While I will be the first to recommend a wide range of trilogies or series, once in a while I need a break from jumping into such a book commitment and need to read a novel that wraps up the whole story between the first and the last page. Here are some standalones that I have recently found or revisited several times!
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
This is one of the very few books that I have ever read that I have seen the film before I read the book. With that in mind, there is a great deal of this book that I read in the actors and actresses voices, this story is one I have read a plethora of times due to the classic and humorous nature of the story. Filled with sword fights, revenge, true love, and witty dialogue, this book is a light-hearted trip for all types of readers.
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
I am a huge fan of most everything Neil Gaiman writes, but this may be my favorite. Using the American landscape as a place for old and new gods to gripe for power, Gaiman’s story follows the character Shadow as he encounters and grapples with deities from past and present. With Gaiman’s unique story-telling, readers who enjoy mystery and fantasy will love this award winning novel.
The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow
Written within the period of the Women’s Suffrage movement, three sisters join the movement after having spent years apart and hope to propel both the cause of women’s rights but also the rights of those with magical abilities. In conflict with groups who hope to use witchcraft as a scapegoat for all of the disease, poverty and misfortunes of the people of New Salem, the sisters must find a way to prevail even with the odds ever against them. I strongly recommend this book for all those who enjoy a mix of fiction within a historical period and witchcraft.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Please don’t be too intimidated by this book when you first see it. It is around the same size of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, so it can be conquered. This book is centers around a dynasty of queens who have held power for nearly 1000 years, a mage who secretly protects the current queen with magic that is outlawed, and a dragon rider who has trained since childhood but may have to make a life altering choice that could upend it all while ancient power begins to regain its former strength. Great for readers who have liked the politics, secrecy, and magic of Game of Thrones.
If you don't see something you like from these four, check out this extended list of other standalone novels.
