The question, "What book series should I read?" signals the end of one great literary journey and the exciting, if sometimes daunting, search for the next. With countless multi-book sagas spanning every genre, choosing where to invest your time, energy, and imagination can feel overwhelming. Are you in the mood for a sprawling epic fantasy that will become a long-term companion, a fast-paced sci-fi adventure you can tear through, or a character-driven duology perfect for a weekend escape?
This guide is built to be your definitive compass in that search. We have curated a diverse list of ten exceptional book series, each offering a unique world to explore and a distinct reading experience. You won't just get a simple summary. For every entry, we'll provide actionable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Here’s what you can expect for each series recommendation:
A concise synopsis to set the scene.
Key details on genre, mood, and target audience.
A commitment indicator outlining the series length and reading difficulty.
"If you like X, try this" suggestions to match your existing tastes.
Quick links to our comprehensive Books In Order pages, ensuring you start your journey on the right foot without any spoilers.
Our goal is simple: to help you confidently answer "what book series should I read next?" by providing clear, practical guidance. Let's find your next favorite story.
1. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
If you're asking "what book series should I read?" and somehow missed this global phenomenon, or if you've only seen the movies, starting with Harry Potter is an excellent choice. This seven-book series is more than just a story; it’s a cultural touchstone that redefined young adult fantasy. It follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he discovers his magical heritage, attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and confronts the dark forces that murdered his parents.
The series masterfully blends themes of friendship, courage, and the classic struggle between good and evil with a richly detailed magical world. Its influence is undeniable, spawning blockbuster films, theme parks, and a new generation of fantasy writers.
Who Should Read This Series?
New Readers: The accessible prose and compelling plot make it a perfect entry point into fantasy literature.
Veterans of the Genre: Appreciate the intricate world-building and character development that set modern standards.
Book Clubs: The series' progression from a middle-grade adventure to a darker, more complex narrative provides ample material for discussion.
Getting Started
The ideal reading experience begins with the first book, even if you’re familiar with the films. The novels offer a depth of character, world-building, and subplots that the cinematic adaptations couldn't fully capture. For those specifically interested in J.K. Rowling's beloved wizarding world, you might enjoy reading a deeper dive into Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
Commitment: 7 core books, plus supplementary materials. The books grow significantly in length and complexity, starting at a brisk 309 pages and ending with a hefty 759-page finale.
Pacing Yourself: The journey is a marathon, not a sprint. The story matures alongside its characters, so allow yourself to grow with it.
Reading Order: The main series follows a straightforward chronological order. For a full breakdown of all the books in the Wizarding World, see this complete guide to the Harry Potter books in order.
2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Often hailed as the foundational text of modern high fantasy, The Lord of the Rings is an essential answer to the question "what book series should I read?" for anyone with an interest in the genre. J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece is an epic of grand scale, following the hobbit Frodo Baggins on a desperate quest to destroy a single, powerful ring and save Middle-earth from the shadow of the Dark Lord Sauron.
More than just an adventure, this series is a work of profound world-building, complete with its own languages, histories, and mythologies. Its influence is immeasurable, shaping the fantasy genre for generations and inspiring Peter Jackson's critically acclaimed film trilogy, which garnered 17 Academy Awards.
Who Should Read This Series?
Fantasy Purists: Anyone wanting to experience the cornerstone of the genre from which countless others have drawn inspiration.
Lovers of Linguistics and Mythology: Readers who appreciate intricate details, constructed languages, and deep lore will find Tolkien's work unparalleled.
Fans of the Films: Discover the incredible depth, poetry, and character nuances that the cinematic versions could only scratch the surface of.
Getting Started
For the best introduction to Middle-earth, consider starting with The Hobbit. This lighter, more accessible prelude sets the stage and introduces key characters and concepts before you dive into the denser, more epic main trilogy.
Commitment: 3 core books, often published as a single volume, plus The Hobbit. The prose is literary and dense, demanding more focus than typical modern fantasy.
