Diving into a new fantasy series can feel like stepping through a portal—exciting yet disorienting. From the dystopian battles in James Patterson's iconic universe to the dark fae courts of Holly Black, understanding the correct reading path is crucial. This guide provides a definitive roadmap to the most popular witch and wizard series in order, ensuring you never miss a crucial plot twist or character arc.
We'll break down publication order, chronological timelines, and essential companion novels, so you can focus on the magic, not the logistics. The intricate worlds presented in these series are not just about spells and sorcery; they are visual marvels filled with unique aesthetics. For those inspired to delve deeper into the visual aspects of these mystical realms, consider exploring tools for creating enchanting fantasy fairy art.
Whether you're a newcomer to magical fiction or a seasoned fan revisiting old favorites, this curated list will help you chart your next reading adventure with confidence. Get ready to explore worlds where magic is both a gift and a curse, and every page turn brings a new spellbinding discovery. This resource strips away the confusion, presenting each series with a clear, easy-to-follow structure.
1. Witch & Wizard Series by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet - Main Series Order
The foundational story arc of the Witch & Wizard universe unfolds across five core novels. This series introduces siblings Whit and Wisty Allgood, who are abruptly arrested by the oppressive New Order, a regime that has outlawed all forms of creativity, including magic. Torn from their family, they soon discover they possess extraordinary powers as a witch and a wizard, thrusting them into the heart of a rebellion against a dystopian society. Reading the main witch and wizard series in order is essential to grasp the core plot and character development.
This main series, co-authored by Gabrielle Charbonnet, Ned Rust, and Jill Dembowski at different points, provides a complete narrative from the siblings' initial shock and discovery to their rise as leaders of the resistance. Following the publication order ensures you experience the story's twists, character introductions, and world-building as intended by the authors.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the best reading experience, follow the books chronologically as they were released. This path maintains the narrative flow and ensures all plot points connect logically.
Witch & Wizard (2009)
The Gift (2010)
The Fire (2011)
The Kiss (2013)
The Lost (2015)
Starting with the first book is non-negotiable for newcomers, as it establishes the high-stakes world and the central conflict. The series is a perfect entry point for readers who enjoy fast-paced, plot-driven young adult dystopian fiction blended with fantasy. For a comprehensive look at the author's other works, you can explore the complete James Patterson book order for more thrilling series.
2. The Cruel Prince Series by Holly Black - Complete Order
While not a traditional witch and wizard series in order, Holly Black's The Folk of the Air trilogy offers a captivating exploration of faerie magic, political intrigue, and morally complex characters that will appeal to fans of the genre. The story follows Jude Duarte, a mortal girl living in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. After her parents are murdered, she and her sisters are raised among the fey, where Jude must navigate a world of dangerous magic and deadly ambition to secure her place.
This series is celebrated for its intricate world-building and the complex dynamic between Jude and the wicked Prince Cardan. Holly Black's portrayal of Faerie is dark, beautiful, and perilous, making the reading order crucial for understanding the shifting alliances and power plays. The magic here is innate to the fey, a wild and powerful force that Jude must outsmart rather than wield directly. The series is much darker than typical YA fantasy, so readers should be prepared for its mature themes.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
To fully appreciate the escalating tension and character arcs, it is essential to read the core trilogy in its publication order. The companion novellas are best read after completing the main story to avoid spoilers and gain deeper insight into key characters.
The Cruel Prince (2018)
The Wicked King (2019)
The Queen of Nothing (2019)
Companion Novellas (Read After Main Trilogy):
The Lost Sisters (2018)
How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories (2020)
Starting with The Cruel Prince introduces the brutal reality of Faerie and Jude's fierce determination. Pay close attention to minor characters, as many become significant in later books. For those who enjoy Holly Black's immersive fantasy worlds, this series is an unmissable and enthralling journey.
3. A Deadly Education Series by Naomi Novik - Scholomance Order
Naomi Novik offers a darker, more ruthless take on the magical school trope with the Scholomance trilogy. The series follows Galadriel "El" Higgins, a powerful and cynical sorceress trapped in a deadly magical academy where the graduation rate is terrifyingly low. Survival is the only curriculum, and students must form strategic alliances to fight off monstrous creatures called "maleficaria" that are constantly trying to devour them.
