There are pros and cons to both a stand-alone book and a muti-book series. Hopefully after reading this, you’ll know which you may like more and when you prefer a quick story compared to a longer one.
Reading a stand-alone book gives you a complete story, from start to finish. You know that when you open this type of book it should be fully wrapped by the time you get to the last page. In a stand-alone, you won’t have major world building information thrown at you. You won’t need to remember 10-20 different names, places, and backstories. These are simpler, which can be great if you need a break from a long series or you like the easiness of a more black and white with a touch of grey area.
Now don’t misunderstand, these types of books aren’t simple as a children’s book. They are well thought out, highly entertaining and can give just as much satisfaction as reading a series. Sometimes though, I really want to start and finish a book where everything is tied up in a nice little bow when I close it.
As for a multi-book series… While I like a stand-alone book, there is something to be said for a multi-book story. These can be amazing and soul crushing at the same time. Initially, you will be introduced to many people or creatures, locations, etc. The author will transport you to a world outside of your own, whether it be in a far off place with dragons and magic, or set in a different city in our own world where the monsters might be your neighbor.
The story could be told over as little as 2 books (duology) or as many as 3+. The longest series I have read so far is called Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (this had 8 books in total). Some of you might ask, why so many books?? She was able to tell you the backstories of most of the main characters. Each one helped you to understand why a character can be a jerk sometimes, or why they have made the choices they make. You got to go on a journey with them. To love and hate these characters, maybe even root for the bad guy (just for a moment 😉). There is a lot of information the author wants you to know and are not limited to only 300 – 600 pages. They can give more depth into the story because the author is able to provide more information to the reader.
In a long series or even a trilogy, there is usually at least one book where, as you’re reading it, you are asking yourself ‘why is this necessary, this book is so dry compared to the last one’. The author is most likely setting up for a minor “battle” that is pertinent to the story. Don’t DNF (Did Not Finish) the series just yet, have a little faith in it. But also, if the series isn’t your cup of tea, there is no shame in not finishing.
Whether you choose to read a stand-alone for wanting a completed story in one book, or invest your time for the long haul of a multi-book series, each one will transport you to a world beyond your own. Have fun reading!