Stepping into a new magical world is exhilarating, but figuring out where to start can be daunting. From sprawling epic fantasies to intimate urban adventures, the correct reading order is crucial to experiencing the story as the author intended. A wrong turn can lead to major spoilers or a confusing narrative journey, diminishing the impact of carefully crafted plot twists and character development.
This guide provides the definitive witch and wizard book order for eight of the most compelling series available today. We'll break down publication order versus chronological order, highlight key companion books, and offer tailored recommendations for both first-time readers and seasoned fans. Whether you're revisiting an old favorite or discovering your next magical obsession, this list ensures your reading path is perfectly charted.
For those who wish to explore the practical application of magic beyond the narratives of these series, you might also enjoy to delve into a Warlock's Grimoire to understand the mechanics behind the spells. Our goal is to equip you with a clear roadmap, so you can focus less on logistics and more on the magic. We ensure you get the most out of each universe without the frustration of accidental spoilers.
1. Harry Potter Series
No discussion about the ideal witch and wizard book order would be complete without starting with the series that redefined the genre for a new generation. The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is the quintessential modern wizarding saga, following the life of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he discovers his magical heritage and battles the forces of evil. The narrative spans seven books, perfectly chronicling his seven years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The series' chronological order is identical to its publication order, making it an incredibly straightforward and rewarding reading experience. This linear progression allows readers to grow alongside the characters, experiencing their triumphs, challenges, and the increasing darkness of the magical world in real-time. This simple, unbroken timeline is a key reason for its massive global success, with over 500 million copies sold and eight blockbuster film adaptations.
Reading Path and Key Tips
For anyone diving into this universe, the path is clear: start with book one, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (or Sorcerer's Stone in the US). This foundation is crucial for understanding the intricate world-building and character arcs that follow.
Start at the Beginning: Regardless of your age, do not skip the earlier books. They establish essential lore and character relationships that are vital for the later, more complex novels.
Pace Yourself: The themes mature significantly throughout the series. Allowing some time between books can help you fully appreciate the shifting tones and deepening plotlines.
Explore Audiobooks: The audiobook versions narrated by Jim Dale (US) or Stephen Fry (UK) offer a magical and immersive way to experience the story.
This series sets the standard for epic magical adventures. To explore the companion books and spin-offs like Fantastic Beasts, check out our comprehensive guide to the Harry Potter series reading order.
2. A Discovery of Witches Trilogy
For readers seeking a more adult-oriented magical experience, the All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness offers a sophisticated blend of fantasy, history, and romance. The series begins with A Discovery of Witches and introduces Diana Bishop, a reluctant witch and scholar who discovers a bewitched manuscript in Oxford's Bodleian Library. This discovery propels her into a dangerous world of daemons, vampires, and other witches, forcing her to embrace the magical heritage she has long denied.
The series' reading order is refreshingly direct, following the publication order of the three main books. This linear path allows the intricate plot, which involves a forbidden romance with the enigmatic vampire Matthew Clairmont and a journey through time, to unfold with perfect pacing. The trilogy became a massive bestseller and was adapted into a popular television series, cementing its place as a cornerstone of modern adult fantasy. Its appeal lies in its rich historical detail and complex supernatural society.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The journey into the All Souls world should always begin with the first novel, A Discovery of Witches. This book lays the groundwork for the complex relationships and the ancient magical conflict at the heart of the story. Following the trilogy in order is essential to appreciate the full scope of Diana's evolution and the world's deep lore.
Follow Publication Order: Read A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, and then The Book of Life. The narrative is intricately connected, and this order ensures proper character and plot development.
Embrace the History: The second book, Shadow of Night, is set in Elizabethan England. Keeping a few historical references handy can enrich the experience and bring the vibrant setting to life.
Watch the Adaptation After: The television series is a fantastic companion, but it is best enjoyed after reading the books to avoid spoilers and to compare the on-screen interpretation with the source material.
This trilogy is a must-read for anyone looking for a mature and intelligent entry in the witch and wizard book order. To find other compelling series, explore our guide on how to read books in series order.
3. The Invisible Library Series
Blending high-stakes espionage with portal fantasy, The Invisible Library series by Genevieve Cogman offers a unique take on the witch and wizard book order. The story follows Irene, a junior Librarian who works for a mysterious organization that exists outside of time and space. Her job is to travel to alternate realities, retrieve unique books, and maintain the balance of order and chaos across the multiverse.
The series is best enjoyed by following the publication order, as each book builds upon the last, deepening the complex lore of the Library, the Fae, and the Dragons. Irene's adventures escalate with each installment, introducing new allies and enemies while unraveling the secrets of her own organization. This linear path ensures readers fully grasp the evolving character dynamics and the intricate rules that govern each alternate world Irene visits. Its continued popularity, with Option 43 published in 2024, highlights its compelling and ever-expanding narrative.
