Hey Petrik! I just read the Sword of Kaigen on your recommendation and I LOVED it. Even at the 20-25% mark, I knew it was going to become an absolute favourite. Thank you for taking the time to always recommend such brilliant books to us! Picking up Kings of the Wyld next :)
You're welcome, Tanya! So glad to hear how much you're loving The Sword of Kaigen, and you haven't even reached all the BEST part of the book! Enjoy!! 😊 Kings of the Wyld should be a great choice to read after!
YES ! I'm so happy you have Sword of Kaigen as your #1. I read that earlier this year and it blew me away. I still think about it almost on the daily, that's how impactful it was. My favourite book I read in 2020.
Cannot believe the author of the sword of Kaigan did that cover herself. I’m an absolute sucker for Japan inspired fantasy. This one is shooting right to the top of my TBR. Great recommendations again!
I know right!? I was so surprised when I learned that for the first time! If you love Japanese-inspired fantasy, I really don't see how you won't like this one. Give it a read! I'm sure it will amaze you! :D
And you've done it again Petrik. Thank you for the beautiful journey you suggested which is the Sword of Kaigen. Those 2 climaxes were page turners; both made me tear up, smile, and on both occasions made me put the book down to process and imagine what I just read. At the end of the book, I was sadly wishing there were more pages to read but that's the thing with great books huh? They seem to just make a world of their own for the reader when the pages end. Now on to Dreams of the Dying!
Yessss! You're so welcome, Element! The two climax sequences in The Sword of Kaigen were masterfully executed. The actions and battles themselves were amazing on their own, but what made them even better are the intensely palpable emotions packed into them. Glad you loved it! Dreams of the Dying is a different sort of book compared to The Sword of Kaigen, it's more contemplative and thought-provoking in nature, but I loved it so much, too. Enjoy!
Thanks for the list. My TBR keeps growing coz of your videos. From a truly standalone fantasy book perspective - check out battle mage by Peter flannery. He could have made a trilogy out of the material but wraps it nicely in a single book.
You're welcome, Arjun! Oh I know about Battle Mage! I've read a quarter of it this year but had to put it down because of the head hopping style. I will give it a try again one day when I'm in the right mood! 😊
I've read 3 of your top 10, and loved Tigana, The Emperor's Soul and The Sword of Kaigen just as much as you did! Like you I was blown away by The Sword of Kaigen and even cried while reading it at that one part. It's also my best standalone of all time. Now my TBR is going to have books added to it. Loved Circe and will probably read A song of Achilles next year. P.S. Agree with you that chronological (prequel) should be read before standalones, especially for The First Law series.
I was looking for standalone fantasy books to read since I don't read that much and although I have many book series in my to-read catalogue, it's still daunting to have to start one. I did read the emperor's soul by brandon sanderson and found it really engaging. It's also my first Sanderson book. I'm also reading ILLBORN (off your recommendation) and am enjoying it so far. So I can't wait to add more of these books into my to-read list!
Illborn is amazing! I'm glad you love The Emperor's Soul, it's about time for me to reread the book again. I hope these books will be some of your favorite books! :)
I have enjoyed watching your Top Ten lists and now need to add Brian Staveley to my TBR! I did quite enjoy Song of Achilles and Dark Matter and been saving the other two for when I need a guarantee good read...I need to stop saving them and just read them! Usually my favorite stand alone books are the ones that give me 'all the feels' and usually end up making me cry :) Some examples of my favorites are Lonesome Dove, Watership Down, and Wives and Daughters.
Thank you, Tang! Yes please to Brian Staveley. His writing are sooooo beautiful! 🙂 And you're right, though, regarding favorite books; giving all the feels is a sign of terrific book! I have Lonesome Doves on my TBR! Fingerscrossed I can get to it next year! 🙂
Great list! I loved song of Achilles way more than I thought I would. Been meaning to try Lancelot, I love all king Arthur retellings. For this year I loved the stand by king and priory of the orange tree was like an amazing series in one book!❤️
Thank you so much, Ellyn! I think you will love Lancelot, especially if you're a fan of Arthurian retelling! I've read The Stand two years ago and I liked it enough, I think I have to give Priory of the Orange Tree a try one day! 😊
@@PetrikLeo definitely try it. It is so good. I read it just as the pandemic started and a fast spreading disease was is it as a minor plot point but it was weirdly relevant. But yeah talking dragons are always awesome. Can't wait to try Lancelot❤️
Hi Petrik, I just discovered your channel recently and enjoy watching your best of videos! Thanks to them my TBR list has expanded and I am trying to dedicate more time to reading haha. A few standalone books I would strongly recommend: Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke; To Ride Hell’s Chasm by Janny Wurts; and The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison.
Thank you so much! I'm glad to hear that. Also, I actually just finished watching Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, the TV show was so good! And I'll be reading To Ride Hell's Chasm next month, so your recommendation is on time! :D
I just started Sword of Kaigen after your recommendations for Jade City and the Winnowing Flame trilogy both turned into some of my favorite reading experiences of the last decade. And I preordered Dragon Mage based on your recommendation. Thanks for steering me toward books I would have probably not tried without a little push in the right direction!
That is superb to hear, Troy! Those are indeed some of my favorite books! 😊 You're welcome, and thank you for letting me know that my reviews and recommendations helped you choose great books to read!
Wow all the books are awesome. I have read Lancelot last year and the song of Achilles this year. Loved them both. I would definitely be going to read Gates of Fire next year.
I agree with you that the First Law standalones are better read as part of the overall First Law series. Like you, I loved Tigana, but, unlike you, I’ve never read anything else by Kay. Mike just dropped a great review of The Martian this morning, and I think I’ll try it someday. I’ve been hearing about Emperor’s Soul - will have to check it out. Great endorsement of Sword of Kaigen- I’ll have to add it to my TBR. Thanks, my friend!
Yeah! It's not only the standalone, even the newest Age of Madness trilogy is kinda the same; I loved them more because I've read all the previous books! I'm curious on your thoughts on other Kay's books... Almost all of them are historical fantasy, and I tend to not click with books in this subgenre. You should definitely read The Martian, Emperor's Soul, and of course, The Sword of Kaigen!! They are all amazing, my friend! :D
I've read Never Die and The Song of Achilles. I really enjoyed both. I have The Sword of Kaigen on my kindle. It was a toss up between Legacy of Ash by Matthew Ward and The Sword of Kaigen on what I wanted to read. Currently I'm reading Legacy of Ash but once I finish I'll try The Sword of Kaigen. My favorite stand alone for this year is The House in the Cerulean Sea. Very cute and heartwarming. I swear that book will actually leave you feeling happy. Many argue it's YA/kids book but I'm not to certain on that. Anyways, a very enjoyable book.
