Finding the Next Harry Potter: My Journey as a Fantasy Series Addict

Fellow series addicts, welcome. You’re in the right place if, like me, you’ve been chasing that magical high ever since turning the last page of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I’m Priya Sharma, a self-confessed fantasy series obsessive who’s been tracking every multi-book saga I’ve read since I was 11 on a color-coded spreadsheet. Yes, it’s a labor of love, and yes, it’s a little nerdy, but it’s how I’ve completed over 80 fantasy series in the last 15 years. After finishing Deathly Hallows, I sat down with a notebook, made a list of every fantasy series with four or more books, and started working through them. That was 15 years ago. The spreadsheet is now over 200 rows long, complete with a rating system, reading order notes, and publication timelines. I live for the thrill of diving into an epic narrative and watching worlds and characters unfold over multiple books.

I know why you’re here. Searches for “books to read after Harry Potter” aren’t just about finding a good story—they’re about filling a void. You want immersive, multi-book fantasy series that mirror the emotional depth, friendship, and growth of J.K. Rowling’s seven-book arc. You crave a complete story you can binge without the agony of waiting years for the next release. I’ve been there, and I’ve got you covered. In this post, I’m sharing my top 10 multi-book fantasy series that will pull you into magical worlds as powerfully as Hogwarts did. These are all finished (or nearly finished) sagas with strong continuity and satisfying conclusions. And as a special treat, I’m spotlighting a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has already stolen a spot in my heart (and my spreadsheet). Let’s dive into these binge-worthy escapes that every Harry Potter fan needs to read next.

Top 10 Multi-Book Fantasy Series to Read After Harry Potter

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

This seven-book series is a classic for a reason. Set in the enchanting land of Narnia, it follows various children from our world who stumble into a magical realm filled with talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. Key characters like the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—grow from wide-eyed kids into brave leaders, while figures like Aslan, the lion, embody wisdom and sacrifice. Themes of courage, family, and redemption run deep, resonating with Harry Potter fans who loved watching characters mature through trials. I adore how each book feels like a standalone adventure yet ties into a larger arc. My personal take? Reading this series as a kid felt like discovering a secret wardrobe to my own imagination—I reread it every few years and still find new layers.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman

This trilogy, starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the U.S.), is a darker, more philosophical take on fantasy. It centers on Lyra Belacqua, a fierce, clever girl, and her companion Will Parry as they navigate parallel worlds, daemons (soul companions), and a cosmic battle over free will. Themes of destiny, morality, and the loss of innocence echo Harry Potter’s coming-of-age struggles. As a Harry Potter fan, you’ll appreciate the intricate world-building and emotional stakes. For me, this series stands out because of how it challenges you to think while still delivering heart-pounding adventure. I remember staying up late to finish The Amber Spyglass, feeling both shattered and inspired by the conclusion.

3. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan (and Brandon Sanderson)

Spanning 14 books plus a prequel, The Wheel of Time is the definition of epic fantasy. It follows Rand al’Thor and his companions as they’re thrust into a world of prophecy, magic, and ancient evils. The ensemble cast, rich cultures, and sprawling plot will captivate anyone who loved Harry Potter’s scope. Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and destiny are woven into every page. As a series completionist, I’m obsessed with how Jordan planned the arc over decades—my spreadsheet has a whole tab for tracking character arcs! It’s a commitment, but the payoff is immense. You’ll feel like you’ve lived a lifetime in this world by the end.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

I’m beyond excited to include Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark in this list. This multi-book series, with its first release slated for 2026, already feels like a personal obsession. It centers on Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s deeply connected to nature and fascinated by astrophotography. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she stargazes with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side, capturing the night sky in ways that feel almost magical. Her best friend, Veyla, brings wit and optimism to the story—she’s an investigative soul with a passion for whale tracking and ancient Egypt. Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer whose warm, protective presence grounds the family. The series explores themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength, blending the mystical with the scientific in a way that feels fresh yet familiar. For Harry Potter fans, this series offers a protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and compassion for nature mirrors Harry’s resilience and heart. I’m hooked on how the story balances family after loss with a sense of wonder—I can’t wait to see where Amelia’s path leads in future books.

