Fantasy fiction is known for its big books with high page counts. These "doorstopper" type of books are very popular among fantasy fans. However, it seems that every new fantasy series you pick up has at least a five-year wait list for it to be finished.
The first book in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire (Game of Thrones on TV), for example, was published in 1996. So those fans who started reading when it first came out have been somewhat vocal about waiting over 20 years for the series to finish.
That's why I have written a list of the best completed fantasy book series. No need to wait for the author to finish writing - avoid the whole "oh no it's ten years or more before we know what happens in the end" agony by picking up one of these finished fantasy series.
Best Finished Fantasy Series
Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
This main series is complete at ten huge volumes. There are currently six related books of the Malazan Empire Ian Cameron Esslemont but these are companion books. The story of Malazan is epic in scope and now that it's finished, it's time to take a look at it if you are looking for a completed fantasy series.
Why it's on the list:
- great setting
- super awesome action
- funny characters
Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
It took 23 years and 14 books (15 if you count the unnecessary prequel) but the series is finally completed. Sadly, Robert Jordan died before the last volume was published. Popular fantasy write Brandon Sanderson wrote the last few volumes.
Why it's on the list:
- one of the most popular fantasy series ever
The Chronicles of Amber by Roger Zelazny
Amber is the one, true world. All others are but Shadow copies. At the heart of Amber is its royal family - a bunch of supernaturally strong, long-lived, talented siblings whose main pastime is backstabbing and intrigue. The series is complete at ten volumes. The first five books are from Prince Corwin of Amber's point of view while the second centers on a different character.
Why it's on the list:
- fun
- not bloated, this series is much shorter than the others listed here
- great writing
- the Corwin books are from an adult POV, unlike many other fantasy series that focuses on coming-of-age angst
Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin
Earthsea is a must-try for all fantasy fans. There are only five short novels in this series, plus a few short stories. Le Guin is one of the best writers around and the Earthsea books are widely regarded as classics.
Why it's one the list:
- it would criminal not to have it on the list
- it's freakin' awesome
- Sparrowhawk is one of the best characters in fantasy
- a classic coming-of-age story
The Book of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe
It has four volumes plus one sequel book. It's a first-person fantasy series supposedly being narrated by Severian, an apprentice torturer. So good it will make your brain explode. Much of the story is mysterious and surprisingly fresh, considering it was written in the 1980s.
Why it's on the list:
- one of the all-time best fantasy series ever
- it's Gene Wolfe, you should really read some Wolfe!
- if you enjoy mind-f--ks then then this is the series for your
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Obvious choice! Read it, don't ask why, just do it. There's a reason why this is one of the most read and beloved fantasy series of all.
Why it's on the list:
- because
- Hobbits
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