What are some of the best standalone graphic novels?

One of the best is 'Locke & Key' by Joe Hill. It has a great blend of horror, mystery, and family drama. The story revolves around a family who moves into a mysterious house filled with keys that have strange powers, and there are terrifying creatures lurking. Another good one is 'Through the Woods' by Emily Carroll. Her unique art style enhances the spooky tales within.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins is also great. The story is told from the perspective of an unreliable narrator, which adds to the mystery. It involves a missing woman and the web of secrets and lies that surround her disappearance, making it a really engaging thriller.

I would also recommend 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie. This classic mystery novel is set on an isolated island. As the guests start to die one by one, the mystery deepens. Christie is a master of the genre, and this book is a prime example of her ability to create a suspenseful and engaging mystery.

Another excellent one is 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman. It weaves together a story of old gods and new in a modern - day America. It's full of unique characters, from the wily Mr. Wednesday to the various deities from different mythologies. It makes you think about the role of belief and the power of stories.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It has a richly detailed world, a complex and engaging protagonist in Kvothe, and a beautifully crafted story that draws you in from the start. The magic system is well - thought - out and adds depth to the narrative.

One of the best is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery with a unique protagonist, Lisbeth Salander. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. The plot twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat. And 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also excellent. It combines elements of a detective's past and a present - day mystery.