How Do I Know If I Should Write A Standalone Novel Or A Series?
Deciding whether to write a novel or a series
Depends on factors, including the breadth of your story the complexity of its plot and your long term writing goals. Here's how you can evaluate which path might be most suitable, for you;
1. Considering the Scope and Complexity of Your Story
If your story encompasses a range of events and has a plot that cannot be resolved within a single book or if you have envisioned an expansive world with its own history, cultures and characters then writing a series might be more appropriate. Take into account whether one book will adequately capture the essence of the story you want to convey.
2. Exploring Character Development
Does your main character go through growth and transformation that cannot be fully explored in one book? By writing a series you will have the opportunity to delve deeper into their development and follow their journey over a period.
3. Engaging with Readers
A series has the advantage of building reader engagement and loyalty as they eagerly anticipate sequels. If you believe your story possesses the potential to keep readers captivated and wanting more it's worth considering turning it into a series.
4. Genre Considerations
Certain genres such as fantasy or science fiction naturally lend themselves to being written as series due, to the world building involved.
Consider examining books within your genre to determine whether series or standalone novels are more prevalent and take into account these prevailing trends when making your decision.
Market Demand
Conduct research, on the market and publishing landscape. If there is a demand for either series or standalone works in your genre this factor may influence your choice.
Level of Commitment
Creating a series requires a level of commitment. Reflect on whether you have the time and passion to dedicate yourself to crafting books.
Personal Goals
Consider your goals and career trajectory as an author. If achieving publication is important to you writing a novel may be quicker and more appealing, to publishers especially if you're an aspiring writer.
Completion of Story Arc
If your story arc can be satisfactorily resolved within one book then opting for a novel might be the choice. However if it naturally lends itself to continuation then exploring the possibility of a series could be worthwhile.
Ultimately sometimes it's difficult to predict until you begin writing. As you dive deeper into developing the characters and plot they might organically evolve into a series.
Here are some additional resources that could be helpful, for you;
"The Art of Plotting; Add Emotion, Suspense and Depth to Your Screenplay" by Linda J. Cowgill. Although this book focuses on screenwriting it provides insights into plot development, which's crucial for determining the scope and length of your story.
"Writing the Breakout Novel" by Donald Maass. This book offers guidance on understanding the elements that make a novel stand out. It can help you assess whether your story has the potential to be a series or a standalone work.
Consider referring to "The Writers & Artists Yearbook " a guide that contains articles and information about the publishing industry. It also covers genre trends, which can give you insights into market preferences.
Remember, whether you decide to write a work or a series focus on what serves your story and keeps your readers engaged. Best of luck, with your writing!
1 Other Answers To: "How Do I Know If I Should Write A Standalone Novel Or A Series?"
Scope of the Story
- Not all stories need volumes. If you have a plot that can be resolved quickly then a standalone novel might be the choice. However if your story is epic and involves plots and subplots it could be more suitable, for a series.
Building the World
- If your story requires world building with its set of rules, history and cultures it may be too rich to fit into just one novel. In this case a series would provide opportunities to explore the depths of your created world.
Character Development
- A series allows for character development across adventures and challenges. On the hand a standalone novel usually focuses on one event or challenge in a characters journey.
Genre Considerations
- Certain genres like adult (YA) fantasy and mystery often lend themselves well to series due, to audience preferences and genre conventions that support adventures or mysteries.
Commitment Level
- Writing a series requires long term dedication as it involves effort across books. For authors or those looking for a manageable project a standalone novel might be the better option.
Plotting Flexibility
- When it comes to storytelling there are approaches, for creating a narrative. One option is to write a series, which allows for flexibility and the opportunity to develop the plot over time. On the hand standalone novels require a focused approach ensuring that all loose ends are neatly resolved by the end.
The commercial viability of novels can work in favor of debut authors as they can be easier to sell. Publishers may have reservations about committing to a series without a proven track record although there can always be exceptions.
From a standpoint some writers find satisfaction in crafting an intricate world and characters over multiple books. In contrast others prefer the excitement of creating worlds and characters with each project they undertake.
It's important to recognize that your project may not fit neatly into either the "standalone" or "series" category from the beginning. Often this decision evolves naturally as you continue writing and discover expansion opportunities within your story.
Of providing resources I encourage you to reflect on the insights shared above in relation to your unique story, goals and preferences. Trusting your intuition while also considering market trends and reader expectations within your genre will often lead you towards making the decision, for your project.