Legacy of Ash is really good, too, Cynthia! I have the sequel, Legacy of Steel, but I haven't gotten around to it. I think I might as well wait a bit for this one because the last book, Legacy of Light, comes out next August! I hope you'll love The Sword of Kaigen! And I've heard so many great things about House in the Cerulean Sea, I think there's a sequel coming out next year, and I might read them back to back when its out! 🤩
Hey Petrik, Rewatching this video. Had you on yesterday when I was busy around the house. Rewatching today so I can write down and add all these books to my "want to read someday" list. Thanks for sharing. I am currently "scared" of starting any new series because I have too many ongoing already, so I have been reading lots of stand-alones instead. Silly, I know. If I was smart I would pick up some from the series I have already going. But I am not a smart reader. And never follow the rules I try to set for myself. much love amy
Thank you for watching, Amy! Haha, that's not "not smart" Amy, I think that just shows that you're a moody reader and there's nothing wrong with it! I hope you'll love these books whenever you get around to them! :)
This is an awesome list. I've said it before, and I'm gonna say it again, you gotta give Talion: Revenant a read. It's fast and easy and fun. One of my favorite standalone books! It's more along the lines of Six Sacred Swords so I don't think it would make your personal top 10, but I'm extremely confident you would enjoy the read immensely.
Thank you so much, bro! Yeah! I remember Talion: Revenant; you've recommended it to me a while ago, and I still have it on my radar! 😊 Just a matter of when now....
Love Kings of the Wyld, The Shadow of the Wind. I need to read Recursion and I have it. I read Circe but need to read Achilles. Dragonmage is on my list after many others! I need to finish Mistborn trilogy. I want to read Skullsworn maybe before the trilogy. And lastly I’m waiting for a cheap copy of Sword of Kaigen!
Boy's Life sounds good. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. As I look at my read pile, I notice that the majority of my favorite reads are standalone. There are just so many great ones out there. Some of my favorites are Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell by Susana Clarke The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley The Golden Key by Melanie Rawn, Jennifer Roberson, and Kate Elliot.
A Boy's Life is wonderful, I think it's one of those book that would click with majority of readers! Also, thanks for the recommendations, I haven't read any of the books you mentioned, The Golden Key in particular is one that sparked my interest! 😊
@@PetrikLeo The Golden Key is so good. It is a political and family drama that spans hundreds of years and told in three parts with protagonists of three different generations. It is not a book for everyone. I would classify it as a fantasy of manners, political fantasy, and romance. There is zero action and it all takes place pretty much in one city.
Glad you agreed, Pam!! Both are some of my favorite books (as you know already) and I hope you'll love both Never Die and The Emperor's Blades whenever you get around to them! :)
Based on this video and one other, I'm very interested in Dragon Mage. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. 🙂 ....I just saw your review for Dragon Mage and your mention that it now has a sequel. It still sounds good, but I might hold off reading it for a few months. Sword of Kaigen seems like the best option for me, for now. And the Rob Hayes books.
Just the kind of list I was looking for! I've been so stumped with adult fantasy to read recently and not really wanting to commit to a whole series I'm unsure about. Can't wait to read Dragon Mage when it comes out.
I love adult fantasy series, but we all need a standalone book to read occasionally. Especially when we're not in the mood to commit another series! 😊 I hope you'll enjoy Dragon Mage, Karyne! 😊
@@PetrikLeo Absolutely! And thanks, when I saw that cover art I just knew I had to check it out. I actually thought it must be a backlist and I could get it right away because it has such a nostalgic classic fantasy feel. I miss when fantasy covers used to look like that.
Technically, it is part of a YA series called Theonite. But The Sword of Kaigen is a prequel spin-off to it, and only a few supporting characters from The Sword of Kaigen appeared in the main series. Give it a read! It's amazing! 🤩
@@jordankeith1821 oh sorry just saw this. No need, the main trilogy is a YA fantasy series that has almost no relation in story other than the MC is a side character that briefly appeared in Sword of Kaigen! 😊
Happy Winter Solstice and Thank you for this list! You have mentioned several books I’ve never heard of before. I’m really looking forward to checking out Dragon Mage.
You're welcome, and Happy Winter Solstice to you, too! 😊 I hope you'll end up loving Dragon Mage and the books you haven't heard of before whenever you get around to them!
Thank you for this list. I'd like to read almost every book you mentioned, specially "The paper Menagerie", that one is highlighted for my TBR. By the way, I loved "The Emperor's Soul"! I read it 2 weeks ago.This was my entry point for Sanderson's writing, I picked it up to have a taste of him as a writer. It was just a great story. And I find interesting what you said about a possible sequel, because there's this subplot with the Imperial Fool that I wanted it to be wrapped up 😅 haha.
You're so welcome, Simon. The Paper Menagerie is amazing, and I'm glad you loved The Emperor's Soul! Although I'm satisfied with it being a one-off standalone, I definitely will not say not to a sequel to it! :)
Another great list ! This is really good as not everyone wants to commit to a series. BTW looking forward to your review on Pawn's Gambit on goodreads/novelnotions !
Thank you as always, Charles! Yeah, as much as I love reading series, there are times where I want to read just one satisfying book and move on to the next series! The review for Pawn's Gambit will be posted on the 12th of January; the author specifically asked for it! 😊
I'm currently reading the Sword of Kaigen, can't wait to pick up some others. It's nice to read a stand-alone and not commit to a series once in awhile.
This is the video I've been waiting for :D I always start series and then... another series before finishing those series. I actually can't remember any fantasy standalone which I've read apart from Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. Sword of Kaigen is on my tbr as well as A Brightness Long Ago, apart from these I go into this video without any clue as to what's happening....oh, and all of Neil Gaiman's books I guess.
I'm glad that you found this video useful, Klaus! I think in general, it's harder to find a great standalone books in fantasy rather than a series. I hope you'll enjoy reading the books on this list! 😃
@@PetrikLeo of course it’s harder because authors have common sense, I guess 😂 if I wrote a bestseller, I’d also write a sequel instead of trying out something new 🤷🏻♂️
Hi, Ashley!! Yeah... that story hurts. I recently reread it, and I felt as emotional as the first time I read it. It's crazy that a short story could conjure that kind of powerful effect on me! :')
Sword of Kaigen, Skullsworn and The Boy's Life are among my all times favourites. I have a soft spot for McCammon and love his books dearly, no matter how ridiculous they sound- I mean, how can you not be interested in werewolf fighting Nazis, but The Boy's Life is magical. Excellent choices, Petrik.
Thank you very much, Lila! Niceeee! My top 3 standalone books are all in your all time favorites, Lila! 😊 Btw, that book sounds insane, I have to check it out! xD
@@PetrikLeo :) It's called The Wolf's Hour and it's pure fun. His older books have some kind of ridiculous premise, but his writing elevates them. I didn't really like how Staveley ended The Unhewn Throne trilogy, but Skullsworn is the reason I'll read his next one. Your taste continues to be impeccable. :D
@@Lila_S. Awww, I'll say the same for your taste, too, because I completely agree! 😊 I loved the first and second book of Unhewn Throne, but disappointed a bit with the 3rd book. Skullsworn was definitely the one that made me so excited for future books!