Pacing Yourself: These books are meant to be savored, not rushed. Take time to appreciate the descriptive language, songs, and historical asides that make Middle-earth feel so real.
Reading Order: Start with The Hobbit, then proceed through The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. For a broader view of how this series fits into the fantasy landscape, explore this guide to the best fantasy series to read.
3. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
If you're asking "what book series should I read?" and looking for an epic fantasy experience of monumental scope, The Wheel of Time is a definitive answer. This sprawling fourteen-book series, initiated by Robert Jordan and completed by Brandon Sanderson, is a masterclass in world-building. It presents a world caught in a cyclical battle between light and darkness, where prophecy dictates that a messianic figure, the Dragon Reborn, will either save humanity or destroy it.
The series is renowned for its intricate magic system based on the One Power, with distinct male and female halves, and its vast cast of characters spread across multiple nations and cultures. Its influence on modern epic fantasy is immense, setting a high bar for ambition and detail that continues to inspire authors today.
Who Should Read This Series?
Epic Fantasy Lovers: Readers who enjoy massive worlds, complex political intrigue, and detailed lore will feel right at home.
Patient Readers: The series is known for its deliberate pacing, especially in the middle books, rewarding those who invest the time.
Fans of Character-Driven Sagas: Follows an ensemble cast through incredible arcs of growth, failure, and triumph over thousands of pages.
Getting Started
This is a true marathon, not a sprint. The sheer scale can be intimidating, but the payoff is one of the most complete and satisfying conclusions in fantasy literature. Keeping a character guide handy can be a helpful tool for navigating the vast cast.
Commitment: 14 core books and a prequel, totaling nearly 12,000 pages. This is a significant, multi-month (or even multi-year) reading project.
Pacing Yourself: Be prepared for slower-paced sections, particularly in books 8-10, which focus heavily on expanding the world and its many subplots before accelerating toward the finale.
Reading Order: The main series is read chronologically from book one. For a complete guide, including when to read the prequel, check out this definitive list of The Wheel of Time books in order.
4. The Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson
For readers who crave fantasy with meticulously crafted rules and high-stakes revolutionary plots, the Mistborn series is a must-read. Brandon Sanderson is a modern master of what’s known as "hard magic," where the magical systems operate with scientific consistency and limitations. This series is set in a world choked by ash, ruled by an immortal tyrant, and populated by a brutally oppressed underclass. It follows a young, powerful street urchin named Vin as she joins a crew of thieves in a daring plan to overthrow an empire.
The series is celebrated for its unique Allomancy magic system, where users ingest and "burn" metals for specific powers, leading to cinematic action sequences and clever problem-solving. More than just a heist story, Mistborn explores themes of faith, politics, and sacrifice, cementing its place as a modern fantasy classic.
Who Should Read This Series?
Fans of Intricate Magic Systems: If you love understanding the "how" and "why" behind magic, Sanderson's detailed world-building is for you.
Lovers of Epic Fantasy: The series features world-altering events, morally gray characters, and a grand, overarching narrative.
Aspiring Writers: Sanderson’s methodical approach to plot and magic has made his work a case study for new fantasy authors.
Getting Started
The definitive starting point is The Final Empire, the first book of the original trilogy. This initial arc provides the foundation for the entire world and its complex magic system, making it essential reading before exploring later eras or other stories in Sanderson's interconnected Cosmere universe.
Commitment: The series is divided into "Eras." Era 1 is a complete trilogy, while Era 2 is a four-book series. The commitment can be tailored to your interest, starting with just the first three books.
Pacing Yourself: While the action is fast-paced, take time to appreciate the character development and philosophical discussions that give the story its depth.
Reading Order: Start with Era 1, then move to Era 2. For a comprehensive guide on how Mistborn fits into the larger Cosmere universe, check out this complete guide to the Brandon Sanderson books in order.
5. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
If your search for "what book series should I read" is driven by a desire for epic scale, political complexity, and a story that defies fantasy conventions, then George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire is an unparalleled choice. This ongoing series, famously adapted into HBO's Game of Thrones, is a sprawling saga of dynastic war, betrayal, and magic in the brutal, medieval-inspired world of Westeros.
