Books Like Ninth House: 9 Dark Academia Reads to Devour Next

Leigh Bardugo's Ninth House captivated readers with its intoxicating blend of dark academia, magic and mystery. The novel follows Alex Stern, a troubled yet resilient protagonist, as she navigates the secret societies of Yale University, uncovering sinister plots and hidden powers. Readers are drawn to its intricate world-building, morally complex characters and the seamless intertwining of the supernatural with the real-world pressures of academia.

The allure of Ninth House lies in its gritty, atmospheric storytelling and its exploration of power dynamics within elite institutions. This heady mix of suspense, occult elements and academic intrigue leaves readers yearning for more tales that delve into the darker corners of university life. If you're seeking books like Ninth House to satiate your craving for shadowy secrets and enigmatic institutions, we have a selection that will surely capture your imagination.

What to read after Ninth House

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Donna Tartt's classic novel is a cornerstone of the dark academia genre. It follows a group of elite students at a New England college who become entranced by their charismatic professor, leading to obsession and murder. The novel's exploration of beauty, morality and the consequences of intellectual fervour resonate with the themes found in Ninth House.

If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio

Set in an exclusive arts college, this novel centres around a group of Shakespearean actors whose lives begin to mirror the tragedies they perform. The book, much like Ninth House, captivates with its blend of friendship, rivalry and the dark allure of academic life.