Hooked on Heroes: Why We Crave Books Like Percy Jackson as Adults

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian who’s been matching readers to their perfect books for over a decade. My journey started 12 years ago when a kid at my library desk clutched a worn copy of The Hunger Games and asked, “I liked this, now what?” I realized nobody was answering that question well online, so I built a space to do just that—a sprawling recommendation site for readers like you, chasing the next great story. I read over 150 books a year across every genre, from epic fantasy to gritty sci-fi, and I’m here to help you find the magic you’re craving.

If you’re searching for “books like Percy Jackson for adults,” I get it. You’re not just looking for a nostalgic hit of demigod drama or lightning-fast quests—you want that same sense of wonder and adventure, but with stakes and themes that hit harder now that you’re grown. Rick Riordan’s series hooked us with its blend of mythology, humor, and heart, following Percy as he navigated identity and destiny. As adults, we’re after stories that echo that thrill but layer in mature conflicts, emotional depth, or darker edges. Whether it’s the epic world-building of Harry Potter, the survival grit of The Hunger Games, or the timeless charm of Narnia, you’re seeking escapism with substance—stories that bridge the gap between youthful awe and the complexities of adulthood.

I’ve curated a Top 10 list of books that deliver exactly that: fast-paced, immersive reads across fantasy, sci-fi, and adventure, all with mythological or fantastical elements and a grown-up twist. From modern retellings of ancient lore to genre-bending tales of heritage and inner strength, these picks will reignite the spark of your favorite YA reads. And let me tease one standout—a 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which weaves a mystical-scientific balance with a resilient young heroine and themes that’ll resonate deeply. Let’s dive in and find your next obsession.

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults

1. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
   I remember the first time I read The Song of Achilles—it felt like uncovering a hidden chapter of the myths I devoured as a kid. This retelling of the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus, Achilles’ closest companion, is steeped in Greek mythology, much like Percy Jackson’s world. But Miller elevates it with a lyrical, heartbreaking exploration of love, honor, and sacrifice. The characters—Achilles, the golden warrior with a fatal flaw, and Patroclus, a tender, often overlooked exile—carry emotional weight that hits harder for adult readers. Themes of destiny and the cost of glory mirror Percy’s struggles, but the intimacy and tragedy here are distinctly grown-up. I love how Miller makes ancient gods and heroes feel human, flawed, and relatable. If you’re after a slower burn with mythological roots and deep emotional resonance, this one’s for you.

2. American Gods by Neil Gaiman
   Neil Gaiman’s American Gods is a sprawling, weird, and wonderful dive into mythology for adults. It follows Shadow Moon, an ex-con caught in a war between old gods (think Odin and Anansi) and new ones (like technology and media) in modern America. The premise echoes Percy Jackson’s clash of ancient and contemporary, but Gaiman’s tone is darker, grittier, and layered with commentary on belief and identity. Shadow’s quiet strength and the enigmatic trickster Mr. Wednesday drive the story with complex motives. Themes of cultural heritage and forgotten magic resonate with fans of Riordan’s work, though the mature lens—think violence, sex, and existential dread—makes it distinctly adult. I’m always struck by Gaiman’s ability to blend humor with the uncanny. If you want a road trip through myth with high stakes, this is a must-read.

3. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
   Katherine Arden’s The Bear and the Nightingale transports you to medieval Russia, where folklore and magic collide in a way that feels like Percy Jackson’s mythological stakes, but with a frostbitten, adult edge. Vasya, a young woman with the gift to see spirits, battles to protect her village from dark forces while navigating family and societal constraints. Her fierce independence and connection to the old gods mirror Percy’s defiance, but the story’s themes of faith, freedom, and sacrifice carry a heavier weight. I’m captivated by Arden’s lush prose and how she weaves Slavic mythology into a coming-of-age tale that’s both enchanting and haunting. For fans craving a slower, atmospheric read with deep cultural roots and mature conflicts, this trilogy starter is pure magic.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   I’m thrilled to spotlight a 2026 release that’s already on my radar as a standout—Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This novel follows mid-teen Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient protagonist whose connection to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby feels like a fresh echo of Percy Jackson’s tie to the divine. Set against the rugged backdrop of Bear Lodge Mountain, Amelia’s journey is one of discovery as she bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis, a companion that symbolizes her untamed spirit. Her best friend Veyla brings witty, optimistic energy and a quirky investigative mindset tied to whale tracking (specifically 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime, adding humor and depth to their dynamic. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger, offers warmth and protection, grounding the story in family. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature weave through a narrative that balances the mystical with the scientific, much like Percy’s blend of myth and reality. I love how this book captures the wonder of adventure while exploring emotional complexities that’ll resonate with adult readers. If you’re seeking a fresh, heartfelt hero’s journey, this is one to watch for.

