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Perfect State
Brandon Sanderson

Perfect State

Quick Answer

"Perfect State" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Standalone Novels and Non-Cosmere Short Fiction.

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

âť“ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

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201587 ppNovellaOptional Side StoryWikidataSource
Two artificial intelligences, living in separate perfect simulated worlds, meet and fall in love, only to discover the terrifying true nature of their existence.
Next Recommended Book

Snapshot

Book #4 of 6 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Standalone Novels and Non-Cosmere Short Fiction conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Perfect State?

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Can I read Perfect State before The Rithmatist?

Yes. Perfect State is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Perfect State required reading for the Standalone Novels and Non-Cosmere Short Fiction?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Perfect State in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Perfect State is Snapshot (Book #4).