If you are planning to write a series, it is important to write the first book as a stand-alone novel. If you don’t, you will place too much emphasis on scenes and characters that only become important as the series progresses.
It is frustrating, as a writing teacher, to help an author who tells me, ‘It will make sense in the next book.’ The problem is, that if it doesn’t make sense now, I won’t even finish the current book. Readers who get confused have lots of other options, including many well-written and well-plotted books, to occupy their time.
Finish Book One and make sure your readers feel as if they have read a complete story. We know that a good book leaves some questions unanswered and some possibilities open. These leave the door open for your series.
If I have been entertained in the world you’ve created and the story you’ve told in your first book, I will be eager to spend money on your next book.
Writers Write has spent years perfecting our creative writing course to help writers understand the basics of writing a good first book. Send an email to news@writerswrite.co.za for more details on the course.
