Ask Jerry
Stand-alone with series potential
Asked by Alec Tvenstrup on March 26, 2020
When writing a stand-alone novel, sometimes the ending in mind creates series potential. When is the decision made whether to keep a novel stand-alone or extend into a series? Is this decided before sending the manuscript to beta readers? Or do you take beta reader feedback on the potential extension?
Jerry's Answer
That decision is entirely yours, Alec, but I can tell you that publishers love series. They get more bang for their marketing buck that way. Just make sure the first one is the best you can make it, leaves nothing out, satisfies the reader, and works on its own. If it implies a sequel, assure the publisher you're ready to get started if they want one.