A Writer's Perspective: Long Epic Fantasy Series vs. Shorter Novels

When it comes to choosing between a long epic fantasy series, a trilogy, or a standalone novel, the decision is not always easy. As a passionate reader and an avid fan of fantasy and science fiction, my preference leans towards longer series. These allow for the gradual and immersive development of a world that greets us with a unique and fantastical spectrum. The ability to explore deep concepts and complex characters through the continuous thread of a series is what truly captivates me. However, the reality of enjoying these books is a different story, as the initial impression of a smaller volume can often be misleading.

Initial Impressions vs. Reality

When shopping for books, I might gravitate towards sprawling series or massive tomes like Wraeththu or The Deed of Paksenarde. However, upon reading, those lengthy books may not feel as expansive as one might imagine. A smaller volume like The Changeling Sea can still leave you feeling as if you've ventured into an epic dream world. The reality is that a well-crafted standalone novel, no matter its size, can still provide enough depth and absorption to satisfy a reader's quest for a rich narrative experience.

Great Series Need Not Be Lengthy

The quality of writing is often what dictates the success of a book, regardless of its format. Thirty Discworld novels from Terry Pratchett exemplify this point. The physician series from Patricia A. McKillip is an example of a standalone book that can captivate with its depth. Even a single volume, like the first Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy series with a perfect five-part adaptation, can meet the threshold of great storytelling without the need for an extensive series.

Flexibility in Series Length

The length of a series can sometimes be a point of contention, but ultimately, it depends on the story and characters. Personally, I enjoy a trilogy. While a series can stretch to four or five books, I tend to draw the line at ten or twelve books, as exemplified by the Wheel of Time series. However, authors like Robin Hobb and Katherine Kerr break up their long series into trilogies, which I find works well. Similarly, authors like Lois McMaster Bujold create a rich cast of characters and a shared universe in standalone novels, which still manage to maintain their standalone quality.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Ultimately, the preference for longer series, trilogies, or standalone novels comes down to personal taste and the narrative's construction. No matter the format, a well-written and immersive story has the power to transport readers into fantastical worlds and complex narratives. Whether you are drawn to expansive series or prefer the depth of a standalone novel, the goal should always be to captivate the audience and offer a fulfilling reading experience.

Remember, a great story is often defined not by its length, but by its quality and its ability to resonate with the reader.