The series is renowned for its morally ambiguous characters, intricate plotting, and a willingness to kill off major figures, subverting the heroic tropes common in the genre. Its influence on modern fantasy is profound, popularizing grittier, more realistic narratives and sparking massive online communities dedicated to deciphering its dense lore.
Who Should Read This Series?
Political Thriller Fans: Readers who enjoy complex webs of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles will be captivated by the political maneuvering in Westeros.
Veteran Fantasy Readers: This series offers a mature, challenging alternative to more traditional fantasy, with deep world-building and philosophical themes.
Fans of the HBO Show: Discover the source material's incredible depth, with richer character arcs, additional subplots, and nuanced details the show couldn't include.
Getting Started
This is a series for the patient reader. The narrative is told through multiple, shifting points of view, and the story unfolds at a deliberate pace. Embrace the journey and the intricate details, as they are the heart of the experience.
Commitment: 5 published books out of a planned 7. These are dense, lengthy novels, with the most recent installment clocking in at over 1,000 pages. Be prepared for a significant time investment and an infamous wait between new releases.
Pacing Yourself: Keeping track of the vast cast of characters can be challenging. Don't hesitate to use online resources like fan wikis to jog your memory, but be wary of spoilers.
Reading Order: The core series is read in publication order, starting with A Game of Thrones. For a complete guide to the main books and supplementary novellas, see this comprehensive list of the A Song of Ice and Fire books in order.
6. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
If you're asking "what book series should I read?" and want a modern epic fantasy that will define a generation, The Stormlight Archive is an unparalleled choice. This ongoing series is Brandon Sanderson's magnum opus, set in the world of Roshar, a land ravaged by colossal highstorms. It weaves together the stories of a surgeon forced into slavery, a young woman with a stolen past, and a highprince haunted by visions of ancient desolation.
The series is celebrated for its intricate "hard magic" systems, meticulously detailed world-building, and profound, compassionate explorations of mental health. It brought mainstream attention to characters struggling with depression, addiction, and PTSD, making it a landmark in character-driven epic fantasy.
Who Should Read This Series?
Epic Fantasy Veterans: Those who crave massive worlds, complex lore, and innovative magic will find this series immensely rewarding.
Fans of Character-Driven Stories: The deep, empathetic dive into the characters' internal struggles is a core strength.
Readers Seeking a Challenge: This is a dense, complex series that rewards attentive reading and theory-crafting.
Getting Started
The ideal reading experience starts with The Way of Kings, but patience is key. The initial chapters are slow-burn world-building and character introduction before the action accelerates into an unforgettable avalanche of plot twists and revelations.
Commitment: 4 of a planned 10 core books are currently published, each a massive tome (the first is over 1,000 pages). This is a significant, long-term reading investment.
Pacing Yourself: Don't rush. The world of Roshar is filled with unique flora, fauna, and cultures. Keep a glossary or fan wiki handy, and consider joining fan communities to discuss the intricate details.
Reading Order: The main series follows a straightforward chronological order. For a full breakdown of the series and its novellas, see this complete guide to the Stormlight Archive books in order.
7. The Expanse by James S.A. Corey
For readers asking "what book series should I read?" who crave a sprawling, modern science fiction epic, The Expanse is the definitive answer. This nine-book saga, penned by the duo Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck under the name James S.A. Corey, revitalized the space opera genre. It imagines a future where humanity has colonized the Solar System, leading to a tense political standoff between Earth, a militarized Mars, and the oppressed inhabitants of the Asteroid Belt.
The series begins with a gritty, noir-detective mystery set against a backdrop of interplanetary conflict and evolves into a breathtaking story of first contact, cosmic horror, and human resilience. Its realistic portrayal of space travel physics and complex geopolitical maneuvering has earned it widespread acclaim, culminating in a popular television adaptation that fan campaigns successfully saved from cancellation.
Who Should Read This Series?
