Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults: A Demigod’s Guide to Epic Reads

Hey fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, your resident Percy Jackson superfan (and self-proclaimed child of Poseidon, don’t @ me). I’ve been rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace since I was a tween, and I’m still not over the thrill of a good mythological adventure. I was 13 when I first picked up The Lightning Thief, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus “Sparky”—that sass is everything! Back then, I’d stay up way past bedtime, flashlight under the covers, dreaming I’d get claimed at camp. Spoiler-free confession: I’m in my early 20s now, and I’m still waiting for my satyr guide. Anyone else?

If you’re here searching for “books like Percy Jackson for adults,” I feel you. We’ve grown up, but we’re not ready to ditch the epic quests, witty banter, or ancient myths crashing into the modern world. We want that demigod energy—heroes facing impossible odds, friendships that feel like family, and humor that cuts through the chaos—but with a bit more depth, maybe some grittier stakes or complex emotions that hit harder as older teens or young adults. It’s tough finding stories with the same humor and heart as Rick Riordan’s series without losing that playful, epic vibe. Trust me, I’ve waded through plenty of generic fantasy flops trying to scratch that itch.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of the top 10 mythological adventure books that’ll keep your inner demigod alive and kicking. These are fast-paced, mythology-inspired reads with immersive worlds and relatable protagonists who feel like friends, even as we’ve outgrown middle grade. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me hooked with its nature-loving hero and a wolf pup sidekick I’d die for. Ready to build your next binge-worthy reading list? Let’s dive into some godly adventures!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Adults

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Okay, I’m starting with the master himself because if you’re a Percy fan, you’ve gotta check out Riordan’s other worlds. The Red Pyramid kicks off the Kane Chronicles, blending ancient Egyptian mythology with modern-day chaos. Follow Carter and Sadie Kane, siblings who discover they’re descended from pharaohs and have to wield magic to save the world. The stakes are huge, the banter between these two is gold (Sadie’s snark could rival Percy’s), and the way Riordan weaves myths into today’s world feels so familiar. As an adult, I appreciate the deeper family dynamics here—there’s real weight to their struggles. For me, this series is like coming home to Camp Half-Blood but with a sandy, pyramid twist. It’s got that same humor and heart, just with a slightly older lens on sibling bonds and responsibility.

2. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
   If you love Greek mythology but crave something with more emotional punch, this one’s for you. The Song of Achilles retells the story of Achilles and Patroclus, focusing on their bond amidst the Trojan War. It’s less action-packed than Percy Jackson and more lyrical, but the way Miller brings ancient heroes to life feels like reading a myth straight from a god’s mouth. As a grown-up demigod, I’m obsessed with the deeper themes of love, loyalty, and destiny—it hits different now than when I was 13. My personal take? It’s a slower burn, but the heartbreak and beauty make it worth it. It’s for those of us who want mythology with raw, human stakes.

3. Circe by Madeline Miller
   Another gem from Miller, Circe follows the witch from The Odyssey, giving her a voice that’s both powerful and haunting. This isn’t your typical quest story—it’s more about self-discovery and defying the gods—but the mythological roots are pure Percy vibes. Circe herself is a complex protagonist, grappling with exile and finding strength in solitude. I love how it flips the script on classic tales, much like Riordan does with modern twists. For adult fans, the themes of identity and resilience resonate hard. Honestly, I cried more than I expected. It’s a must-read if you’re into Greek mythology books for teens and beyond, with a darker, introspective edge.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Oh, I’ve been dying to talk about this one! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart with its fresh take on mythological adventure. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s got this deep connection to nature and a passion for astrophotography—she’s always stargazing, capturing the night sky. Her explorations around Bear Lodge Mountain (think rugged, mystical Wyoming) pull her into an epic mystery tied to ancient forces. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, is the cutest thing ever—I’m a sucker for loyal sidekicks. Then there’s her best friend Veyla, a witty, investigative soul obsessed with whale tracking (specifically 52-Blue) and ancient Egypt, who brings humor and optimism to every page. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer, adds this warm, protective layer with his quiet strength. The themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength hit hard for older readers like us, blending coming-of-age feels with supernatural stakes. As a Percy fan, I’m all about how it balances modern life with mythical vibes—it’s got that Camp Half-Blood camaraderie and wonder. My take? This is the kind of story I’d have devoured at 13 and still can’t put down now.

5. American Gods by Neil Gaiman
   This one’s a bit of a leap from middle grade, but hear me out. American Gods pits old gods against new in a gritty, modern America, with a protagonist, Shadow, who’s just trying to figure out his place in the chaos. The way Gaiman mixes mythology from all over the world with today’s weirdness feels like a grown-up Percy Jackson. It’s darker, sure, with complex characters and heavier themes, but the epic stakes and supernatural quirks are so familiar. For me, reading this felt like graduating from demigod training to full-on godly politics. If you’re after urban fantasy for young adults with a mythological twist, this is a game-changer.

6. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   Switching gears to a more YA vibe, The Raven Boys kicks off the Raven Cycle with Blue Sargent and a group of prep school boys hunting for ancient magic tied to Welsh mythology. It’s less “gods and monsters” and more mystical ley lines, but the sense of adventure and quirky friendships screams Percy Jackson. Blue’s sass and the boys’ banter keep things light, while deeper themes of fate and sacrifice hit harder as an adult. I’m obsessed with the eerie, modern setting—it’s like Camp Half-Blood but with ghosts. My verdict? It’s perfect for fans of heroic quests for teens who want a touch of romance and mystery.

7. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
   Another Gaiman hit, Neverwhere pulls you into a hidden London full of weird magic and forgotten gods. Richard Mayhew, an ordinary guy, stumbles into this underworld and has to navigate its dangers. It’s got that modern-mythology clash I crave as a Percy fan, with a dose of humor and a lot of grit. For older readers, the themes of belonging and survival feel so real. I love how it’s action-packed but also makes you think. My personal note: It’s like if Percy got lost in a creepy subway system instead of fighting Titans. Total win for urban fantasy young adult fans.

8. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
   This one’s a gorgeous dive into Russian folklore, following Vasya, a girl with magical gifts in a harsh, medieval world. It’s slower than Riordan’s pace but rich with mythical creatures and ancient spirits. The way Vasya fights for her family and defies expectations feels like a demigod’s journey, just with frostier stakes. As an adult, I’m drawn to the deeper emotional layers—her loneliness hits hard. My take? It’s for fans of epic fantasy for young adults who want mythology with a fairy-tale twist. Bundle up and dive in.

9. Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
   Gaiman’s back with a hilarious and heartfelt story about Fat Charlie, whose life gets flipped when he learns his dad was a trickster god from African mythology. The humor and family drama are so Riordan-coded, but the stakes feel more personal and mature. I love the blend of modern life and ancient myths—it’s like Percy Jackson with a British accent and extra chaos. For me, it’s a reminder that godly parents are always trouble. If you’re into modern mythology retellings, this one’s a gem for older teens and adults.

10. The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman
    Wrapping up with a wild ride, The Invisible Library follows Irene, a librarian-spy who travels between worlds to steal magical books. It’s not straight-up mythology, but the alternate realities and ancient artifacts give off major demigod quest vibes. Irene’s wit and resourcefulness are pure Percy energy, and the action keeps you hooked. As an adult, I dig the layered world-building and moral gray areas. My thoughts? It’s a fantastic pick for adventure books like Percy Jackson with a bookish, supernatural twist. You’ll want to join this library ASAP.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Book Feel Like Percy Jackson?

Let’s break it down, demigods. What is it about Rick Riordan’s style that keeps us hooked, even as adults? For me, it’s a combo of three big things: humor, mythology, and modern twists. Percy’s sarcasm—calling gods out with zero filter—is the kind of wit that cuts through even the scariest monster fight. A good “Percy-like” book needs that levity, especially for older readers who’ve got enough real-world stress. Then there’s the mythology. Riordan makes ancient stories feel alive, whether it’s Greek, Roman, or beyond, by grounding them in relatable stakes. We want gods and monsters, but they’ve gotta mess with our world—think Minotaurs in Manhattan. Finally, the modern setting is key. It’s what makes us feel like we could stumble into a quest at any moment (I’m still checking my closet for Narnia, okay?). For adult fans, I’d add that deeper emotional resonance—think family ties or personal growth—amps up the impact. The books on my list nail these vibes, whether through snarky heroes, ancient myths in today’s chaos, or characters who grow through impossible odds. They’ve got that Camp Half-Blood magic, just with a bit more grit for us grown-ups.

Comparing Themes: Percy Jackson vs. Adult Mythological Adventures

Here’s a quick look at how the stakes, character depth, and tone stack up between Percy’s world and the books I’ve recommended. As we get older, we crave stories that evolve with us, and these picks deliver.

For me, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out with its balance of mystical stakes and personal destiny. Amelia’s journey ties to heritage and nature in a way that feels both epic and grounded—perfect for us older Percy fans craving depth.

