Dark Academia Fantasy Books Like Ninth House
Ninth House is the first book in the Alex Stern series. It is also the first adult book written by Leigh Bardugo, the New York Times Bestselling author of the books in the Grishaverse. I read Ninth House when it came out and was obsessed. Now that the second book in the series, Hell Bent, is out, I knew I needed to create a list of books like Ninth House and more dark academia fantasy books.
After all, if you have never read Ninth House, you are going to have a serious need for books that are similar to it. This series has it all: magic, mystery, creatures, and so much more. It is considered a dark academia fantasy book. Which means, it’s in a school setting, with magic, and it is dark.
Whether you love to read dark academia fantasy books set in high school or college, these books are all addictive picks.
The Best Dark Academia Fantasy Books Like Ninth House
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 High School Dark Academia Fantasy Book
Deadly Education by Naomi Novik- Jump to Section
Best University Dark Academia Fantasy Book
Atlas Six by Olivie Blake – Jump to Section
Best Book Like Ninth House Other
Arcana Academy by Elise Kova- Jump to Section
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High School Dark Academia Fantasy Books
Deadly Education
Author: Naomi Novik
Year: 2020
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: New York Times Bestseller, Finalist for the Lodestar Award
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Thank goodness Hogwarts is nothing like this school. There is not a single first year that would survive. This magic school, The Scholomance, is bursting with magic that is very dark and unforgiving.
Losing a few classmates is nothing surprising. You either graduate or die. If you love the dark side of Harry Potter, you will love this YA fantasy book.
El, along with all other magical children are sent to the Schoolomnace because even though there is a chance they will die inside, they will almost certainly be killed on the outside. There are no holidays and no packages from home. El isn’t exactly worried because she has powers that make her the most dangerous thing inside the walls.
But Orion Lake keeps saving her life and she cannot understand why. All she knows is that she is supposed to stay away from him.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved how dark and disturbing this book is while somehow also being fun. It seems like an oxymoron. El has abilities that make her one of the most dangerous people on the planter; yet, she chooses kindness. I loved all three books in this series.
Find this book in: Dark Academia Books / Young Adult Dystopian Novels / Best Young Adult Fantasy Series / The Ultimate List of YA Fantasy Books / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter /Books Like Ninth House
Legendborn
Author: Tracy Deonn
Year: 202
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: The Legendborn Cycle #1, Coretta Scott King Book Award
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Bree Matthews’s mother died in a tragic accident and she cannot seem to recover. When she has a chance to attend a special program for bright high school students at UNC-Chapel Hill, she jumps at the chance.
When Bree witnesses a magical attack on her first night there, her world is thrown upside down as she enters the world of the Legendborn. It is a secret society of students with powerful magic who are also descendants of King Arthur! This is one of the best re-tellings I have read.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Death of parent
Why Jackie loves it
Why did I not read this book before now? In a way, I’m glad I just read this because I only have to wait a few more months for the sequel. If you love YA fantasy books, this King Arthur re-imagining is a must-read. While Bree is technically still in high school, she is attending a college program which means, I get to scream about this book from the rooftops in both college and high school book lists.
Find this book in: Books About Secret Societies / Dark Academia / Books Set in College / The Ultimate List of YA Fantasy Books / Books Like Ninth House
A Lesson in Vengeance
Author: Victoria Lee
Year: 2021
Genre: YA Fantasy
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I have been hearing so much about this book and I knew that I needed to read it. Felicity Morros is back at the prestigious Dalloway School to finish high school after a year away. Her mother has pulled strings to get her back to Godwin house even after the terrible events that led to the death of her girlfriend.
Now, despite her past and despite the history of witchcraft and death at the school, Felicity is determined to move forward. But, when she meets Ellis Haley, nothing goes as planned.