Hard Sci-Fi Fans: Will appreciate the attention to scientific detail, from the effects of high-g burns to the realities of life in zero gravity.
Lovers of Political Thrillers: The series is packed with political intrigue, espionage, and shifting alliances that rival any Earth-bound thriller.
Newcomers to Space Opera: The noir-style plot of the first book provides a grounded, character-driven entry point to a massive universe.
Getting Started
Begin with the first book, Leviathan Wakes, even if you've seen the show. The novels provide deeper insight into character motivations and a more expansive view of the political and social dynamics at play. The noir elements are key to grounding the epic scale.
Commitment: 9 main novels and a collection of novellas. The story is vast and spans decades, offering a deeply immersive and long-term reading project.
Pacing Yourself: The narrative is dense with technical details and political subplots. Don't worry about understanding every concept immediately; the authors excel at revealing information through context.
Reading Order: The core series is chronological, but the novellas fit between the main novels to flesh out the world and characters. For more on this, explore other great space opera book series.
8. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
If you're looking for a series that brilliantly combines ancient mythology with modern-day adventure, Percy Jackson and the Olympians is an essential read. This five-book series introduces Percy Jackson, a snarky twelve-year-old who discovers he's the son of the Greek god Poseidon. He's whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, a secret summer camp for demigods, where he must learn to control his powers and stop a war between the gods.
Rick Riordan’s series is celebrated for its humor, fast-paced action, and its incredible ability to make Greek mythology feel fresh and accessible. It sparked a massive resurgence of interest in mythology among young readers and has spawned multiple spin-off series, films, and a popular television adaptation.
Who Should Read This Series?
Mythology Buffs: Anyone with an interest in Greek myths will love seeing how the ancient tales are woven into a contemporary setting.
Young and New Readers: The witty narration and relentless pace make it a perfect gateway into the world of fantasy literature. For those who enjoy it, there are even more great fantasy choices for middle schoolers to explore.
Fans of Urban Fantasy: The blend of the mythological and the mundane is a masterclass in the genre, with gods running corporations and monsters hiding in plain sight.
Getting Started
The best way to dive in is with the first book, The Lightning Thief. Its first-person narration immediately establishes Percy’s unique voice and sets the stage for the epic adventures to come. Even if you've seen the adaptations, the books offer a deeper, more faithful experience.
Commitment: 5 core books, but a much larger universe exists with multiple sequel series and companion books. The initial series is a manageable and highly rewarding read.
Pacing Yourself: The books are quick, action-packed reads. You might find yourself finishing them faster than you expect, but the wider "Riordanverse" offers plenty more to explore.
Reading Order: Start with the original five Percy Jackson and the Olympians books in chronological order before moving on to follow-up series like The Heroes of Olympus for the best experience.
9. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
If you're asking "what book series should I read?" and are searching for a fantasy experience that is brutal, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally resonant, The Poppy War trilogy is an essential read. This series is a masterclass in grimdark fantasy, drawing heavily from 20th-century Chinese history to tell the story of Rin, a war orphan who escapes a grim future by acing an empire-wide exam. Her journey takes her to an elite military academy where she discovers a devastating aptitude for shamanism, a mythical and dangerous power.
This series is celebrated for its unflinching depiction of warfare, its complex moral questions, and its deep dive into themes of colonialism, trauma, and revenge. R.F. Kuang’s trilogy helped spark vital conversations about diversifying the fantasy genre and has earned critical acclaim, including nominations for the Hugo and Nebula awards.
Who Should Read This Series?
Fans of Grimdark Fantasy: Anyone who appreciates morally grey characters and narratives that don't shy away from the harsh realities of conflict will find this compelling.
Readers Seeking Diverse Voices: The series offers a powerful, non-Western-centric perspective that has become foundational in modern epic fantasy.
History Buffs: Those interested in military history, particularly the Second Sino-Japanese War, will appreciate the historical parallels woven into the fantasy framework.
Getting Started
This is a dark series with significant content warnings for violence, self-harm, and sexual assault. It is crucial to approach this trilogy with the right expectations; it is a challenging and intense read, not a lighthearted adventure. The power of the story lies in its raw and honest exploration of difficult themes.
