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The topic is
Duologies
vs.
Trilogies
Prompts
Do you prefer duologies or trilogies, and why? What are the pros and cons of having two books vs. three books in a series? What are some of your favourite duologies and/or trilogies? Do you think there are benefits to these shorter series, compared to ones with 4+ books, or are fewer books limiting?
Welcome back to another Let’s Talk Bookish post! This week’s topic is all about Duologies vs. Trilogies—a classic debate among readers who love series but don’t always have the patience (or shelf space) for the endless epics.
As someone who devours series but also values a well-paced story, I have thoughts. So, let’s dive into it!
Do I Prefer Duologies or Trilogies?
Ah, the age-old bookish dilemma — do I prefer duologies or trilogies? The short answer? It depends. But if I absolutely had to pick… I’d lean toward duologies — and here’s why.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a story that knows exactly where it’s headed. A duology often feels sharper, more intentional, and perfectly paced. The author has two books to hook you, break your heart, and wrap it all up — no unnecessary detours, no dragged-out subplots, no waiting years for closure. It’s storytelling with purpose, and I love that.
That being said, I’ll always have a soft spot for a well-done trilogy. There’s undeniable magic in following characters across three books — watching them grow, stumble, and evolve as the stakes rise. Trilogies offer room to explore complex world-building, layered character arcs, and multiple plot twists that a duology sometimes doesn’t have the space for.
But — and it’s a big but — trilogies run the risk of “middle book syndrome.” You know the one: where book two feels like it’s just… there. It exists to bridge the beginning and the finale, but doesn’t always stand strong on its own.
That’s why, overall, I gravitate toward duologies. They’re concise, fast-paced, and more often than not, they deliver a complete, satisfying arc without the risk of filler. But if a trilogy is well-plotted, with each installment holding its own, I’m 100% on board.
In the end, I love both formats — but when I’m looking for a quick yet impactful series to get lost in? Duologies have my heart.
Pros & Cons of Duologies vs. Trilogies
Duologies – Pros
✅ Focused storytelling: With only two books to work with, duologies tend to have tight, streamlined plots that keep readers hooked from start to finish. There’s little room for filler, which means every scene usually serves a purpose.
✅ Less commitment: Not everyone has time to invest in long series. Duologies offer a satisfying, complete story without the daunting commitment of multiple books. Great for busy readers or those wanting a quick binge.
✅ Pacing that feels natural: Duologies often avoid the common pitfall of dragging out a story. The narrative tends to move briskly, with momentum building steadily toward a well-earned conclusion.
✅ Emotional impact: Because the story moves quickly, emotional highs and lows can feel more intense, and character arcs more sharply defined. This immediacy can be very rewarding.
Duologies – Cons
⚠️ Limited world-building: Duologies may struggle to fully flesh out complex worlds or intricate lore, especially in fantasy or sci-fi genres where deep immersion matters. Sometimes the setting feels skimmed over in the rush to wrap up.
⚠️ Risk of rushed endings: The pressure to conclude everything in just two books can sometimes lead to rushed or unsatisfying endings if the author tries to cram too much into the final chapters.
⚠️ Less room for subplots: Side characters and secondary storylines might receive less attention, which can make the world or story feel a bit narrower or less layered.
⚠️ Less time to bond: For readers who love long journeys with their favorite characters, duologies might feel too short — like saying goodbye before you’re ready.
Trilogies – Pros
✅ Room to breathe: Trilogies offer the space to build a rich, immersive world and craft intricate plots that can twist and turn over time. There’s more freedom to explore different themes, characters, and perspectives.
✅ Character development: With three books, authors can show gradual growth and transformation in their characters, making emotional payoffs more nuanced and believable.
✅ Classic narrative structure: The three-act story arc fits well with trilogies — setup, confrontation, and resolution — which often makes for a satisfying reading experience.
✅ Epic scope: Trilogies can create grand, sweeping sagas that stick with readers long after the last page. The extended time spent in the world deepens emotional investment.
Trilogies – Cons
⚠️ Middle book syndrome: The second book can sometimes feel like a “bridge” — less exciting or slower-paced — which can cause reader fatigue or frustration. Not every trilogy handles this well.
⚠️ Longer waits: Waiting for the final book to get answers or closure can test patience, especially if release schedules are slow or inconsistent.
⚠️ Risk of filler: Some trilogies include extra scenes or subplots that don’t add much, making the story feel padded or repetitive.
⚠️ Commitment: Three books mean a bigger time and financial investment — not always ideal if the series doesn’t quite hook you early on.