Reading Path and Key Tips
To fully appreciate the web of intrigue and adventure, readers should begin their journey with the first book, The Invisible Library. This novel establishes the core concepts and introduces the key players, setting the stage for the dimension-hopping quests that define the series.
Follow Publication Order: Start with The Invisible Library, then proceed to The Masked City, The Burning Page, and so on. Jumping ahead will lead to significant spoilers and confusion about the overarching plot.
Keep Notes on Worlds: Each alternate reality has its own level of magic and technology. Jotting down brief notes about the rules of key worlds can help you keep track as the universe expands.
Embrace the Literary Nods: The series is filled with references to classic literature and genre fiction. Readers who enjoy these clever winks will find an extra layer of enjoyment.
This series is a perfect fit for those who love intricate world-building and spy-thriller pacing. For more series that masterfully blend magic with modern settings, explore our guide to the best urban fantasy series.
4. The Cruel Prince Series
Diving into the treacherous world of Fae politics, Holly Black's The Cruel Prince series offers a darker, more cunning take on magical realms. This trilogy is a cornerstone of modern young adult fantasy, following Jude Duarte, a mortal girl raised in the High Court of Faerie. Surrounded by powerful and often cruel magical beings, she must use her wits and ambition to survive and claim her own power.
Often compared to the works of Sarah J. Maas for its intricate world-building and strong female protagonist, this series has captivated a massive social media following and is even in development for a Hollywood adaptation. The reading order is perfectly aligned with the publication order, creating a seamless and tense narrative arc that builds with each installment. This straightforward progression is ideal for readers who want a witch and wizard book order that focuses on political intrigue as much as magic.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The journey into Elfhame is best experienced chronologically, starting with the book that introduces Jude's perilous life, The Cruel Prince. This initial volume lays the groundwork for the complex relationships and political machinations that define the entire trilogy.
Start with the Short Story: For extra context, read the short story "The Jealousy of Gadflies" before starting the main trilogy. It provides valuable background on key characters.
Focus on Politics: Unlike traditional magic-school narratives, the plot here hinges on alliances, betrayals, and courtly schemes. Pay close attention to these details, as they are crucial.
Finish the Trilogy First: It's best to read all three core books (The Cruel Prince, The Wicked King, and The Queen of Nothing) before exploring adjacent stories set in the same universe to avoid spoilers.
Join the Community: The series has a vibrant fan base online. Joining fan communities on platforms like Goodreads or Reddit can greatly enhance the reading experience through shared theories and discussions.
5. The Poppy War Trilogy
Shifting from traditional Western wizardry, this entry in our witch and wizard book order explores a darker, more visceral form of magic. The Poppy War trilogy by R.F. Kuang is a grimdark military fantasy inspired by 20th-century Chinese history. It follows Rin, a war orphan who aces a national exam and enters a prestigious military academy, only to discover she possesses a deadly connection to the gods.
This series is a masterclass in linear storytelling, where each book builds directly and intensely upon the last. The chronological order matches the publication order, creating a relentless and escalating narrative of power, war, and sacrifice. Its unflinching look at the costs of magic and conflict has earned it widespread acclaim, including Hugo and Locus Award nominations, and a dedicated fanbase.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The trilogy must be read in its intended sequence, beginning with The Poppy War, to fully grasp Rin's harrowing journey and the devastating stakes of her world. The narrative's impact relies on this strict progression.
Heed Content Warnings: This is a dark fantasy series for mature readers. It contains graphic depictions of warfare, genocide, sexual violence, and drug use. Please be prepared for its intensity.
Strict Order is Essential: Start with The Poppy War, followed by The Dragon Republic, and conclude with The Burning God. There is no other way to experience this story correctly.
Take Breaks: The emotional weight of these books is significant. Don't be afraid to step away between novels to process the events before diving back into Rin's brutal world.
This series offers a powerful, challenging, and unforgettable take on magic rooted in shamanism and divine power. Discover more about this and other compelling series with our guide to witch and wizard books in order.
6. The Witchwood Crown Series
For readers who crave sprawling epic fantasy with deep lore and political intrigue, The Witchwood Crown series by Tad Williams is a monumental entry in the witch and wizard book order. This series marks a long-awaited return to the world of Osten Ard, decades after the events of his classic Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy. It follows a new generation of heroes and villains as ancient threats re-emerge, weaving a complex narrative through multiple character perspectives.