Commitment: 3 books. The trilogy tells a complete and devastating story from start to finish.
Pacing Yourself: The emotional weight of the narrative is significant. Many readers find it helpful to take breaks between books to process the intense events.
Reading Order: The trilogy is meant to be read in chronological publication order, beginning with The Poppy War. For a complete breakdown, see this guide to The Poppy War books in order.
10. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
If you're asking "what book series should I read?" and crave a character-driven fantasy heist with razor-sharp wit, Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows duology is an absolute must-read. Set within her sprawling Grishaverse, this series can be enjoyed on its own and follows Kaz Brekker, a brilliant criminal mastermind, as he assembles a crew of six dangerous outcasts for an impossible mission with a world-changing reward.
The series is celebrated for its masterful plotting, morally grey characters, and incredible found-family dynamic. Each member of the crew is flawed yet compelling, and the witty banter between them is a highlight. The Netflix adaptation Shadow and Bone brought these beloved characters to a mainstream audience, sparking renewed interest in diverse, LGBTQ+ inclusive fantasy.
Who Should Read This Series?
Fans of Heist Stories: If you love Ocean's Eleven but want it set in a gritty, magical world, this is for you.
Character-Driven Readers: The intricate backstories and complex relationships are the heart of the story.
YA and Adult Fantasy Readers: The duology perfectly bridges the gap, offering mature themes and sophisticated storytelling that appeals to a wide audience.
Getting Started
This duology stands on its own, but reading the original Shadow and Bone trilogy first will enrich your understanding of the world's magic system and politics. However, many readers start here and have no trouble diving in. The real magic is in the crew's chemistry.
Commitment: 2 core books, Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom. While set in a larger universe, these two books form a complete, highly satisfying arc.
Pacing Yourself: Pay close attention to the details. Bardugo's plotting is intricate, and small moments in the first book have major payoffs in the second.
Reading Order: For the duology, read Six of Crows then Crooked Kingdom. If you want to explore the entire Grishaverse, a complete guide to the Grishaverse books in order can help you navigate the timeline.
Which Series Should I Read? Top 10 Comparison
| Title | Reading complexity & commitment | Time & effort | Expected outcomes | Ideal for | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling | Moderate complexity; linear coming‑of‑age arc with escalating stakes | Medium–high (7 books; later volumes much longer) | Highly engaging, satisfying series arc and character growth | YA/adult newcomers to fantasy; family reading | Accessible prose, strong character development, broad cultural reach |
| The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien | High complexity; mythic structure with multiple interwoven threads and appendices | High (trilogy; dense descriptive prose) | Timeless epic with deep thematic and linguistic payoff | Readers who enjoy literary, mythic world‑building and re‑reading | Foundational world‑building, linguistic depth, philosophical themes |
| The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan | Very high complexity; dozens of POVs and long, multi‑threaded plotlines | Very high (14+ books; massive scope) | Extremely immersive world and long‑term payoff for patient readers | Fans of sprawling epics and detailed cast tracking | Vast scope, intricate magic/mythology, long-form character arcs |
| The Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson | Moderate–high complexity; tight plotting with rigorous magic rules | Medium (multiple trilogies; individual books are shorter) | Clever, rule‑driven magic with satisfying twists and clear resolutions | Readers who prefer "hard" magic systems and paced action | Innovative, internally consistent magic; readable prose; multiple entry points |
| A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin | High complexity; many POVs, dense political maneuvering, morally grey characters | High and uncertain (5+ published; slow release schedule) | Intense political drama and character nuance; series currently incomplete | Readers of gritty, character‑driven political fantasy | Complex politics, realistic motivations, high stakes and unpredictability |
| The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson | Very high complexity; enormous books with multiple plotlines and new terminology | Very high (1000+ pages per book; planned 10‑book arc) | Deep emotional payoff and expansive world‑building over long arc | Readers seeking ambitious epics and character‑focused storytelling | Exceptional world‑building, innovative magic, strong mental‑health themes |
