Writing a Series vs. Standalone Novels: Which is Right for You?

Welcome, my fellow literary misfits! 

Today, we’re diving into a debate as old as time (well, as old as the publishing industry, at least): should you write a series or a standalone novel? 

Both options have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately comes down to what kind of writer you are and what kind of story you want to tell. So, let’s get started and figure out which path is right for you!

Standalone Novels: The One and Done Approach

If you’re the kind of writer who likes to dive into a story, wrap it up with a neat little bow, and then move onto the next adventure, standalone novels might be your jam. Here are some benefits of taking this approach:

Pros:

1. Complete story: With a standalone novel, you have the satisfaction of telling a complete story in one book. You don't have to worry about leaving loose ends for a sequel or disappointing readers who are waiting for the next book.
2. Flexibility: Writing a standalone novel gives you more flexibility to experiment with different genres, styles, and themes. You can try out a new idea without committing to a whole series.
3. Lower risk: If your standalone novel doesn't sell well, it's not the end of the world. You can move on to a new project without feeling like you've wasted years of your life.

Cons:

1. Less room for character development: With only one book, you have less space to develop your characters and their relationships. This can make it harder to create deep, nuanced characters.
   
2. No built-in audience: Unless you're an established author, it can be harder to attract readers to a standalone novel. Without a series to hook them in, readers might not take a chance on your book.
   
3. Limited world-building: If you're writing a standalone novel, you might not have the space to fully explore the world you've created. This can be frustrating if you've put a lot of work into building a rich, immersive world.
   

Series Novels: Keep the Story Going

If you’re the kind of writer who loves to dive deep into a world, explore every nook and cranny, and keep the story going, ala Tolkien, series novels might be your cup of tea. Here are some benefits of writing a series:

Pros:

1. Built-in audience: One of the best things about writing a series is that if readers enjoy your first book, they're likely to come back for more. This can help you build a dedicated fanbase and sell more books over time.
2. More room for character development: In a series, you have more time to flesh out your characters and let them grow and change over time. This can lead to deeper, more complex characters that readers will love.
3. World-building: If you're creating a complex world with its own history, rules, and mythology, a series can give you more space to explore and showcase your world. This can be especially helpful if you're writing in a genre like fantasy or science fiction.

Cons:

1. Commitment: Writing a series is a big commitment. You'll need to plan out multiple books, keep track of a large cast of characters, and make sure each book advances the overall story arc.
   
2. Pressure to deliver: Once you've built up a fanbase with your first book, readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment. This can put a lot of pressure on you to deliver a satisfying sequel.
   
3. Risk of burnout: Writing a series can be a long, draining process. If you're not careful, you could burn out before you finish the whole thing.
   

So, Which Should You Choose??🤔

So, which should you choose?

The truth is, there's no right or wrong answer: tt all depends on your goals as a writer, the story you want to tell, and your personal preferences.

Writing a series vs. standalone novels is a hotly debated topic in the literary world, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Some writers thrive on the flexibility of standalone novels, while others relish the chance to dive deep into a world.

You should choose the path that feels most authentic to you and your writing style.