Today’s blog post is an love letter to the incomparable allure of the duology. There’s something to be said about a story that a standalone can’t quite reach while staying compact enough to avoid the marathon commitment of a trilogy (or more… Robert Jordan…). A duology is the literary equivalent of a weekend getaway: just long enough to fall in love with the world and its characters, and just short enough to leave you wishing for more.

This is exactly why Sam adores The Sunbearer Trials duology by Aiden Thomas. Here’s what Sam had to say about it:

This is one of the best duologies I have ever read. The characters are so lovable that I personally wish I could be friends with them. If you are a fan of YA novels in general, please give this one a try. Very Hunger Games meets Percy Jackson. This book has everything: monsters, trials, gods, goddesses, romance, queer representation, strong women, fantastical world-building, first crushes, acceptance, villains & more!

The Sunbearer Trials is a perfect example of the comfort a duology can bring. Across two books, Aiden Thomas pens a rich world of trials, gods, and monsters while centering themes of acceptance. It’s not just a story; it’s a place to belong, a cast of characters to call friends, and a journey that feels personal.

If you’re looking for more duologies that offer this same magic, here are a few recommendations:

• Six of Crows/Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo: A heist, a band of misfits, and a story that will leave you breathless and emotionally wrecked (in the best way).
• Strange the Dreamer/Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor: A lush, lyrical tale of lost cities, gods, and the dreams that bind us.
• These Violent Delights/Our Violent Ends by Chloe Gong: A gripping Romeo-and-Juliet retelling set in 1920s Shanghai, full of romance, betrayal, and monsters.
• Fable/Namesake by Adrienne Young: A seafaring adventure with fierce characters, family drama, and a dash of romance.

Duologies give us just enough time to fall in love, explore, and say goodbye. They’re a reminder that some stories don’t need to go on forever to have staying power; sometimes two is the perfect number.

What are your favorite duologies, and why did they resonate with you? Share your recommendations in the comments – we’re love to hear about the literary pairs that have captured your heart! ♥ ♥