The Best Witch Books
It is always this time of year that I begin to read books about witches and it can be hard to find the best books worth reading. So, I narrowed down my choices to only the best witch books so you don’t have to guess which books to read.
This year has some amazing new picks that I cannot read fast enough! Whether you like romance witch books, witch book series, or Historical fiction witch books, I have you covered wth my favorites. If you are looking for my favorite YA witch books, I have an entire post for that as well.
There is something about witch books that has always captivated my attention. I’m not saying that I wish I could make a potion or two but, I would really love to make a potion or two!!!
The Best Witch Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
Best New Witch Book
Weyward by Emilia Hart – Jump to review and more new witch books
Best Witch Series
Pratical Magic by Alice Hoffman- Jump to review and more witch series
Best Romance Witch Book
The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling – jump to see review and more romance witch books
Best Historical Fiction Witch Book
The Lost Queen by Signe Pike- jump to review and to see more historical fiction witch books
*Witch Books Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
New Witch Books
Weyward by Emilia Hart
Author: Emilia Hart
Year: 2023
Genre: Historical Fantasy
More info: Indie Next March 2023 Pick, Winner of two Goodreads Choice Awards (Best Debut and Best Historical Fiction)
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is such a well-thought-out book and one of the best witch books I have read in a while. This adult fantasy book follows three Weyward women. In 2017, Kate is fleeing an abusive partner to her great-aunt’s cottage. In 1619, Altha is awaiting her own witch trial and in 1942 we meet Violet whose father keeps her trapped in her house because she cannot fit into what society expects of her.
Each of these women finds themselves and who they are as the story progresses and I found myself completely sucked in.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this debut fantasy novel and I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author. It is also a perfect book to read if you love the Practical Magic Series or the All Souls Trilogy. If fantasy books are your favorite, you will love this book.
Find this book in: The Best Witch Books / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Ultimate List of Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Urban Fantasy Books / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Best Adult Fantasy Novels
Plot
No book says “Jackie” like a book about tea and witches. A family curse is trying to separate Anne, Beatrix, and Violet Quigley, witch triplets run the Crescent Moon Tearoom. When the witch counsel comes for a visit, the sisters are given an ultimatum. They must help three witches find their life’s purpose before it’s too late and only then can they stay together and keep their beloved tearoom.
The sisters each have ideas on how to help the other witches but they also feel themselves being pulled apart. Is the pull away from each other a curse or their destiny?
Why Jackie loves it
This magical book gave me the same feeling as The Night Circus. Sivinski’s writing is so descriptive, that I felt the words coming off the page. The house is one of my favorite characters with a personality that made me laugh and despite the fact that the sisters were triplets, their personalities were completely distinct.
Find this book in: Books About Tea / The Best Witch Books /Best New Fantasy Books and Sci-Fi Books of 2024 / The Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Giftable Books
Plot
Cordelia and Eustace are sisters who have inherited a large Victorian mansion. The catch? In order to collect their inheritance, they must live inside the quirky mansion.
With a dash of mystery, a touch of romance, and a sprinkle of spooky ancestors, the sisters must navigate the house, a captivating groundskeeper, and the secrets that have been haunting their family for generations. The sisters will need to embrace the powers that they have been taught to ignore in order to mend their bond, uncover the truth, and save themselves.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the witch books that is not only spooky but completely captivating from the first page. It was a unique story that felt like it was part mystery as the secrets of the mansion were revealed. I love the relationship between the sisters as well.
Find this book in: Best Witch Books / Best Ghost Books
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
Author: Sangu Mandanna
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book for fall is definitely the feel-good book of the Halloween season. Mika Moon knows that she must hide her magic and stay away from other witches so their powers do not draw the attention of other people. She also knows that witches are destined to be orphans, a very lonely existence.
When she is asked to come and teach magic to three young witches, she finds the life that she had always dreamed of, even if it is temporary. But, does it have to be? Can she find the life she always wanted?
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to this charming book in one day and loved it. This adult fantasy book is a delightful pick book for fall. The characters we sweet and the book left me with a smile on my face. I could not put it down.
Find this book in: Witch Books / Feel-Good Books / Adult Fantasy Novels
The Witches of Moonshyne Manor
Author: Bianca Marais
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The magic in this book is woven seamlessly into the story and has non-stop surprises. The book begins with the people of the town descending onto Moonshyne Manor with a wrecking ball to destroy it and the distillery. This will leave the five octagenarian witches who live there, homeless. They are left with less than two weeks to save their house but to do so, they must reveal long-kept secrets.
The cast of characters is fantastic from Queenie, the witch in charge, to Ursula, Jezebel, Ivy, Tabitha, and Ruby (whose return to the manner they are eagerly awaiting), I loved their eccentricities that can only be afforded to a group of eighty-year-olds who have no one to impress.
