For this discussion post, we are joining the Fantasy With Friends discussion with Pages Unbound.
This week’s prompt:
Do you currently prefer standalone fantasies or series? Is there a certain number of books that seems like “too much,” whether that means the series feels intimidating to start or just that the author might need to move on to something else? Is there a point at which you worry that a series is just a “cash grab?”
Julie:
I will give you that a fantasy world is difficult in a standalone. But, that being said, I LOVE when a standalone fantasy delivers. The best one I have read recently was Between Tides and Thunder – a standalone delicious beautiful fantasy romance. It can be done, and it needs to be done more often.
Otherwise, I believe a trilogy is about perfect. It’s not that much of a commitment and allows a story arc and character development. I think it’s a sweet spot. 5 books is acceptable, if the plot is fast paced and the world is just so immersive and addicting.
What I don’t like? 10+ book series where each book is 600+ pages. No. Get outta here with that. Aint nobody got time for that kind of reading.
Now don’t get me wrong, I do love a good long episodic urban fantasy series (Sookie Stackhouse, Charley Davidson series, Night Huntress series), but most of those while having an overarching plot, are like seasons of a show and can be standalone. Longer series also works well for a YA fantasy because they are faster reads and usually not too dense.
Lynn:
For the fact that we have Not a Series on our bingo cards, I frequently find myself struggling to even find standalone novels these days. Why is that?!? I would certainly pick a standalone fantasy book if I could find one!
I’m in agreement with Julie on the number of books in a series. Three is a sweet spot. Honestly, after a dozen or more books in a series, I find that the stories become repetitive. Or at least begin to lack anything original. I don’t have a problem giving up on series that I’m bored with!
I do understand being intimidated to start a new series. I’ve been looking at the Brandon Sanderson books for ages. But there are too many. Where do I even start? Maybe one day I’ll figure that out.
What about you?
We are also linking up our discussion posts with the 2026 Book Blog Discussion Challenge hosted by Shannon @ It Starts at Midnight and co-hosted by us!
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