Why Jackie likes it
If you love dark academia books, this novel is a perfect pick. It definitely has a creepy undertone! As a reader, you have to wait to find out what happened last year which makes the book a creepy and compelling read
Find this book in: YA Books About Witches / Dark Academia Books / Books Like Ninth House
Vampire Academy
Author: Richelle Mead
Year: 2006
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: Vampire Academy #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Royal vampires and their bodyguards train at the famed Vampire Academy where this book is set. Lissa is a princess and her best friend, Rose, is preparing to be her protector. When a series of crazy events threaten Lissa’s safety, Rose is on a mission to figure out who is behind the threats….. if she doesn’t get distracted while lusting over her teacher first.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a ya fantasy that is not to be missed. If you like the Zodiac Academy books, we think you will love this pick from fantasy romance books for teens!
Find this book in: High School Romance Books / Vampire Books / YA Fantasy Romance Books / YA Fantasy Books / Netflix Book Adaptations / Young Adult Fantasy Romance Books
Fallen
Author: Lauren Kate
Year: 2009
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: Fallen #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Luce has been sent to Sword and Cross boarding school, a place for other troubled kids like her. The minute she gets to the school, Daniel catches her eye but he will not give her the time of day. But there is more to Daniel and Luce will discover his secrets no matter what the cost.
This series is addicting. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. If you are looking for romance books about second chances (or third or fourth), you will love this book. If you are into Rhysand, Azriel, Cassian, and the other winged warriors of the Night Court, then you will love this series of books like A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Why Kirsten loves it
I picked up the first book in this YA fantasy series and quickly fell in love with the first book and the story of Daniel and Luce’s love.
Why Jackie loves it
This series is addicting. It did not take me long to read them all because I could not get enough of the forbidden romance. I think this is one of the only series I have read about angels.
Find this book in: Books Set in High School / High School Romance Books / Books like ACOTAR / Amnesia Books / Young Adult Fantasy Romance Books /Books Like Ninth House
College and University Books Like Ninth House
The Atlas Six
Author: Olivie Blake
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy
More info: (Atlas Series Book 1)
Instant New York Times Bestseller
A Vulture Best Fantasy Novel 2022
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The Alexandrian Society members are the guardians of knowledge from the greatest civilizations that have ever existed. Six of the most brilliant magical academicians are chosen every decade to take their place in this secret society. Five will go on the secure a life filled with all the wealth and power they could dream of.
When the candidates of this decade are chosen, they each have powerful abilities that could lead to greatness or destruction. They find that The Society may not be everything it appears. This is book has an almost cult-like following and is an urban fantasy book you will not want to miss.
Why Jackie loves it
There are so many twists and turns to this fantasy dark academia novel, that I am not sure where to begin. I do know that I will be reading the next book! The plot is twisty and the characters are complex. This is a dark adult fantasy for those that like a lighter read.
Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books / Books About Secret Societies / The Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Books Like Ninth House / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing
Zodiac Academy: The Awakening
Author: Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
Year: 2019
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: Zodiac Academy Book 1 of 12
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Whew. I have found my newest adult fantasy romance series addiction. Orphan twins Tory and Darcy find out they are actually Fae after their 18th birthday. And not just any Fae, they are the heirs to the throne and they only need to graduate from Zodiac Academy to claim their throne.
The problem comes in the form of the four Heirs – The boys in each elemental order who have been raised to share the throne and rule Solaria together in the Twins’ absence.They aren’t planning to give up their claim anytime soon and they use their considerable magic in the air, fire, earth, and water elements to put these girls to the test.
This urban fantasy series is on fire hot, with lots of steam, bullying romance, and deadly situations. Even though this is one of a few great books set in high school, do NOT read this one if you are under 18.
Why Kirsten loves it
There is something about this series that is seriously addicting. There is romance, adventure, and some serious girl power in this series.
Why Jackie likes it
I liked this series but didn’t love it as much as Kirsten. The bullying felt too abusive to me and the pranks were a little too dangerous. And despite those reservations, I wanted to see Tory and Darcy kick some butts. As the series progresses and the sisters become more powerful, the story gets a lot more detailed.