Why Jackie loves it
I am a huge fan of Ms. Marais’ writing. I read her previous two books and was so excited to read this adult fantasy book because fantasy is my favorite genre. This book did not disappoint. The writing is beautiful and very much Marais’ style and the witches in this book are hilarious. The witches are witty and funny and there is never a dull moment in the Manor.
Why Kirsten loves it
This book made me laugh out loud often and shed a few tears as well. I love the cast of characters and the emphasis on found family.
Find this book in: Family Drama Books / Ultimate List of Best Adult Fantasy Novels / The Best Witch Books / Adult Fantasy Novels
The Book of Night
Author: Holly Black
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Black is able to make our world into something else and make it seem entirely plausible. In this world, shadows can be manipulated and changed into something else. They can be removed and controlled.
Charlie is a Con artist who finds herself pulled into something that is over her head. Desperate to save herself and her sister, Charlie will do almost anything. While nobody calls themselves witches in this book, the manipulation of matter is certainly witch-like. I would definitely consider this a witch book like no other.
Why Jackie loves it
I have read Holly Black for years and love her so I was so excited to read this adult fantasy. This fantasy is complex and dark which I should have guessed from the name. The idea of manipulating shadows is fascinating to me and unlike any other fantasy I have read.
Find this book in: The Best Witch Books
Witch Book Series
Practical Magic
Author: Alice Hoffman
Year: 1995
Genre: Fantasy/ Magical realism
More info: Practical Magic Series
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range:15+
Plot
For years, the Owens women have known that their bad luck is because of a curse. This book is the first book written in the Practical Magic series. I adore this tale of magic, family, and sisterhood. At this point, this is one of the best magical realism books and it is truly iconic.
Gillian and Sally are sisters who have been raised by their two aunts after their parents die. They both want to leave their small Massachusetts town. But, when Gillian gets into trouble, she runs to Sally for help.
The trouble comes back to haunt them and when a police chief comes to town looking for answers, the sisters try hard to cover up their family secrets. The powerful bond between the Owens sisters brings this story to life and is a constant throughout all the books in the series. This is the first published book in the Practical Magic series and the one I recommend you read first.
Why Jackie loves it
This is truly an iconic witch book and is one of the cases where the movie has become iconic as well. I love the story but also the unbreakable bond between Sally and Gilly. This story is about truly finding yourself
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Practical Magic as part of a series and as a stand-alone novel. The bonds of sisterhood are so strong that the magic and the story leave me with that feeling you get after an amazing book. This is also my go-to Halloween movie along with Hocus Pocus.
Find this book in: Practical Magic Books in Order / Alice Hoffman Books / Books About Sisters / Witch Books / Books By Jewish Authors / Best Adult Fantasy
A Discovery of Witches
Author: Deborah Harkness
Year: 2011
Genre: Fantasy
More info: All Souls Trilogy #1
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Diana Bishop is in Oxford’s Bodleian Library when she accidentally recovers an ancient book, Ashmole 782, that has been missing for hundreds of years. In doing so, she triggers her long-forgotten magic and opens the door for vampires, witches, and demons to search out Diana and the book.
Matthew de Clermont is one of the vampires drawn to Ashmole 782. He has been looking for it for hundreds of years. Soon it is clear that even though relationships between species is forbidden, Matthew is drawn to Diana for more than just the book. The two begin to work together to unravel the mysteries behind the book, the magic and the people looking for the book.
This urban fantasy book about secret societies, witches, vampires, and more is a blend of heart-pounding action, historical fiction, and romance with the perfect mix of fantasy as well.
Trigger Warnings
Blood, torture
Why Jackie loves it
If you love the witch aspect of Harry Potter, Vampires, fantasy books, or time travel books then you will love The All Souls trilogy. This adult fantasy novel explores the history of witches, demons, and vampires. This series reads like a historical fiction and I love it. I thought the series was done at book four and was so excited to learn that there is a new book in the series!
Find this book in: Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Best Fantasy Books for Adults / Books About Witches / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Books About Libraries / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Adult Fantasy Novels
The Magicians
Author: Lev Grossman
Year: 2009
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Magicians Book 1 of 3
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Quentin Coldwater is a high school student obsessed with the made-up world of Fillory. He finds himself admitted to a magical college that is both secret and elite. This one has an almost cult-like following.
The best way I can describe this series is if Harry Potter was admitted to Hogwarts in College. It has a different, darker feel but it is fun, imaginative, and entertaining. The magic in this school is a little bit dark. If you love urban fantasy books, you must read this series of books like Harry Potter. This is a witch book unlike any other.
