Last Updated on October 1, 2024 by Angela Vaz
I’ve always been a voracious reader.
But as I entered my 30s, I developed a sort of love for thriller/horror.
And of late, I’ve been enjoying dark books or books about witches even more. It just takes 1-2 to spiral into it, honestly.
And I thought I’d make a list of my favorite ones.
Some of these books are dark – and some are quite whimsical and airy – either way you’re going to love this.
But before that really quick, if you love reading as much as I do and don’t want to spend a lot on books – get the Kindle Unlimited membership. It will save you so much money and you’ll get to read a ton of books!
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1. Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch
If you loved watching Kiki’s Delivery Service, you need to buy this book asap.
It’s a middle-grade novel centering around Eva who only holds a pinch of magic. She sets up a semi-magical repair shop and she is determined to help the townspeople.
I like that Eva is very passionate and always has the right intentions, and she’s a Novice Witch just like Kiki!
This book has Studio Ghibli vibes. If you want to read more books that are similar to Studio Ghibli, check this out.
This book is a heartwarming read about a witch who must believe in herself and rely on her abilities and friends.
Check out Eva Evergreen here.
2. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
I have a soft spot for nature and magic in general.
I love this book because it was an unexpected treat.
The story features Mika Moon – an Asian British witch who is lonely but has a heart of gold. She has to hide her powers due to strict rules imposed by her coven.
When she’s invited to tutor three young witches at an isolated house, she finds herself drawn to a rather unconventional family – this book is all about friendship, love, and a sense of belonging similar to Kiki’s Delivery service where a young witch navigates both magical and mundane worlds to find her place.
It’s a cozy read because of its warm whimsical take on magic and self-discovery.
This book was such a success, the author has already started working on the sequel – A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping you can preorder here.
3. Practical Rules for Cursed Witches
This is a new book that was released only this year.
But if I kinda like fantasy adventure novels and I don’t mind that this one is a queer YA Fantasy novel.
Delilah (the protagonist) has magic in her blood and when she graduates her magical training, she decides to break the family curse which stops her or the women in her family from finding true love.
It involves 2 slow-burn romances and I like the banter – it’s fun and the story is fast-paced.
The writing is very immersive and the story has a Howl’s Moving Castle vibe.
4. A Sorceress Comes to Call
I was very impressed by this book and this is my first time reading T. Kingfisher.
I honestly enjoyed her writing style.
This story has a very gothic atmosphere.
This is told in the dual POV of Cordelia, the 14-year-old abused and isolated daughter of a sorceress, and 50-something Hester, the sister of the wealthy older man the sorceress intends to trick into marriage and is on to her.
The two come to understand and care for one another, and Hester knows she’s got to outsmart the sorceress to save both her brother and Cordelia.
It is a reimagining of the Brothers Grimm’s Goose Girl.
This book is a page-turner from beginning to end.
5. The Invocations
I accidentally stumbled upon this book by following the Painter who did the cover for this series.
I thought the book blurb was interesting and purchased it and was pleasantly surprised when I couldn’t put it down.
The story is so original and dark and this is one of those hidden gems you find that has not yet become super popular.
This book is a dark witchy thriller.
Witches keep disappearing and the 3 main characters (all women) are determined to put a stop to this. They all have different side-quests but the author manages to weave it all together without causing chaos.
It’s dark and gruesome and magical. I wasn’t able to put it down.
Check out The Invocations here.
6. A Discover of Witches
Although this book was written in 2011, it garnered enough popularity to be made into a series.
I was late to the party but it didn’t matter because this book is solid gold.
The story is very layered and the author has a way with words.
The writing is effortless. I love that the characters are so strong and well-written.
In A Discovery of Witches, historian Diana Bishop accidentally uncovers a bewitched manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library, thrusting her into a world of magic she has long avoided.
As a reluctant witch, Diana is soon drawn into a centuries-old conflict between witches, vampires, and daemons.
With the help of the enigmatic vampire Matthew Clairmont (who is played by the amazing Matthew Goode in the series), she must unravel the mysteries of the manuscript and confront the magical heritage she has tried to deny.
This spellbinding tale blends history, magic, and romance, making it the perfect read for people who love supernatural stories along with a sprinkle of romance.
7. House of Earth and Blood
Sarah J Maas is the queen of fantasy books for women – she knows exactly how to write books that will leave us whirring with amazement.
The first part of the book is entirely world-building but that’s what makes it so strong.
Bryce Quinlan, a half-fae, half-human living in Crescent City, a modern metropolis filled with magical beings. Bryce’s carefree life is shattered when her close friend is murdered. Devastated and seeking justice, Bryce is thrust into a dangerous investigation that will uncover dark secrets within the city’s supernatural underworld.
