Which Best Reads Of 2016 Are Part Of A Series?

I remember diving into a lot of books back in 2016, and while some of the top titles were standalone gems, quite a few were part of series. For instance, 'Crooked Kingdom' by Leigh Bardugo was the sequel to 'Six of Crows,' and it totally lived up to the hype. Then there was 'The Hammer of Thor' by Rick Riordan, which continued Magnus Chase's adventures. Even 'Empire of Storms' by Sarah J. Maas was a key installment in the 'Throne of Glass' saga. Series books dominated the charts that year because readers love returning to familiar worlds and characters. It’s like catching up with old friends while getting fresh twists and turns. Standalones like 'The Sun Is Also a Star' by Nicola Yoon made waves too, but series had a stronger presence overall. Publishers often push series because they build loyal fanbases, and 2016 was no exception. If you’re into sequels or long-running stories, that year had plenty to offer.

I’ve been knee-deep in romance novels for years, and 'On Our Best Behavior' caught my attention because it’s got that rare mix of wit and emotional depth. From what I’ve gathered, it’s a standalone novel—no sequels, no prequels, just a complete story wrapped in one gorgeous package. The author has this knack for crafting self-contained worlds where every character arc feels satisfyingly resolved by the final page. That said, I’d kill for a spin-off about the protagonist’s chaotic best friend; her backstory practically begs for its own book. What makes 'On Our Best Behavior' stand out is how it avoids the usual series traps. There’s no cliffhanger baiting you for a sequel, no loose threads left dangling. Instead, it dives headfirst into themes like self-discovery and vulnerability, with a romance that burns slow and bright. The lack of a series might disappoint some, but honestly? It’s refreshing to see a story that trusts itself to be enough. The author’s other works share a similar vibe—think of them as spiritual siblings rather than direct continuations. If you’re craving more after finishing, I’d recommend their earlier novel 'The Art of Falling Apart,' which has the same sharp dialogue and messy, lovable characters. Now, here’s a fun tidbit: the title’s actually a cheeky nod to the protagonist’s struggle with perfectionism. She spends the entire book unlearning the idea that love requires performance, and the standalone nature reinforces that. No follow-up means no pressure to ‘keep up appearances’ in a sequel. It’s a bold choice, but it works. The book’s ending wraps up so neatly that adding more might feel forced. Plus, the author’s style thrives in these one-shot stories—they pack a punch without overstaying their welcome. If you’re into rom-coms with heart and zero commitment, this is your match.

As someone who devours books like they're going out of style, I can confidently say that one of the best books of 2023, 'The Will of the Many' by James Islington, is indeed part of a series. It's the first book in 'The Hierarchy' trilogy, and let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster of political intrigue, magic, and betrayal. The world-building is so rich you could get lost in it, and the characters feel like real people with all their flaws and strengths. The way Islington sets up the story leaves you craving the next installment, and I'm already counting down the days until the sequel drops. If you're into epic fantasy with a fresh twist, this is a must-read. What makes it stand out is how it balances complex plotlines with emotional depth. The protagonist's journey is both personal and grand in scale, making it relatable yet awe-inspiring. The series potential is sky-high, and I can't wait to see where it goes next. For fans of 'The Stormlight Archive' or 'The Poppy War,' this is right up your alley.

That rush when the first chord hits is everything to me. I get goosebumps every time a perfect cue lands and suddenly a scene that felt ordinary becomes mythic. For some shows the soundtrack is background wallpaper, but in others it behaves like another character—giving motives, revealing secrets, and nudging emotions in ways dialogue can't. I can listen to a single track and map out entire scenes in my head, like cinematic postcards: a melancholic piano that maps to a rainy reconciliation, a frenetic brass line that screams chase and chaos. I love how composers reuse little motifs to weave continuity across episodes. Those callbacks, when a line of melody returns in a different key, make me feel rewarded for paying attention. Sometimes I find myself replaying an episode just to hear a transition again, or hunting down the OST to put on a playlist while I work. Whether it's the jazzy swagger of 'Cowboy Bebop' or the sweeping orchestral waves of 'Attack on Titan', music often makes the memory stick. It’s the part I hum on my commute and the bit that keeps me coming back, honestly still humming it as I type this.

