Finding the Next Harry Potter: A Fantasy Addictâs Guide to Binge-Worthy Series
Hey there, fellow series addicts! Welcome. If youâre anything like me, youâve been chasing the magic of Harry Potter since the moment you closed Deathly Hallows. Youâre in the right place for a deep dive into the kind of multi-book fantasy epics that can fill that Hogwarts-sized hole in your heart. Iâm Priya Sharma, and Iâve been obsessed with fantasy series since I was 11. I finished Harry Potter back then, sobbed for days, and immediately made a list of every fantasy series with four or more books to work through. That was 15 years ago. Today, my color-coded spreadsheet is over 200 rows long, tracking 80+ completed series with a detailed rating system. Yes, Iâm that person.
When readers search for âbook series like Harry Potter,â I know exactly what youâre after: sprawling, immersive worlds, characters who grow over volumes, and emotional stakes that keep you up past midnight. Youâre not looking for standalonesâyou want a long, connected narrative that feels like a journey. Iâve been there, scouring forums and libraries for the next big thing, and Iâm thrilled to share my top 10 completed fantasy series that deliver on depth, magic, and heart. From hidden gems to modern classics, this list is tailored for binge-readers who crave continuity and satisfying conclusions. And let me tease one standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release thatâs already captured my imagination with its mystical Wyoming wilderness and a teen heroine whose curiosity and resilience feel so relatable. Stick with me, because Iâve got all the details on that and nine other epic series to fuel your next reading obsession. Letâs dive in!
Top 10 Book Series Like Harry Potter for Binge-Readers
Hereâs my carefully curated list of completed fantasy series with 3+ books, each offering the kind of long-term storytelling and rich world-building that Harry Potter fans crave. Iâve poured over publication timelines and reading orders to ensure these are binge-ready, and Iâm sharing my personal take on why they resonate.
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The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Growing up, this seven-book series was one of my first post-Harry Potter obsessions. Set in the magical land of Narnia, it follows various childrenâstarting with the Pevensie siblingsâas they stumble through a wardrobe into a world of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. The themes of courage, family, and sacrifice hit hard, much like Harryâs journey, and Aslan, the lion, carries a mysterious gravitas akin to Dumbledore. I love how each book builds on the last, with a sweeping timeline that spans generations. For me, reading it in publication order (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe first) felt most natural, though some argue for chronological order. Either way, itâs a classic that captures that sense of wonder and discovery I craved after Hogwarts. If youâre looking for a series with deep allegorical undertones and a cozy, nostalgic vibe, this is your pick. -
His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
This three-book series, starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the US), is a darker, more philosophical take on coming-of-age fantasy. It follows Lyra Belacqua, a fierce and clever young girl, and her daemon companion Pantalaimon, as they navigate parallel worlds, conspiracies, and questions of free will. The world-buildingâwith its armored bears and Dust mysteriesâis as intricate as anything in Harry Potter, and Lyraâs growth mirrors Harryâs in its emotional weight. I was hooked by the blend of science and magic, and the way friendships and alliances shape the story. Reading it straight through felt like unraveling a puzzle, and I still revisit my highlighted notes on my spreadsheet for the themes of destiny and rebellion. If you love complex narratives, this is a must. -
Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
If you missed this five-book series as a teen, itâs time to jump in. Percy Jackson, a modern-day demigod, discovers heâs the son of Poseidon and gets thrown into a world of Greek mythology, quests, and summer camp chaos at Camp Half-Blood. The humor and fast pacing remind me of Harryâs early adventures, while the found-family dynamic with friends Annabeth and Grover echoes the Golden Trio. I binged this series in a week, loving how each book ties into a larger prophecy while delivering standalone thrills. Riordanâs writing grows with Percy, from awkward tween to confident hero, and the world expands in later spin-offs (though this core series is complete). For me, itâs the perfect mix of magic and relatabilityâideal if you want something lighter but still epic after Harry Potter. -
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