I've read Song of Achilles and The Martian and they would make my list too, along with The Night Circus. The Paper Menagerie is on my 2021 TBR and I had heard of Brian Staveley but didn't realize he had a standalone novel.
@@PetrikLeo ah yes I've heard good things about Matthew Corbett as well! I need to hurry up and read Boy's life haha😅 his newer book the Listener sounds cool too
Boy's Life by Robert McCammon is widely considered his best work. Also frequently mentioned is his WW2 werewolf novel The Wolf's Hour. He also has an excellent short story in his collection Blue World. The story is "The Painted Door" I, too was blown away by the powerfully imaginative and emotional story "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu. I need to read the rest of the stories in the collection. My favorite stand alone fantasies are Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman and Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke.
Oh I didn't know that Boy's Life is widely considered as his best work; it seems like i heard people talk about Swan Song more often than it! The rest of the stories in Paper Menagerie collection are pretty good, too! Definitely worth a read even if they aren't as good as the titular story! 😄 I still have to read Jonathan Strange one day, I own the book already but havent gotten around to it yet!
You have to let me know what you think of them, especially Zafon's! I read Zafon's books half a year ago, and I already want to reread them again; they're that brilliant to me! 😆
I felt like swan song was not that good. Hope you have a good experience with it, though. My favourite standalone books - the winter road by Adrian Selby - seveneves by Neal Stephenson - the gone world by Tom Sweterlitsch - the library at mount Char by Scott Hawkins - halcyon by Rio Youers
Fingerscrossed, Celine! I've tried Winter Road by Selby but couldn't click with it. I'm looking forward to reading Library at Mount Char one day, though! Thanks for the recommendations! 😊
I have a thousand books in my pipeline, well more, I have some problem and buy books but I buy more than read. One of the interesting this is that I can't seem to find the time to start and finsh a series. But I have them all. I've been following your reviews on goodreads and it's nice to have this format. More relax. This next year I am going to try to read some fantasy series. I really love grimdark. I have all Black Library novels (40K and Fantasy) and they are grimdark, they created the genre to be honest. Have you ever read some? I hope to hear more videos from you incitive me to read more. Ten years ago I could read 100 novels and now this last two years I've been read 20 or so. This last hear, since august I exploded and read 35 but I want to be this a continuous reading. Reading it's different that watching a series or anime. Although life and their worrisome problems do get in the way of disposition... Let us hope 2021 it's a good year for you and me regarding books.
I haven't read any of the Warhammer 40k books, I don't even know where to begin, tbh. There's so many of them, and each year there's like so many books being published in that universe, or it sounds like it. I hope the both of us will get to read more in 2021! 😊
Can you do updated list on standalone fantasy and science fiction? I'm looking for medium length standalones to read between longer series. I suppose even books in a series that can be read as a standalone such as Kings of Kyld
Boy's Life is so damn good! I'd recommend The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson. It is as nostalgic, heartwarming as Boy's Life but more heartbreaking!
Loved this video! The Shadow of The Wind and Tigana were already on my list as I can borrow them from my library. I've added Skullsworn (the only one I didn't know about that I can actually borrow), which sounds very disturbing just from reading the synopsis, but I love thought-provoking novels! Also, I'm now so tempted to buy The Sword of Kaigen and I'll gladly read the short story you've shared. :) I've read Dark Matter last year, but some things didn't made sense to me and that took me out of the story. I was particularly annoyed by the fact that *SPOILER ALERT* Daniela would've taken her ex back in a whim. Why did he convinced himself that he had to overcomplicate things? *END OF SPOILER* The writing wasn't great either, I felt like I was reading a movie-script. I'm glad you enjoyed Recursion even more, though, but unless you convince me otherwise, I'm not compelled to pick it up. :/
Thank you so much, Jessica! Yayy! I hope you'll enjoy all of them, especially Skullsworn and The Sword of Kaigen! Hmm, I think if you didn't enjoy Dark Matter, I doubt Recursion will be enjoyable for you. The writing style is very similar!🤣
I loved Recursion by Blake Crouch as well. Dark matter left a huge impact on me. I love his writing and I’m looking forward to more of his work in the future.
Yeah! It was just announced by the author yesterday that it will become a series! 😅 Sorry for the confusion! I'll make sure to update that in my review, too!
Once I've read enough amazing episodic standalone series, I definitely plan to make a recommendation video! Right now, I don't think i've read enough series like that to make a list yet. xD
Think you'll ever do any lists of favorites in specific genres other than fantasy? Not that there is anything wrong with fantasy. After this and some of your other videos, I find out reading likes overlap a lot.
Fantasy is definitely my main forte, but I want to do a list for sci-fi and historical fiction, too! I guess I can make a list on the two, but I feel like I haven't read enough of them yet for my list on the two genre to have strengths. I could be the only one thinking like this, though! xD
I did a video about “The Sword of Kaigen” (for another group), and I’m debating whether or not to upload it to my TH-cam channel. Have you read, “The Priory of the Orange Tree,” by Samantha Shannon?
Up to you! You should do it if you and that group are comfortable with it! I haven't read The Priory of the Orange Tree! I have considered doing it, though. Let's see when I'll have the time for it! 😂
@@PetrikLeo I might upload the video after the holidays. As for "The Priory of the Orange Tree," I'll be honest, I listened to the audiobook knowing I wouldn't have time to read the entire book (although I bought both the print and the ebooks). It was worth it!
“Black Tongue Thief” by Christopher Buelmann “the Builders” by Daniel Polanski “14” by Peter Clines These are some of the first ones I think of that aren’t the common favorites Thanks for the useful video I’ll subscribe
We all have so much different definitions of standalone 😂😂I dotm consider sword of Kaigen as standalone bcoz of the ending like how it sets up sequels but then the sequels are discontinued ,my favorite standalone are emperor soul ,
I will have to totally disagree with you on this. The main series of Theonite is a YA series that doesn't feature any characters from The Sword of Kaigen except one or two very small supporting characters, and the story centers around a completely different story in a different setting. I won't force your opinion, though, it's up to you if you don't think of it as a standalone! I actually almost didn't want to include The Emperor's Soul because Sanderson has mentioned The Emperor's Soul is now a 2 book series. But looking that it might take 5-10 years before the sequel comes out, I'll consider it as a standalone for now.
I couldn't agree with you more about GGK, I also absolutely loved Tigana, but the rest are just boring. I also loved A boy's life, which I found to be wonderful. As King is my favorite author, I couldn't wait then to read Swan's song. And I read it this year, and it is just BAD. I finished it, to be sure it is as bad as I thought - it is. just BAD. Can't believe it's the same author.
Glad you agreed on all of my opinions on these books! That doesn't bode well for Swan Song, though... I hope I'll enjoy it more than you did. I'll keep my expectations in check, just in case! 😂
Oh no I am just going to read Better Served Cold 🥶 Am I making a huge mistake?! Also my favorite standalone fantasy would be Tigana and Starless Sea! PS: Elliot Brooks just gave you a shout out in her video! Does it mean you will become Worldhopper now?