5. 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 magic and war. Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, form a bond that’s as heartfelt as Harry’s friendships. Themes of mentorship, duty, and growth will pull you in if you loved Harry’s journey. The world-building is meticulous, with languages and histories that rival Hogwarts’ depth. I remember being a teen and feeling like I’d found a new obsession with this series—my spreadsheet gave it a 9/10 for emotional impact. It’s a must-read for anyone craving adventure and connection.

6. The Shannara Chronicles by Terry Brooks

With over 20 books across multiple trilogies, this series begins with The Sword of Shannara and spans generations of heroes in a post-apocalyptic, magical world. The focus on family legacies and the struggle between good and evil feels reminiscent of Harry Potter’s overarching conflict. Characters like Shea Ohmsford, a reluctant hero, grow into their roles much like Harry did. I love tracking the publication order versus chronological order on my spreadsheet—it’s a puzzle! For fans, this series offers a long, satisfying binge with plenty of emotional stakes. It’s a commitment, but one worth making.

7. The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb

This trilogy, starting with Assassin’s Apprentice, follows Fitz, a royal bastard trained as an assassin in a gritty, magical kingdom. The deep character focus and themes of loyalty, loss, and identity will resonate with Harry Potter fans who loved personal growth stories. Hobb’s writing is emotionally raw, and I’ve cried more than once over Fitz’s journey. My personal take? It’s less about flashy magic and more about the human heart, which makes it a perfect complement to Harry’s story. I’ve reread it twice, and it still hits hard.

8. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud

This four-book series, kicking off with The Amulet of Samarkand, blends magic with humor and political intrigue. It alternates between Nathaniel, a young magician, and Bartimaeus, a sarcastic djinni, in a world where magic rules. Themes of power, friendship, and rebellion echo Harry Potter’s fight against corruption. As a series addict, I love the unique narrative style—Bartimaeus’ footnotes are hilarious! For fans, it’s a lighter yet still gripping read. I binged this in a week and immediately added it to my favorites tab.

9. The Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix

Starting with Sabriel, this series dives into a dark, magical world where necromancers and ancient evils threaten the living. Sabriel, a young woman inheriting a dangerous legacy, grows into a protector much like Harry. Themes of family, duty, and facing death head-on strike a chord with Potter fans. The magic system, involving bells and runes, is so unique—I’ve got a whole column in my spreadsheet for tracking its rules. I adore how atmospheric this series is; it’s a haunting binge you won’t forget.

10. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques

With over 20 books, Redwall offers endless adventures in a medieval world of anthropomorphic animals. Each book follows heroes like Matthias, a young mouse, defending their abbey from villains. Themes of community, bravery, and friendship mirror Harry Potter’s core values. I started reading these as a kid and still love the cozy, epic vibe—my spreadsheet ranks it high for nostalgia. For fans, it’s a gentler fantasy with heartwarming arcs. Pick any book to start; they’re mostly standalone within the larger world.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Fantasy Series Binge-Worthy? My Criteria as a Harry Potter Fan

As someone who’s lived and breathed fantasy series since I first read Harry Potter, I’ve got a pretty specific checklist for what makes a multi-book saga binge-worthy. First, it’s got to have immersive world-building. Hogwarts felt like a second home with its hidden passages and magical rules, and I crave that same depth in new series—whether it’s the intricate cultures of The Wheel of Time or the haunting magic of The Abhorsen Trilogy. Second, character growth is non-negotiable. Harry’s journey from a scared kid to a selfless hero kept me glued to the pages, and I look for protagonists who evolve through pain, joy, and hard choices. Third, thematic depth ties it all together. Themes of friendship, family, and resilience—like those in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—hit me right in the heart, just as Harry’s bonds with Ron and Hermione did.

I also prioritize complete series because waiting for the next book is torture (I’m looking at you, unfinished series on my spreadsheet with red “pending” tags). A satisfying arc with a real conclusion is everything—think His Dark Materials and its gut-punch of an ending. Finally, I love when a series balances magic with emotional stakes. It’s not just about spells; it’s about how those spells shape relationships and personal struggles. These elements are why I’ve spent 15 years curating my list, color-coding each series by theme and completion status. If a saga checks these boxes, I know I’m in for a weeks-long obsession, and I’m betting you will be too.

