Keeping It Real: Part 2

Series vs One-off?

What’s most beneficial for authors, a series or separate, unrelated novels? You probably would get a pretty even split of opinion on that question, depending on an individual writer’s preference. In my own case, I definitely prefer the series approach. My first novel, The Quixotics, was a one-off tale of intrigue, adventure, and suspense set in the Caribbean in 1970. I’ve followed that with four (and counting) novels in the Sleeping Dogs series, which focuses on current international intrigue and geopolitics. That statement definitely reveals my preference as a writer.

I’ve found that with a series I don’t have to create a whole new cast of characters with each book. I have come to know my characters very well, and enjoy the process of continuing to develop and expand their personas. Not to be overlooked is the fact that your readers become fascinated with and invested in your characters and want to know more about them, as well as experience them in new situations.

Also, a series allows for an overarching storyline that twists and turns through each novel. I try to end each one slightly enigmatically, leaving the readers in suspense and looking forward to the next book in the series. Subplots can be added to each separate book in order to keep my stories current and timely.

All in all, I’ve found that with a series, I grow more comfortable with the style of writing, the individual characters, and opportunities for future storylines.

© John Wayne Falbey 2018 All Rights Reserved