Where Do The Standalone Novels Fit In Michael J Sullivan’S Reading Order?
Reading Riyria Revelations but love stand-alones like The Crown Tower too. Do I slot them in before or after the main sequence for story flow?
2026-08-03 04:43:05
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AlexKit
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Don't forget the other 'standalone'—'Hollow World'. It's a standalone sci-fi novel by Sullivan that's completely separate from the Riyria universe. But if we're talking about his bibliography, it's worth noting for completists. It doesn't fit into the fantasy reading order at all, but it's a great book if you enjoy his writing and want to see him tackle a different genre. It's a fun detour after you've had your fill of Royce and Hadrian.
2026-08-04 05:39:46
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RioWarren
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They fit as evidence of author-reader synergy. Sullivan wrote the Riyria Revelations as a complete tale. Reader demand for more Royce and Hadrian led to the Chronicles. That's why they feel so lovingly crafted—they're born from genuine affection for the characters, both from the author and the fans. In the reading order, they represent the 'extra content' that exists because the core story was so good it left people wanting more. That's a pretty great place to fit.
2026-08-04 22:20:54
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NashHenry
Book Clue Finder
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Honestly, I just saw this thread and realized I've only read 'Theft of Swords'. I have the others on my shelf, but the whole order thing is kinda overwhelming. Maybe I'll just pick the one with the coolest cover next.
2026-08-05 15:13:03
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LuxShaw
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Electrician
I look at it through a TV series lens. Riyria Revelations is the 6-season show with a serialized plot. Riyria Chronicles are the made-for-TV movies or special episodes that are mostly standalone. You can watch the movies first and still enjoy the series, or watch the series and then enjoy the movies as bonus content. The movies might reference events from the series, but they're designed to be enjoyable on their own. This analogy helped me explain it to my brother, and he got it immediately.
2026-08-08 04:17:15
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RenBurns
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I approached it from a world-building angle. I started with the ancient history via 'Age of Myth', the first book of Legends of the First Empire. That series sets up the mythology and founding legends that every character in the Riyria books references. Then, jumping centuries ahead to the Riyria stories, everything had more weight. The standalone Chronicles felt like seeing how the echoes of those ancient legends played out in a more personal, character-focused way. It's a slower burn, but hugely rewarding for lore enthusiasts.
2026-08-08 09:07:25
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Chronologically, the 'Chronicles' come first. But narratively, you should start with 'Revelations'. Sullivan built the world and the character arcs with 'Revelations' as the endgame. Reading the prequels first would be like getting all the answers before the questions are even asked. The friendship between Royce and Hadrian is something you watch develop in real-time in 'Revelations', and seeing their earlier, more rocky partnership in 'Chronicles' is fun because you know the unshakeable bond they'll eventually form.
I find the publication order more comforting. You meet the most beloved characters first. Royce and Hadrian are your gateway into this world. When you later read about the ancient heroes they occasionally mention, it feels like uncovering treasured family history. Starting with the ancient history feels more distant, less personal.
Honestly? I read 'The Riyria Chronicles' first by accident because I picked up 'The Crown Tower' thinking it was the first book. I loved it! Meeting Royce and Hadrian at the start of their partnership was great. Then when I moved to 'Revelations', it was like catching up with old friends years later. Seeing how their relationship had evolved into this seamless, legendary partnership was its own reward. So while it might not be the intended order, it worked perfectly fine. Sometimes happy accidents happen. Don't stress too much about getting the order 'perfect.' The characters and writing are strong enough to shine regardless of where you start.
You might just find your own unique path through it.
The purest, most enjoyable experience is the publication order of the core Riyria books: 'The Riyria Revelations' ('Theft of Swords', etc.) first, THEN go back and read 'The Riyria Chronicles'. Those chronicle books are like delicious dessert—extra adventures with characters you already love. Reading them first would be like eating your cake before the main course; it's still sweet, but the meal's structure is off. Save the prequel treats for after you're fully invested in the duo.
It’s interesting how the ‘right’ order has become a fandom rite of passage. Everyone has a strong opinion, but it all comes from a place of love for the series. That’s a good sign for any new reader.
Watching this thread is fascinating. You've got the purists, the chronologists, the anarchists ('just read!'), and the vibe-based readers. It's a microcosm of any great fandom. The fact that there's so much passionate debate proves the world is rich enough to support multiple entry points. That's a sign of a truly great series.