While part of a larger universe, The Last King of Osten Ard (the series' official name) is designed to be accessible to new readers. The reading order is straightforward, following the publication sequence and allowing the epic story to unfold as the author intended. This modern continuation, published by DAW Books, has been celebrated by epic fantasy fans for its masterful world-building and intricate character development, proving Tad Williams' enduring talent.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The best way to experience this grand tale is to read the books in their publication order, starting with The Witchwood Crown. This provides a direct entry into the current conflicts of Osten Ard without requiring prior knowledge of the original trilogy.
No Prequel Reading Required: Do not feel pressured to read the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn series first. While it enhances the experience, The Witchwood Crown stands firmly on its own.
Keep the Character List Handy: The books include a helpful list of characters. Given the large cast and multiple points of view, keeping this nearby is a great way to track the complex relationships and allegiances.
Embrace the Audiobooks: The audiobook version, narrated by Andrew Wincott, is a fantastic way to navigate the dense prose and intricate plot, bringing the world and its many characters to life.
This series is a perfect example of a modern epic fantasy that builds upon a classic foundation. To see how it connects to the original saga, explore our full guide to the Tad Williams books in order.
7. The Inheritance Trilogy
For readers seeking a more complex and adult-oriented witch and wizard book order, N.K. Jemisin's The Inheritance Trilogy offers a breathtakingly original and mature exploration of power, gods, and mortals. This series is celebrated for its intricate world-building, which draws inspiration from diverse African and Asian mythologies rather than traditional Western fantasy tropes. Each book stands as a testament to Jemisin's skill, earning her a Hugo Award for every installment and cementing her status as a titan of modern fantasy.
While labeled a trilogy, the series functions more like a collection of interconnected standalones set within the same universe. Each novel focuses on a different protagonist and a different era, weaving a larger tapestry of divine conflict and human consequence. This unique structure allows readers to experience the world from multiple perspectives, making the publication order the most logical and impactful reading path. The series is a landmark in diverse fantasy, paving the way for many non-Eurocentric magical worlds that followed.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The journey through this god-haunted world is best experienced by following the order in which the books were released, starting with The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms. This book masterfully establishes the core mythology and the divine power dynamics that ripple through the subsequent novels.
Follow Publication Order: Begin with The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, then The Broken Kingdoms, and finish with The Kingdom of Gods. This order preserves the intended reveals and thematic progression.
Embrace Tone Shifts: Each book has a distinct tone and narrative voice. Be prepared to adjust as you move from one protagonist to the next, as this is a deliberate and rewarding part of the experience.
Focus on the Mythology: Jemisin's world is built on a deep and complex mythological system. Paying close attention to the stories of the gods is crucial to understanding the overarching plot.
This trilogy is an excellent choice for readers who appreciate nuanced characters and a departure from conventional wizarding tales. For more series that challenge fantasy norms, explore the full N.K. Jemisin book order for a complete look at her groundbreaking work.
8. The Winnowing Flame Trilogy
For readers seeking a more unconventional and epic scale in their witch and wizard book order, The Winnowing Flame Trilogy by Jen Williams offers a breathtaking experience. This series introduces the Fell-Witches, powerful magic users who bond with immense, mythical war-beasts. The story unfolds in a world where ancient gods are reawakening, threatening to consume everything, and follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate this apocalyptic landscape.
Acclaimed by fantasy critics and nominated for several awards, this trilogy is a masterclass in modern epic fantasy. The reading order is identical to the publication order, a crucial point as each book builds directly upon the last, escalating the stakes and unraveling deep-seated mysteries. Following this path is the only way to fully appreciate the intricate plot and the profound development of its central characters, including the cynical explorer, Vintage, and the last of the Fell-Witches, Tormalin.
Reading Path and Key Tips
The narrative journey is a linear progression through three core novels, starting with The Ninth Rain. This book lays the groundwork for the epic conflict and introduces the unique magic system and its complex history.
Strict Publication Order: Begin with The Ninth Rain, followed by The Bitterwood Bible, and conclude with The Poison Song. The series' reveals and character arcs are designed to be experienced sequentially.
Embrace the World-Building: The first book establishes a rich and complex world. Persist through the initial setup, as the payoff in the later books is immense and rewarding.
Track the Timelines: The story incorporates historical lore and ancient events. Paying close attention to these references will deepen your understanding of the current threat and the motivations of the characters.
Note the Character Arcs: With multiple points of view, consider keeping a simple relationship map to track the evolving connections between the main protagonists.
This trilogy is a perfect choice for readers who love creature-bonding magic, sprawling worlds, and character-driven fantasy. To find more series with unique magical systems, explore similar epic fantasy authors on Books In Order.