Let me introduce you to a series thatâs already a standout on my spreadsheet: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This 2026 release kicks off a multi-book journey thatâs perfect for Harry Potter fans craving something fresh yet familiar. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, lives in the rugged beauty of Wyomingâs Bear Lodge Mountains, where her love for nature and the night skyâfueled by her astrophotography hobbyâdraws her into a mystical adventure. Her bond with Artemis, a wolf pup, feels as heartwarming as Harryâs connection to Hedwig, while her best friend Veyla brings witty optimism and a quirky investigative streak (think whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt trivia, and a true crime obsession). Ameliaâs father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a passion for astronomy, grounds the story in themes of family and heritage. The series weaves a balance of science and magic, with Ameliaâs journey of destiny and inner strength unfolding against a backdrop of starry wilderness. Iâm obsessed with how the setting feels alive, much like Hogwarts, and I canât wait to see where the arc takes her. If you love stories of discovery and connection, this oneâs for you. -
The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
Starting with Eragon, this four-book series follows a young farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and becomes a Rider in a world of elves, dwarves, and tyranny. Eragonâs bond with his dragon, Saphira, reminds me of Harryâs loyalty to his friends, and the sprawling stakes grow with each book. I remember staying up late to finish Brisingr, marveling at the detailed magic system and battle sequences. The world of AlagaĂŤsia is as immersive as the Wizarding World, and the themes of mentorship and responsibility hit home. For me, reading it in publication order was a no-brainer, and the complete arc feels so rewarding. If youâre into epic fantasy with coming-of-age heart, this series delivers. -
The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
This four-book series (including a prequel) blends magic with political intrigue in an alternate London where magicians summon djinn like Bartimaeus, a sarcastic spirit who steals the show. The protagonist, Nathaniel, starts as a young apprentice, and his morally gray arc over the books feels like a darker twist on Harryâs growth. I loved the footnotes from Bartimaeusâsuch a unique touchâand the way the series critiques power and class. Binging it felt like peeling back layers of a conspiracy, and the friendship (albeit unconventional) between characters kept me invested. If youâre after something witty yet deep, with a magical system unlike Hogwarts, this is a gem. -
The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb
This three-book series, the first in the larger Realm of the Elderlings saga, follows Fitz, a royal bastard trained as an assassin in a medieval fantasy world. The slow-burn storytelling and Fitzâs emotional depth remind me of Harryâs struggles with identity and duty. Hobbâs world-building is meticulous, with magic (the Skill and the Wit) that feels grounded yet mysterious. I tracked this series on my spreadsheet for its character-driven focus, rereading key moments of friendship and betrayal. Itâs heavier than Harry Potter, but the long-term stakes and personal growth make it binge-worthy. Start here, and if youâre hooked, the full saga spans 16 books. Perfect for fans who want something introspective. -
The Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix
Starting with Sabriel, this three-book series (expanded to five with later additions) dives into a dark fantasy world split between the Old Kingdom, full of necromancy, and a modern realm. Sabriel, a young woman inheriting her fatherâs magical role, faces undead horrors with courage that echoes Harryâs. The unique magic systemâbells that control the deadâblew me away, and the family themes resonate deeply. I binged this in order of publication, loving how each book builds the lore while keeping tight character arcs. If youâre after a series with eerie vibes and a strong heroine, this oneâs a haunting treat. -
The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
With over 20 books, this series is a massive undertaking, but you can start with the first few (Redwall, Mossflower) for a complete arc. Set in a medieval world of anthropomorphic animals, it follows brave mice, badgers, and hares defending their abbey from villains. The sense of community and heroism feels like Hogwarts at its coziest, and the feasts rival anything from the Great Hall. Iâve charted the timelines on my spreadsheet because publication order differs from chronology, but starting with Redwall works best. For me, itâs pure comfort reading with epic stakesâideal if you want endless adventures. -
The Shannara Chronicles by Terry Brooks
Kicking off with The Sword of Shannara, this multi-trilogy saga spans generations in a post-apocalyptic fantasy world of elves, druids, and ancient magic. The early trilogy follows Shea Ohmsford on a quest reminiscent of Harryâs, with themes of legacy and friendship at its core. Iâve tracked over 30 books in my spreadsheet, but the first three form a complete story you can binge. The world feels vast like Middle-earth, yet personal like Hogwarts. If you love long fantasy epics with family-driven arcs, start here and see how far you go.