Unlike other series where friendship comes easily, El’s journey is defined by her prickly personality and a prophecy that paints her as a future dark queen. The narrative is driven by her desperate attempts to survive without succumbing to her immense, destructive potential. Reading this witch and wizard series in order is crucial, as each book builds directly upon the last, escalating the stakes and intricately developing the world's complex magical system.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
To fully appreciate the escalating tension and character development, the series must be read in its publication order. This path ensures you understand the intricate rules of the Scholomance and the evolution of El's relationships.
A Deadly Education (2020)
The Last Graduate (2021)
The Golden Enclaves (2022)
Starting with the first book is the only way to experience this story. Novik’s world-building is layered and revealed incrementally, and the intense, plot-heavy nature of the trilogy requires a chronological approach. The series is perfect for readers who enjoy morally grey characters, high-stakes fantasy, and a sarcastic narrative voice.
4. His Dark Materials Series by Philip Pullman - Complete Reading Order
While not a traditional tale of spell-casting, Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials is an essential read for fans of mature fantasy and a cornerstone of the genre. The series features powerful witches, armored bears, and soul-bound animal companions called dæmons, all set within a multiverse of stunning originality. It follows the journey of Lyra Belacqua as she uncovers a cosmic conspiracy that challenges the very foundations of authority, religion, and free will.
This epic trilogy is celebrated for its deep philosophical themes and intricate world-building, making it a powerful read for older teens and adults. Following the main trilogy in publication order is crucial to understanding the complex narrative and the evolution of its characters. The series offers a sophisticated take on magic and destiny, making it a compelling entry in any list of foundational fantasy series.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the best reading experience, tackle the core trilogy first, followed by the companion novellas which expand upon the lore. This approach preserves the central mystery while enriching the world.
The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights) (1995)
The Subtle Knife (1997)
The Amber Spyglass (2000)
After completing the trilogy, you can explore companion books like Lyra's Oxford and Once Upon a Time in the North for deeper context. This series is perfect for readers who appreciate dense storytelling and are looking for a thought-provoking alternative to a typical witch and wizard series in order. For more guidance on arranging complex series, you can explore the benefits of a chronological order of books for different narrative experiences.
5. Caster Chronicles Series by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl - Complete Order
Set against a rich Southern Gothic backdrop, the Caster Chronicles introduces readers to the world of Casters (witches and wizards) through the eyes of Ethan Wate. He falls for the mysterious newcomer Lena Duchannes, whose family is cursed. On her sixteenth birthday, Lena will be "Claimed" by either the Light or the Dark, a destiny she cannot escape. This paranormal romance series is as much about fate and love as it is about magic.
Co-authored by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl, this series is a staple for fans who enjoy romance intertwined with powerful magic and family secrets. The story’s deep atmosphere and compelling central relationship have made it a modern classic in the young adult fantasy genre, popular enough to inspire a major film adaptation in 2013. Following this witch and wizard series in order is crucial to fully appreciate the slow burn of its mysteries.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the best experience, the Caster Chronicles should be read in its publication order. This path allows the intricate plot and character relationships to develop naturally, building suspense and emotional weight with each installment.
Beautiful Creatures (2009)
Beautiful Darkness (2010)
Beautiful Chaos (2011)
Beautiful Redemption (2012)
Starting with Beautiful Creatures is essential, as it establishes the core conflict, the world's unique magic system, and the central romance between Ethan and Lena. The series is perfect for readers who love atmospheric storytelling, complex family dynamics, and a plot driven by a powerful love story.
6. The Invisible Library Series by Genevieve Cogman - Complete Reading Order
While not a traditional witch and wizard series in order, Genevieve Cogman's The Invisible Library offers a unique blend of magic, adventure, and interdimensional travel that will captivate fantasy readers. The series follows Irene, a professional Librarian spy who works for a mysterious Library that collects rare books from different realities. Along with her enigmatic assistant Kai, Irene faces magical creatures, cunning villains, and political intrigue, all while trying to maintain the balance between order and chaos.
