Okay, so can we talk about Darius for a second? Because honestly, if you’ve read Zodiac Academy, you know exactly what I mean when I say he’s that perfect blend of brooding mystery, fierce loyalty, and just the right amount of smoldering tension. Like, yes please.
If you’re here because you want more characters with that Darius energy—those complicated heroes who protect the people they love but keep their walls way too high—then buckle up. I’ve got your next reading list right here. These are all the books that, to me, feel like the literary siblings of Darius. They bring the magic, the angst, the slow-burn romance, and the kind of characters you want to wrap in a blanket and protect. (Also? Bonus points for enemies-to-lovers vibes. Because duh.)
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
If you haven’t dived into this series yet, it’s time. Rhysand’s brooding, darkly protective nature definitely hits the same notes as Darius’s vibe. The world-building is lush, the stakes are high, and the romance? Slow burn with all the heart and heat. Honestly, if you liked Darius’s internal struggle and his soft side peeking through, you’ll eat this up.
2. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
This one’s for the fans of gritty fantasy with characters who fight for their survival and their people. Laia and Elias navigate a world full of rebellion and impossible choices, and the emotional depth here is next level. The kind of story where you want to scream at the page and also hug the characters tightly — just like with Darius.
3. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Kaz Brekker = Darius vibes x 10. Dark, smart, calculating, but with a fierce loyalty to his crew that you can’t help but love. The slow-building trust and complex relationships in this book make it impossible to put down. Plus, the gang dynamics and clever heists bring all the tension and thrills you crave.
4. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Sticking with Bardugo because, well, her worlds are that good. This series is packed with magic, mystery, and heroes wrestling with their destinies—kind of like Darius trying to balance his power and his heart. It’s an epic fantasy with so much depth and a dash of romance that never feels rushed.
5. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Prince Cardan is the ultimate complicated love interest—sharp, dangerous, and with that slow burn that keeps you hooked. If you love Darius for his smoldering intensity and complex feelings, you’ll be obsessed with this book. Plus, the fae politics and dark twists add all the spice.
6. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
Enemies to lovers, magic, and a hero who’s as fiercely protective as Darius? Yes, please. This one has all the tension and heart you want, with characters who start off at odds but slowly find common ground—and maybe more.
7. Truthwitch by Susan Dennard
This one’s a bit of a hidden gem with political intrigue, magical powers, and characters whose loyalty runs deep. If you want the slow burn and the fierce friendships that Zodiac Academy fans love, this is your next must-read.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, Darius has set the bar high for swoony, layered heroes who aren’t perfect but are so worth rooting for. These books all scratch that same itch—whether it’s the magic, the mystery, the slow-burning romance, or the tension that makes your heart race.
If you end up diving into any of these, let me know! I’m always here to fangirl over brooding book boys and recommend more cozy reads to curl up with. Because really, that’s what reading is all about—getting lost in worlds and falling for characters who feel like they could be your secret best friend… or maybe your next great love interest.
Happy Reading!
Taylor
