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    Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults: 12 Reads You'll Love

    If you want more of Percy Jackson for Adults's urban fantasy, start with Ninth House.

    Updated July 2026

    Books like Percy Jackson for Adults: 12 picks. Hand-picked reads with the same mood and themes, from Ninth House to American Gods.

    You devoured every quest, every quip, every moment of demigod glory, and now you’re standing in the aftermath, a little bereft, aren't you? That particular blend of ancient myth clashing with modern snark, of an underdog finding their power and their people – it really gets under your skin. If you’re nodding along, feeling that familiar pang for more stories that hit just right, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. We totally get it. What was it about Percy Jackson that snagged your heart and wouldn't let go? Was it the lightning-fast pacing that kept you turning pages long past your bedtime? The way Rick Riordan wove together epic, world-saving stakes with the very real, very funny woes of being a teenager? You’d be battling a monster one minute and dealing with a crabby step-parent or a crush the next, right? That sense of camaraderie, of a found family banding together against impossible odds, often with a cheeky sense of humor as their shield – it’s just magic. There was a genuine warmth, a feeling of hope and bravery that resonated, making you believe that even the unlikeliest hero could rise to the occasion. The vivid way the myths came alive, not as dusty old tales but as vibrant, dangerous forces in the contemporary world, was utterly captivating. So, when you say you’re looking for 'Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults,' you’re not just looking for another fantasy novel. You're hunting for that specific cocktail of exhilarating action, characters you can genuinely root for, and a sprinkle of magic or myth woven into the fabric of reality. You want that journey of self-discovery, that sense of a hidden world coexisting with our own, maybe with a touch more grown-up complexity, a dash of darker themes, or even some romance that actually makes your heart flutter. You want the feeling of being swept away, but with narratives that resonate with the experiences and perspectives of an adult. It’s about chasing that particular feeling of wonder and excitement, but with stories that meet you where you are now. This list is for you if you're an adult reader who cherishes the core elements of the Percy Jackson series but is ready for narratives that tackle more mature themes, perhaps with a touch more grit, complex moral dilemmas, or explicit content. While these books capture the spirit, they often delve into deeper psychological territory or more intricate world-building, making them perfect for seasoned readers. We’ve carefully curated these recommendations to capture that elusive spark of Percy Jackson while offering fresh, compelling angles for an adult sensibility. Think of this as your next epic quest, but instead of fighting mythical beasts, you’re diving into incredible worlds from the comfort of your favorite reading nook. We’ve got everything from contemporary urban fantasies where gods walk among us to intricate retellings of ancient myths and magical academies with a distinctly grown-up vibe. Each pick offers a unique twist on the themes you love, promising adventure, mystery, and characters you’ll want to champion. Get ready to discover your next obsession and find out just how many incredible 'Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults' are out there waiting for you!
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    12 books like Percy Jackson for Adults

    A ranked list of books similar to Percy Jackson for Adults — if you liked it, start at the top and work down. Each pick includes why it works and who it's for.

    1

    Ninth House

    by Leigh Bardugo

    If you loved the secret societies and magical prowess within the Percy Jackson world, you'll be captivated by the dark academia and supernatural investigations in Ninth House. It offers a gritty, mature take on a hidden magical world intertwined with a prestigious university. It’s got a much darker, sharper edge than Percy Jackson, with a protagonist who sees ghosts and navigates a truly dangerous underworld. Perfect for readers who want supernatural mysteries with high stakes and a strong sense of place.

    2

    American Gods

    by Neil Gaiman

    For those who enjoyed the modern-day interpretations of ancient gods in Percy Jackson, American Gods delves deep into forgotten deities and their struggle for relevance in contemporary America. It's a sprawling, mythologically rich road trip that questions belief and identity. This book is richer and more philosophical, with a deeper exploration of faith and Americana. It’s ideal for readers who loved the gods-among-us concept but crave a more profound, adult exploration of myth and culture.

    3

    Circe

    by Madeline Miller

    If the Greek mythology aspects of Percy Jackson fascinated you, Circe offers an exquisite and deeply empathetic reimagining of a powerful minor goddess. It’s a beautifully written epic about exile, love, and self-discovery within the rich tapestry of ancient Greece. Unlike Percy's fast-paced adventures, this is a slow-burn character study, but just as captivating. Perfect for those who adore mythological retellings and want a deeper, more introspective look at a hero's (or goddess's) journey, much like The Song of Achilles.

    4

    Uprooted

    by Naomi Novik

    Fans of Percy Jackson's magical challenges and the importance of special gifts will enjoy Uprooted. It features a fierce young woman with untapped magic who is drawn into a dark, enchanted forest, mirroring the perilous quests and magical mentors found in Percy Jackson. The magic here is ancient, wild, and a little terrifying, drawing on Eastern European folklore rather than Greek myth. This is a great pick for readers who love fairy tale vibes, powerful magic, and protagonists discovering their destiny.

