The world of fantasy literature is brimming with captivating tales of witches, wizards, and magical schools, but diving into a sprawling series can be daunting. Knowing the correct reading sequence, whether by publication date or chronological story timeline, is crucial for experiencing the narrative as the author intended. A misstep can lead to major spoilers, character development feeling out of place, and a confusing plot. This comprehensive guide provides the definitive witches and wizards series order for 10 of the most beloved and essential magical sagas.
From the foundational world of Harry Potter to the dark academia of The Scholomance, we'll break down the publication order, chronological path where applicable, and offer expert tips to enhance your reading journey. Our goal is to provide a clear, actionable roadmap, ensuring you can navigate complex universes with confidence. Whether you're a new reader just starting your adventure or a seasoned fan looking to revisit a favorite world in a new light, our meticulously researched lists will ensure you never miss a moment of the magic.
Understanding the structure of these series is the first step to full immersion. For those looking to expand their magical horizons beyond specific series, you can delve deeper into the fantasy genre to discover more about its rich history and diverse subgenres. This guide is your essential tool, designed to help you organize your reading and fully appreciate the intricate storytelling woven into each book.
1. Harry Potter Series Reading Order
The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is arguably the most iconic entry in any list of witches and wizards series order. This foundational seven-book collection chronicles the life of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he discovers his magical heritage and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The series is celebrated for its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and an epic battle between good and evil that has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
The reading order is straightforward, as the chronological and publication orders are identical. Each book represents a consecutive year in Harry’s education, creating a seamless narrative arc from his introduction to the magical world to his final confrontation with the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort. The global success of the series, with over 500 million copies sold and eight blockbuster film adaptations, has cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Recommended Reading Path
For both new and returning readers, the definitive way to experience the story is by following the publication order. This approach ensures that plot points, character development, and world-building elements are revealed exactly as the author intended.
Book 1: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (or Sorcerer's Stone in the US)
Book 2: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Book 3: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Book 4: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Book 5: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Book 6: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Book 7: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Pro Tip: The tone and complexity of the series mature significantly with each installment. Be prepared for the reading pace to slow for the longer, darker books like Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows.
This linear progression is crucial, as later books build heavily upon the mysteries and relationships established in earlier ones. To fully appreciate the intricate plotting, consider a quick re-read of previous books before starting Deathly Hallows. For a deeper dive into the specific editions and supplementary materials, you can find a comprehensive guide on the complete Harry Potter books in order.
2. The Cruel Prince Series (Folk of the Air)
Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air series offers a darker, more politically charged take on magical worlds, making it a standout in any list of witches and wizards series order. This gripping three-book collection follows Jude Duarte, a mortal girl living in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. The series is acclaimed for its morally complex characters, intricate political machinations, and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance that has captivated a massive online fanbase.
The reading order is direct, with the story of Jude and the cruel Prince Cardan unfolding sequentially across the main trilogy. Each book deepens the intrigue and raises the stakes, building a world where magic is wild and alliances are fragile. The series has garnered multiple literary awards and is currently in development for a film adaptation, highlighting its significant impact on the young adult fantasy genre.
Recommended Reading Path
For the most immersive experience, readers should follow the publication order of the main trilogy. This path ensures every shocking twist and character evolution is revealed as intended by the author, creating a tense and satisfying narrative arc.
Book 1: The Cruel Prince
Book 2: The Wicked King
Book 3: The Queen of Nothing
Pro Tip: While not essential, reading Holly Black's earlier works set in the same universe, like Tithe and The Modern Faerie Tales series, can enrich the experience by providing additional context and backstory on the world of Faerie.
This linear progression is vital for understanding the complex political landscape and the shifting loyalties that define the series. To fully grasp the intricate web of deceit and power plays, pay close attention to the alliances and betrayals established in the first book, as they have far-reaching consequences. For an expanded reading journey, consider exploring the complete Folk of the Air series in order, which includes companion stories.
3. The Invisible Library Series
Genevieve Cogman's The Invisible Library series offers a unique twist on the witches and wizards series order, blending high-stakes adventure, urban fantasy, and steampunk elements. The series follows Irene, a junior Librarian who works for a mysterious interdimensional Library that collects rare books from different realities. These Librarians are trained operatives, wielding a complex magic system known as "the Language" to manipulate their surroundings, making them powerful sorcerers in their own right.
The reading path is exceptionally clear-cut, as the chronological and publication orders are identical. Each novel is a self-contained mission for Irene and her enigmatic assistant, Kai, but also contributes to an overarching narrative involving warring factions, political intrigue, and the very nature of reality. The series, published by Pan Macmillan, has successfully grown its audience across more than eight books, praised for its inventive world-building and fast-paced plotting.
