To write a sequel or not write a sequel, that is the question. In the world of fiction-writing, a sequel is a work that continues a story or further develops a theme that began in a previous novel. If you write more than one sequel for the same story, it becomes a “series.” As an author, the idea of readers eagerly waiting for more of your writing is thrilling, no doubt.
However, there’s no bigger let down for readers than to anticipate more to a story they loved, only to be disappointed by a sequel. You’ve probably experienced this at some point yourself as a reader. You anxiously open the second book and wind up saying, “Ah, man! That was awful. It ruined the whole story!” This, of course, is the last thing you’d want to have happen as an author. So, how can you determine whether you should add a sequel to a story you’re writing?
Is there more to the story in your mind?
One of the determining factors to deciding whether to write a sequel is whether you have more to say about the characters and events in your story. If you feel like you’ve told all there is to tell and writing more to the story would be a struggle, then it’s probably true that this particular book doesn’t need a sequel.
On the other hand, if the characters and plot and ideas surrounding the first story are still swirling in your mind, you might have more to share with your readers. If you haven’t found closure as a writer at the end of the first book, it suggests that you have more to say, which is a good reason to write a sequel.
Your readers need closure, too
Another question to ask yourself when discerning whether to write a sequel has to do with where you left your readers at the end of the first book. Did you answer all of their questions and resolve all the issues that arose in the story? If you’ve ever had an author or film maker “leave you hanging” with no hope for closure because there’s no sequel in the works, you understand how unsettling it can be.
If you were a reader and not the author of your book, would you feel closure at the end? Does it leave unanswered questions in your mind? Are there problems that still need to be resolved? If the story feels incomplete from your perspective as a reader, then a sequel might be a good idea because other readers probably feel the same.
Is your book overstuffed in its current form?
If your book hasn’t yet been published and you’re unsure whether to write a sequel, consider word count. Perhaps you found yourself “stuffing” content into the final chapters because you had a lot to say and wanted to work it in before the story came to an end. This is often a clear sign that you have enough to work with in your mind to write a sequel.
In fact, many readers would prefer to have two, three or more books to read than one, massive novel to conquer. It’s somewhat subliminal because you’re still reading the same number of words whether they’re contained in one volume or three. It just feels less complex and stressful to work your way through three books than to try to get from start to finish in an enormous single volume.
Ask readers if they want more
If you haven’t submitted your manuscript for publishing yet, you can ask family members and others to read it. Then, ask them if they would enjoy a sequel. If the majority of them say, “Yes,” it’s a clear sign to start writing the next volume.