This series combines elements of portal fantasy, urban fantasy, and mystery, creating a rich and intricate world. The magic system is complex, tied to the power of language and stories, and the world-hopping nature of the plot keeps the narrative fresh and exciting. Reading the series in its publication order is crucial for understanding the evolving character relationships and the overarching mythology of the Library and its adversaries.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the best experience, follow the books in the order they were released. This path allows the intricate plot and deep character backstories to unfold as the author intended.
The Invisible Library (2015)
The Masked City (2015)
The Burning Page (2016)
The Lost Plot (2017)
The Mortal Word (2018)
The Secret Chapter (2019)
The Dark Archive (2020)
The Untold Story (2022)
Starting with the first novel is essential to grasp the core concepts of the Library, the Fae, and the Dragons. This series is perfect for readers who love detailed world-building, clever protagonists, and stories centered around the magic of books and libraries.
7. The Shadowhunters Chronicles by Cassandra Clare - Complete Order
While not exclusively about witches and wizards, Cassandra Clare's The Shadowhunters Chronicles is an essential urban fantasy saga where warlocks and witches play pivotal roles. The universe introduces the Shadowhunters, a secretive race of human-angel hybrids who hunt demons. Alongside them are the Downworlders, a society of supernatural beings including the powerful and immortal warlocks, who are the children of humans and demons. This sprawling, interconnected franchise is a masterclass in world-building, and following the correct reading path is crucial.
The series is composed of multiple sub-series, each set in a different era but all intricately linked. Characters from one series often appear or are referenced in others, creating a rich tapestry of history and relationships. Understanding the complete witch and wizard series in order within this universe enhances the experience, revealing hidden connections and foreshadowing major events across generations of characters.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the most rewarding experience, many fans recommend following the publication order, as this preserves the reveals and character introductions as Clare intended. However, starting with The Mortal Instruments is the most common entry point.
The Mortal Instruments, Part One
City of Bones (2007)
City of Ashes (2008)
City of Glass (2009)
The Infernal Devices (Prequel Trilogy)
Clockwork Angel (2010)
Clockwork Prince (2011)
Clockwork Princess (2013)
The Mortal Instruments, Part Two
City of Fallen Angels (2011)
City of Lost Souls (2012)
City of Heavenly Fire (2014)
This initial reading path provides a solid foundation before diving into newer series like The Dark Artifices, The Last Hours, and The Eldest Curses. The rich lore and complex character dynamics make this a must-read for fans of epic fantasy sagas.
8. The Poppy Z. Brite Exquisite Corpse & Magic Series - Thematic Order
For readers seeking a departure from traditional young adult narratives, Poppy Z. Brite’s interconnected works offer a mature and transgressive exploration of dark fantasy. This collection of standalone novels and stories features witches, vampires, and occult themes set against a backdrop of rich, gothic New Orleans. Unlike a linear series, these books are thematically linked, creating a shared universe of supernatural horror and paranormal romance aimed squarely at an adult audience.
This collection provides a darker, more literary take on the witch and wizard series in order concept, focusing on atmosphere, complex characters, and explicit themes rather than a singular overarching plot. The connections are subtle, with characters crossing over between stories and a consistent, haunting tone that defines the author's unique world. Due to the intense and often graphic content, readers should research content warnings before diving in.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
While there is no strict chronological order, a suggested thematic path can enhance the reading experience. This approach groups books that share characters or settings, allowing the world to unfold in a more cohesive way for new readers.
Lost Souls (1992)
Drawing Blood (1993)
Exquisite Corpse (1996)
Wormwood (1993, a short story collection also known as Swamp Foetus)
Starting with Lost Souls provides a strong introduction to Brite's signature style and the supernatural elements that permeate the other works. This collection is best suited for seasoned readers of dark fantasy and gothic horror who appreciate a challenging, character-driven narrative over a fast-paced, plot-heavy adventure. The series is a testament to the genre's versatility, offering a deeply atmospheric and adult-oriented experience.
