The fantasy genre just keeps growing, and that leaves readers with plenty of incredible new fantasy books to dive into. The best fantasy novels of 2025 alone would keep most fans of the genre occupied for months. And there’s such a wide array of stories on the market, it’s hard to know where to start.
However, there are two lengthy fantasy series every lover of the category must read. Lengthy fantasy series can be daunting at first glance, but well-written narratives know how to use their many pages wisely. They keep readers engaged from start to finish, even with a lot of storylines, characters, and world-building to juggle.
Not every long fantasy book or series succeeds at balancing all those elements and keeping readers invested, but there are two modern classics that do. These beloved additions to the genre should be on everyone’s radar, whether they’re dipping their toes in for the first time or have somehow managed to evade these books while exploring others.
Every Fantasy Fan Should Read The Wheel Of Time & Stormlight Archive At Least Once
There aren’t many fantasy series that are required reading for the genre — though The Lord of the Rings and A Song of Ice and Fire come to mind — but two lengthy stories that readers should check out are The Wheel of Time and The Stormlight Archive. Both are modern classics, and they’re nearly as great as The Lord of the Rings. They also have the benefit of being complete.
Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series spans 14 books, so it’s quite an undertaking. However, there’s a reason The Wheel of Time is so beloved, and it’s worth learning why firsthand. Jordan accomplishes a lot in these books, crafting a world and magic system that’s among fantasy’s most elaborate. His story also feels reminiscent of Tolkien but unique and modern enough to stand on its own.
Meanwhile, The Stormlight Archive is Brandon Sanderson’s most impressive work (and with Mistborn under his belt, that’s saying something). The world-building in The Stormlight Archive is a feat on its own, but Sanderson masterfully weaves the many characters and storylines together, even connecting them to his other Cosmere projects.
Those looking for expansive fantasy narratives that won’t disappoint should give both series a try. They’ll also have a better understanding of why so many fantasy readers are obsessed with these titles, making them a rite of passage of sorts when beginning one’s fantasy journey.
Both Fantasy Book Series Aren’t As Intimidating As They Look
Although The Wheel of Time and The Stormlight Archive are both massive fantasy series, they aren’t quite as intimidating as they look. At 14 books, one could hardly blame readers for feeling reluctant to dive into Jordan’s story. However, the payoff is worth it, even with some of the series’ slower-paced moments. The major revelations and action more than make up for them.
Meanwhile, The Stormlight Archive moves pretty quickly, considering that each of the five books is around 1,000 pages. It’s not an exaggeration to say it doesn’t feel that way, as Sanderson’s writing is cinematic, and he makes every moment count. It’s the perfect time to dive into the fantasy series, too, as the next five installments won’t be here for years.
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- First TV Show
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The Wheel of Time
- Latest TV Show
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The Wheel of Time
- First Episode Air Date
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November 19, 2021
- Cast
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Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, Zoe Robins, Madeleine Madden, Josha Stradowski, Dónal Finn, Marcus Rutherford, Ceara Coveney, Kae Alexander, Ayoola Smart, Sophie Okonedo, Jennifer Cheon Garcia, Alexandre Willaume, Álvaro Morte
- TV Show(s)
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The Wheel of Time
A sprawling epic fantasy franchise rooted in Robert Jordan’s landmark 14‑volume novel series—later completed by Brandon Sanderson—centered on the cyclical struggle between Light and Shadow, anchored by the prophesied Dragon Reborn and a richly woven world of magic, politics, and myth.
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- Character(s)
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Kaladin Stormblessed, Shallan Davar, Dalinar Kholin, Adolin Kholin, Jasnah Kholin, Szeth-son-son-Vallano, Navani Kholin
The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy series by Brandon Sanderson, set on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar. The series follows multiple characters, each with their unique storylines, as they navigate political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and powerful magic. Central to the story are the Knights Radiant, legendary warriors with magical abilities who must return to save their world from impending destruction. The series explores themes of honor, leadership, and the burden of power.