I remember 2016 being a fantastic year for book sequels, especially in the fantasy and thriller genres. 'The Sleeping Prince' by Melinda Salisbury was a standout sequel that continued the dark, enchanting story from 'The Sin Eater’s Daughter'. Another big hit was 'Gemina' by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff, the sequel to 'Illuminae', which kept readers hooked with its unique format and gripping plot. 'A Court of Mist and Fury' by Sarah J. Maas also took the book world by storm, expanding the world of 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' with deeper character development and more intense romance. These sequels not only lived up to their predecessors but often surpassed them, making 2016 a year to remember for book lovers.

I have to shout out to 'The Broken Earth' trilogy by N.K. Jemisin. This series is a masterclass in world-building and character development, blending sci-fi and fantasy with raw emotional depth. Each book, starting with 'The Fifth Season,' won a Hugo Award, which is unheard of! The way Jemisin tackles themes of oppression and survival through the lens of a mother's love is just breathtaking. Another standout is 'The Stormlight Archive' by Brandon Sanderson. Epic in every sense, this series is a cornerstone of modern fantasy. With its intricate magic system and morally complex characters like Kaladin and Shallan, it’s a universe you can lose yourself in for weeks. Plus, Sanderson’s meticulous plotting ensures every book feels like a piece of a grand puzzle.

I can confidently say that 2023 had some fantastic bestsellers that were part of series. One standout is 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' by Suzanne Collins, a prequel to the wildly popular 'The Hunger Games' trilogy. This book dives deep into the backstory of President Snow, offering a chilling yet fascinating look at his rise to power. The writing is as gripping as ever, and it’s a must-read for fans of the original series. Another gem is 'Hell Bent' by Leigh Bardugo, the sequel to 'Ninth House.' This dark academic fantasy series has captivated readers with its intricate world-building and complex characters. The sequel ramps up the mystery and magic, making it impossible to put down. For those who love urban fantasy, 'The Atlas Paradox' by Olivie Blake continues the mind-bending 'Atlas Six' series, blending philosophy and magic in a way that’s both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Yes, "Best Served Cold" is indeed part of a podcast series hosted by the duo Tama J and Laura Elise under the broader brand of Bored Millennials. This series focuses on a variety of true crime topics, exploring infamous cases such as that of Harold Shipman and the Troubled Teen Industry. The podcast aims to present these stories in an engaging manner, often combining humor and depth while ensuring sensitive topics are treated with care. Each episode typically runs for about an hour and features discussions on distinct subjects, making it both informative and entertaining for listeners who enjoy true crime narratives. The series is well-rated, reflecting its connection with audiences who appreciate its unique approach to discussing serious issues in a relatable way.

2015 was a fantastic year for book series lovers, with several installments that kept fans hooked. One standout was 'The Sword of Summer' by Rick Riordan, the first book in his 'Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard' series. It brought Norse mythology to life with Riordan's signature humor and adventure. Another big hit was 'Queen of Shadows' by Sarah J. Maas, the fourth book in the 'Throne of Glass' series. This book deepened the lore and character arcs, making it a fan favorite. For mystery fans, 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins wasn't part of a series, but 'Career of Evil' by Robert Galbraith (aka J.K. Rowling) was the third Cormoran Strike novel, delivering another gripping detective story. Fantasy readers also got 'Golden Son' by Pierce Brown, the second book in the 'Red Rising' trilogy, which escalated the stakes with its brutal politics and action. Lastly, 'Winter' by Marissa Meyer wrapped up the 'Lunar Chronicles' in a stunning finale, blending sci-fi and fairy tales seamlessly.