Why Jackie loves it
This is dark and unique- unlike any book I have read before.
Find this book in: Books Set in College / Dark Academia Books / Best Witch Books / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing
Payback’s a Witch
Author: Lana Harper
Year: 2021
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: The Witches of Thistle Grove #1
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This adorable romance was the perfect post-Halloween read for me. Emmy Harlow must return home to her magical town of Thistle Grove to arbitrate a spell-casting tournament. The winner will have control of magic in the town.
Emmy ran away because of a broken heart but now, her heart may be on the mend thanks to the beautiful and powerful Talia.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this book. The magical competition and the high stakes of this game make it perfect for anyone who loves some heart-pounding action to go with their fantasy books. Add in a sprinkle of romance and its a winner for me.
Find this book in: Books Like The Night Circus / Books like The Hunger Games / Best Witch Books / Adult Fantasy Romance Books
Night of the Witch
Author: Beth Revis and Sara Raasch
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Witch and Hunter Book 1 of 2
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Fritzi is the sole survivor of an attack on her coven. She watched as Kommandant Dieter Kirch and his witch hunters brutally murdered her family members. She has survivor’s guilt and questions her actions to save herself, even though it is clear that there is nothing she could have done. She makes it her mission to find the Kommandant. When Fritzi meets Otto, a witch hunter who has his own reasons for finding the commandant, the two become reluctant allies.
Trigger Warnings
Torture
Why Jackie loves it
This is such an interesting way to reimagine the European Witch trials. I enjoyed the story and the pacing. There are interesting twists in the plot that made me want more. The second book in the series was released in October 2024
Find this book in: The Best Witch Books
Romance Witch Books
The Ex Hex
Author: Erin Sterling
Year: 2021
Genre: Magical Realism/ Fantasy Romance
More info: New York Times Bestseller
The Graves Glen Series
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This is the most charming Halloween romance book about witches EVER. I don’t think I’ve read anything quite like it, but it’s perfect for the spooky season and a perfect book for fall.
Nine years ago Rhys Penhallow broke Viviane Jones’ heart and so she cursed him. Now he’s back in the town his family founded to infuse magic back into the ley lines but everything goes wrong!
As his curse takes over the town, Rhys and Vivi have to work to end the curse and restore the right magic back to the town…if they can keep their rekindled romance at bay long enough!
Why Jackie loves it
There is so much to this fantasy romance book to love. The story is sweet, charming, and easy to read for a fun Halloween read.
Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Second Chance Romance Books
Playing the Witch Card
Author: K.J. Dell’Antonia
Year: 2021
Genre: Magical Realism
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author of The Chicken Sisters
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This witch book is the perfect blend of Gilmore Girls meets Practical Magic in the new novel from the bestselling author! This fantastic fantasy book has characters and a story that are irresistible.
Flair Hardwicke must navigate three generations of magic, two exes, and a Tarot deck that insists on making itself known. This whimsical tale had me loving Flair more with each page and hoping that she would be able to navigate her own past in order to create a happy ending for herself and her daughter. If you love witch books, this pick is the perfect pick.
Why Jackie loves it
There is nothing not to love about this adorable magical realism book. I love a great HEA ending and this book gave whimsy galore!
Find this book in: Best Witch Books
Witch Please
Author: Ann Aguirre
Year:
Genre:
More info: Fix-It Witches, 1
New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This charming romance is perfect for Halloween! Danica is a witch hiding as a mechanic with her cousin, Clem. Swearing to her grandmother not to fall in love with a mundane (non-magic man) so as not to lose her power is easier said than done. She meets a baker, Titus, and is instantly smitten. Can she casually date him or will she catch the feels?
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the magical tech repair shop in this book and the cast of characters made me laugh out loud. Add in a bakery and some romance and it is the perfect recipe. See what I did there?
Find this book in: Best Witch Books
Demon’s Guide to Wooing a Witch
Author: Sarah Hawley
Year: 2024
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: Glimmer Falls Book 2 of 3
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This is the second book in a supernatural romance series but you do not need to have read the first one to enjoy this paranormal romance book. As fantasy romances go, this one is very steamy with some interesting takes on the sex drive of a demon. Let’s just say that this one is not for the faint of heart.
Calladia knows exactly who she is and who she is not- the debutante that her mother the mayor would like to show off. When she saves someone from a demon attack, she is mortified to find out that it is Astoroth, a member of the demon high counsel who tried to kill her best friend.
Now, he has no memories and she is stuck with him until they can find a cure for his memory loss. #gifted
Why Jackie loves it
Calladia is completely bad a** and I love her for it. Astoroth is hilarious in his pomposity and their interactions, while steamy, are also laugh-out-loud funny. I also loved the character development. This was a fun one-sitting read.