Oh hold on! Have you read the First Law trilogy? As I said, I strongly recommend to read The First Law trilogy first before reading that one. I haven't read Starless Sea because I didn't like Night Circus... which one do you think is better? 😂 I actually just watched her video just now! So lovely of her to give me a shoutout. She has invited me, we haven't organized a schedule yet, though, but I'm looking forward to it!😊
@@PetrikLeo I haven’t read first law but Merphy and Joe himself convinced me to read this standalone 🤩 I think I am going to risk it actually 😂 Well I haven’t read Night Circus but honestly the little I know you (I don’t) I think you might enjoy it even less. It reminded me of Murakami novel actually. Haha thanks for the transparency and quick reply 🙂
@@Morfeusm Good luck! I think there's still a good chance that you'll enjoy Best Served Cold. What I suggested is just my preference, after all. Who knows, maybe after you read this, it will make you super excited to read the first trilogy! 🙂
I think knowing the background of Shiver from the first trilogt will still benefit a lot to the book. Other than that, yeah the rest of it works well as a standalone.
@@PetrikLeo Well I enjoyed your take on things to be sure. I cannot wait to try some of those off your lists. I am reading Stormlight right now but I want to read some standalone this year and some or series that have been completed. Keep up the good work Petrik!
What's your favorite standalone books!? 😊
I love Ender's game! Technically it is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone book...i also love coraline lol
For this year I loved to sleep in a sea of stars, sword of kaigan and Madeline miller books
I loved Warbreaker by Sanderson
Sword of Kaigen, I mean , how not?
This year I liked The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk.
Petrik Leo, Reader of Everything and Ruiner of Bank Accounts. Another solid video and lots of awesome books to check out!
Thank you so much, bro! LOL, I keep on getting new nicknames!!! 😂
I’ve only read The Sword of Kaigen from this list and it’s definitely at the top of my list as well. I cried so hard reading that book.
Incredible, isn't it!? I'm glad I recommended that book to you, then! I would feel sad if I recommended that and you didn't love it! xD
I need to read sword of Kaigen. I’ve heard such positive feedback everywhere about it.
Oh yes definitely! It is THAT amazing. I hope you'll love it as much as I did! 😊
Best book reviewer. Period.👍🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you so much!! 😄
The Martian!!!! One of my favorites of all time as well, I’m so glad you loved it!
Thank you, Jessie! Took me long enough to get to it, but I'm glad I did! 😄 Happy to hear that you loved it so much, too! 😊
Hey Petrik! I just read the Sword of Kaigen on your recommendation and I LOVED it. Even at the 20-25% mark, I knew it was going to become an absolute favourite. Thank you for taking the time to always recommend such brilliant books to us!
Picking up Kings of the Wyld next :)
You're welcome, Tanya! So glad to hear how much you're loving The Sword of Kaigen, and you haven't even reached all the BEST part of the book! Enjoy!! 😊 Kings of the Wyld should be a great choice to read after!
YES ! I'm so happy you have Sword of Kaigen as your #1. I read that earlier this year and it blew me away. I still think about it almost on the daily, that's how impactful it was. My favourite book I read in 2020.
It was my favorite book of 2019! Glad you loved it so much, too! 😊 I'm so happy that many readers loved this book!
Cannot believe the author of the sword of Kaigan did that cover herself. I’m an absolute sucker for Japan inspired fantasy. This one is shooting right to the top of my TBR. Great recommendations again!
I know right!? I was so surprised when I learned that for the first time! If you love Japanese-inspired fantasy, I really don't see how you won't like this one. Give it a read! I'm sure it will amaze you! :D
I just read Circe and was debating Song of Achilles, I will now pick it up
Oh definitely should give Song of Achilles a try! Imo, it's better than Circe! 😊
And you've done it again Petrik. Thank you for the beautiful journey you suggested which is the Sword of Kaigen. Those 2 climaxes were page turners; both made me tear up, smile, and on both occasions made me put the book down to process and imagine what I just read. At the end of the book, I was sadly wishing there were more pages to read but that's the thing with great books huh? They seem to just make a world of their own for the reader when the pages end.
Now on to Dreams of the Dying!
Yessss! You're so welcome, Element! The two climax sequences in The Sword of Kaigen were masterfully executed. The actions and battles themselves were amazing on their own, but what made them even better are the intensely palpable emotions packed into them. Glad you loved it!
Dreams of the Dying is a different sort of book compared to The Sword of Kaigen, it's more contemplative and thought-provoking in nature, but I loved it so much, too. Enjoy!
Thanks for the list. My TBR keeps growing coz of your videos. From a truly standalone fantasy book perspective - check out battle mage by Peter flannery. He could have made a trilogy out of the material but wraps it nicely in a single book.
You're welcome, Arjun! Oh I know about Battle Mage! I've read a quarter of it this year but had to put it down because of the head hopping style. I will give it a try again one day when I'm in the right mood! 😊
I've read 3 of your top 10, and loved Tigana, The Emperor's Soul and The Sword of Kaigen just as much as you did! Like you I was blown away by The Sword of Kaigen and even cried while reading it at that one part. It's also my best standalone of all time. Now my TBR is going to have books added to it. Loved Circe and will probably read A song of Achilles next year.
P.S. Agree with you that chronological (prequel) should be read before standalones, especially for The First Law series.
Woohoo! Glad you loved Sword of Kaigen that much! It's a masterpiece. 😊 I hope you'll love The Song of Achilles, too! 😄
@@PetrikLeo Pretty sure I will since most who have read Circe (which I loved) said A Song of Achilles is even better.
I was looking for standalone fantasy books to read since I don't read that much and although I have many book series in my to-read catalogue, it's still daunting to have to start one. I did read the emperor's soul by brandon sanderson and found it really engaging. It's also my first Sanderson book. I'm also reading ILLBORN (off your recommendation) and am enjoying it so far. So I can't wait to add more of these books into my to-read list!
Illborn is amazing! I'm glad you love The Emperor's Soul, it's about time for me to reread the book again. I hope these books will be some of your favorite books! :)
I have enjoyed watching your Top Ten lists and now need to add Brian Staveley to my TBR! I did quite enjoy Song of Achilles and Dark Matter and been saving the other two for when I need a guarantee good read...I need to stop saving them and just read them! Usually my favorite stand alone books are the ones that give me 'all the feels' and usually end up making me cry :) Some examples of my favorites are Lonesome Dove, Watership Down, and Wives and Daughters.
Thank you, Tang! Yes please to Brian Staveley. His writing are sooooo beautiful! 🙂 And you're right, though, regarding favorite books; giving all the feels is a sign of terrific book! I have Lonesome Doves on my TBR! Fingerscrossed I can get to it next year! 🙂
Oh my gosh...so many amazing books! I think I just need to follow your book suggestions and I'm set for life!
