2024's top duologies: Epic tales in a series of two books

In a literary world dominated by sprawling series and hefty standalone novels, duologies offer a refreshing middle ground. These two-book adventures provide all the depth and richness of a series without the long-term commitment, making them the perfect choice for readers who crave immersive stories but appreciate a concise, well-contained narrative. As we journey into 2024, a selection of duologies is capturing the hearts and imaginations of book lovers around the globe.

From intricate fantasies to heart-pounding adventures, these pairs of novels promise to transport you to new worlds, introduce you to unforgettable characters, and leave you eagerly turning the pages.

Here, we delve into the top five duologies of the year that are ready to whisk you away on a literary escapade like no other.

What are duology books?

Duology books are a unique and engaging form of storytelling that consists of two books, forming a complete and cohesive narrative arc. Unlike trilogies or longer series, duologies provide readers with a rich, immersive experience without extended commitment. They strike a perfect balance, offering depth and character development comparable to longer series while maintaining the pace and satisfaction of a more concise story.

2024's must-read duology books

1. Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

Genre: Fantasy

Leigh Bardugo’s duology, set in the Grishaverse, delivers a thrilling heist narrative filled with complex characters and intricate plots.

Six of Crows

In the bustling city of Ketterdam, Kaz Brekker, a criminal prodigy, is offered a dangerous heist that could make him wealthy beyond his wildest dreams. He assembles a diverse crew, each with unique skills and dark pasts, to pull off the seemingly impossible task. Bardugo’s writing shines with its vivid world-building and deep character development, making Six of Crows a gripping start to the duology.

Crooked Kingdom

The sequel, Crooked Kingdom, picks up where the first book leaves off, with Kaz and his crew facing betrayal, heartbreak, and danger from all sides. The stakes are higher, the schemes are more elaborate, and the emotional depth is more profound. Bardugo’s ability to intertwine action with emotion makes Crooked Kingdom a powerful conclusion to the duology.

2. Strange the Dreamer and Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor

Genre: Fantasy

Laini Taylor’s duology is a lyrical and magical exploration of dreams, gods, and the power of stories.

Strange the Dreamer

Lazlo Strange, a war orphan and junior librarian, has always been obsessed with the lost city of Weep. When an opportunity arises to explore this mythical place, Lazlo jumps at the chance. Taylor’s poetic prose and imaginative world-building transport readers to a land of blue-skinned gods and ancient mysteries.

Muse of Nightmares

The book continues the story with even more intensity and depth. The narrative delves into the origins of Weep’s tragedy and the interconnected destinies of its inhabitants. Taylor weaves a tale of love, revenge, and redemption, making this duology a poignant and unforgettable read.

3. The Wrath & The Dawn and The Rose & The Dagger by Renée Ahdieh

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, Renée Ahdieh’s duology is a mesmerising tale of love, betrayal, and revenge.

The Wrath & The Dawn

In a land ruled by a murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartbreak to a new family. Khalid, the Caliph of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. Shahrzad, a young woman determined to avenge her best friend’s death, volunteers to marry Khalid with a plan to end his reign of terror. Ahdieh’s lush descriptions and intense romance make this book a captivating read.

The Rose & The Dagger

The sequel, The Rose & The Dagger, continues Shahrzad and Khalid’s story as they face greater challenges and uncover deeper secrets. The characters’ development and the rich, Middle Eastern-inspired setting provide a satisfying and immersive conclusion to the duology.

4. An Ember in the Ashes and A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Sabaa Tahir’s duology combines Roman-inspired elements with magic and rebellion, creating a thrilling and heart-wrenching saga.

An Ember in the Ashes

Laia, a slave, and Elias, a soldier, find their lives intertwined in the brutal Martial Empire. Laia’s quest to save her brother and Elias’s struggle to break free from his deadly destiny lead them on a dangerous path filled with intrigue and peril. Tahir’s masterful storytelling and relentless pace make this an unputdownable read.

A Torch Against the Night

In A Torch Against the Night, the stakes are raised as Laia and Elias fight for their lives and the fate of the Empire. The narrative delves deeper into the characters’ motivations and the complexities of their world. Tahir’s ability to blend action with emotion results in a powerful and satisfying conclusion to the duology.

5. The City of Brass and The Kingdom of Copper by S.A. Chakraborty

Genre: Fantasy

S.A. Chakraborty’s duology, set in the magical city of Daevabad, is a rich tapestry of politics, magic, and cultural conflict.

The City of Brass

Nahri, a con artist with a mysterious gift, accidentally summons a powerful djinn warrior and finds herself in the legendary city of Daevabad. As Nahri navigates this new world of intrigue and danger, Chakraborty’s detailed world-building and complex characters create a vivid and immersive reading experience.

The Kingdom of Copper

The sequel continues to explore the intricate politics and personal dynamics of Daevabad. The tensions between different factions and the characters’ evolving relationships add layers of depth to the story. Chakraborty’s ability to weave a captivating narrative with rich cultural elements makes this duology a standout.

These five duologies offer readers a blend of fantasy, romance, intrigue, and adventure. Each set of books delivers a complete and satisfying story arc, providing a perfect escape into worlds filled with magic, complex characters, and unforgettable adventures.