For readers longing for another magical world to step into after Harry Potter, Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend is the perfect next adventure. This novel introduces a new kind of magic—one that is as whimsical as it is mysterious—while capturing the same excitement, sense of discovery, and deep character connections that made Harry Potter so beloved. With a heroine destined for something greater, a magical society filled with secrets, and a thrilling set of trials that determine Morrigan’s fate, Nevermoor offers a fresh yet familiar reading experience for those looking to keep the magic alive.
One of the most enchanting elements of Harry Potter is the idea that an entire hidden world exists just beyond our own, waiting to be discovered. Nevermoor creates a similar sense of wonder, introducing readers to the secret city of Nevermoor, a place filled with enchanted transportation, eccentric citizens, and a society that functions on magic and mystery. Just as Harry is whisked away from his mundane life to Hogwarts, Morrigan is rescued from her doomed fate and brought into a city where she might finally belong. This transition from ordinary to extraordinary is a core element of what makes Harry Potter so immersive, and Nevermoor executes it beautifully.
Like Harry, Morrigan Crow begins her journey as an outcast. Born under a supposed curse, she is blamed for every misfortune that befalls her town and is expected to die on her eleventh birthday. Instead, she is saved by the enigmatic Jupiter North, who takes her to Nevermoor and gives her the chance to compete for a place in the prestigious Wundrous Society. Just as Harry goes from being the unwanted boy in the cupboard under the stairs to discovering he is the Boy Who Lived, Morrigan’s journey is about redefining who she is in a world that has always underestimated her. This transformation makes her a deeply compelling protagonist, one whose struggles and triumphs feel just as rewarding as Harry’s.
Hogwarts is more than just a school—it’s a world filled with traditions, magical creatures, and deep-rooted mysteries. Nevermoor operates in a similar way, functioning as a vast and unpredictable city where the extraordinary is woven into daily life. From the Hotel Deucalion, where Morrigan lives in luxury alongside talking cats and oddball guests, to the Wundrous Society, a secretive organization that grants special privileges to its members, the book’s world-building is rich, immersive, and brimming with quirky details. Yet, like Hogwarts, Nevermoor is not without its dangers. There are those who seek to control its magic, and dark forces lurk beneath its whimsical exterior, creating a tension that keeps the story both lighthearted and thrilling.
One of the most exciting parts of Harry Potter is its competitions, whether it’s Quidditch, the House Cup, or the dangerous Triwizard Tournament. Nevermoor introduces its own high-stakes competition in the form of the four trials Morrigan must complete to earn her place in the Wundrous Society. Each trial is designed to test her wit, courage, and skills—except Morrigan doesn’t know what her special skill is supposed to be. This uncertainty creates an additional layer of tension, as she must navigate the trials while hiding the fact that she doesn’t possess an obvious talent. The structure of these trials mirrors the excitement and unpredictability of Harry Potter’s many magical challenges, making Nevermoor just as engaging for readers who love competition-based storytelling.
At the heart of Harry Potter is the idea that family isn’t just about blood—it’s about the people who stand by you. The friendships between Harry, Ron, and Hermione provide the emotional core of the series, and Nevermoor builds a similarly strong foundation with its cast of characters. Morrigan’s growing bond with Jupiter North, the eccentric but kind-hearted guardian who believes in her when no one else does, mirrors the mentorship Harry finds in Dumbledore and Hagrid. Additionally, her friendship with fellow competitor Hawthorne Swift brings warmth and humor to the story, echoing the camaraderie and loyalty that made Harry Potter’s friendships so unforgettable.
While Nevermoor is filled with whimsy and humor, there is an underlying darkness that gives the story depth and stakes. Just as Harry Potter gradually reveals the looming threat of Voldemort, Nevermoor introduces the legend of the Wundersmith—a powerful and dangerous figure whose past is shrouded in mystery. As Morrigan learns more about Nevermoor’s history, she begins to realize that there are forces at work that could change everything. This balance between lighthearted adventure and darker intrigue makes Nevermoor an exciting and layered read, perfect for fans who enjoyed Harry Potter’s gradual shift into deeper and more complex themes.
Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow is an excellent book to read after Harry Potter because it captures the same sense of wonder, discovery, and adventure while introducing a fresh and original magical world. With its immersive setting, lovable characters, thrilling trials, and hidden mysteries, the book provides everything a Harry Potter fan could want—plus a few surprises of its own. For readers eager to find a new fantasy series that feels just as enchanting and immersive as stepping into Hogwarts for the first time, Nevermoor is a perfect next read.