Light novels that feature magic, and magic systems offer readers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of wonder and fantasy. Here are 5 popular magic light novels that you should read today!

“The Misfit of Demon King Academy” by Shu and illustrated by Yoshinori Shizuma.

Publication run dates: March 2018 – Ongoing

“The Misfit of Demon King Academy” follows the demon king Anos Voldigoad. Anos is reincarnated after 2,000 years of slumber to find that the world has changed drastically. He enrolls in a demon academy to discover the truth behind the mysteries surrounding his resurrection and to reclaim his rightful position as the true demon king.
The tale takes place in a universe where humans and demons cohabit, albeit in a tense relationship. The demons are well-known for their magical talents, which they employ in battle against humans. Due to the constant conflict, the true power of the demons has been forgotten and their magical abilities have weakened over time.

In the story, the magic system is based on the use of “Magic Formula”, which is a complex and flexible system of spell-casting. The Magic Formula consists of various parts, including magical chants, gestures, and materials, that are combined in different ways to create unique spells. One unique aspect of the magic system in this novel is that it allows for the creation of hybrid spells.

Fan favorite character: Anos Voldigoad is the fan-favorite character due to his overpowered abilities, and his charismatic personality.

Volumes: 12
Copies sold: 2+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No

“The Ancient Magus’ Bride” written and illustrated by Kore Yamazaki.

Publication run dates: in Japan in 2013 – Ongoing

The story of “The Ancient Magus’ Bride” revolves around a young girl named Chise Hatori. Chise has the extraordinary ability to see and communicate with supernatural beings. Due to her troubled past, Chise is sold at an auction to a powerful mage named Elias Ainsworth, who ends up taking her as his apprentice and eventually his bride. Together, they navigate the world of magic and uncover dark secrets from Elias’s past.

The magic system in the series is complex and intricate, drawing inspiration from various mythologies and folklore. Magic is represented as a natural energy that may be captured and managed by spells and other magical instruments. Different varieties of magic are associated with different elements such as fire, water, and earth, each having a multitude of uses.

Fan favorite character: Elias Ainsworth. Elias’s striking and memorable appearance makes him stand out among other characters in the series. His mysterious and elusive attitude contributes to the series’ intrigue, keeping readers guessing about his true goals and motivations.

Volumes: 13
Copies sold: 6+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No

“Wise Man’s Grandchild” by Yoshioka Tsuyoshi and illustrated by Kikuchi Seiji.

Publication run dates: 2015 – Ongoing

The series follows Shin Wolford, a young man who was reincarnated into a fantasy world after dying in a traffic accident. Born as the grandson of a powerful wizard named Merlin Wolford, Shin possesses incredible magical abilities that he must learn to control.

The series’ magical system is built on the use of mana, a magical energy that can be controlled using incantations and hand movements. Elements are related with many types of magic in this world, allowing them to be used for a number of purposes. Overall, the magic system in “Magi’s Grandson” is a complex and detailed one that allows for a wide range of magical abilities and spells.

Fan Favorite Character: Shin Wolford, Shin is popular due to his kind-hearted and selfless personality, as well as his incredible magical abilities. Shin is depicted as a humble and diligent character who uses his powers to serve others rather than for personal gain.

Volumes: 16
Copies sold: 1.5+ Million
Anime adaptation: No
Manga adaptation: No
Video game adaptation: No

“The Sorcerer’s Receptionist” by Mochizuki Mikiya and illustrated by Yasuyuki Syuri

Publication run dates: January 2018 – Ongoing

“The Sorcerer’s Receptionist” follows Lucia Arca, a young woman who works as a receptionist at a magical guild. Despite the fact that she is not a mage, Lucia’s unique ability to discern the real appearance of magical creatures and objects makes her a significant asset to her guild. Lucia forms close relationships with the mages and other staff members at the guild and becomes embroiled in a number of magical adventures and mysteries.

Magic System: Magic in “The Sorcerer’s Receptionist” by Mochizuki Mikiya The series explores the concept of magical contracts, which are agreements made between a mage and a magical creature or object. These contracts allow mages to summon and control these creatures or objects, using them to aid in their spells and tasks.
The magical system also includes a wide range of magical beings and things, each with a unique set of abilities. These creatures and items are employed to boost a mage’s powers or to carry out specific tasks like transportation or communication.

Fan Favorite Character: The most popular character is Marcellus, the sorcerer whom Kurato works for, due to his enigmatic personality, powerful magical abilities, and mysterious past.

Volumes: 8
Copies sold: 300,000+ In Japan
Anime adaptation: No
Manga adaptation: No
Video game adaptation: No

“Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor” by Hitsuji Tarou illustrated by Kurone Mishima

Publication run dates: July 2014 – March 2020

“Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor” follows the story of Glenn Radars, a former court mage who becomes a substitute teacher at a prestigious magic academy. Glenn is a slacker who has a reputation for being a fraud, but he possesses a powerful and unique magic ability that allows him to manipulate the Akashic Records, the universe’s storehouse of knowledge and magic. At the academy, Glenn meets the arrogant Sistine Fibel and her cheerful friend Rumia Tingel. As the story progresses, Glenn and his students must work together to unravel the mysteries of the academy all while protecting themselves.

The magic system in the series is detailed and complex, with a variety of magical techniques, spells, and rituals. Each mage has their own unique magic ability called a “Revelation”. The “Revelation” allows them to cast spells and manipulate the elements around them.

Fan Favorite Character: The most popular character is Sistine Fibel, one of Glenn’s students, due to her intelligence and character development throughout the series.

Volumes: 13
Copies sold: 1+ Million
Anime adaptation: No
Manga adaptation: No
Video game adaptation: No