Find this book in: Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Books Like Fourth Wing
Historical Fiction Witch Books
The Lost Queen
Author: Signe Pike
Year: 2018
Genre: Historical Fantasy
More info: Book 1 of 3 in The Lost Queen
Age Range: 18+
Plot
If you love Outlander, The Mists of Avalon, or The Clan of the Cave Bear, then you will love this pick from royal reads. Set in Britain/ Scotland when Christianity is poised to become the religion of the country, a future queen who swore to the old ways is learning how to balance the needs of her people and her religion with the role she’s expected to play.
Meanwhile, her twin brother is training to be the man history knows as Merlin. The first in a new trilogy about Arthurian legend.
This book is a perfect pick for a list of books like A Discovery of Witches or a list of books like Outlander. If you love books set in Scotland, this book is a must-read.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love historical fiction books and I also love stories about King Arthur. This series is perfect for me especially because it also takes place in Scotland. This is a triple win in my books.
Why Jackie loves it
When I first got this book, I wasn’t sure that I was going to like it. I had a very difficult time reading it since I could not pronounce any of the names. As soon as I started listening to this book, I was immediately drawn into the story. If you love historical fiction or historical fantasy, I would highly suggest listening to this series.
Find this book in: Best Books About Scotland / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / The Best Witch Books / Books like Outlander / Mythology Books
A History of Witches
Author: Louisa Morgan
Year: 2017
Genre: Historical Fantasy
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Five generations of witches must decide what they are willing to do to protect their family. Ursule is a powerful witch whose power is thought to be lost when she dies. When her granddaughter steps into the circle, the magic is reborn. This is such a great historical fiction witch book, we highly recommend it.
Why Jackie loves it
I love a historical family saga- especially one that centers around the relationships between mothers and daughters. The added element of witches and fantasy made this book right up my alley!
Find this book in: Best Witch Books
The Mists of Avalon by
Author: Marion Zimmer Bradley
Year: 2020
Genre: Historical Fantasy
More info: Locus Award Winner
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This is a fairy tale retelling of the story of King Arthur, featuring the Lady of the Lake, Paganism vs. Christianity, and an epic struggle for power.
Merlin and the Lady of the Lake practice pagan witchcraft, as they try to keep the old ways alive against the new religion gaining popularity, the choices they make for Arthur’s kingdom inspire the tale we know so well.
The mini-series adaptation of this adult fantasy book is wonderful too and well worth the watch!
Why Kirsten loves it
This was my first high fantasy book series, which I routinely think about. I read it in middle school (which I absolutely shouldn’t have) and devoured this tome in days. It captivated my imagination unlike anything I had ever read before.
Find this book in: Books Set in Cornwall / Fairy Tale Retellings / Lake Books / Witch Books
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell
Author: Susanna Clarke
Year: 2000
Genre:
More info: World Fantasy Award Winner, 2005
Hugo Award Winner, 2005
Locus Award Winner, 2005
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book. So many people recommended it to me because of my love for Harry Potter. The writing style was Victorian, which fit the book’s time period but felt hard to read at times. The story, however, is full, complex and epic. If you love witch books, this is a must-read.
In nineteenth-century England, people believed that magic had disappeared until Mr. Norrell revealed his powers. He then takes Jonathan Strange as a student. But when Strange is drawn to darker magic, the two men develop a rivalry that can change history.
Why Kirsten likes it
There are so many things that I liked about this book- from the writing to the time period and the complex plot. I can see why it is a best-seller and award winner. For me, the story was a bit too complex and heavy to be considered a favorite. However, I still consider it a must-read for fantasy lovers.
Find this book in: The Best Witch Books
More Witch Books to Read
Expert Tip
Many books about witches are more magical realism than fantasy. What does this mean? It means that every aspect of the book seems to be a fiction or historical fiction, or even romance but, there is a touch of magic in the book as well. Here are some tips to help you choose a book you will love:
- If you love a fantasy, look at the descriptions to choose a book that is more up your alley
- If you don’t typically delve into fantasy, try some of the magical realism books
- You can look at the subgenres I listed to help narrow down the choices of books.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best witch book series?
I have a few favorite witch book series and 3/4 have been adapted to the screen
1. Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
2. Disocvery of Witchby Deborah Harkness
3. The Magicans by Lev Grossman
What are some good adult witch books?
I made a list of my favorite adult with books. Some of them are:
1. Weyward by Emilia Hart
2. The Lost Queen by Signe Pike
3. The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling
Related Content
Epilogue
What is your favorite book about witches? Its hard to pick just one, insn’t it?
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