| The Expanse by James S.A. Corey | Moderate complexity; hard‑SF concepts blended with noir and politics | Medium–high (9 books; technical but accessible) | Realistic space opera with political intrigue and fast pacing | Fans of grounded sci‑fi, political drama, and accessible hard SF | Hard‑science grounding, brisk momentum, strong geopolitical realism |
| Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan | Low–moderate complexity; episodic quests and humorous tone | Low (5 shorter books; quick reads) | Entertaining, educational retellings of myth with broad appeal | Middle‑grade/YA readers, family readers, newcomers to mythology | Humor, accessibility, representation, strong pace for younger readers |
| The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang | Moderate–high complexity; militarized plot with mythic/shamanic elements | Medium (trilogy; emotionally intense) | Challenging, morally complex narrative with traumatic themes | Readers who want grim, historically inspired fantasy | Non‑Western perspectives, moral ambiguity, strong historical grounding |
| Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo | Moderate complexity; tight heist structure with ensemble cast | Low–medium (duology; ~300–350 pp per book) | Tightly plotted, character‑driven heist with strong emotional stakes | Fans of heist stories, ensemble character work, and YA/NA readers | Sharp dialogue, diverse representation, fast‑paced plotting |
Choosing Your Path and Starting the Adventure
We've traversed a vast literary landscape together, from the hallowed halls of Hogwarts in Harry Potter to the brutal, star-strewn expanse of James S.A. Corey's universe. We've navigated the intricate politics of Westeros in A Song of Ice and Fire, battled alongside Vin in the ash-filled world of Mistborn, and felt the immense weight of the One Ring in The Lord of the Rings. The question "what book series should I read?" isn't about finding a single correct answer; it's about discovering the right journey for you, right now.
Each series on our list offers a distinct experience. Percy Jackson and the Olympians provides a witty, fast-paced adventure perfect for new series readers, while The Wheel of Time and The Stormlight Archive represent a deep, rewarding commitment for veterans of epic fantasy. Your choice hinges on your current mood, your available time, and the type of escape you crave.
From Inspiration to Action: Your Next Steps
The most exciting part of this process is turning your choice into a reality. The path from deciding on a series to finishing the last page is a thrilling one, and a little preparation can make all the difference. Here’s a simple, actionable plan to begin your adventure.
Revisit the 'Quick Guide' Tables: Take one last look at the commitment levels, genre tags, and mood descriptors provided for each series. Are you seeking a grimdark fantasy like The Poppy War, or a clever heist like Six of Crows? This final check ensures your choice aligns with your expectations.
Sample the First Chapter: Most online retailers and libraries offer a preview of the first chapter. This is the ultimate compatibility test. Does the author's prose capture your imagination? Do you connect with the main character? A few pages are often all it takes to know if you've found a good match.
Embrace the Correct Reading Order: Starting a series is a commitment, and nothing disrupts the experience like accidentally reading a prequel first or missing a crucial novella. The author crafted a specific narrative journey, and following the intended sequence ensures you experience every reveal and character arc as designed.
The Value of a Well-Chosen Journey
Choosing the right book series is an act of self-care. It’s an investment in your own entertainment, intellectual curiosity, and emotional enrichment. A great series becomes a companion, offering a reliable escape and a world to which you can return again and again. It provides characters who feel like friends and narrative arcs that can teach us about courage, loss, and resilience.
By thoughtfully considering what you want from your reading experience, you move beyond just finding "a" book and instead find "your" book series. You set yourself up not just for a few hours of reading, but for a memorable adventure that can stay with you long after the final page is turned. The worlds of Tolkien, Sanderson, and Kuang are not just stories; they are destinations. Your ticket is ready, and your path is clear. All that's left is to take that first step. Happy reading.
Now that you've discovered what book series you should read next, ensure you experience it in the perfect order. Visit Books In Order for comprehensive, spoiler-free reading guides that cover everything from publication order to chronological timelines. Start your next literary adventure the right way with Books In Order.
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