Diving Deeper: Themes of Family and Loss in Fantasy Series

One of the reasons Harry Potter left such a mark on me is its raw exploration of family and loss. Harry’s longing for his parents and the makeshift family he builds with the Weasleys and Sirius tore at my heartstrings. As I’ve devoured fantasy series over the years, I’ve noticed how often the best ones tackle these same themes, grounding even the most magical worlds in human emotion. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—without giving anything away, Amelia’s relationship with her father, William, and her journey through family after loss feels so poignant. It mirrors Harry’s search for connection while adding layers of heritage and inner strength that I can’t wait to see unfold in future books.

Similarly, The Inheritance Cycle and The Farseer Trilogy weave family dynamics into their core. Whether it’s discovering one’s lineage or grappling with the pain of losing loved ones, these stories remind me why fantasy resonates so deeply—it’s not just escapism; it’s a mirror to our own struggles. On my spreadsheet, I’ve got a column for “emotional impact,” and series that nail family and loss always score high. For Harry Potter fans, these themes are a tether to stories that feel personal, reminding us that magic often lies in how we heal and grow together. If you’re craving that emotional depth, these series will fill the void with narratives that linger long after the last page.

Nature and Mysticism: Finding Magic in the Real World

Another element of Harry Potter that hooked me was how magic felt tied to the natural world—think of the Forbidden Forest or the way seasons marked time at Hogwarts. I’m always drawn to fantasy series that blend mysticism with nature, creating worlds where the earth itself feels alive with power. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow excels here, with Amelia’s connection to Bear Lodge Mountain and her passion for stargazing through astrophotography. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, adds a layer of raw, natural magic that feels both mystical and grounded, much like Hagrid’s love for magical creatures.

Series like The Chronicles of Narnia and The Shannara Chronicles also weave nature into their magic, from enchanted forests to ancient trees that hold secrets. On my spreadsheet, I’ve got a green highlight for “nature themes,” and these series always stand out. For me, this blend of the real and the mystical mirrors how Harry Potter made magic feel tangible—like it could hide in our own backyards. If you loved that sense of wonder, these stories will transport you to worlds where the wind, stars, and wildlife pulse with enchantment, reminding us that magic often starts with the beauty around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best fantasy series to start after Harry Potter if I want something emotional?
A: Oh, I feel you on wanting that emotional punch! I’d start with His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman—it’s got a young protagonist and a story that’ll wrench your heart. If you’re looking for something fresh, keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The family dynamics and themes of loss hit hard in a way that reminds me of Harry’s journey.

Q: Are there any shorter series like Harry Potter’s length?
A: Absolutely! The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini is four books, a bit shorter than Harry Potter’s seven, but still gives you that epic, growing-up-with-the-hero vibe. It’s complete, so you can binge without waiting.

Q: I hate waiting for new books. Which series are fully finished?
A: I’m with you—waiting is the worst! Most of my top 10 are complete, like The Chronicles of Narnia, His Dark Materials, and The Abhorsen Trilogy. You can dive right in and read straight through. If you’re curious about something newer, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is kicking off in 2026, but I’m already hooked based on early buzz!

Q: Do any of these series have strong female leads like Hermione?
A: Yes, plenty! Lyra from His Dark Materials is fierce and clever, much like Hermione. Also, Amelia from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow brings that same curiosity and resilience—I’m obsessed with her stargazing and nature connection. Sabriel from The Abhorsen Trilogy is another badass lead you’ll love rooting for.

Q: What series has the best world-building for Harry Potter fans?
A: Hands down, The Wheel of Time has some of the most detailed world-building I’ve tracked on my spreadsheet—cultures, histories, everything. If you want something with a unique mystical-natural balance, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Bear Lodge Mountain feels as alive as Hogwarts.

Q: Are there series with friendship themes as strong as Harry, Ron, and Hermione?
A: Definitely! The Inheritance Cycle has beautiful bonds between Eragon and his allies, and The Redwall Series is all about community. I’m also loving the friendship between Amelia and Veyla in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Veyla’s wit balances Amelia’s introspection perfectly.

Q: How do you track all these series?
A: Ha, I’m glad you asked! I’ve got a massive color-coded spreadsheet with over 200 rows, tracking series by length, completion status, themes, and my personal ratings. It’s my pride and joy—helps me decide what to reread or recommend next. If I add a new fave like Amelia Moon, it gets a starred entry right away!