The iron trial

As the most direct comparison, this story features a young boy discovering a hidden world of magic and attending a specialized academy. It shares the foundational elements of a magical school, a trio of friends, and a dark prophecy looming over the protagonist.

Like Callum Hunt, Percy is a sarcastic and relatable protagonist who feels like an outsider before discovering his supernatural heritage. Both series feature fast-paced action, a heavy emphasis on friendship, and a modern twist on mythological or magical training.

This book captures the 'outsider' energy of The Iron Trial, following a protagonist who enters a secret magical institution where she is viewed with suspicion. It features a creative magic system and a central mystery involving family secrets and hidden identities.

Fans of the elemental magic in The Iron Trial will appreciate the unique and detailed magic system in this story. It follows a group of students learning to harness their abilities while navigating a world where magic is hidden from the 'Lambs' (non-magical people).

Morrigan Crow, like Callum, is a 'cursed' child who expects the worst but finds a place in a whimsical yet dangerous magical society. The book mirrors the competitive trial structure and the theme of a protagonist trying to escape a dark destiny.

This series focuses on the ancient art of alchemy and elemental magic, much like the Magisterium's curriculum. It features a high-stakes race against time and a complex mentor-student dynamic that fans of Holly Black and Cassandra Clare will enjoy.

For readers who enjoyed the more serious and philosophical aspects of the Magisterium, this classic explores the weight of power and the consequences of one's shadow. It deals deeply with the themes of identity and the balance of the natural world.

This book features a rigorous training academy and a protagonist who possesses a 'forbidden' type of elemental magic. It echoes the 'darker' twist on traditional fantasy tropes found in The Iron Trial, including high-stakes trials and complex friendships.

This series features a young girl who is whisked away to a magical academy where she must navigate social hierarchies and dangerous conspiracies. It shares the 'found family' vibe and the mystery-driven plot structure that keeps readers engaged across multiple volumes.

This book subverts traditional hero/villain archetypes, much like the moral ambiguity surrounding Callum Hunt's soul. It features a competitive school setting where characters are forced to confront their true natures and the labels society places on them.