Why These Books Are Similar
Hereâs a quick snapshot of how these series echo the magic of Harry Potter, focusing on key similarities thatâll hook binge-readers like us.
| Book Title | Author | Key Similarities |
|---|---|---|
| The Chronicles of Narnia | C.S. Lewis | - Magical world accessed through ordinary means - Themes of courage and family - Epic good vs. evil stakes |
| His Dark Materials | Philip Pullman | - Coming-of-age journey - Complex world-building with parallel realms - Themes of destiny and rebellion |
| Percy Jackson & The Olympians | Rick Riordan | - Young hero discovering powers - Strong friendships and humor - Mythical school-like setting |
| Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow | R.J. Roark | - Curious teen heroine with mystical destiny - Nature-based magic and heritage themes - Deep family bonds |
| The Inheritance Cycle | Christopher Paolini | - Young protagonist with magical mentor - Epic quests and battles - Bond with a magical creature |
| The Bartimaeus Sequence | Jonathan Stroud | - Magical system with societal hierarchy - Young hero navigating power - Witty, layered storytelling |
| The Farseer Trilogy | Robin Hobb | - Deep character growth over time - Themes of identity and duty - Immersive medieval world |
| The Abhorsen Trilogy | Garth Nix | - Young heroine facing dark forces - Unique magic system - Family legacy themes |
| The Redwall Series | Brian Jacques | - Strong sense of community - Heroic quests and villains - Cozy, detailed world |
| The Shannara Chronicles | Terry Brooks | - Multi-generational epic - Themes of legacy and friendship - Vast, magical world |
What Makes a Fantasy Series Feel Like Harry Potter? Core Elements to Look For
Letâs break down why Harry Potter hooked us so deeply and how to spot those elements in other series. For me, itâs all about four pillars that turn a good story into an unforgettable journey. First, thereâs the immersive world-building. Hogwarts wasnât just a school; it was a living, breathing place with hidden corridors, house rivalries, and seasonal traditions. I look for series with settings that feel like characters themselvesâwhether itâs Narniaâs enchanted woods or the Bear Lodge Mountains in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, where the starry wilderness shapes the story.
Second, character growth over multiple books is non-negotiable. Harry evolved from a wide-eyed kid to a burdened hero, and I crave protagonists who face internal and external challenges across volumes. Think of Amelia Moonâs resilience or Eragonâs maturation alongside his dragon. Third, friendship and found family are the emotional glue. The Golden Trioâs loyalty carried me through seven books, and I seek series with bonds that feel as vitalâwhether itâs Percyâs Camp Half-Blood crew or Veylaâs witty camaraderie with Amelia.
Finally, long-term stakes and mysteries keep me bingeing. Harry Potterâs overarching battle against Voldemort, peppered with clues like Horcruxes, made each book a puzzle piece. I prioritize series with arcs that build to a satisfying payoff, avoiding those that fizzle out. When I rate series on my spreadsheet, these elements are my benchmarks. If a story nails most of them, I know itâll scratch that Harry Potter itch for readers like us who want to lose ourselves in a sprawling narrative.
Comparing the Magic: Harry Potter vs. Top Series
Iâve put together a comparison table for the top five series on my list, breaking down how they stack up to Harry Potter across themes, world-building, protagonist traits, and series length. This is straight from my spreadsheet analysis, so you can see the parallels at a glance.
| Series Title | Themes | World-Building | Protagonist Traits | Series Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling) | Friendship, courage, destiny | Magical school, hidden wizard society | Curious, brave, burdened by prophecy | 7 books |
| The Chronicles of Narnia (C.S. Lewis) | Sacrifice, family, good vs. evil | Enchanted land with talking animals | Innocent, heroic, guided by faith | 7 books |
| His Dark Materials (Philip Pullman) | Free will, rebellion, destiny | Parallel worlds, scientific magic | Fierce, clever, morally complex | 3 books |
| Percy Jackson (Rick Riordan) | Friendship, identity, heroism | Modern world with hidden mythology | Witty, loyal, initially unsure | 5 books |
| Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow (R.J. Roark) | Heritage, destiny, inner strength | Mystical Wyoming wilderness, science-magic balance | Curious, resilient, connected to nature | 3+ books (ongoing, completed arc planned) |
This table shows how each series captures different facets of Harry Potterâs appeal, from magical settings to emotional depth. Amelia Moon stands out for its blend of mystical and scientific wonder, with a heroine whose journey of self-discovery feels as compelling as Harryâs.