Thank you, Scarlett!! Hahaha, we're always drowning in our TBR pile forever! 😊
I'm adding these books in my tbr! Thanks for the mentions and for the video! Happy holidays!! ✨✨
You're welcome, thanks for watching! Happy holiday to you, stay safe! 😄
The cover to the dragon mage is so beautiful!
YES! I can't wait to see it in physical format! 🤩
Great list! I loved song of Achilles way more than I thought I would. Been meaning to try Lancelot, I love all king Arthur retellings. For this year I loved the stand by king and priory of the orange tree was like an amazing series in one book!❤️
Thank you so much, Ellyn! I think you will love Lancelot, especially if you're a fan of Arthurian retelling! I've read The Stand two years ago and I liked it enough, I think I have to give Priory of the Orange Tree a try one day! 😊
@@PetrikLeo definitely try it. It is so good. I read it just as the pandemic started and a fast spreading disease was is it as a minor plot point but it was weirdly relevant. But yeah talking dragons are always awesome. Can't wait to try Lancelot❤️
@@ellynbarclay3121 Let me know what you think of Lancelot when you read it! 🤩
Hi Petrik, I just discovered your channel recently and enjoy watching your best of videos! Thanks to them my TBR list has expanded and I am trying to dedicate more time to reading haha.
A few standalone books I would strongly recommend: Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke; To Ride Hell’s Chasm by Janny Wurts; and The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison.
Thank you so much! I'm glad to hear that. Also, I actually just finished watching Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, the TV show was so good! And I'll be reading To Ride Hell's Chasm next month, so your recommendation is on time! :D
I just started Sword of Kaigen after your recommendations for Jade City and the Winnowing Flame trilogy both turned into some of my favorite reading experiences of the last decade. And I preordered Dragon Mage based on your recommendation. Thanks for steering me toward books I would have probably not tried without a little push in the right direction!
That is superb to hear, Troy! Those are indeed some of my favorite books! 😊 You're welcome, and thank you for letting me know that my reviews and recommendations helped you choose great books to read!
Wow all the books are awesome. I have read Lancelot last year and the song of Achilles this year. Loved them both. I would definitely be going to read Gates of Fire next year.
You are going to love Gates of Fire, Sumit! Seriously, what a terrific book! 😊
I agree with you that the First Law standalones are better read as part of the overall First Law series. Like you, I loved Tigana, but, unlike you, I’ve never read anything else by Kay. Mike just dropped a great review of The Martian this morning, and I think I’ll try it someday. I’ve been hearing about Emperor’s Soul - will have to check it out. Great endorsement of Sword of Kaigen- I’ll have to add it to my TBR. Thanks, my friend!
Yeah! It's not only the standalone, even the newest Age of Madness trilogy is kinda the same; I loved them more because I've read all the previous books!
I'm curious on your thoughts on other Kay's books... Almost all of them are historical fantasy, and I tend to not click with books in this subgenre. You should definitely read The Martian, Emperor's Soul, and of course, The Sword of Kaigen!! They are all amazing, my friend! :D
Just added Gates of Fire to my TBR ! Thanks for the recommendations. I started SoK on your recommendation and I absolutely loved it.
Yeahhh!! I'm really happy that you loved The Sword of Kaigen based on my recommendation! 🙂 Let's see whether you'll enjoy Gates of Fire, too, Alicia!
Adding everything to my TBR! This is gold! 😍 Sword of Kaigen is one of my favourite standalones, along with Warbreaker.
Woohoooo! And so happy to hear you've read and loved Sword of Kaigen! 😍 I loved Warbreaker, too, I think overall I liked Emperor's Soul more, though!
I've read Never Die and The Song of Achilles. I really enjoyed both. I have The Sword of Kaigen on my kindle. It was a toss up between Legacy of Ash by Matthew Ward and The Sword of Kaigen on what I wanted to read. Currently I'm reading Legacy of Ash but once I finish I'll try The Sword of Kaigen. My favorite stand alone for this year is The House in the Cerulean Sea. Very cute and heartwarming. I swear that book will actually leave you feeling happy. Many argue it's YA/kids book but I'm not to certain on that. Anyways, a very enjoyable book.
Legacy of Ash is really good, too, Cynthia! I have the sequel, Legacy of Steel, but I haven't gotten around to it. I think I might as well wait a bit for this one because the last book, Legacy of Light, comes out next August! I hope you'll love The Sword of Kaigen! And I've heard so many great things about House in the Cerulean Sea, I think there's a sequel coming out next year, and I might read them back to back when its out! 🤩
Hey Petrik,
Rewatching this video. Had you on yesterday when I was busy around the house. Rewatching today so I can write down and add all these books to my "want to read someday" list. Thanks for sharing. I am currently "scared" of starting any new series because I have too many ongoing already, so I have been reading lots of stand-alones instead. Silly, I know. If I was smart I would pick up some from the series I have already going. But I am not a smart reader. And never follow the rules I try to set for myself.
much love
amy
Thank you for watching, Amy! Haha, that's not "not smart" Amy, I think that just shows that you're a moody reader and there's nothing wrong with it! I hope you'll love these books whenever you get around to them! :)
This is an awesome list. I've said it before, and I'm gonna say it again, you gotta give Talion: Revenant a read. It's fast and easy and fun. One of my favorite standalone books! It's more along the lines of Six Sacred Swords so I don't think it would make your personal top 10, but I'm extremely confident you would enjoy the read immensely.
Thank you so much, bro! Yeah! I remember Talion: Revenant; you've recommended it to me a while ago, and I still have it on my radar! 😊 Just a matter of when now....
Love Kings of the Wyld, The Shadow of the Wind. I need to read Recursion and I have it. I read Circe but need to read Achilles. Dragonmage is on my list after many others! I need to finish Mistborn trilogy. I want to read Skullsworn maybe before the trilogy. And lastly I’m waiting for a cheap copy of Sword of Kaigen!
Recursion is amazing. Also, Skullsworn and Sword of Kaigen are both must try!! :)
Boy's Life sounds good. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
As I look at my read pile, I notice that the majority of my favorite reads are standalone. There are just so many great ones out there. Some of my favorites are
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell by Susana Clarke
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
The Golden Key by Melanie Rawn, Jennifer Roberson, and Kate Elliot.
A Boy's Life is wonderful, I think it's one of those book that would click with majority of readers! Also, thanks for the recommendations, I haven't read any of the books you mentioned, The Golden Key in particular is one that sparked my interest! 😊
@@PetrikLeo The Golden Key is so good. It is a political and family drama that spans hundreds of years and told in three parts with protagonists of three different generations. It is not a book for everyone. I would classify it as a fantasy of manners, political fantasy, and romance. There is zero action and it all takes place pretty much in one city.