9. The Practical Magic Universe by Alice Hoffman - Reading Order and Adaptations
Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic universe offers a different kind of magical experience, focusing on the Owens family, a lineage of witches navigating love, loss, and a centuries-old curse. These character-driven novels are less about high-fantasy battles and more about the intricate, emotional, and often messy reality of inherited magic in a contemporary setting. Understanding the witch and wizard series in order for this universe means piecing together a rich family history that spans generations.
Unlike plot-driven fantasies, Hoffman's stories are literary explorations of family bonds, sacrifice, and self-acceptance. The series has grown from a standalone novel into an interconnected saga through prequels, with each book adding new layers to the Owens family legacy. The popularity of the 1998 film adaptation starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman brought this world to a mainstream audience, cementing its place as a cornerstone of modern witch fiction.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
While Practical Magic was published first, reading the series chronologically by its internal timeline offers a rewarding experience, revealing the origins of the family curse. However, starting with the original is also a perfectly valid entry point.
Magic Lessons (2020) - Chronological Start
The Rules of Magic (2017)
Practical Magic (1995) - Publication Start
The Book of Magic (2021)
Starting with Magic Lessons provides the complete historical context, but beginning with Practical Magic allows you to experience the story as early readers did. For a deeper dive into Hoffman's magical storytelling, explore other witch and wizard books in order to discover more captivating series.
10. The Magicians Trilogy by Lev Grossman - Complete Series Order
Lev Grossman’s The Magicians trilogy offers a sophisticated, darker take on the magical school narrative. The story follows Quentin Coldwater, a disillusioned young man who discovers that Fillory, the magical land from his favorite childhood books, is real. He is admitted to Brakebills University for Magical Pedagogy, a secret and elite college for magicians, where he finds that magic is more complex, dangerous, and disappointing than he ever imagined. This series is a cornerstone for readers seeking a more adult and literary witch and wizard series in order.
This trilogy is celebrated for its deconstruction of fantasy tropes, blending wonder with adult themes of depression, moral ambiguity, and the harsh realities that magic cannot fix. Grossman’s work is less about good versus evil and more about the internal struggles of its characters as they wield immense power. The series gained further acclaim through its popular television adaptation on Syfy, which expanded upon the world and its complex figures.
Reading Path and Publication Dates
For the complete, intended character arcs and thematic development, reading these books in their publication order is the only path. Each novel builds directly upon the last, deepening the lore and the characters' intricate relationships.
The Magicians (2009)
The Magician King (2011)
The Magician's Land (2014)
Starting with the first book is crucial to understanding Quentin's journey from a disenchanted student to a powerful, albeit flawed, magician. This series is perfect for readers who appreciate complex world-building and character-driven stories. For more series that blend the magical with the mundane, explore some of the best urban fantasy series available today.