    5

    Gilding the Lily

    by Tea Cooper

    While not strictly mythology, this book offers a strong sense of a chosen one and a magical destiny, much like Percy Jackson. Readers who enjoyed the journey of discovery and confronting powerful forces will find a similar appeal. It's a historical mystery with a subtle supernatural thread, providing a more grounded, yet still intriguing, sense of magic. This is a delightful choice for those who enjoy uncovering secrets and a touch of the extraordinary in unexpected places.

    6

    The House in the Cerulean Sea

    by T.J. Klune

    If the found family dynamic and quirky, lovable characters of Percy Jackson resonated with you, then you absolutely must pick up The House in the Cerulean Sea. It’s a heartwarming tale about an orphanage for magical children and the caseworker who learns to love them. It shares Percy’s optimistic spirit and emphasis on acceptance, though it trades epic battles for profound emotional journeys and gentle magic. Perfect for anyone who loves feel-good stories with unique magical beings and a strong focus on acceptance and belonging.

    7

    Mexican Gothic

    by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    For those who appreciate the supernatural mysteries and uncovering dark secrets in Percy Jackson, Mexican Gothic offers a deliciously eerie, slow-burn unraveling of a monstrous family legacy. There aren't demigods per se, but there's a strong sense of inherited power and sinister forces at play. It's a gothic horror novel, so expect chills instead of quests! Readers who enjoy atmospheric settings, suspenseful plots, and a touch of the uncanny will love this one.

    8

    A Deadly Education

    by Naomi Novik

    If you loved the magical schooling and fraught alliances within Percy Jackson’s camp environment, you'll be right at home in the Scholomance, a murderous school of magic where survival is literally the objective. El, our prickly protagonist, is a force to be reckoned with, much like Percy, but with a far more cynical outlook. This is for readers who crave dark academia, high-stakes magical training, and a protagonist who's delightfully snarky even when facing certain doom.

    9

    Jade City

    by Fonda Lee

    For a series that delivers on found family, epic stakes, and a protagonist discovering their unique power, check out Jade City. It's a martial arts urban fantasy set in a world where jade confers magical abilities, and rival clans fight for control. While it lacks Greek mythology, it excels in complex world-building and character relationships, reminiscent of Percy's loyalty to his friends. If you're into thrilling action, intricate politicking, and powerful family sagas, this is a must-read.

    10

    Empire of Gold

    by S.A. Chakraborty

    If you loved the rich mythological weaving and hidden magical cities of Percy Jackson, then The Daevabad Trilogy, culminating in Empire of Gold, is your next grand adventure. Set in a vibrant, magically-infused Middle East, it follows a con artist who discovers she has powerful connections to a world of djinn. It's got intricate world-building, high-stakes politics, and a compelling female lead discovering her heritage. Perfect for those who crave epic fantasy rooted in non-Western mythology.

    11

    Legendborn

    by Tracy Deonn

    Fans of Percy Jackson's secret societies, magical abilities, and a protagonist uncovering a hidden legacy will be enthralled by Legendborn. Bree Matthews stumbles upon a secret society of Arthurian descendants battling demons at a UNC-Chapel Hill program. It’s got that snappy dialogue, emotional depth, and a compelling blend of modern life with ancient legends. This is a fantastic choice for readers who love urban fantasy, Arthurian retellings, and stories about discovering your power and destiny.

    12

    Ten Thousand Doors of January

    by Alix E. Harrow

    If the idea of hidden worlds and portals to magic in Percy Jackson thrilled you, then Ten Thousand Doors of January will absolutely enchant you. It's a gorgeous, lyrical tale about a young woman who discovers she has a connection to many magical doors leading to other worlds. While more fantastical and less direct action than Percy Jackson, it captures that same sense of wonder, discovery, and the profound power of stories. This is perfect for readers who appreciate beautiful prose and a journey into the heart of magic and possibility.

    Why readers loved Percy Jackson for Adults

    You devoured every quest, every quip, every moment of demigod glory, and now you’re standing in the aftermath, a little bereft, aren't you? That particular blend of ancient myth clashing with modern snark, of an underdog finding their power and their people – it really gets under your skin. If you’re nodding along, feeling that familiar pang for more stories that hit just right, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. We totally get it.

    Across thousands of reviews, readers keep coming back to the same notes: urban fantasy, historical fantasy, magic. Every book on this list was chosen because it delivers on at least two of those threads.

    Shared themes & tropes

    The threads that connect these recommendations to Percy Jackson for Adults.

    Who this list is for

    Age group

    Young Adult
    Adult

    Genre fit

    Fantasy
    Romance
    Thriller / Mystery
    Historical

    Perfect for readers who want…

    • urban fantasy — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.
    • historical fantasy — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.
    • magic — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.
    • found family — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.
    • dark academia — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.
    • secret societies — without losing what made Percy Jackson for Adults special.

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