Recommended Reading Path
To fully grasp the escalating stakes and intricate relationships, following the publication order is essential. This linear approach allows readers to discover the rules of the multiverse and the secrets of the Library alongside the protagonist, ensuring no spoilers or missed character development.
Book 1: The Invisible Library
Book 2: The Masked City
Book 3: The Burning Page
Book 4: The Lost Plot
Book 5: The Mortal Word
Book 6: The Secret Chapter
Book 7: The Dark Archive
Book 8: The Untold Story
Pro Tip: Keep notes on the specific characteristics of each alternate world Irene visits. Worlds are often defined by their balance between Order (dragons) and Chaos (Fae), and these rules directly impact how magic and technology function.
The narrative relies heavily on the foundation laid in earlier installments, particularly concerning the politics between the dragons and the Fae. For those who enjoy this blend of magic and parallel universes, you can find similar recommendations in lists of the best urban fantasy series.
4. Priory of the Orange Tree (Extended Universe)
Samantha Shannon's The Priory of the Orange Tree is a standalone epic fantasy novel, but its immense scope and detailed world-building have positioned it as a cornerstone in modern discussions of witches and wizards series order. This sprawling tale of queens, mages, and dragonriders is celebrated for its intricate lore, feminist themes, and a meticulously crafted magic system. Its sheer size and depth have led to the creation of an extended universe, including a prequel, companion stories, and official reading guides.
Although Priory can be read on its own, its companion prequel, A Day of Fallen Night, enriches the experience by exploring the history of its world and the origins of its magical conflicts. The success of the main novel, which won numerous fantasy awards, has also spawned extensive fan communities and supplementary materials, making the reading order a key topic for new fans. Unlike a traditional linear series, navigating this universe is about choosing your entry point into its vast history.
Recommended Reading Path
For the most immersive experience, readers can choose between publication and chronological order. Publication order allows the world to unfold as the author originally presented it, while chronological order provides a linear historical progression of events.
Publication Order:
- The Priory of the Orange Tree (2019)
- A Day of Fallen Night (2023)
Chronological Order:
- A Day of Fallen Night
- The Priory of the Orange Tree
Pro Tip: Due to the book's length and dense world-building, keep the character map and glossary at the back of the book handy. Reading the author's note first also provides valuable context for the story's themes.
Whether you start with the original epic or its prequel, both books function as self-contained stories. After completing the main novels, exploring the author's companion short stories can provide further insight into the world's rich lore. For readers interested in a deeper analysis, official guides published by Bloomsbury offer a structured way to explore the complex character backstories and magical systems.
5. The Poppy War Series
The Poppy War trilogy by R.F. Kuang offers a stark, military fantasy alternative in the witches and wizards series order, drawing inspiration from mid-20th-century Chinese history. This grimdark series follows Rin, a war orphan who discovers she possesses a rare and dangerous shamanic power. Her journey through an elite military academy and into the brutal reality of war is a visceral exploration of power, vengeance, and the catastrophic costs of conflict.
The series is lauded for its unflinching narrative and complex, morally gray characters. It's a powerful departure from more traditional magical schooling stories, grounding its fantastical elements in historical allegory. The magic system, based on shamanism and divine intervention, is both fascinating and terrifying. The trilogy has earned critical acclaim, including nominations for the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards, solidifying its place as a modern fantasy classic.
Recommended Reading Path
The story is a continuous, linear narrative, making the publication order the only correct way to experience Rin’s harrowing saga. Each book builds directly on the devastating events of the previous one, escalating the stakes and deepening the thematic complexity.
Book 1: The Poppy War (2018)
Book 2: The Dragon Republic (2019)
Book 3: The Burning God (2020)
Pro Tip: This series contains explicit and intense content, including themes of genocide, self-harm, and drug use. It is crucial to check the content warnings for each book before beginning, and be prepared for an emotionally demanding read.
Following this chronological path is essential to fully grasp the weight of Rin’s choices and the political machinations of the world Kuang has built. To understand the depth of this award-winning trilogy, explore a complete overview of The Poppy War series in order.
6. The Serpent Gates of Avalon Series
Helen A. Rosburg’s The Serpent Gates of Avalon series offers a unique and mature take on the witches and wizards series order by weaving Arthurian legend into a contemporary paranormal fantasy. This series introduces a rich world where witches, wizards, and ancient magical beings navigate the complexities of power, prophecy, and romance. The narrative is celebrated for its intricate plotting, strong character development, and its seamless blend of historical myth with modern-day stakes.
