What is your approach to series?

[Valarya]

I mourn when I complete a good book.

Oh absolutely. I didn't start the Wheel of Time series until about a month before the final book was released. When I finished the last sentence of the last book, I believe I sat on my bed with tears streaming down my face for about an hour. Not due to the subject material, but in mourning that it was over.

I have been considering Hunger Games but the trilogy package is more money than individual books (on Kindle at least). Money/discounts are not always a consideration but a strike against HG is the post-apocalyptic theme which I do not like. I am interested in the book because it is supposed to be a great story though. In that case I may read the first then decide whether I will continue the series.

I heard from a lot of people to only read the first book then NOT continue with the rest of the series. I can't do that, so I read all three.. and the third one was my favorite. I realized, after reading, most people probably felt let-down or disappointed because it isn't the "perfect happy ending" they perhaps wanted - or felt they should get since it's a young adult series. Personally, I like bleak endings.

Kindles are great because I carry a library with me all of the time. I keep my eyes open for books to read and have several lined up though what I choose when ready depends on what feels right.

I keep an e-reader with me at all times as well - and I know exactly what you mean about keeping several lined up. What 'feels right' to read this week, might not feel right next week. It's all about what you're in the mood to start, even if you can't explain WHY you aren't feeling a certain series, yet.. especially when you know you want to read it eventually. Hahah, I'm still trying to explain this to myself to no avail.

I will not likely read the books of Ice and Fire that follow Storm of Swords even if the final book is great.

I understand your hesitation. I can tell you that, having read the 5 books (currently out) a total of four times, he hasn't topped Storm of Swords, yet. Unfortunately, I was one of the fans who waited 4+ years for the fourth book... and 5+ years again for the fifth book, so I was a bit peeved already. But if you're involved in theory-crafting of the series, A Dance with Dragons will be extremely satisfactory, especially if you've read his Dunk and Egg short-stories (as they tie-in).