Dan Reads and Writes

Our world as adults can be overflowing with responsibilities, deadlines, and endless to-do lists, finding solace in the pages of a captivating book series for adults can be a true sanctuary. For those seeking refuge from the chaos of daily life, immersing oneself in a well-crafted series offers not just an escape, but a journey into worlds unknown, characters unexplored, and stories untold. Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or a newcomer to the literary scene, there’s a series out there waiting to ensnare your imagination and transport you to realms beyond your wildest dreams.

In this post, we’ll embark on a literary adventure through some of the best book series tailored specifically for adults. From epic fantasies to gripping mysteries, heart-wrenching dramas to exhilarating thrillers, there’s something for every reader craving an unforgettable saga to devour. I think the five books in this series have also been adapted for TV and film, so if you’re the completist type you can even get more experience out of this process by watching the adaptations of the book. Keep in mind though that films/TV series and books are entirely different media and can have differing degrees of interpretation.

Before we dive into it, let me explain how I rated the following books based on the readability and length of the series. I’ve chosen these two criteria because as adults you maybe juggling a thousand competing priorities and you’d want to spend your reading time in the most efficient way possible.

In the vast sea of book series catering to adult readers, finding the perfect balance between readability and length can be a daunting task. With countless options to choose from, it’s essential to have a reliable criteria for evaluating the merits of each series. In following section, we’ll explore how readability and length play crucial roles in determining the appeal of a book series for adult audiences.

1. Readability:

The readability of a book series is paramount to its enjoyment, particularly for adult readers with busy schedules and limited free time. Here are some factors to consider when assessing the readability of a series:

• Writing Style: A series with clear, engaging prose and well-crafted dialogue is more likely to captivate readers and keep them invested in the story.
• Pacing: A well-paced series strikes a balance between moments of action and introspection, ensuring that the narrative maintains momentum without feeling rushed or dragged out.
• Complexity: While complexity can enhance the depth and richness of a story, overly convoluted plotlines or excessive world-building can hinder readability, especially for readers seeking a more straightforward experience.

2. Length of the Series:

The length of a book series can have a significant impact on a reader’s commitment to completing it. While some readers relish the prospect of immersing themselves in a lengthy saga, others may be deterred by the prospect of investing time and effort into a series with numerous installments. Here’s how the length of a series can influence its appeal:

• Number of Books: A series with fewer books may be more accessible to readers who prefer shorter commitments or have limited attention spans. Conversely, a series with a larger number of books offers the opportunity for more extensive character development and world-building.
• Total Page Count: Considering the total page count of a series provides insight into the time investment required to complete it. While some readers may enjoy the prospect of delving into a sprawling epic, others may prefer a more concise narrative that can be consumed in a shorter period.
• Consistency: Consistency in the length of each book within a series can contribute to a more satisfying reading experience, as readers can anticipate the time commitment required for each installment.

Now that we’ve defined the criteria, let’s talk about my recommendations for the best book series for adults and how I rated them.

Best Books for Adults List

1. “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin

Enter the immersive world of Westeros, where political intrigue, epic battles, and intricate character dynamics reign supreme. George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series has captivated millions of readers worldwide with its sprawling narrative, richly developed characters, and unexpected twists and turns. Delving into themes of power, honor, and the consequences of choice, this series is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and complex storytelling. Also, dragons…DRAGONS!

• Readability: High (Engaging prose, intricate plotlines)
• Length: High (Currently five published books, with more planned)
• Rating: 4/5

2. “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon

Transport yourself to 18th-century Scotland and beyond in Diana Gabaldon’s mesmerizing “Outlander” series. Blending historical fiction, romance, and time travel, this saga follows the journey of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who finds herself torn between two vastly different worlds and two equally compelling loves. With lush descriptions, meticulously researched historical detail, and a fiercely independent protagonist, “Outlander” offers a truly unforgettable reading experience.

• Readability: Moderate to High (Richly detailed prose, complex narrative)
• Length: High (Currently nine published books, with more planned)
• Rating: 3.5/5

3. “The Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling

No list of the best book series for adults would be complete without mentioning the magical world of Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling’s iconic series follows the titular young wizard and his friends as they navigate the treacherous halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry while facing off against the dark forces of Voldemort. Filled with themes of friendship, courage, and the power of love, the Harry Potter series continues to enchant readers of all ages with its timeless appeal.

• Readability: High (Accessible prose, engaging storytelling)
• Length: Moderate (Seven books in total)
• Rating: 5/5

4. “The Millennium Series” by Stieg Larsson and David Lagercrantz

Step into the gritty underworld of Swedish crime fiction with the Millennium series, originally penned by Stieg Larsson and continued by David Lagercrantz. Centered around the enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander and crusading journalist Mikael Blomkvist, this series delves into dark conspiracies, corporate corruption, and the seedy underbelly of society. With its fast-paced plots, morally ambiguous characters, and social commentary, the Millennium series is a must-read for fans of Scandinavian noir.

• Readability: High (Fast-paced plots, compelling characters)
• Length: Moderate (Six books in total)
• Rating: 4/5

5. “The Wheel of Time” by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

Embark on an epic journey across a world on the brink of cataclysm in “The Wheel of Time” series by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson. Spanning fourteen volumes, this epic fantasy saga follows an expansive cast of characters as they battle against the forces of darkness and strive to fulfill prophecies that will determine the fate of their world. With its intricate world-building, epic scope, and compelling characters, “The Wheel of Time” is a masterpiece of modern fantasy.

• Readability: Moderate to High (Intricate world-building, expansive cast of characters)
• Length: Very High (Fourteen books in total)
• Rating: 4.5/5

Conclusion:

With distractions and obligations, discovering the perfect book series for adults can be a transformative experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, mystery, or intrigue, the series mentioned above offer a diverse array of choices to suit every taste. So grab a cozy blanket, brew a cup of tea, and lose yourself in the pages of these captivating tales. After all, the best journeys are the ones we take between the covers of a beloved book series.

Disclosure: Links on the post point to my affiliate links with Amazon. I get a commission for each sale, this supports my writing effort and keeping the blog up and running. So thank you!