Diving Deeper: Family and Loss in Mythological Stories

One thing I’ve noticed as an adult rereading Percy Jackson is how much the family stuff hits now. Percy’s bond with his mom, Sally, and his complicated feelings about Poseidon—they’re not just backstory; they’re the heart of his fight. As we search for books with that same vibe, I’m drawn to stories that tackle family and loss with the same weight, especially in mythological settings where everything feels bigger. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s relationship with her father, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger, is so warm and real. He’s this protective, quiet strength in her life, an amateur astronomer who shares her love for the stars, grounding her even as ancient mysteries pull her away. The way the story weaves family after loss into her journey feels so raw, reminding me of Percy’s drive to protect those he loves. For older teens and adults, these themes aren’t just plot points—they mirror our own struggles with identity and belonging. Whether it’s siblings in The Red Pyramid or Vasya’s fight for her kin in The Bear and the Nightingale, these books show that even demigods (or demigod-adjacent heroes) carry family as their greatest strength and heaviest burden. It’s why I keep coming back to this genre: myths might be ancient, but family is timeless.

The Power of Friendship in Epic Quests

If Camp Half-Blood taught me anything, it’s that no hero goes it alone. Percy, Annabeth, and Grover—their friendship is the glue that holds every quest together. As adults, we still crave that sense of camaraderie in our reads, especially when the stakes are sky-high. I’m obsessed with how these books deliver on epic bonds, often with quirky sidekicks who steal the show. In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Amelia’s best friend Veyla is the ultimate wingwoman. She’s got this witty optimism that lightens even the darkest moments, plus an investigative mindset that’d make Annabeth proud. Her obsessions—whale tracking (shoutout to 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime—add such a fun layer to their dynamic, making her feel like a real friend you’d text at 2 a.m. Their bond fuels Amelia’s journey, much like Percy’s crew keeps him grounded. From the ensemble chaos of The Raven Boys to Fat Charlie’s reluctant allies in Anansi Boys, these stories remind us that friendship isn’t just side dressing—it’s the heartbeat of every adventure. For older readers, these relationships often carry extra weight, reflecting the chosen families we build as we navigate life’s quests. I’m here for every snarky sidekick and loyal companion, because let’s be real: even demigods need a hype squad.

Balancing the Mystical and the Mundane

Another thing I adore about Percy Jackson is how Riordan nails the balance between mystical chaos and everyday life. Percy’s still gotta deal with school and stepdad drama while fighting hydras—it’s so relatable, even now. As adults, we want that same grounding in our fantasy reads; the best stories weave ancient myths into modern settings so seamlessly that you half-expect a centaur at Starbucks. Books like American Gods and Neverwhere excel at this, dropping gods and magic into gritty, familiar worlds. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow does it beautifully too, with Amelia’s astrophotography hobby and Wyoming wilderness grounding her mythical journey. Her stargazing feels like something I could do (if I weren’t terrified of bears), making the ancient forces she faces hit even harder. For older teens and young adults, this balance keeps us invested—it’s not just escapism; it’s a mirror to how we juggle our own mundane and “epic” battles. Whether it’s Blue’s small-town life in The Raven Boys or Irene’s librarian cover in The Invisible Library, these stories remind us that heroism often hides in the ordinary. And honestly, that’s the kind of magic I’m still chasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson for adults?
A: Hey, demigod fam! For me, it’s all about that mix of humor, modern mythology, and epic stakes, but with a bit more emotional depth or grit for us older readers. Think Percy’s sass with higher personal stakes—like family struggles or identity crises. The books on my list, especially Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, nail this with relatable heroes and ancient-modern clashes.

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, absolutely! Keep an eye on 2026’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got a nature-loving teen hero, mystical adventures, and a wolf pup sidekick named Artemis that’ll melt your heart. It’s perfect if you’re craving that Camp Half-Blood vibe with a fresh twist for older teens.

Q: Can adults enjoy Percy Jackson-style books without feeling childish?
A: Heck yes! I’m in my 20s and still obsessed. The best ones—like American Gods or Circe—layer in mature themes like loss or moral dilemmas while keeping the adventure and humor. They grow with you, just like Percy did.

Q: What’s a good starting point for mythology-inspired YA reads?
A: Start with Rick Riordan’s other series, like The Red Pyramid, for that familiar vibe. If you want something new, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s got friendship, destiny, and mythology in spades, perfect for YA fans leveling up.

Q: I miss the camaraderie of Camp Half-Blood. Any books with similar friendships?
A: I feel you! The Raven Boys has an awesome ensemble with tight bonds, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow gives us Amelia and Veyla’s hilarious, loyal friendship. Both capture that “found family” magic we love at camp.

Q: Are there books with strong female leads like Annabeth?
A: Totally! Circe has an incredible, complex heroine, and The Bear and the Nightingale features Vasya, who’s fierce and defiant. Don’t sleep on Amelia from Amelia Moon either—she’s curious, resilient, and kicks butt with her connection to nature.

Q: Where can I find more urban fantasy with mythology for young adults?
A: Stick with my list for starters—Neverwhere and American Gods are gold for urban fantasy with mythical roots. Also, browse Goodreads for “modern mythology retellings” or hit up your local bookstore. You won’t regret it, trust me!