The Sum of All Men

BOOK SERIES

The Runelords

9 main books2 additional works

In the epic Runelords series, a world on the brink of collapse is shaped by a unique and perilous magic—one where the power of individuals can be stolen, traded, or stolen away. At the heart of this universe lies a system of “runelords,” individuals who hold unimaginable power by bearing marks, or runes, that grant them extraord…

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In the epic Runelords series, a world on the brink of collapse is shaped by a unique and perilous magic—one where the power of individuals can be stolen, traded, or stolen away. At the heart of this universe lies a system of “runelords,” individuals who hold unimaginable power by bearing marks, or runes, that grant them extraordinary abilities. But this power comes with a cost: the ability to capture the essence of others, to borrow their strength, intellect, and even their very life force. In this fragile balance of domination and survival, every decision has profound consequences, and every alliance may come at a dire price.

Following the journey of courageous heroes and calculating villains, the series weaves a tale of sacrifice, betrayal, and the consequences of wielding power. As multiple factions vie for control, the Runelords introduces readers to a richly textured world where political intrigue and deep-seated mysteries unfold against a backdrop of epic battles and complex relationships. Themes of morality, what it means to be human, and the ways in which we define strength and leadership echo throughout the series.

Farland’s world-building is intricate, allowing readers to lose themselves in a world both familiar and strange. The characters—whether seeking power or redemption—are compelling and human, with motivations that are as layered and complex as the world they inhabit. With its rich mythology, sweeping narrative, and unforgettable characters, The Runelords series offers a breathtaking exploration of the cost of power and the price of loyalty in a high-stakes world.

As the story unfolds across multiple books, readers will find themselves drawn into an unforgettable adventure where alliances are tested, ancient forces awaken, and nothing is ever truly as it seems. With magic, tragedy, and unrelenting tension, The Runelords keeps readers on the edge of their seats, challenging their perceptions of good, evil, and the price of ambition.

Books in the series

Books in reading order

Additional works

SERIES PUBLICATIONS

Publication timeline

Main-series books by publication year. Unconfirmed TBA dates are excluded.

1998–20279 dated main books