Totally agree with you on Kings of the Wyld and The Sword of Kaigen! These two will have a special place in my heart forever
Glad you agreed, Pam!! Both are some of my favorite books (as you know already) and I hope you'll love both Never Die and The Emperor's Blades whenever you get around to them! :)
Based on this video and one other, I'm very interested in Dragon Mage. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. 🙂
....I just saw your review for Dragon Mage and your mention that it now has a sequel. It still sounds good, but I might hold off reading it for a few months. Sword of Kaigen seems like the best option for me, for now. And the Rob Hayes books.
Totally understandable! Yes pleade give The Sword of Kaigen a read!! It's amazing!! 😁
Just the kind of list I was looking for! I've been so stumped with adult fantasy to read recently and not really wanting to commit to a whole series I'm unsure about. Can't wait to read Dragon Mage when it comes out.
I love adult fantasy series, but we all need a standalone book to read occasionally. Especially when we're not in the mood to commit another series! 😊 I hope you'll enjoy Dragon Mage, Karyne! 😊
@@PetrikLeo Absolutely! And thanks, when I saw that cover art I just knew I had to check it out. I actually thought it must be a backlist and I could get it right away because it has such a nostalgic classic fantasy feel. I miss when fantasy covers used to look like that.
I had no idea The Sword of Kaigen was a stand-alone I assumed it was a series.
Technically, it is part of a YA series called Theonite. But The Sword of Kaigen is a prequel spin-off to it, and only a few supporting characters from The Sword of Kaigen appeared in the main series. Give it a read! It's amazing! 🤩
@@PetrikLeo would you recommend reading the trilogy first?
@@jordankeith1821 oh sorry just saw this. No need, the main trilogy is a YA fantasy series that has almost no relation in story other than the MC is a side character that briefly appeared in Sword of Kaigen! 😊
Happy Winter Solstice and Thank you for this list! You have mentioned several books I’ve never heard of before. I’m really looking forward to checking out Dragon Mage.
You're welcome, and Happy Winter Solstice to you, too! 😊 I hope you'll end up loving Dragon Mage and the books you haven't heard of before whenever you get around to them!
I checked out the martian because of your goodreads account and yes the book is amazing!
Yay, that's great! I've only finished it 3 weeks ago, and I'm so glad I gave it a try! 😊
Thank you for this list. I'd like to read almost every book you mentioned, specially "The paper Menagerie", that one is highlighted for my TBR.
By the way, I loved "The Emperor's Soul"! I read it 2 weeks ago.This was my entry point for Sanderson's writing, I picked it up to have a taste of him as a writer.
It was just a great story. And I find interesting what you said about a possible sequel, because there's this subplot with the Imperial Fool that I wanted it to be wrapped up 😅 haha.
You're so welcome, Simon. The Paper Menagerie is amazing, and I'm glad you loved The Emperor's Soul! Although I'm satisfied with it being a one-off standalone, I definitely will not say not to a sequel to it! :)
Totally agree with you @@PetrikLeo , haha.
Another great list ! This is really good as not everyone wants to commit to a series. BTW looking forward to your review on Pawn's Gambit on goodreads/novelnotions !
Thank you as always, Charles! Yeah, as much as I love reading series, there are times where I want to read just one satisfying book and move on to the next series! The review for Pawn's Gambit will be posted on the 12th of January; the author specifically asked for it! 😊
My TBR is never ending...Dragon Mage really got my interest now.I will definitely get myself a copy
i know right... my TBR, too... YAYYY for your interest in Dragon Mage! 😊
Same here, hardcover for sure
@@WMax-rm3ue I'm not sure whether there would be a hardcover or not. Most self-published books don't have a hardcover, but a paperback for sure! 🙂
@@PetrikLeo I asked the author on goodread, and she said the hardcover edition is on its way too, so yeah😁😁
@@WMax-rm3ue whoaaa i didnt even know that! Great news! 😄
I'm currently reading the Sword of Kaigen, can't wait to pick up some others. It's nice to read a stand-alone and not commit to a series once in awhile.
Enjoy!!! And yes, you're absolutely right. I love reading a series, but I need to switch things up with a standalone occasionally! 😊
This is the video I've been waiting for :D I always start series and then... another series before finishing those series. I actually can't remember any fantasy standalone which I've read apart from Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. Sword of Kaigen is on my tbr as well as A Brightness Long Ago, apart from these I go into this video without any clue as to what's happening....oh, and all of Neil Gaiman's books I guess.
I'm glad that you found this video useful, Klaus! I think in general, it's harder to find a great standalone books in fantasy rather than a series. I hope you'll enjoy reading the books on this list! 😃
@@PetrikLeo of course it’s harder because authors have common sense, I guess 😂 if I wrote a bestseller, I’d also write a sequel instead of trying out something new 🤷🏻♂️
@@thecontradictorian2225 Bahahahhaha! You know what, that's actually very true in many cases! 😂
Totally agree with The Paper Menagerie- I've never had a short story emotionally destroy me before.
Hi, Ashley!! Yeah... that story hurts. I recently reread it, and I felt as emotional as the first time I read it. It's crazy that a short story could conjure that kind of powerful effect on me! :')
This video is a godsend! I want to read more standalones in 2021 so I'm definitely going to use your list as inspiration. 😀
Yayy! Thank you, Jolien! So pleased to hear that the video is useful for you! 😄
Sword of Kaigen, Skullsworn and The Boy's Life are among my all times favourites. I have a soft spot for McCammon and love his books dearly, no matter how ridiculous they sound- I mean, how can you not be interested in werewolf fighting Nazis, but The Boy's Life is magical. Excellent choices, Petrik.
Thank you very much, Lila! Niceeee! My top 3 standalone books are all in your all time favorites, Lila! 😊 Btw, that book sounds insane, I have to check it out! xD
@@PetrikLeo :) It's called The Wolf's Hour and it's pure fun. His older books have some kind of ridiculous premise, but his writing elevates them. I didn't really like how Staveley ended The Unhewn Throne trilogy, but Skullsworn is the reason I'll read his next one. Your taste continues to be impeccable. :D
@@Lila_S. Awww, I'll say the same for your taste, too, because I completely agree! 😊 I loved the first and second book of Unhewn Throne, but disappointed a bit with the 3rd book. Skullsworn was definitely the one that made me so excited for future books!
I've read Song of Achilles and The Martian and they would make my list too, along with The Night Circus. The Paper Menagerie is on my 2021 TBR and I had heard of Brian Staveley but didn't realize he had a standalone novel.
Glad you agreed on the Song of Achilles and The Martian, Mary! And yup, Skullsworn is a standalone, and it is his best work so far imo! 😊
Cool to see some mccammon on here! Definitely recommend swan song, better than the Stand in my opinion
Thank you! Boy's Life was amazing. I look forward to reading Swan Song and his Matthew Corbett series! :)
@@PetrikLeo ah yes I've heard good things about Matthew Corbett as well! I need to hurry up and read Boy's life haha😅 his newer book the Listener sounds cool too
Boy's Life by Robert McCammon is widely considered his best work. Also frequently mentioned is his WW2 werewolf novel The Wolf's Hour. He also has an excellent short story in his collection Blue World. The story is "The Painted Door"
I, too was blown away by the powerfully imaginative and emotional story "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu. I need to read the rest of the stories in the collection. My favorite stand alone fantasies are Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman and Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke.
