Carry On

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Carry On

by Rainbow Rowell

It’s Simon Snow’s final year at Watford, and everything is going wrong: his magic is sputtering, his mentor is avoiding him, and his obnoxious, bloodsucking nemesis, Baz, has vanished. What begins as a quest to find Baz quickly unravels into a larger mystery threatening their entire world. This book takes the classic 'chosen one' fantasy and infuses it with a sharp wit, a deeply felt enemies-to-lovers romance, and a surprising amount of heart. It’s a story about finding your place, understanding your power, and realizing that sometimes your greatest adversary might just be your greatest ally. Pick this up if you love fantasy that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers genuine emotional impact and a compelling love story.

10 Books similar to 'Carry On'

If Carry On left you wanting more of that specific blend of magic, humor, and a truly compelling enemies-to-lovers dynamic, then you're in for a treat with our curated list. We’ve sought out books that capture the warmth of its queer romance, the clever subversion of classic fantasy tropes, and the emotional journey of personal growth within a magical setting. Whether you’re looking for more snarky banter, a deeply felt magical school experience, or the fierce bonds of a found family, these recommendations will carry you right back into the kind of story you loved.

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Red, White & Royal Blue
Red, White & Royal Blue

by Casey McQuiston

Like Carry On, this novel features a high-stakes enemies-to-lovers romance between two young men in the public eye. Fans will appreciate the witty banter, the transition from rivalry to deep affection, and the heartfelt exploration of identity.

The Magicians
The Magicians

by Lev Grossman

This book offers a darker, more deconstructive take on the 'magic school' trope that Carry On satirizes. It explores the disillusionment of being a 'chosen one' and the psychological consequences of living in a world where magic is real but doesn't solve every problem.

In Other Lands
In Other Lands

by Sarah Rees Brennan

This is a brilliant subversion of portal fantasy that shares Carry On's snarky narrative voice and meta-commentary on fantasy tropes. It focuses on a cynical protagonist who finds himself in a magical world and navigates complex queer relationships and friendships.

The Raven Boys
The Raven Boys

by Maggie Stiefvater

Fans of the 'found family' aspect of Carry On will love the deep, complex bonds between the characters in this series. It blends magic, ancient prophecies, and atmospheric mystery with a slow-burn romance and a strong sense of place.

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Gideon the Ninth
Gideon the Ninth

by Tamsyn Muir

If you enjoyed the prickly, antagonistic dynamic between Simon and Baz, you will love the relationship between Gideon and Harrow. It combines necromantic magic with a dark sense of humor and a high-stakes mystery in a unique sci-fantasy setting.

Cemetery Boys
Cemetery Boys

by Aiden Thomas

This book features a wonderful blend of urban fantasy, queer romance, and a quest to solve a mystery. Similar to Carry On, it balances magical stakes with emotional character growth and a heartwarming central relationship.

Six of Crows
Six of Crows

by Leigh Bardugo

While more action-oriented, this book shares Carry On's strength in character dynamics and the 'found family' trope. It features a diverse cast of outcasts with complex histories and several compelling, slow-burn romantic subplots.

Vicious
Vicious

by V.E. Schwab

This novel focuses on a intense, obsessive rivalry between two former friends that mirrors the darker undercurrents of Simon and Baz's relationship. It is a sharp exploration of power, morality, and what it means to be a hero or a villain.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

For readers who loved the introspective and emotional journey of Simon Snow, this book offers a beautiful coming-of-age story about two boys navigating their identities. It captures the same sense of yearning and personal discovery found in Rowell's work.

A Marvellous Light
A Marvellous Light

by Freya Marske

Set in a magical Edwardian England, this book features a delightful grumpy/sunshine dynamic and a forced-proximity romance. It will appeal to fans of Carry On's magic system and the way it integrates supernatural elements into a character-driven story.