Series Considerations
So many authors now write series. I must plead guilty to doing so too. As a reader, I find this annoying. As a writer, series have advantages.
My reading is very eclectic. My reading time is restricted due to many other obligations. Often, if I read the first of a series, even if I like the series, I will never get to the second or third book.
Another problem with reading a series is where to start. Many series books do have a separate plot line and can be read separately. Yet the characters continue and develop from one book to the next leaving some things in the book confusing or, worse, described in boring detail.
Other series must be read in order. I like used book sales and get many books that way. I find one that sounds interesting, buy it, start to read it and find I must track down previous books in the series to know what is going on. And the plot ends hanging so the next book must be found to find out what happens. I now bypass such books.
Writing a series lets an author develop characters over time, adding and changing relationships, having the characters grow up and age. The settings are familiar offering plot opportunities and easy development. Most importantly, in this time of trying to find and retain a group of readers to buy, read and review books, a series builds that loyal audience.
Problems do come up writing a series. As Mistaken Promises takes shape, I find I have forgotten to introduce the characters well or describe the settings. This is the third in the series and the second set in Crooked Creek. I’m familiar with the characters and setting. I forget readers may not be.
As I reviewed the beginning of the draft, I began adding descriptions. Cooking is part of the series too, so this is being worked in properly.
Once the draft is finished, descriptions will be a big part of rewriting and editing.
Then I face the next problem with writing a series. I like Hazel. The setting and story have lots of plot ideas in them. The question is whether or not I wish to pursue them or move on to other ideas.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle got tired of Sherlock Holmes and killed him off. His readers were outraged. He had to resurrect Holmes.
Maybe Hazel will gain such a following someday. Then I know I will pursue some of those story ideas.
My reading is very eclectic. My reading time is restricted due to many other obligations. Often, if I read the first of a series, even if I like the series, I will never get to the second or third book.
Another problem with reading a series is where to start. Many series books do have a separate plot line and can be read separately. Yet the characters continue and develop from one book to the next leaving some things in the book confusing or, worse, described in boring detail.
Other series must be read in order. I like used book sales and get many books that way. I find one that sounds interesting, buy it, start to read it and find I must track down previous books in the series to know what is going on. And the plot ends hanging so the next book must be found to find out what happens. I now bypass such books.
Writing a series lets an author develop characters over time, adding and changing relationships, having the characters grow up and age. The settings are familiar offering plot opportunities and easy development. Most importantly, in this time of trying to find and retain a group of readers to buy, read and review books, a series builds that loyal audience.
Problems do come up writing a series. As Mistaken Promises takes shape, I find I have forgotten to introduce the characters well or describe the settings. This is the third in the series and the second set in Crooked Creek. I’m familiar with the characters and setting. I forget readers may not be.
As I reviewed the beginning of the draft, I began adding descriptions. Cooking is part of the series too, so this is being worked in properly.
Once the draft is finished, descriptions will be a big part of rewriting and editing.
Then I face the next problem with writing a series. I like Hazel. The setting and story have lots of plot ideas in them. The question is whether or not I wish to pursue them or move on to other ideas.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle got tired of Sherlock Holmes and killed him off. His readers were outraged. He had to resurrect Holmes.
Maybe Hazel will gain such a following someday. Then I know I will pursue some of those story ideas.
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