To solve the mystery, Bryce teams up with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel and enslaved assassin who seeks his redemption.
The book blends elements of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery, featuring a complex world of fae, angels, witches, and other magical creatures, while also exploring themes of loss, friendship, and healing so it’s extremely well-rounded and a must read if you love magical books!
8. The Once Future Witches
The writing is so beautiful and the imagery she builds is mindblowing. I love how she blends nursery rhymes and fairy tales into the story.
Magic in the world has diminished to the point where it barely exists, except in fairy tales, nursery rhymes, and secret words passed down from mothers to daughters.
Often, these spells were left in plain sight yet hidden enough to ensure their survival. It was best that the women keep the magic hidden lest they suffer the fate of other witches discovered during this era.
The main characters are 3 sisters and they come from a poor and abusive background.
Inititally, they are separated, but when they meet they realize that their combined magic is ultra powerful.
9. Weyward
Weyward by Emilia Hart is a captivating novel that intertwines the lives of three women across centuries, all linked by their powerful connection to witchcraft and resilience.
A lot of these books I’ve mentioned have multiple protagonists – and I think that’s what makes it so interesting to read.
Altha, living in 1619, faces the terrifying reality of being accused of witchcraft during England’s witch trials.
Fast forward to 1942, and we meet Violet, a young woman trapped in a stifling household who begins to uncover her mysterious ties to nature and her family’s dark past.
Finally, in the present day, Kate escapes an abusive relationship and inherits a remote cottage called Weyward, where she unearths the magical legacy of the women who came before her.
As their stories unfold, each woman learns to embrace her strength and connection to the natural world, reclaiming her identity in a society that often seeks to silence them.
With its blend of historical drama and supernatural elements, Weyward beautifully explores the themes of witchcraft, female empowerment, and the unbreakable bonds between women through time.
Check it out if it piqued your interest.
10. The Girl who Drank the Moon
This book is a nice dive into magical realism. I’d compare it to Spirited Away or Howl’s Moving Castle because magic is treated as a natural part of life.
This book features a strong female protagonist – Luna who is courageous and compassionate and has to figure out how to control her magic as she grows up.
I won’t reveal any spoilers but this is a very beautiful and intense read.
You cannot put it down once you start reading because it’s just that good.
11. Circe
Circe by Madeline Miller is a captivating retelling of the myth of Circe, a lesser-known figure from Greek mythology known for her sorcery.
Madeline usually covers Greek Mythology in her books. And it’s nice, she’s built a genre for herself.
This particular novel follows Circe, the daughter of the sun god Helios, as she navigates the complexities of her identity and power in a world dominated by gods and mortals.
As a young girl, Circe feels like an outsider among her divine family and struggles to find her place.
When she discovers her ability to wield magic, she is exiled to the island of Aiaia, where she learns to embrace her unique gifts and forge her own path.
Throughout her journey, Circe encounters various legendary figures, including Odysseus, Hermes, and the Minotaur, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Check out this lovely book here.
12. Akata Witch
It’s a little similar to the Harry Potter series – this book is about Sunny Nwazue who discovers her magical abilities and navigates adolescence.
She and her friends embark on a quest to confront an evil threatening their world.
A lot of African mythology and traditions are infused in this book and it involves witches and wizards.
It’s a fantasy novel that includes both the real and magical worlds and it’s full of adventure!
13. The Witch’s Heart
The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec is a captivating reimagining of Norse mythology told through the perspective of Angrboda, a powerful witch and the mother of three children destined to shape the fate of the world.
The story begins with Angrboda living in exile after falling in love with the trickster god Loki, who carries his own burdens and complexities.
As Angrboda navigates her life in a world filled with gods, giants, and dark prophecies, she must confront her own identity, the nature of love, and the sacrifices she is willing to make for her children.
The novel explores themes of motherhood, loss, and resilience, weaving a rich tapestry of myth and magic while delving into Angrboda’s struggles against the fates that seek to control her.
14. The Witching Hour
The Witching Hour by Anne Rice is an absolutely spellbinding read that whisks you into the haunting world of the Mayfair family, a lineage of witches whose lives are steeped in mystery and magic.
Now, at the heart of the story is Rowan Mayfair, a brilliant neurosurgeon who returns to New Orleans after her mother’s death, only to find herself drawn into the dark and alluring history of her ancestors.
As she unravels the threads of her family’s past, Rowan encounters Lasher, a powerful spirit who has haunted the Mayfair women for generations, intertwining his fate with theirs in the most chilling ways.
