What are the best standalone horror graphic novels?

For a standalone horror graphic novel to be the best, it often has a really strong concept. Like in 'Locke & Key', the idea of keys with special powers in a haunted house is super interesting. Also, great art is crucial. In 'Uzumaki', Junji Ito's detailed and creepy art makes the spiral - themed horror come alive. And a good build - up of suspense, as in 'The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye' where you're constantly on edge about what will happen next.

Some top standalone graphic novels are 'A Contract with God' by Will Eisner. It was one of the first graphic novels and is a great exploration of urban life and human nature. 'Bone' by Jeff Smith is also highly regarded. It's an epic fantasy adventure with engaging characters and a richly detailed world. 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel is another notable one. It's a memoir that delves into Bechdel's relationship with her father and her own sexual identity.

One of the best is 'The Dark Knight Returns'. It presents a gritty and aged Batman coming out of retirement in a dystopian Gotham. Another great one is 'Batman: Year One' which tells the origin story in a really engaging way. And 'Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth' is also excellent, with its dark and psychological exploration of Batman's rogues gallery.

I'd recommend 'Batman: Ego' for new readers. It's a great way to understand the inner thoughts of Batman. 'Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth' can also be interesting as it gives a different perspective on Batman's relationship with his villains. And 'Batman: Gothic' is a good pick as it has a classic Batman feel with a dark and moody setting.

You can start by asking at your local comic book store. The staff there are usually very knowledgeable and can recommend some great ones based on your interests. Another way is to check out online reviews on websites like Goodreads or Amazon. Readers often leave detailed reviews that can help you decide if a graphic novel is for you.

Some great standalone graphic novels include 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel. This graphic novel is a coming - of - age story that also delves into themes of family secrets and homosexuality. 'The Arrival' by Shaun Tan is a wordless graphic novel that beautifully depicts the immigrant experience. And 'Black Hole' by Charles Burns is a dark and surreal exploration of adolescence and the fear of change.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It has a richly detailed world, a compelling protagonist in Kvothe, and a story full of magic and mystery. The way Rothfuss weaves the past and present narratives is masterful.

Some of the best standalone novels include 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding. This novel shows how a group of boys stranded on an island descend into chaos and savagery. 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte is another wonderful standalone. It tells the story of a young woman's journey through love, self - discovery, and independence. Additionally, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde is a great standalone. It explores the idea of beauty, sin, and the consequences of a hedonistic lifestyle.

Some of the top standalone romance novels are 'The Time Traveler's Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger. It has a very original concept of a man who time - travels and his relationship with his wife. 'The Rosie Project' by Graeme Simsion is a charming and humorous love story about a genetics professor trying to find the perfect partner and falling for Rosie. 'Call Me By Your Name' by André Aciman is a beautiful exploration of first love between Elio and Oliver set in Italy. The descriptions of their emotions and the Italian setting add to the allure of the love story.

Some of the top standalone YA novels include 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. It's set during World War II and is narrated by Death, which gives it a very unique perspective. 'A Monster Calls' by Patrick Ness is another great one. It beautifully combines elements of fantasy and dealing with grief. 'Looking for Alaska' by John Green is also a popular choice as it delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.