The reading order is best approached chronologically, which aligns with the publication sequence. This allows the reader to follow the intricate character relationships and the unfolding prophecies as the author intended. The series has garnered a dedicated following through independent publishing channels, praised for its fresh perspective on well-known legends and the author's active engagement with her reader community on platforms like Goodreads.
Recommended Reading Path
For the most immersive experience, readers should follow the publication order. This path ensures that character backstories, world-building elements, and the overarching plot are revealed cohesively, building suspense and emotional investment with each book.
Book 1: The Road to Avalon
Book 2: The Dragon's Brood
Book 3: The Merlin's Descendants
Book 4: The Mists of Albion
Book 5: The King's Man
Pro Tip: Familiarity with the basics of Arthurian legend can enhance the reading experience, but it's not a prerequisite. The author masterfully reinterprets these myths, making the story accessible to all fantasy readers.
This series is a great choice for those seeking a more adult-oriented magical narrative that combines historical depth with paranormal romance and adventure. For additional world-building details and author insights, checking Helen A. Rosburg’s official website for supplementary materials is highly recommended.
7. The Invisible Hours Series
The Invisible Hours series by Rebecca Donovan and other contributing authors offers a unique take on the paranormal genre, blending witchcraft, ghost-hunting, and intricate mysteries in a modern urban fantasy setting. This series is known for its atmospheric storytelling and the way it weaves together romance, suspense, and the occult. It follows practitioners who navigate a world where magic and the supernatural are hidden just beneath the surface of everyday life.
Unlike a traditional linear narrative, The Invisible Hours is structured more like an anthology, with each book often focusing on a self-contained mystery or a different set of characters within the same magical world. This approach allows readers flexibility, though starting with the first book is recommended to grasp the foundational rules of its magic system and the overarching paranormal society. The series appeals to fans of paranormal romance and supernatural thrillers who enjoy a strong sense of place and well-developed magical lore.
Recommended Reading Path
The best way to engage with this series is to start at the beginning to understand the world's lore, but feel free to explore later books based on your interest in their specific paranormal mysteries. The publication order provides the most logical introduction to the core concepts.
Book 1: What the Flower Says
Book 2: What the Heart Remembers
Book 3: What the Soul Needs
Book 4: What the Mind Hears
Book 5: What the Body Wants
Book 6: What the Eyes See
Pro Tip: While each book features a standalone mystery, character arcs and relationships develop across the series. If you're invested in the romantic subplots, following the publication order is essential for the best experience.
Because this series fits within the broader paranormal romance genre, checking individual book descriptions can help you gauge the level of romance versus mystery in each installment. Engaging with online paranormal romance communities can also provide excellent recommendations for similar witches and wizards series order if you enjoy this style.
8. The Scholomance Series Reading Order
Naomi Novik's The Scholomance series offers a dark and gripping twist on the magical school trope, making it a must-read for anyone compiling a witches and wizards series order. This three-book young adult fantasy is set in a lethal, sentient school designed to protect young sorcerers from monstrous creatures called maleficaria. The series is known for its intricate magic system, relentless pacing, and a fiercely cynical yet compelling protagonist, El Higgins.
The reading order is strictly linear, following El through her final years at the brutal institution where survival is the only graduation requirement. Unlike many other series, The Scholomance has no supplementary novellas or prequels, making for a straightforward and intensely focused narrative. Praised by critics for its originality and complex world-building, the series has garnered multiple fantasy awards and fostered a highly engaged online fan community.
Recommended Reading Path
For the best experience, readers must follow the publication order. The trilogy functions as a single, continuous story arc, and each book ends on a significant cliffhanger that leads directly into the next. Deviating from this path would spoil major plot developments and undermine the carefully constructed narrative tension.
Book 1: A Deadly Education
Book 2: The Last Graduate
Book 3: The Golden Enclaves
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the first-person narration. El is an unreliable narrator, and her biases heavily color the events and characters she describes. Understanding her perspective is key to unlocking the deeper themes of the story.
This sequential path is vital for tracking the evolution of the magic system and the complex social dynamics within the school. Each installment builds directly on the rules, relationships, and grim realities established in the previous one, culminating in a high-stakes, explosive finale in The Golden Enclaves. For readers interested in the author’s creative process, exploring interviews with Naomi Novik can offer fascinating insights into her world-building intentions.