I love the depth of the characters – this book explores witchcraft, love, power and it will sweep you off your feet!
15. Witchmark
This is an absolute gem.
It follows Miles Singer who is a charming and deeply complex witch with healing powers.
Life isn’t easy for him – he grapples with the weight of societal expectations that come with his lineage.
While in an investigation, he meets Lady Ethel – their chemistry is electric and mesmerizing.
Polk’s writing is so evocative that you can feel the magic jump off the page. This book combines fantasy with self-exploration and that’s why this is such an enchanting read.
16. Slewfoot – A Tale of Bewitchery
If you don’t have time to read the others – that’s okay.
But this book HAS TO be on your list – it’s so beautiful!
Set in the early 1700s, this dark and enchanting tale follows Abitha, a fiercely independent woman living in a Puritan settlement in New England.
As she struggles against the oppressive societal norms that seek to suppress her spirit, she finds herself drawn to the mysterious forces of nature surrounding her.
When Abitha encounters Slewfoot, a charismatic and enigmatic creature who embodies the wildness of the forest, a bond forms that challenge the rigid boundaries of her world.
Slewfoot is more than just a story about witches; it’s about the courage to embrace one’s true self.
If you love dark fantasy with rich storytelling and a touch of magic, this book is an absolute must-read!
17. Heartless Hunter
This book has everything you can fall in love with – an enemies-to-lovers trope, witches, and magic.
Kristen has nailed word-building in this one.
And I like how the story is so immersive without being chaotic or confusing.
If you want to read a book that has witches and romance – this one is for you.
18. Serpent & Dove
I was captivated by the very first chapter!
This enchanting tale is set in a daunting world where witches and witch hunters coexist, and it’s packed with tension and magic.
The story follows Louise Le Blanc, a fierce witch on the run who has learned to conceal her identity to survive.
When she crosses paths with Reid Diggory, a devoted witch hunter with a strong sense of duty, sparks fly in the most unexpected ways.
What I loved most about this book is the incredible chemistry between Lou and Reid – their witty banter and simmering heat keeps you reading.
The themes of love, loyalty, and self-discovery are beautifully woven into the narrative, making it more than just a simple romance.
19. The Witches of New York
The Witches of New York by Ami McKay is a spellbinding read.
The story follows Adelaide Thom, Eleanor St. Clair, and Beatrice Dunn—three wonderfully complex women who run a tea shop that’s much more than it seems.
Sounds cozy, doesn’t it?
Hidden behind its quaint exterior is a place where magic, healing, and witchcraft quietly thrive, because society fears women like these.
What I absolutely loved about this book is how it blends historical fiction with witchcraft so seamlessly.
McKay transports you to a time when women were challenging the status quo, fighting for their independence and their right to be more than society allowed.
Every page feels like magic.
Adelaide, Eleanor, and Beatrice are each so distinct, yet their stories intertwine in such a compelling way. The friendships between these women are strong and beautiful.
The novel is filled with wonder but also addresses the darker realities of life in the 1880s—where suspicion, fear, and danger lurk around every corner for those who dared to be different.
20. The Winter of the Witch
The Winter of the Witch by Katherine Arden is a beautiful book!
As the final book in The Winternight Trilogy (the first book being a sensation – The Bear and the Nightingale), it beautifully wraps up Vasya’s journey, and I was completely captivated from beginning to end.
Vasya, who started out as a rebellious girl with an affinity for old magic, truly comes into her own as a powerful witch in this novel.
Set in medieval Russia, the book masterfully weaves together history, folklore, and fantasy.
What I loved most about The Winter of the Witch is how it dives into the complexity of Vasya’s character. She’s strong, yet vulnerable, and her journey is both thrilling and deeply emotional.
The stakes are high as she faces off against both human and supernatural forces, and every page had me holding my breath. The atmosphere is so rich and haunting, filled with ancient spirits, dark magic, and snowy Russian landscapes that feel alive with danger and wonder.
21. The Field Guide to Witches
This is a visual treat – it’s got beautiful illustrations and it can sit on your bookshelf or coffee table – it’s eye candy, I don’t kid you.
A summary of each witch details their background, behavior, strengths, weaknesses and, of course, powers.
The result is 320 pages encased in a beautifully finished hardback cover, the ultimate field guide to designing witches that transcend time, place, and even the most vivid imagination.
The artwork in this book is absolutely phenomenal.
There are concept sketches, and the artists describe why they make the stylistic choices they do and this book is a masterpiece.
It’s pricy but it’s a collector’s item for anyone who loves art or witches or both.
Conclusion
Let me know if you have any others on your mind that I might have missed – I’d love to know because I actually enjoy reading this genre way too much.
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