Fav Duologies
- The Miles High Duet by T.L. Swan
This author delivers swoon-worthy, billionaire alpha male energy with humor and emotion. If you love high heat, family drama, and possessive heroes with hidden soft sides, this duet won’t disappoint. - The Simple Wild & Wild at Heart by K.A. Tucker
Set in the wild beauty of Alaska, this duology follows Calla and Jonah’s enemies-to-lovers journey as they navigate long-distance love, personal growth, and the harsh realities of life in the wilderness. Perfect for those who love a heartfelt, realistic romance. - Pucked & Pucked Over by Helena Hunting
A hilarious and steamy hockey romance duology that’s all about witty banter, sexy athletes, and heartfelt moments. Hunting’s books deliver fun, lighthearted reads with plenty of heat and charm. - The Chase & The Risk by Elle Kennedy (Briar U Series Picks)
Though technically part of a larger interconnected world, these two books pair perfectly for fans of college hockey romance, snarky banter, fierce female leads, and lovable athlete book boyfriends. - Icebreaker & Wildfire by Hannah Grace
This TikTok-famous hockey romance duology delivers spice, tension, and strong character arcs. With fierce competition on the ice and complicated relationships off it, these books balance sports drama with plenty of swoon-worthy moments. - The Wall of Winnipeg and Me & The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Mariana Zapata
Known for her slow-burn romance, Zapata crafts deep emotional connections that unfold naturally. These two books feel like a perfect duology pairing, offering grounded love stories with real heart. - The Perfect Play & Changing the Game by Jaci Burton (Play by Play Series Picks) Burton’s books are famous for combining steam, heart, and all things sports. These two companion novels introduce sexy athletes and the strong women who challenge them — perfect for readers who love both romance and competitive energy.
Why Duologies Work So Well in Romance
✨ Pacing Perfection: No time for the dreaded “dragging middle” — duologies usually pack every chapter with plot, steam, or emotional growth.
✨ Emotional Rollercoaster: Two books are enough to fall completely for the characters, ride the highs and lows, but still get that satisfying ending.
✨ Less Waiting, More Reading: You’re not left hanging for years between installments — most duologies release close together (bless the authors for that!).
✨ They Hit Different: Especially in dark romance or sports romance, that condensed intensity — whether it’s forbidden love, enemies-to-lovers, or fierce competition — hits harder in a duology format.
Fav Trilogies
- The Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles (First Three Books) by Cora Reilly (Bound by Honor, Bound by Duty, Bound by Hatred)
The first three mafia romances in this sprawling world form a trilogy-feel that hooks you into forbidden love, arranged marriages, and dangerously sexy anti-heroes. - Dreamland Billionaires Trilogy by Lauren Asher (The Fine Print, Terms and Conditions, Final Offer)
If you’re craving billionaire romance with emotional depth, snarky banter, and a Disney-esque twist (literally), this trilogy delivers. Each book follows a different sibling in the wealthy Dreamland family, filled with slow-burn romance, redemption arcs, and strong, relatable heroines. - The Made Men Trilogy by Sarah Brianne (Nero, Vincent, Chloe)
A mafia romance trilogy with dangerous anti-heroes, possessive love, and heroines who fight for their place. It’s gritty, dark, and full of addictive tension. - Dirty Air Trilogy by Lauren Asher (Throttled, Collided, Wrecked)
Technically there are four books, but the first three tell a cohesive, high-stakes, swoon-worthy Formula 1 sports romance experience. If you love fast cars, competitive tension, and alpha heroes with soft sides, this one’s for you. - The Perfect Game Trilogy by J. Sterling (The Perfect Game, The Game Changer, The Sweetest Game)
One of the OG sports romance trilogies. Follow Jack Carter and Cassie Andrews through heartbreak, fame, trust issues, and second chances. Full of angst, drama, and swoony sports moments. - The Infernal Devices by Cassandra Clare — Victorian London, Shadowhunters, and one of the best love triangles ever
Why Trilogies Work So Well
✅ More space for character and relationship development
✅ Room for heartbreak, separation, and that sweet, sweet reunion
✅ Perfect for fantasy romance world-building
✅ A satisfying emotional payoff — often with a messy middle to keep you hooked
Are Shorter Series Better Than Longer Ones?
In some ways, yes. Shorter series like duologies or trilogies can avoid the bloat that happens in 4+ book sagas. They feel more approachable, especially for readers with limited time (or attention spans). There’s also less risk of burnout for both the reader and the author.
However, longer series have their place, too. If the world is rich and the plot has enough depth, I’m all for a sprawling, multi-book epic. But only if it needs that length—not just to stretch things out for the sake of sales.
In the end, it’s all about the story. If a duology tells a complete, satisfying tale in two books? Fantastic. If a trilogy builds an epic journey that feels earned? I’m all in.
The real problem arises when a series feels artificially stretched—or rushed. But when the pacing and structure match the story’s needs, whether it’s two books, three, or ten… that’s where the magic happens.
Let’s chat!
Do you prefer duologies or trilogies? What are your favourites? Are you a fan of shorter series, or do you love getting lost in multi-book sagas? Let me know in the comments!
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