Oh I didn't know that Boy's Life is widely considered as his best work; it seems like i heard people talk about Swan Song more often than it!
The rest of the stories in Paper Menagerie collection are pretty good, too! Definitely worth a read even if they aren't as good as the titular story! 😄 I still have to read Jonathan Strange one day, I own the book already but havent gotten around to it yet!
@@PetrikLeo Jonathan Strange is a special fantasy novel imo. Charming and unique. I hope you'll love it, too!
I have Blake Crouch's books and Corlos Ruiz Zafon's as well! Planning to hopefully read all of it in 2021 🤞
You have to let me know what you think of them, especially Zafon's! I read Zafon's books half a year ago, and I already want to reread them again; they're that brilliant to me! 😆
@@PetrikLeo it was that good for you? 😮😮 I would definitely let you know what my thoughts on them are, though I feel that I would love them 😁
@@MsIska28 Yeah it was! I look forward to hearing from you about it! 😊
I felt like swan song was not that good. Hope you have a good experience with it, though.
My favourite standalone books
- the winter road by Adrian Selby
- seveneves by Neal Stephenson
- the gone world by Tom Sweterlitsch
- the library at mount Char by Scott Hawkins
- halcyon by Rio Youers
Fingerscrossed, Celine! I've tried Winter Road by Selby but couldn't click with it. I'm looking forward to reading Library at Mount Char one day, though! Thanks for the recommendations! 😊
@@PetrikLeo yes, excited to see it in one of your wrapups in the future :)
THE PAPER MENAGERIE yes, this story in that book is so amazing and heart-wrenching.
Yeah! The Paper Menagerie is still the best short story that I've read! :)
I have a thousand books in my pipeline, well more, I have some problem and buy books but I buy more than read. One of the interesting this is that I can't seem to find the time to start and finsh a series. But I have them all. I've been following your reviews on goodreads and it's nice to have this format. More relax. This next year I am going to try to read some fantasy series. I really love grimdark. I have all Black Library novels (40K and Fantasy) and they are grimdark, they created the genre to be honest. Have you ever read some? I hope to hear more videos from you incitive me to read more. Ten years ago I could read 100 novels and now this last two years I've been read 20 or so. This last hear, since august I exploded and read 35 but I want to be this a continuous reading. Reading it's different that watching a series or anime. Although life and their worrisome problems do get in the way of disposition... Let us hope 2021 it's a good year for you and me regarding books.
I haven't read any of the Warhammer 40k books, I don't even know where to begin, tbh. There's so many of them, and each year there's like so many books being published in that universe, or it sounds like it. I hope the both of us will get to read more in 2021! 😊
Try Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir as well. If you liked The Martian, this one will definitely top it
I already did, it's good but I loved The Martian more! 😄
Just found your channel! Love your recs. 😁
Yay!!! And thank you! Glad the recommendation is useful! 😊
Can you do updated list on standalone fantasy and science fiction? I'm looking for medium length standalones to read between longer series.
I suppose even books in a series that can be read as a standalone such as Kings of Kyld
I already post an updated version in 2022. I will post another updated list this year!
@@PetrikLeo Oops I must have missed that video. I've been binge watching recommendations all week. Thanks
Definitely adding Dragon Mage to my wishlist.
Woohoo! I hope you'll enjoy it, Angela! 😊
Skullsworn was my favorite book in that universe! Made it to my top books of 2020
It was AMAZING, right!? I want to reread this book! I think I'll end up doing it this year before Empire's Ruin comes out! 😄
@@PetrikLeo YES!! Just remembering that there is a sequel series this year makes me want to reread it too!
Boy's Life is so damn good! I'd recommend The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson. It is as nostalgic, heartwarming as Boy's Life but more heartbreaking!
I haven't even heard of this book before! Thank you for the recommendation! I'll go and check it out! 🤩
I agree. Loved Boy's Life as well, especially having grown up at the time contemporary with the novel.
The middle 300 pages of Kaigen are some of the best pages I've read this year.
Yassssss! And the duel! Grahhh I love this book so much! 😊
@@PetrikLeo the duel was one of my favorite CHAPTERS I read this year lol. It could have ended there and I would have been happy!
Loved this video! The Shadow of The Wind and Tigana were already on my list as I can borrow them from my library. I've added Skullsworn (the only one I didn't know about that I can actually borrow), which sounds very disturbing just from reading the synopsis, but I love thought-provoking novels! Also, I'm now so tempted to buy The Sword of Kaigen and I'll gladly read the short story you've shared. :)
I've read Dark Matter last year, but some things didn't made sense to me and that took me out of the story. I was particularly annoyed by the fact that *SPOILER ALERT* Daniela would've taken her ex back in a whim. Why did he convinced himself that he had to overcomplicate things? *END OF SPOILER*
The writing wasn't great either, I felt like I was reading a movie-script. I'm glad you enjoyed Recursion even more, though, but unless you convince me otherwise, I'm not compelled to pick it up. :/
Thank you so much, Jessica! Yayy! I hope you'll enjoy all of them, especially Skullsworn and The Sword of Kaigen! Hmm, I think if you didn't enjoy Dark Matter, I doubt Recursion will be enjoyable for you. The writing style is very similar!🤣
I watched a reading by the author of THE SWORD OF KAIGEN and it sounds amazing. I own it too...I should finally read it.
READ IT!!! It's a masterpiece!! I have a good feeling you'll love it, too! 😊
I loved Recursion by Blake Crouch as well. Dark matter left a huge impact on me. I love his writing and I’m looking forward to more of his work in the future.
I know right!? I hope his next book will be another sci-fi as good as Dark Matter or Recursion! 🤩
Ahh bunch of great books 🤩🤩🤩
Thank you so much! They're awesome! 😄
Dragon Mage is listed on Amazon as Rivenworld Book 1, any chance it is actually the first book of a series?
Yeah! It was just announced by the author yesterday that it will become a series! 😅 Sorry for the confusion! I'll make sure to update that in my review, too!
I think episodic series (like Kings of the Wyld) could work as standalones. I would love to see a video from you on the best episodic genre series
Once I've read enough amazing episodic standalone series, I definitely plan to make a recommendation video! Right now, I don't think i've read enough series like that to make a list yet. xD
@@PetrikLeo Reading goals for 2021?? :) looking forward to the future video
@@mastersal4644 I'll try to include some if I can! And thank you!! 😊
Think you'll ever do any lists of favorites in specific genres other than fantasy? Not that there is anything wrong with fantasy. After this and some of your other videos, I find out reading likes overlap a lot.
Fantasy is definitely my main forte, but I want to do a list for sci-fi and historical fiction, too! I guess I can make a list on the two, but I feel like I haven't read enough of them yet for my list on the two genre to have strengths. I could be the only one thinking like this, though! xD
More to add to my TBR💫
Yeahhh! I hope you'll enjoy them! 😊
please read Swan Song you'll love it, it's soo good!
