed to a brand-new magical realm that she was previously unaware of.  With clever dialogue and entertaining banter, the characters are well-developed and hugely recognizable. 

The Mortal Instruments' world-building is sophisticated and extensive, with a wealth of mythology and in-depth descriptions of the shadow realm. 

The romantic subplot has by many been described as both charming and sensual, while the action parts are thrilling and engaging.

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The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini

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The protagonist of this series is a farm kid named Eragon who finds a dragon egg and watches as it hatches to reveal his destiny as a dragon rider. The series places a lot of emphasis on the character growth of its cast members, particularly the dragons, who are thoroughly appealing and likeable. The Coming of Age motif in The Inheritance Cycle is similar to that of Harry Potter, with Eragon developing in strength and ability as he learns to ride a dragon. The plot is full of magic, warfare, and political intrigue, and the world-building is deep and fascinating.

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The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

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A wardrobe in a spare room leads four siblings on an adventure as they learn about a magical realm in this classic series. The Narnia universe is lush and vibrant, and the stories are full of magic, talking animals, and magical creatures. Similar to Harry Potter, readers of all ages like The Chronicles of Narnia, which has a strong focus on the themes of good versus evil and friendship. You'll remain engrossed throughout thanks to the adventure and thrill, as well as the well-developed and likable characters.

 

Conclusion

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There you have it, everyone! These are eight books that are similarly as gripping and enchanting as Harry Potter. These novels will take you to intriguing new realms whether you're seeking adventure, action, or just some plain ol' fashioned magic. So, take a book, choose your favorite place to read, and watch the magic happen!