Top Book Series Recommendations for Adults Post-Harry Potter

So you've finished the Harry Potter series and are on the hunt for your next immersive read. If you loved the magical world-building and compelling narratives of Harry Potter but want something more suited to your age, you're in for a treat. Here’s a guide to some of the best book series that are likely to captivate you as much as J.K. Rowling's iconic series did. Whether you're looking for fantasy, mystery, or a combination of both, these recommendations will keep you engaged for months.

The Dark Tower Series by Stephen King

“The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.”

This seven-book epic, mixing dark fantasy, science fiction, horror, and Western elements, follows the journey of Roland Deschain, the last Gunslinger, in his quest to find the mysterious Dark Tower. King's unique prose and intricate universe make this series a thrilling read for adults. The complex characters and dark themes are a major shift from the more whimsical Harry Potter world but just as captivating.

The Dark Tower Series

The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss

“It's like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time.”

This series begins with The Name of the Wind and follows the story of Kvothe, a magically gifted young man who grows into a notorious figure. The lush prose, deep character development, and richly detailed world have made this one of the most acclaimed fantasy series in recent years. If you admired the magical education at Hogwarts, you’ll find a familiar yet mature echo in Rothfuss’s captivating narrative.

The Kingkiller Chronicle

A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin

“When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.”

Adapted into the famous Game of Thrones TV show, this series explores the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros with its sprawling cast of characters and intricate political intrigues. It's mature, complex, and filled with unexpected twists. Martin’s world is grimmer, filled with moral ambiguities and stark realities, offering a stark shift from the idealistic themes of Harry Potter. Each book delves deeply into the minds of its characters, making their journeys resonate with adult readers.

A Song of Ice and Fire

Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson

“There’s always another secret.”

Starting with The Final Empire, this trilogy (followed by additional series in the same world) features a unique magic system and follows the story of a group of rebels trying to overthrow an immortal ruler. Sanderson's masterful plotting makes this series a page-turner. The themes of rebellion and social justice resonate with a more mature audience, making it an excellent post-Harry Potter read.

Mistborn Series

The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence

“The world is shaped by two things — stories told and the memories they leave behind.”

Starting with Prince of Thorns, this series follows the brutal journey of Jorg Ancrath as he seeks power and revenge in a dark, post-apocalyptic fantasy world. Lawrence’s writing is dark and gripping, suitable for a mature audience. If you’re looking for darker, more complex character studies and moral questions, this trilogy will keep you engrossed.

The Broken Empire Trilogy

These series are not only acclaimed but provide rich, complex worlds and narratives designed to engage readers well into adulthood. They offer a diverse range of themes and styles, ensuring that there's something for every taste. So go ahead, dive into these engaging series, and let your next literary adventure begin!