Find this book in: Urban Fantasy / Books Like ACOTAR / Books Like Zodiac Academy / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Books Set in College / Adult Fantasy Novels / Adult Fantasy Novels / Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses / Dragon Books for Adults
Magic For Liars
Author: Sarah Gailey
Year: 2020
Genre: Fantasy
More info: A 2020 Locus Award Finalist for Best First Novel
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Did someone say Harry Potter for adults?
This fantasy book is about a magic school and a chosen one wrapped up in a murder mystery with a not-so-lovable PI, Ivy Gamble.
Ivy has never had magic unlike her twin sister Tabitha. When Ivy is hired to investigate a murder at the school where Tabitha teaches, two worlds come together and Ivy must confront her past. This book was such a fun read.
Why Jackie loves it
This was a fun and unexpected read. I love the aspect of twins- one with magic and one without. It is a mystery and fantasy all wrapped up in one fun read.
Find this book in: Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Books Like Ninth House
The Magicians
Author: Lev Grossman
Year: 2009
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Magicians Book 1 of 3
Spice Rating:💋💋
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 / Books Like Ninth House
More Books Like Ninth House
Arcana Academy
Author: Elise Kova
Year: 2025
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Clara Greysword was sentenced to life in prison for illegally inking tarot cards. This practice of magic is only allowed by those who have graduated from Arcana Academy.
When the headmaster of the Academy, Prince Kaelis, gives her a chance to escape, she takes it. He wants her to steal tarot cards from the king and she needs to use her newfound freedom to find her sister.
The catch? Everyone will be looking for the escaped convict, so Clara has to pretend to be the prince’s fiancée and pass her first year at Arcana Academy- all without getting herself killed.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved the entire concept of this fantasy romance. It has magic unlike any I have seen before and I love the idea of magic through the tarot cards. This is a magic school very different from Hogwarts. It is darker and steamier, but I could not put it down and I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Find this book in: The Best Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Books Like Ninth House
A Discovery of Witches
Author: Deborah Harkness
Year: 2011
Genre: Fantasy
More info: All Souls Trilogy #1
Spice Rating:💋
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
Plot
This is the book that started it all. Jonathan Harker is a young English solicitor who finds himself in Count Dracula’s castle in Transylvania. Count Dracula has strange customs and mannerisms and things go from strange to scary to completely horrifying.
The slow torture and the helplessness of Harker is terrifying because he is never sure of what is happening to him.
The story of Dracula is timeless and has been remade into countless movies. But, in my opinion, none have been able to capture the truly terrifying essence of this book.
Why Jackie loves it
This is truly a disturbing thriller horror book. If you love vampire books and have not read this one, it is a must-read that will scare the pants off you.
Find this book in: Epistolary Novels / Thriller Horror Books / Vampire Books/ Dark Academia Fantasy Books
Expert Tip
Are you looking for advice on which book to pick?
- Have a look at Kirsten’s and my descriptions of the books. We have read all of these books and give you a brief description of each one to help you pick.
- Are you a “Kirsten” or a “Jackie”? You can see who read the book to help you pick.
- Some of the books on this list have more romance than others. Make sure you have a look at the descriptions to see if it appeals to you
- Some of the books on this list are appropriate for teens. Make sure you have a look at my age recommendations if you are looking for a teen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good books like Ninth House?
Ninth House is a fantasy book that takes place at Yale. It assumes that each of the colleges at the prestigious university is actually a secret society that has a different type of magic. If you love magic in school with a dark twist, Arcana Academy is a new book by Elise Kova that ticks all the boxes.
What are some good dark Academia fantasy books?
If you loved Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo and are looking for more great dark academia fantasy books, The Magicians by Lev Grossman is a great start. If you are looking for something where the magic school has a vindictive side, Deadly Education by Naomi Novik is a complete trilogy.
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Epilogue
What is your favorite book like Ninth House? Do you like Dark academia fantasy books?
