Q: Can I read The Little Sea Monster without reading the first two books in the series?

A: The short answer to this question is yes. The long answer is - it depends on what kind of a reader you are.
 

• The first thing to understand is that each book is its own story, with its own conflict that gets resolved by the end of the book. However, you can't really call each book a standalone, because some characters and their subplots recur throughout the series.

 

• You can definitely read The Little Sea Monster without reading Book 2 in the series, Beast By Day. The two books have none of the same characters, and events from Book 2 don't impact anything in Book 3. (Of course if you want to read Beast By Day first, then you absolutely should! I'm the kind of reader who has to read books in order :D )

 

• My personal recommendation is that you read the first book in the series, Rotting Beauty, before you read The Little Sea Monster. Major characters from the first book are also in The Little Sea Monster. I personally think the characters arcs in The Little Sea Monster will mean more to you if you've read Rotting Beauty first.

 

• That said, you don't have to read Rotting Beauty to understand The Little Sea Monster. Any past events are explained or recapped within the book. You should not be confused if you read The Little Sea Monster without reading Rotting Beauty first. (And if you are, you can reference the Glossary at the back of the book!)

So if you're the kind of reader that likes to read series in order, have all the details, understand all the Easter eggs, etc. - then you should at least read Rotting Beauty first. If you're the kind of reader that just wants to enjoy a slightly spooky Little Mermaid retelling, then don't worry about it and just read The Little Sea Monster.

I hope that wasn't too complicated an answer! Rotting Beauty is currently on sale in ebook for 99 cents.