Escape the Wait: 6 Completed Fantasy Series to Read Now

Are you a fan of epic fantasy, eagerly (or perhaps wearily) awaiting the next installment of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire? You're not alone. With The Winds of Winter now taking longer to write than the first five books combined, many readers are looking for new worlds to get lost in—worlds that promise a satisfying conclusion. This guide is for you.

Here, we'll help you discover six acclaimed fantasy series that are fully completed, guaranteeing you won't be left hanging. We'll explore each series, highlighting what makes it special and why it might be the perfect escape while you wait.

What You Will Accomplish

By the end of this guide, you will have a curated list of compelling, completed fantasy series to choose from, allowing you to dive into rich narratives without the fear of an indefinite cliffhanger. You'll understand the unique appeal of each recommendation, helping you select your next great read.

Prerequisites

To embark on this literary journey, you simply need:

• An interest in epic fantasy storytelling.
• Access to books (physical, digital, or audio).
• An open mind for new worlds and characters.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to New Fantasy Worlds

Choosing your next fantasy series is an exciting adventure in itself. Here's how to navigate our recommendations and find your perfect match.

Step 1: Consider a Classic, Thought-Provoking Journey: The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin

Published starting in 1968, Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Earthsea Cycle is a distinct entry in the fantasy genre, comprising five main books completed over 33 years. Set across an archipelago, the series follows the wizard Ged, evolving from a student to a seasoned advisor. Unlike many epic fantasies that center on large-scale conflicts, Le Guin deliberately crafted stories that explore internal struggles and deeper mysteries, such as the disappearance of magic. If you appreciate fantasy that offers reflection and character-driven narratives without constant warfare, Earthsea is a magical and atypical choice.

Step 2: For a Grittier Take on Legend: The Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell

If you enjoy historical fiction mixed with your fantasy, Bernard Cornwell's The Warlord Chronicles offers a fresh perspective on the Arthurian legend. This trilogy brings iconic figures like Merlin, Guinevere, and Lancelot down to earth, presenting a King Arthur story that feels rooted in history. While magic is present, it's subtle and open to interpretation, adding to the grounded realism. Praised as Cornwell's finest work, this trilogy provides a wonderfully written and deeply felt narrative, appealing to those who appreciate a less fantastical, more historical approach to epic tales.

Step 3: Dive into a Sprawling Epic: The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

For readers who crave truly expansive worlds and long, intricate stories, The Wheel of Time is an immense undertaking completed across 13 volumes. Initially written by Robert Jordan, the series was finished by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan's passing, based on his detailed notes. It chronicles the journey of Rand al'Thor, a young man prophesied to either save or destroy the world as the Dragon Reborn. This saga offers deep character development, extensive world-building, and a history spanning thousands of years. If you're looking for one of the largest and most celebrated epic fantasy sagas ever written, this series will keep you engrossed for a very long time.

Step 4: Explore a Unique Magic System: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

Another excellent choice from Brandon Sanderson, the Mistborn series is ideal if you're looking for completed story arcs. The first Mistborn trilogy, known as the 'original cycle,' is set in a world where specific individuals harness Allomancy, a unique form of magic, under the rule of an immortal tyrant. Sanderson then penned a second cycle of four books, jumping 300 years into an industrial revolution. While more cycles are planned, these first two cycles are self-contained and complete. Sanderson's style is direct and plot-driven, making these books engaging page-turners. Apple is even developing a film series based on the first trilogy, making now a perfect time to read them.

Step 5: Embrace the Grimdark: The First Law by Joe Abercrombie

For those who appreciate the darker, more morally ambiguous aspects of fantasy, Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law offers grimdark fantasy at its best. The overarching series includes two separate trilogies, three standalone novels, and a collection of short stories, all set in a bleak world teetering on war, where hope is scarce and magic is arcane. Abercrombie's writing is characterized by its black humor, complexly flawed characters, and unflinching brutality. If you found yourself drawn to the gritty realism and unexpected character fates in Game of Thrones, The First Law could be your next favorite series.

Step 6: Revisit or Discover a Foundational Masterpiece: The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

Sometimes, the best new read is a beloved classic. J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings remains an iconic trilogy for good reason, more than half a century after its initial publication. It tells the epic tale of Frodo Baggins, tasked with destroying the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent the Dark Lord Sauron from conquering Middle-earth. Its unparalleled scale, profound beauty, and sense of wonder continue to captivate readers. If you're seeking a story with timeless appeal and immense depth, a reread or first-time journey through Middle-earth is always a rewarding experience.

Tips and Best Practices

• Match Your Mood: Consider what kind of story you're in the mood for. Do you want something sprawling and epic (Wheel of Time), gritty and realistic (Warlord Chronicles, First Law), or introspective and magical (Earthsea)?
• Explore Adaptations: Many of these series have TV or movie adaptations. While the books always offer the fullest experience, watching a trailer or an episode might give you a taste of the world before you commit to reading.
• Finding the Books: Check your local library, online bookstores, or consider e-book subscriptions to easily access these completed series.

Next Steps

Once you've chosen a series, dive in! If you finish one and are hungry for more, consider exploring other completed fantasy series like Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen, Tad Williams' Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn, Fonda Lee's The Green Bone Saga, or Robin Hobb's The Realm of the Elderlings.

A Word of Caution: Tempting Fate with The Kingkiller Chronicle

If you find a strange satisfaction in the ongoing wait for The Winds of Winter, you might also appreciate Patrick Rothfuss's The Kingkiller Chronicle. While critically acclaimed, its most recent book, The Wise Man's Fear, was published in 2011—the same year as A Dance With Dragons. Fans are still waiting for the conclusion, offering a familiar experience for those who enjoy the suspense of an unfinished saga.

FAQ

Q: What if I'm looking for a series that's exactly like A Song of Ice and Fire?

A: While no two series are identical, The First Law by Joe Abercrombie comes closest in terms of grimdark themes, morally grey characters, and brutal realism. The Warlord Chronicles also offers a grounded, gritty take on an epic legend, which might appeal to Game of Thrones fans.

Q: Are there TV or movie adaptations for these recommended series?

A: Yes, several have been adapted. The Warlord Chronicles has been adapted as The Winter King TV show. The Wheel of Time has an Amazon Prime Video series, and Apple is developing movies based on the first Mistborn trilogy. The Lord of the Rings has, of course, iconic film adaptations. While these can provide a visual context, remember the books offer the complete story.

Q: How long are these completed series typically?

A: The lengths vary significantly. The Warlord Chronicles and The Lord of the Rings are trilogies, offering a more concise reading commitment. The Earthsea Cycle has five main books. Mistborn offers two completed cycles (a trilogy and a quadrilogy). The First Law consists of two trilogies plus several standalone novels and a short story collection set in the same world, allowing for extensive reading. The Wheel of Time is the longest at 13 core volumes, providing an epic journey.