Reading Order Comparison — 8 Witch & Wizard Series
| Series | Narrative complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter Series | Linear, school-year progression with increasing thematic complexity | 40–50 hrs; long later volumes; moderate sustained attention | Extensive worldbuilding, strong coming‑of‑age arc, broad cultural familiarity | New readers, YA audiences, family or group reads | Accessible entry point, clear reading order, huge cultural reach |
| A Discovery of Witches Trilogy | Adult paranormal romance mixing historical research and magic | 35–45 hrs; slower pacing; historical background helpful | Romantic-driven plot with scholarly/historical magical lore | Adult readers who like romance + history; book clubs | Rich historical detail, sophisticated magic system, TV adaptation |
| The Invisible Library Series | High-concept alternate-world adventures with literary meta‑references | 25–35 hrs; attention to inter-world rules; relatively quick reads | Fast-paced action, literary pleasures, expanding series arc | Book lovers who enjoy meta-literary fantasy and episodic plots | Engaging pacing, book-centered worldbuilding, series variety |
| The Cruel Prince Series | Faerie court politics, morally grey characters, strategic intrigue | 18–24 hrs; close attention to political dynamics; YA maturity level | Dark YA drama, intense character conflict, slow-burn romance | YA and crossover adults who enjoy fae politics and darker tone | Strong protagonist, compelling prose, high emotional stakes |
| The Poppy War Trilogy | Dense military fantasy with shamanic magic and moral complexity | 30–40 hrs; emotionally demanding; contains graphic content (trigger warnings) | Brutal, epic narrative with heavy emotional/ethical impact | Mature readers seeking grimdark, militarized fantasy | Unique non‑Western magic, epic scope, critically acclaimed |
| The Witchwood Crown Series | Multi‑POV epic tied to a larger universe; slow‑building political plot | 40–50 hrs; very lengthy volumes; keep character/location notes | Deep, layered worldbuilding and complex political intrigue | Epic fantasy readers and those open to sprawling continuity | Sophisticated worldbuilding, can be read standalone or within larger saga |
| The Inheritance Trilogy (Wizard World) | Loosely connected standalone novels with non‑linear timelines | 25–30 hrs; attention to mythology; adaptable per book | Diverse cultural themes, thematic depth, variable tones per book | Readers seeking award‑winning, diverse fantasy with standalone entry points | Hugo-winning, each book readable independently, groundbreaking diversity |
| The Winnowing Flame Trilogy | Multiple POVs, complex mythology, creature‑bonding magic | 30–38 hrs; large cast and chronology to track; slow first book | Escalating epic stakes, creature-oriented magic, strong ensemble | Readers who enjoy creature bonds, dark environmental/cosmic themes | Original magic system, compelling cast, improving series momentum |
Your Next Magical Journey Awaits
Navigating the vast and intricate worlds of magic-wielding protagonists has never been easier. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with the definitive reading orders for eight distinct and spellbinding series, from the political turmoil of The Poppy War to the academic enchantments of A Discovery of Witches. Understanding the correct sequence is the first and most crucial step to fully appreciating the intricate plotlines, character development, and immersive world-building that each author has meticulously crafted.
Following the intended witch and wizard book order ensures you experience every twist, revelation, and emotional high point exactly as the creator envisioned. Whether you choose the chronological path for a linear narrative experience or the publication order to witness a series's evolution, you now have the tools to make an informed choice for your reading style.
Key Takeaways for Your Magical Reading Quest
To make the most of your journey through these magical realms, remember these core principles we've explored:
Publication vs. Chronological Order: For first-time readers, publication order is almost always the recommended path. It preserves narrative surprises and lets you grow with the series as its original audience did. Re-readers, however, might find a chronological read offers a fresh perspective on character motivations and historical context.
Don't Skip the Extras: Companion books, novellas, and short story collections are not just optional side quests. They often provide essential lore, flesh out secondary characters, and enrich the main narrative in ways you won't want to miss. Refer back to our lists to see where these vital additions fit into your reading plan.
Embrace the Diversity of Magic: This list demonstrates the incredible breadth of the genre. From the urban fantasy of The Invisible Library to the epic, high-fantasy scale of The Witchwood Crown, there is a magical system and story style to suit every reader's taste.
Ultimately, the goal is to lose yourself in a story without the distraction of wondering if you've missed something important. By using a structured approach to your reading, you unlock the deepest and most rewarding experience possible. The magic isn't just in the spells and sorcery; it's in the carefully constructed journey the author lays out for you, one book at a time. The adventure is set, the path is clear, and your next great read is waiting.
Ready to find the perfect reading order for another series? Visit Books In Order to access thousands of meticulously researched author and series lists. Our database makes it simple to solve the "witch and wizard book order" puzzle for any saga you want to explore next. Books In Order is your ultimate resource for reading it right, every time.
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