Well, they usually have a strong focus on the individual journey. Since it's a standalone, the story centers around one main character's transformation or adventure. For instance, in a lot of these novels, the protagonist might be an outcast in some way, like in some cases where they have a special power that sets them apart. And they often have a touch of the magical or the supernatural that is integral to the plot. In 'The Bear and the Nightingale', the magic of the old spirits and the new Christian beliefs clash, which is a key part of the story. Moreover, the settings are often very detailed and immersive, whether it's a fictional land or a re - imagined historical place.
One characteristic is a sense of displacement. In these novels, characters are often removed from their familiar surroundings, like in 'Uprooted' where Agnieszka is taken from her village. This uprooting creates a feeling of unease and forces the character to adapt. Another aspect is unique world - building. For example, in 'The Golem and the Jinni', the world of 19th - century New York is blended with elements of Jewish and Arabian magic and mythology, creating a rich and distinct setting. Also, standalone nature means that the story has a clear beginning, middle, and end within one book, without relying on a series to complete the narrative arc.
There's also 'The Bear and the Nightingale' by Katherine Arden. While it's the first in a series, it can be read as a standalone to a certain extent. It's set in a medieval - inspired Russia and features a girl named Vasya who has a special connection to the spirits of the forest and must defend her village from dark forces.
They often have a sense of displacement. The characters might be removed from their ordinary lives or worlds, like being transported to a magical realm. This uprooting creates a sense of adventure as they have to adapt to new situations.
One characteristic is the unique world - building. In fantasy standalone novels, authors create entire new worlds or reimagine our own in a very different way, like in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'. Another is the presence of magical or supernatural elements, such as wizards in 'The Lord of the Rings'.
Top standalone fantasy novels often have a well - developed and unique world. For example, in 'The Name of the Wind', the world of Temerant has its own magic, languages, and cultures. They also have interesting characters. In 'American Gods', Shadow is a complex and relatable character. Another characteristic is a compelling plot. 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' has a plot full of twists and turns regarding English magic.
One characteristic is that they often have a young protagonist. For example, in 'The Hunger Games', Katniss is a teenager. They also tend to have a unique and often magical setting. Like in 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children', the time - loop island is very special. Another aspect is that they usually deal with themes relevant to young adults, such as self - discovery and coming - of - age.
Standalone fantasy romance novels typically have unique settings. They might be set in a fictional kingdom, such as in 'Uprooted', or a magical realm like in 'Stardust'. The romance in them is often intense and emotional. It can be a forbidden love, as seen in many of these types of novels. Moreover, the characters are usually complex. The hero or heroine may have special powers or a special destiny, which is intertwined with their love story. For instance, in 'The Night Circus', the two main characters have a fated connection related to the circus's magic.
One characteristic is that they usually have a self - contained story. For example, in 'The Girl of Fire and Thorns', the main character's journey from an unsure princess to a powerful leader is all within one book. Another characteristic is that they often focus on the coming - of - age of the young adult characters. In 'Shadow and Bone', Alina has to grow up fast in a dangerous world. Also, they tend to have unique magic systems, like in 'A Darker Shade of Magic' with the different Londons having their own types of magic.
One popular uprooted fantasy novel is 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It has a richly detailed world and a complex protagonist. Another is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin, which is full of political intrigue and unique characters. 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien also fits this, with its epic adventure and deep lore.
Another aspect is the development of a single set of characters. Usually, the focus is on a main character or a small group of characters who are involved in the mystery. Like in 'Sherlock Holmes' short stories which can be considered standalone in a sense. Holmes and Watson are the central characters, and each story has its own mystery that they solve, and their relationship and personalities are explored within that single story.
One characteristic is the portrayal of a bleak future. For example, in '1984', the world is constantly at war and people live in poverty and oppression. Another is the exploration of power and control. In 'Brave New World', the government has extreme control over reproduction and people's emotions. Also, there's often a sense of isolation for the characters, like in 'The Road' where the father and son are alone in a desolate world.