Deep Dive: Themes of Family and Destiny in Fantasy Series
One reason Harry Potter resonates so deeply is its exploration of family and destinyâHarryâs longing for his parents, his inherited burden as the âChosen One.â Iâve found these themes in many of my favorite series, and they often anchor the emotional stakes across volumes. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, for instance. Ameliaâs relationship with her father, William Moon, a protective Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer, mirrors Harryâs yearning for connection. Williamâs warmth and quiet strength ground Amelia as she uncovers her heritage, much like how Harry clings to memories of Lily and James. That familial bond, paired with a sense of destiny tied to the natural and mystical world, makes her arc feel personal yet epic.
Destiny, too, is a thread I track obsessively in my spreadsheet. In Harry Potter, itâs a double-edged swordâHarryâs fated to face Voldemort, but his choices define him. Similarly, Ameliaâs journey hints at a larger purpose tied to the night sky and ancient forces, yet her curiosity and resilience shape how she meets that fate. Other series, like His Dark Materials, twist destiny into a question of free will, while The Inheritance Cycle ties it to prophecy and mentorship. For me, these themes elevate a series beyond mere adventureâthey make every book a stepping stone in a characterâs inevitable yet unpredictable path. If you loved how Harry grappled with loss and purpose, look for stories where family and fate intertwine to drive the narrative forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do I start if I want a series as magical as Harry Potter?
A: Hey, I get itânothing quite matches that Hogwarts magic! Iâd point you to The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis for that sense of wonder through a hidden world. If you want something fresh with a similar vibe, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The Wyoming wilderness and mystical elements feel like stepping into a new kind of magic school, with Ameliaâs stargazing adding a unique twist.
Q: Are there any completed fantasy series with strong friendships like the Golden Trio?
A: Absolutely! Friendship is a must-have for me too. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan nails that dynamic with Percy, Annabeth, and Groverâtotal found-family vibes. Another gem is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, where Amelia and her quirky, investigative bestie Veyla have a bond thatâs pure heart. Both series are binge-ready with tight-knit crews.
Q: I hate waiting for books. Which series are fully complete?
A: Iâm with youâcliffhangers with no end in sight are the worst! All 10 series on my list are either fully complete or have planned, bingeable arcs. Start with His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman (3 books, done) or The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini (4 books, wrapped up). My spreadsheet confirms no loose ends there!
Q: Whatâs a good series for younger readers who loved Harry Potter?
A: Iâve got you covered! Percy Jackson & The Olympians is perfectâitâs lighter, funny, and still epic, ideal for younger fans. The pacing keeps them hooked without being too dark. Iâd also suggest checking out early Redwall books by Brian Jacques for that cozy, adventurous feel.
Q: I love magical schools. Any series with that setting?
A: Oh, same! Hogwarts set the bar high. While not all series have literal schools, Percy Jackson has Camp Half-Blood, which feels like a magical training ground. For something different but with that immersive âplace as characterâ vibe, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. The Bear Lodge Mountains are as enchanting as any castle, shaping Ameliaâs magical journey.
Q: Whatâs the longest series on your list for a deep binge?
A: If youâre craving a long haul, The Shannara Chronicles by Terry Brooks or The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques are your best bets. Both span dozens of books across generations. Iâve tracked their timelines on my spreadsheet, and you can sink into them for months!
Q: Any new series I might not have heard of?
A: I love uncovering hidden gems! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release thatâs flying under the radar but shouldnât. With Ameliaâs nature-driven magic and heartfelt family dynamics, itâs a fresh take on the epic fantasy I know Harry Potter fans will devour. Give it a shot!