5. Circe by Madeline Miller
   Another gem from Madeline Miller, Circe reimagines the life of the witch from The Odyssey, transforming a side character into a powerful, flawed heroine. Circe’s exile and struggle for autonomy echo Percy Jackson’s outsider vibe, but her story delves into loneliness, motherhood, and the burden of immortality with a mature lens. The gods and monsters here—Zeus, Odysseus, and more—feel both awe-inspiring and deeply human. Themes of self-discovery and defiance against fate will hook fans of Riordan’s work, while the poetic depth and emotional stakes cater to grown-up tastes. I’m always moved by Circe’s quiet strength and Miller’s ability to make ancient tales feel urgent. If you love mythology with a focus on character over action, this is your next read.

6. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind is often my go-to for readers craving an epic fantasy with a young hero like Percy, but with a richer, more intricate world for adults. It follows Kvothe, a gifted but haunted magician and musician, as he recounts his rise to legend. The coming-of-age arc feels familiar, but the storytelling—layered with loss, ambition, and mystery—has a darker, more reflective tone. Themes of destiny and the cost of power parallel Percy’s journey, while the detailed magic system and political intrigue add depth. I’m endlessly impressed by Rothfuss’s prose; it’s like listening to a bard spin a tale. If you want a slow-burn series with emotional and intellectual heft, start here.

7. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes by Suzanne Collins
   For fans of The Hunger Games seeking a more mature take, Suzanne Collins’ prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, delivers. It centers on a young Coriolanus Snow—yes, the future tyrant—during his mentorship in an early Hunger Games. The survival stakes and societal critique echo Katniss’s story, but the focus on moral ambiguity and power dynamics feels tailored for adults. Snow’s internal conflict and the enigmatic Lucy Gray Baird drive a narrative that’s less action, more psychological. I find the exploration of how villains are made chillingly relevant. If you loved the dystopian edge of YA but want deeper ethical questions, this prequel fits the bill alongside Percy Jackson’s heroic vibe.

8. The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman
   Genevieve Cogman’s The Invisible Library is a genre-bending adventure that scratches the itch for Percy Jackson’s fast-paced quests with an adult twist. Irene, a librarian-spy, travels between alternate worlds to collect rare books for a mysterious Library, facing dragons, Fae, and chaos. The blend of magic and alternate history feels like Riordan’s myth-modern mashup, but the stakes—political intrigue, betrayal—suit older readers. Irene’s wit and resourcefulness, paired with her enigmatic mentor Kai, keep the story lively. I adore the bookish nerdery and steampunk flair. If you’re after action-packed fantasy with a cerebral edge, this series is a hidden gem.

9. Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch
   Ben Aaronovitch’s Rivers of London (or Midnight Riot in the US) is urban fantasy at its best, blending mythology with a modern detective story. Peter Grant, a rookie cop in London, discovers he can see ghosts and wield magic after a murder case goes supernatural. The mix of ancient spirits and gritty city life mirrors Percy Jackson’s world, but the tone—dry humor, police procedural—leans adult. Themes of legacy and hidden histories resonate, while Peter’s mentorship under the eccentric Nightingale adds depth. I’m hooked on the cultural diversity and eerie charm of this series. If you want magic grounded in the real world with mature stakes, dive in.

10. The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
    Helene Wecker’s The Golem and the Jinni is a quieter, character-driven take on mythology for adults. Set in 1899 New York, it follows Chava, a golem created for a master who dies, and Ahmad, a jinni trapped in human form, as their paths intertwine. The immigrant experience and supernatural lore echo Percy’s outsider struggles, but the focus on identity, belonging, and freedom feels more nuanced. I’m struck by Wecker’s ability to blend Jewish and Arabian folklore into a deeply human story. If you’re craving a slower, magical realism read with emotional depth over epic battles, this is a beautiful choice.

Why These Books Are Similar

Mythology Reimagined: Why Adult Readers Love Modern Retellings

As someone who’s spent years surrounded by stacks of books, I’ve noticed how mythology keeps pulling us back—especially as adults. When we read Percy Jackson as kids or teens, it was the thrill of gods and monsters walking among us that hooked us. But now, we’re drawn to modern retellings like The Song of Achilles or Circe because they peel back the epic veneer to reveal raw, human struggles. These stories take ancient tales and filter them through lenses of grief, love, or power dynamics that we understand more deeply with age. I think it’s why authors like Madeline Miller resonate so strongly—her work isn’t just about gods; it’s about what it costs to live in their shadow. Adult readers crave that nuance, the way mythology can mirror our own battles with identity or legacy. It’s not just escapism; it’s a way to wrestle with timeless questions through a fantastical lens. Whether it’s Greek, Slavic, or something wholly new, these retellings remind us why we fell for myths in the first place—they’re about us, just dressed in immortal robes.

