For readers who found themselves captivated by the world of Harry Potter, Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger offers an equally immersive escape into a hidden realm filled with magic, danger, and unforgettable characters. While it is a wholly original series with its own intricate lore, the journey of Sophie Foster and the secrets of the Lost Cities contain many of the elements that made Harry Potter such an enduring classic.
One of the great joys of Harry Potter is the discovery of an entirely new world hiding just beyond the ordinary. Sophie Foster’s entrance into the Lost Cities mirrors Harry’s journey from Privet Drive to Hogwarts—she starts as a seemingly normal girl, only to learn that she belongs somewhere entirely different. But unlike the traditional wizarding world, the Lost Cities are a dazzling society of elves, where technology and magic intertwine in ways that feel fresh and futuristic while still holding onto a sense of ancient wonder. Messenger crafts a realm that is breathtaking in its scope, filled with floating castles, glittering cities, and creatures straight out of legend. It’s the kind of place that makes readers wish they could visit, much like Hogwarts and Diagon Alley.
Sophie Foster, like Harry, is more than just a kid discovering a new world—she is at the center of something much bigger. With abilities that set her apart from those around her, she is constantly grappling with the weight of expectations and the struggle to define who she really is. What makes Sophie’s journey especially compelling is that her past is wrapped in secrets, and as she uncovers more about herself, she realizes that the world she has entered is not as perfect as it seems. Her story is one of self-discovery, growth, and resilience, making her a relatable and engaging protagonist for fans of characters like Harry Potter.
One of the most powerful aspects of Harry Potter is the way it builds a sense of community and belonging, especially through the friendships that sustain Harry through his most difficult moments. Keeper of the Lost Cities thrives on the same emotional depth, with a cast of characters who are not just allies, but a chosen family. Sophie’s friendships with Keefe, Fitz, Biana, and Dex are filled with humor, tension, and deep loyalty, creating a dynamic that keeps readers invested. Their relationships evolve throughout the series, much like the trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, offering emotional highs and lows that make their bonds feel real.
Much like Harry Potter isn’t just about Harry, Keeper of the Lost Cities isn’t just about Sophie. While she is at the center of the story, the larger conflict involves entire civilizations, secret rebellions, and the consequences of power. The tensions between the Lost Cities and other magical races, as well as the shadowy organization known as the Neverseen, give the series a sense of urgency and complexity. There is no clear-cut good and evil—just as Harry Potter explores the moral gray areas of figures like Dumbledore and Snape, Keeper of the Lost Cities challenges its characters with difficult choices and unexpected betrayals.
One of the most remarkable things about Harry Potter is the way it matures over time, growing darker and more complex as its characters age. Keeper of the Lost Cities follows a similar path, beginning with a sense of wonder and gradually leading its characters into increasingly high-stakes situations. While it starts with an air of adventure and excitement, the later books delve into themes of loss, responsibility, and the burdens of leadership. Readers who grew up with Harry Potter will appreciate how Messenger allows her story to evolve, never remaining static but always deepening in complexity.
Ultimately, what makes Keeper of the Lost Cities a perfect read after Harry Potter is its ability to transport readers into a world where the impossible feels real. It is a series that thrives on the thrill of uncovering secrets, the power of friendship, and the excitement of adventure. For those who long to lose themselves in a richly built fantasy world with characters they can grow to love, Sophie Foster’s journey offers the same kind of magic that made Harry Potter so beloved.