9. The Twisted Kingdom Series
The Twisted Kingdom series by Frost Kay offers a gritty, action-packed entry into the witches and wizards series order, blending urban fantasy with high-stakes paranormal conflict. This collection follows powerful witches as they discover their heritage and navigate a dangerous world of supernatural politics, rogue practitioners, and ancient feuds. The series is celebrated for its strong female protagonists, intricate magic systems, and a relentless pace that keeps readers hooked.
The reading order is linear, with each book building directly upon the last. The plot follows a clear chronological progression, making it essential to read the series in its intended publication sequence. This approach ensures that the escalating dangers, character relationships, and revelations about the magical world unfold cohesively. The series has cultivated a dedicated following, particularly within indie author communities and on social media platforms, where reader enthusiasm fuels its continued growth.
Recommended Reading Path
To fully appreciate the character arcs and intricate world-building, readers should follow the publication order. This path guarantees a coherent experience, as later books assume knowledge of the events and magical rules established in the earlier installments.
Book 1: The Aethon
Book 2: The Woods
Book 3: The King
Book 4: The Queen
Book 5: The Veil
Book 6: The Crown
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the rules of the magical system as they are introduced. Understanding the mechanics of power and the political landscape is crucial to appreciating the strategic decisions and sacrifices the characters make throughout the series.
This straightforward progression is vital for understanding the complex alliances and betrayals that define the narrative. For those who enjoy engaging with authors and fellow fans, Frost Kay maintains an active social media presence where readers can discuss theories and characters.
10. The Practical Magic Universe Reading Order
Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic universe offers a multi-generational saga of the Owens family, a lineage of witches bound by a curse that dooms any man they love. This series is a masterclass in magical realism, blending everyday life with folklore, herbal magic, and enduring family bonds. It stands out in any list of witches and wizards series order for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of love, loss, and female empowerment across centuries.
Unlike a straightforward linear narrative, the series was written out of chronological sequence, with prequels expanding upon the family's history long after the original novel was published. The 1998 film adaptation starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman brought mainstream attention to Practical Magic, and recent prequel novels have renewed interest in the rich Owens family history, solidifying its place as a beloved magical series.
Recommended Reading Path
Readers have two compelling options: publication order or chronological order. Publication order reveals the story as Hoffman originally conceived it, while chronological order provides a linear, historical journey through the Owens family's legacy. For a first-time reader, starting with Practical Magic (publication order) often provides the best entry point.
Publication Order:
Book 1: Practical Magic (1995)
Book 2: The Rules of Magic (2017)
Book 3: Magic Lessons (2020)
Book 4: The Book of Magic (2021)
Chronological Order:
Book 1: Magic Lessons (Late 1600s)
Book 2: The Rules of Magic (1960s)
Book 3: Practical Magic (1990s)
Book 4: The Book of Magic (Modern Day)
Pro Tip: To fully immerse yourself in the world, track the Owens family tree as you read. This helps connect the characters and recurring themes across the different time periods, enriching the experience of this sprawling family saga.
Regardless of the path you choose, the series provides a poignant and enchanting look at witchcraft rooted in nature, history, and the unbreakable ties of family. For more series like this, you can explore a complete guide to the best witch and wizard series in order.
10 Witches & Wizards Series — Reading Order Comparison
| Series | Commitment & complexity | Time & resources required | Expected reader outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter Series Reading Order | High — 7-book linear progression with escalating tone | High time investment (long later volumes); abundant formats and community resources | Long-form character growth, epic coming-of-age arc, strong community engagement | Long immersive YA/adult read; group discussions and re-reads | Clear reading order, cohesive plot arcs, wide availability |
| The Cruel Prince Series (Folk of the Air) | Medium — 3-book trilogy, politically dense and darker tone | Moderate time; sequential reading recommended; attention to shifting loyalties | Dark faerie politics, romantic tension, mature YA themes | Readers who enjoy court intrigue, morally grey characters, YA romance | Tight trilogy arc, strong character development, intense political drama |
| The Invisible Library Series | Medium — ongoing series with episodic adventures + overarching arc | Moderate time; multiverse rules to track; publication order advised | Adventure-mystery blend, light espionage tone, growing mythology | Adult urban fantasy readers who like libraries, alternate worlds, and episodic missions | Unique premise, accessible entry, diverse cast and representation |
| Priory of the Orange Tree (Extended Universe) | Low series commitment but high complexity for lore exploration | Single very long volume (800+ pages) plus scattered supplements | Epic standalone immersion, dense world-building, extensive mythology | Readers preferring a one-book epic with optional deep-dives into lore | No multi-book commitment, rich lore, official companion materials |