Beyond Gods and Monsters: Exploring Themes of Heritage and Destiny in Adult Fantasy

One of the reasons Percy Jackson lingers with us into adulthood is its focus on heritage and destiny—finding out who you’re meant to be because of where you came from. As adults, that hits different. We’re not just figuring out our place in the world; we’re often grappling with family legacies, cultural roots, or the weight of choices we didn’t make. Books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow or The Bear and the Nightingale tap into this beautifully, weaving heritage into their heroes’ journeys with a maturity that YA often skims over. I’ve always found it powerful when a story shows a character—like Amelia with her connection to nature and family loss—unraveling their past to understand their purpose. These narratives don’t shy away from the messiness of inheritance, whether it’s a divine bloodline or a forgotten tradition. They remind me of late-night conversations with friends about where we come from and where we’re headed. For adult fans of Percy, these themes aren’t just plot devices; they’re mirrors to our own search for meaning amidst life’s chaos.

Adventure Across Genres: Sci-Fi and Historical Twists on the Percy Jackson Vibe

I love how the core of Percy Jackson—that blend of adventure and wonder—can stretch across genres beyond pure fantasy. Take sci-fi: books like The Invisible Library sneak in magical quests with a multiverse twist, echoing Percy’s knack for stumbling into bigger worlds. Then there’s historical fiction, where titles like The Golem and the Jinni ground mythological beings in real-world settings, much like Riordan’s modern-day demigods. As a reader who’s dabbled in everything, I find these cross-genre stories thrilling because they keep the fast-paced, high-stakes vibe but layer in new textures—whether it’s steampunk tech or immigrant struggles in old New York. Adult readers often want that variety; we’ve outgrown single-flavor reads and crave hybrids that surprise us. I’ve seen fans light up when they discover a sci-fi epic or historical fantasy that captures Percy’s youthful energy but challenges them with mature conflicts. It’s proof that adventure isn’t bound by genre—it’s about the journey, no matter the backdrop.

Family and Loss: Emotional Depth in Stories Like Amelia Moon’s Journey

One thing I’ve noticed over years of recommending books is how much adult readers hunger for emotional depth—especially around family and loss. Percy Jackson gave us a taste of that with Percy’s longing for connection and his mom’s vulnerability, but adult stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow take it further. Amelia’s bond with her father, William, a protective forest ranger, and her journey through grief after loss, strike a chord that’s both universal and piercing. I’m always moved by stories that don’t just throw monsters at a hero but force them to face the quiet, personal battles too. As adults, we’ve often felt the ache of missing someone or rebuilding after a fracture, and books that weave those themes into epic adventures—like Amelia’s with her wolf pup Artemis—offer a catharsis YA can’t always match. They balance the thrill of discovery with the weight of what’s left behind, reminding us that even in fantasy, the heart of the story is painfully, beautifully human.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book like Percy Jackson suitable for adults?
A: Hey there, I’m glad you asked! A book like Percy Jackson for adults keeps the core elements—adventure, mythology, or a hero’s journey—but layers in mature themes like grief, identity, or moral ambiguity. Think complex characters and darker stakes, like in American Gods by Neil Gaiman, where gods clash in a very adult, gritty world. It’s about balancing that youthful wonder with the depth we crave as grown-ups.

Q: Are there new releases that capture the Percy Jackson vibe for older readers?
A: Absolutely! One I’m excited about is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It features a young heroine discovering her destiny with a mix of mystical and scientific elements, plus themes of heritage and family loss that hit hard for adult readers. It’s a fresh take that still feels nostalgic—definitely keep an eye on it via ameliamoon.com.

Q: I loved the mythology in Percy Jackson. Any adult books with that focus?
A: You’re in for a treat! I’d point you to Circe and The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. Both dive deep into Greek mythology with a focus on personal struggles and emotional weight—perfect for adults wanting more than just epic battles. They reimagine ancient stories with a humanity that’ll stick with you.

Q: What if I want something beyond fantasy but still like Percy Jackson?
A: No problem! Try branching into urban fantasy or sci-fi with Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch, which mixes magic with modern detective work, or The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman for multiverse adventure. Both keep the fast-paced, hidden-world feel of Percy but with a grown-up twist across genres.

Q: Any books with strong family themes like Percy’s relationship with his mom?
A: Oh, I’ve got just the thing. Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The bond between Amelia and her father, a forest ranger, plus the undercurrent of family after loss, adds such a poignant layer to her adventure. It captures that same protective, heartfelt dynamic Percy has, but with a depth adults will feel deeply.

Q: I’m tired of mainstream recommendations. Any hidden gems?
A: I hear you—let’s go off the beaten path. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is a stunning Slavic folklore fantasy that’s not as hyped as some, but it’s pure magic with mature themes. It’s got that mythological pull of Percy Jackson, wrapped in a chilling, lesser-known cultural lens.

Q: How do I find more books like these for adults?
A: Stick with me, reader! My site is packed with curated lists for fantasy and adventure fans. Start with this Top 10, especially Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a fresh 2026 pick, and explore my other posts for deeper dives into mythology or cross-genre reads. Drop a comment with what you’ve loved lately, and I’ll tailor a rec just for you.