It's on my TBR! I was going to read it this year but my reading mood for it hasn't sparked yet. 😆
@@PetrikLeo probably a stupid question for a book tuber, but have you read The Book Thief? That's another favorite of mine.
I'm glad Im not the only one who feels that way about GGK hehe
Seriously... people says he's underrated, imo he's so overrated. 😅
I did a video about “The Sword of Kaigen” (for another group), and I’m debating whether or not to upload it to my TH-cam channel.
Have you read, “The Priory of the Orange Tree,” by Samantha Shannon?
Up to you! You should do it if you and that group are comfortable with it!
I haven't read The Priory of the Orange Tree! I have considered doing it, though. Let's see when I'll have the time for it! 😂
@@PetrikLeo I might upload the video after the holidays. As for "The Priory of the Orange Tree," I'll be honest, I listened to the audiobook knowing I wouldn't have time to read the entire book (although I bought both the print and the ebooks). It was worth it!
Totally agree - the Sword of Kaigen is the best book I read this year. It is pure genius and totally broke me !
Yay!!! I'm so happy to hear you've read and loved it, too, Claire! So many heartbreaking and emotional moments in the book! :')
“Black Tongue Thief” by Christopher Buelmann
“the Builders” by Daniel Polanski
“14” by Peter Clines
These are some of the first ones I think of that aren’t the common favorites
Thanks for the useful video I’ll subscribe
Thank you! I loved The Blacktongue Thief but that's a trilogy. I haven't read The Builders by Daniel Polansky, though! 😁
@@PetrikLeo I hadn’t realized there was a sequel, I’ll need to read that now
I substitute “Declare” by Tim Powers
@@anonymousbosch9265 The sequel to Blacktongue Thief is not out yet, but yeah it is being written by the author at the moment!
I cannot wait to get my little goblin hands on a copy of Dragon Mage! >:D
And I can't wait for you to get it and read it!! 😄
Can't wait for Top 10 Ongoing Standalone Books! :)
How would that work!? 🤣
@@PetrikLeo There is probably a way, but I'll leave it on the "just a joke" level :)
@@fearSimon start reading a standalone book. Stop reading all of them halfway. Hence "ongoing" status achieved! 😂
@@PetrikLeo That's how some "professionals" review Video Games, so it should work.
Just read the Sword of Kaigen and man did that book make me cry
Fantastic isn't it!? Soooo emotional!!
The goblin emperor
I still need to get to this one. I own it already 😄
@@PetrikLeo 👍
FYI, the paper menagerie link seems wrong
That was so odd, I'm pretty sure I attached the right link! 😂 Thanks for letting me know, I fixed it now!
We all have so much different definitions of standalone 😂😂I dotm consider sword of Kaigen as standalone bcoz of the ending like how it sets up sequels but then the sequels are discontinued ,my favorite standalone are emperor soul ,
I will have to totally disagree with you on this. The main series of Theonite is a YA series that doesn't feature any characters from The Sword of Kaigen except one or two very small supporting characters, and the story centers around a completely different story in a different setting. I won't force your opinion, though, it's up to you if you don't think of it as a standalone!
I actually almost didn't want to include The Emperor's Soul because Sanderson has mentioned The Emperor's Soul is now a 2 book series. But looking that it might take 5-10 years before the sequel comes out, I'll consider it as a standalone for now.
Discovered your vlog through Elliot
Thank you to you and Elliot! 😊
I don't care for Guy Kavriel Kay either, but haven't given Tigana a try yet.
I honestly think Tigana is worth the read, but the rest... nah 😅
I couldn't agree with you more about GGK, I also absolutely loved Tigana, but the rest are just boring. I also loved A boy's life, which I found to be wonderful. As King is my favorite author, I couldn't wait then to read Swan's song. And I read it this year, and it is just BAD. I finished it, to be sure it is as bad as I thought - it is. just BAD. Can't believe it's the same author.
Glad you agreed on all of my opinions on these books! That doesn't bode well for Swan Song, though... I hope I'll enjoy it more than you did. I'll keep my expectations in check, just in case! 😂
I just bought so many books!! Lol!!
I'm so proud of you! 🥳
Oh no I am just going to read Better Served Cold 🥶 Am I making a huge mistake?!
Also my favorite standalone fantasy would be Tigana and Starless Sea!
PS: Elliot Brooks just gave you a shout out in her video! Does it mean you will become Worldhopper now?
Oh hold on! Have you read the First Law trilogy? As I said, I strongly recommend to read The First Law trilogy first before reading that one. I haven't read Starless Sea because I didn't like Night Circus... which one do you think is better? 😂
I actually just watched her video just now! So lovely of her to give me a shoutout. She has invited me, we haven't organized a schedule yet, though, but I'm looking forward to it!😊
@@PetrikLeo I haven’t read first law but Merphy and Joe himself convinced me to read this standalone 🤩 I think I am going to risk it actually 😂
Well I haven’t read Night Circus but honestly the little I know you (I don’t) I think you might enjoy it even less. It reminded me of Murakami novel actually.
Haha thanks for the transparency and quick reply 🙂
@@Morfeusm Personally I’d also advocate for reading the First Law trilogy first. But enjoy!
@@Morfeusm Good luck! I think there's still a good chance that you'll enjoy Best Served Cold. What I suggested is just my preference, after all. Who knows, maybe after you read this, it will make you super excited to read the first trilogy! 🙂
@@charlie.tt4 Hear hear! 🙂
am i first for the first time? hmm cool.
My god, it's not even one minute yet! xD
@@PetrikLeo yup 😂
My recommendation is best served cold by Joe abracmbie(some consider it to be a sequel but it can be read without knowing about the first law books)
I think knowing the background of Shiver from the first trilogt will still benefit a lot to the book. Other than that, yeah the rest of it works well as a standalone.
No David Gemmel?
Legend
Knights of dark renown
Haven't read them yet. I've read his Troy trilogy. Isn't Legend a series, though?
@@PetrikLeo legend is stand-alone, though he did later add to it.
There was another stand-alone he did, Echos of songs past?
Say hello from Vietnam
Hello! 😊
Lol 5 or 6 years. (Looks at the lost metal)
Ssssttt 🤣
Anybody here after Elliot's mention.
It was so nice of her to mention me! 🤩
@@PetrikLeo Well I enjoyed your take on things to be sure. I cannot wait to try some of those off your lists. I am reading Stormlight right now but I want to read some standalone this year and some or series that have been completed. Keep up the good work Petrik!
@@NVMiele78 Thank you so much! I appreciate it. I hope you'll enjoy The Stormlight Archives, my favorite ongoing series right now! 😊
Yes, I clicked through from Elliot. New sub.
Watched the beginners video. Looking forward to your grimdark video.
@@thirdspacemaker9141 Thinking of doing one in January! I hope I get to do it! 😊