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Why a Sequel? 9/21/2017 6:04:17 PM
Do writers plan to write a sequel? Why are sequels so popular?
Sometimes they are planned and sometimes they grow from the first book for a host of reasons.
We live in an age where we are desirous of connections for the long haul, we want more as we book our Netflix favorite series into our private calendar time-slots; we crave more when we connect or are moved by a story and its people.
We desire more of what we enjoy, what we look forward to. Connections with people and places make us reluctant to leave. The story is anticipated as an after work or relaxing weekend read. It’s locked in and beware the unsolicited ringing of the telephone or doorbell! Solitude is non-negotiable!
For the writer, unfinished matters in the first book lead to the second book which unveils new situations and hidden aspects of characters and situations, sometimes shocking or expected and satisfying.
Picking up reader feedback from the first book while the sequel is being written is significant in ensuring that favorite characters are not destroyed or killed off too early, reader and writer satisfaction is imperative.
In the writing of my debut novel 'Across Time and Space,' the sequel began to emerge by the end of the penultimate chapter, there was more my characters had to say, there was more that had to be revealed. The intrigue of the first tale created expectations that needed further exploration. Relationships needed to grow.
Truth and deception were left skulking in the shadows at the olive grove in Viareggio in 'Across Time and Space' and these ghosts came calling for more.
This made me restless to dive into the sequel, some cautioned ‘not so soon,’ others begged ‘when will it be ready?’ The process became an organic growth, an obsession to take the story to where it was leading me.
Hence the birth of the sequel, 'Vindication Across Time.'