| The Poppy War Series | High — intense 3-book trilogy with escalating consequences | High time and emotional investment; contains strong content warnings | Dark, brutal military fantasy with morally complex protagonist | Mature readers comfortable with graphic themes and historical analogues | Original magic system, powerful character arcs, critical acclaim |
| The Serpent Gates of Avalon Series | Medium — series reworking Arthurian legend with contemporary elements | Moderate time; fewer mainstream supplementary resources | Arthurian reinterpretation blended with paranormal; character-driven plots | Fans of Arthurian myth and contemporary/historical mashups | Fresh take on legend, approachable pace, character focus |
| The Invisible Hours Series | Low–Medium — paranormal series often with standalone mysteries | Low time per book; romance and mystery focus; flexible order | Fast-paced paranormal romance/mystery entertainment | Readers seeking light, quick paranormal reads with romantic subplots | Accessible contemporary setting, strong romantic and mystery elements |
| The Scholomance Series | Medium — 3-book dark academy trilogy; strict reading order | Moderate–high time; protagonist’s unreliable narration demands attention | Tense survival-horror academy atmosphere, thoughtful world-building | Readers who enjoy dark magical academies and strong narrative voice | Unique first-person narration, original magic system, immersive tone |
| The Twisted Kingdom Series | Medium — urban paranormal series focused on character growth | Moderate time; indie publishing means variable availability/quality | Contemporary urban magic with interpersonal and political stakes | Newcomers to paranormal fantasy seeking modern settings and character arcs | Relatable modern setting, strong character development, accessible plots |
| The Practical Magic Universe Reading Order | Variable — multi-generational interconnected titles with multiple valid orders | Moderate time; reading order can be publication or chronological; supplementary stories | Family-centric magical saga, romance, and gentle folklore elements | Readers who prefer multi-generational sagas, fans of the film, and flexible reading plans | Multiple entry points, strong female-led narratives, approachable magic system |
Start Your Next Magical Journey the Right Way
Navigating the sprawling universes of witches and wizards is a rewarding adventure, but one where a map is indispensable. This guide has armed you with the essential blueprints for ten incredible series, from the foundational magic of Harry Potter to the intricate political tapestry of The Poppy War. We've untangled publication dates from chronological timelines, highlighted crucial novellas, and offered strategic paths to ensure your reading experience is as immersive and spoiler-free as possible.
The core takeaway is that the "right" reading order is often a personal choice, but an informed one. Understanding the difference between how a story was released and how its events unfold in-world allows you to customize your journey. Whether you choose to follow the author’s intended path of discovery with publication order or piece together a world’s history chronologically, you are now equipped to make that decision confidently. This knowledge is the key to unlocking the full depth of character arcs, world-building, and plot twists that these talented authors have so carefully constructed.
From Guide to Gateway: Your Next Steps
The true value of a definitive witches and wizards series order lies not just in avoiding spoilers, but in enriching your connection to the story. When you read a series in a structured way, you witness the author's craft evolve and the fictional world expand organically. You catch subtle foreshadowing in The Scholomance series and appreciate the generational echoes in the Practical Magic universe. This intentional approach transforms passive reading into an active, deeply engaging exploration.
So, what’s your next move?
- Select Your Series: Look back through the list. Did the dark academia of The Scholomance catch your eye, or does the epic scale of The Priory of the Orange Tree call to you? Pick the world that sparks your curiosity the most.
- Choose Your Path: Decide between publication and chronological order. For a first-time read, publication order is almost always recommended to experience the story as it was originally unveiled. For a re-read, a chronological journey can offer a fascinating new perspective.
- Acquire the Books: Whether you’re visiting your local library, a beloved bookstore, or an online retailer, use the lists provided here as your definitive checklist. Don’t forget to include the novellas and companion stories for the complete experience.
- Immerse Yourself: With your path set and your first book in hand, the only thing left to do is dive in. Allow yourself to be transported, knowing that your journey through these magical realms will be seamless and deeply satisfying.
Ultimately, mastering the witches and wizards series order for your chosen saga is about respecting the narrative architecture. It ensures every reveal has its intended impact and every character’s journey resonates with its full emotional weight. You are no longer just a reader; you are a savvy traveler in fantastical worlds, ready to experience these epic tales as they were meant to be told. The magic awaits, and now you have the perfect key to unlock it.
Ready to tackle another series but don't know where to start? For thousands of meticulously researched and easy-to-follow reading lists, from epic fantasy to gripping thrillers, Books In Order is your ultimate resource. Visit Books In Order to find the correct reading order for any author or series you can imagine.
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