Witch & Wizard Series — Reading Order Comparison
| Series | Complexity (themes & structure) | Resource requirements (length & commitment) | Expected outcomes (reader experience) | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Witch & Wizard (James Patterson & Gabrielle Charbonnet) | Moderate — YA dystopian fantasy with linear plot | 5 main books; relatively short, fast-paced | Action-driven coming-of-age and rebellion arc | Younger YA readers or fast-pace dystopia fans | Clear progression, quick momentum, dual-sibling POV |
| The Cruel Prince (Holly Black) | High — dark faerie politics; morally gray characters | Trilogy; dense prose and slower build | Intense political intrigue and emotionally complex tension | Readers who want dark fantasy, romance, and power plays | Strong prose, intricate worldbuilding, acclaimed lead |
| A Deadly Education (Naomi Novik) | High — survival-focused magical school; detailed rules | Series + novella; attention-heavy, builds across books | Dark humor, strategic peril, focused character growth | Fans of grim magic-school stories and tactical magic | Fresh school premise, grounded magic system, strong protagonist |
| His Dark Materials (Philip Pullman) | Very high — multi-POV, parallel worlds, philosophical themes | Trilogy (+ companion works); substantial time and concentration | Epic scope with intellectual, moral, and emotional payoff | Mature readers seeking literary, thought-provoking fantasy | Culturally significant, imaginative worldbuilding, re-readable depth |
| Caster Chronicles (Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl) | Moderate — contemporary paranormal romance, Southern Gothic | 3 main novels; accessible pacing, romance-heavy | Romantic-focused story with supernatural family drama | Paranormal romance readers and YA romance fans | Strong atmosphere, engaging romance, media adaptations |
| The Invisible Library (Genevieve Cogman) | High — portal/alternate-world mythology, serialized plots | Multiple novels; sequential reading recommended | Fast-paced mysteries and world-hopping adventure | Readers who enjoy bibliophilic portal fantasy and espionage | Unique magical-library concept, diverse settings, adventurous tone |
| The Shadowhunters Chronicles (Cassandra Clare) | Very high — large interconnected urban fantasy universe | 15+ books across subseries; major long-term commitment | Expansive character arcs, blend of action, romance, and mystery | Readers who like sprawling shared universes and continuity | Vast content, multiple entry points, strong representation |
| Poppy Z. Brite Exquisite Corpse & Magic | High — dark gothic adult themes, explicit content | Thematic collection; variable availability and format | Mature, often disturbing gothic/paranormal experience | Adult readers comfortable with graphic, psychological horror | Rich atmosphere, mature depth, cult appeal |
| Practical Magic Universe (Alice Hoffman) | Moderate-high — literary, character and family-driven magic | Several interconnected novels; slower, reflective pacing | Emotional, multigenerational witch narratives with literary tone | Book-club readers and fans of literary witch fiction | Literary quality, strong family sagas, notable adaptations |
| The Magicians Trilogy (Lev Grossman) | High — adult, literary, meta-fantasy with moral complexity | Trilogy; dense themes and mature content | Dark, introspective exploration of magic and reality | Adult readers seeking subversive, philosophic fantasy | Sophisticated writing, realistic consequences, TV adaptation |
Your Next Magical Read Awaits
Navigating the intricate timelines and expansive universes of modern fantasy has never been easier. We've journeyed through ten distinct magical worlds, from the dystopian rebellion in James Patterson's Witch & Wizard to the academically perilous halls of Naomi Novik's Scholomance. This guide has equipped you with the precise publication and chronological orders needed to fully appreciate the narrative arcs crafted by masterful storytellers like Cassandra Clare, Philip Pullman, and Holly Black.
The primary takeaway is clear: the order in which you read a series profoundly impacts your experience. Following the intended sequence ensures that character developments unfold as they should, world-building layers are revealed at the right pace, and crucial plot twists land with their full emotional weight. Whether you're untangling the sprawling connections within The Shadowhunters Chronicles or exploring the thematic links in The Poppy Z. Brite Exquisite Corpse & Magic Series, a structured reading path is your map to maximum enjoyment.
Actionable Steps for Your Literary Journey
To make the most of this information and continue your reading adventures, consider these next steps:
Select Your Starting Point: Choose one series from this list that captured your interest. Will it be the morally complex Fae courts of The Cruel Prince or the genre-bending adventures in The Invisible Library?
Create a Reading Checklist: Use our guide to create a simple checklist for your chosen series. This helps track your progress and ensures you don't miss any novellas or companion books.
Join the Conversation: Many of these series have vibrant fan communities online. As you read, you might find it rewarding to join discussions and share your theories. Authors and book influencers, who are dedicated content creators, often use the best social media platforms for content creators to host read-alongs, Q&As, and share fan art, enriching the reading experience for everyone.
Embracing a new witch and wizard series in order is more than just starting a new book; it's a commitment to a new world. By following the correct reading order, you honor the author's vision and set yourself up for an immersive, coherent, and unforgettable adventure. The magic is in the details, and the story is in the sequence. Now, all that's left is to turn the first page.
Ready to find the correct order for any author or series you can think of? Visit Books In Order to access our comprehensive database and easy-to-use search tools. Stop guessing and start reading with confidence today by visiting Books In Order.
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