Decision Time

WillSmall · Jun 24, 2008

So, I've finished my first novel, and I'm about ready to start querying agents. Now I'm at a crossroads on the writing front. I've also started the sequel, and I've written about 6,500 words. But, I just don't feel like it's flowing like it should. I guess I feel like I'm forcing it. Then, today, I had an idea for a completely different novel. I popped open MS Word and pumped out about 1,600 words. I'm really loving this completely new story, but I also feel that I should keep working on the sequel to the one I'm finished with. What would you do? Work on the sequel? Work on the new story? Or, work on both at the same time?
:Shrug:

Danger Jane · Jun 24, 2008

I'd work on the new story. There's no guarantee you can sell a sequel even if you can sell book one. Especially if you're forcing the sequel, I think it's time to try some different characters and different situations.

Aragon · Jun 24, 2008

Work on what is coming out the best. If it's forced, you'll be less than happy with the results. Sounds like you should work on the new idea.

kuwisdelu · Jun 24, 2008

I'd work on the new story. Don't ignore inspiration. You can always come back to the sequel later.

WillSmall · Jun 24, 2008

Thanks for the advice. I'm going to follow it!

triceretops · Jun 24, 2008

I would go with the new one.

Tri

Kalyke · Jun 24, 2008

I agree that you should start on a new story. Many writers have written multiple books with the same characters but they don't need to happen consecutively.

Wolvel · Jun 24, 2008

+1 I have always found it to be easier to go to a fresh new idea and let your original cook for awhile in your head until its time to write it.

My first book is part one of three. When I finished it I went to a whole new idea I had and began it. A few weeks later I was ready to tackle book two.

Mumut · Jun 25, 2008

I think your mind is telling you what it wants to do. I've finished the second book of three. I've one published and one coming out later this year. I've suddenly stopped writing the third. I've edited it, in case there was something wrong and my subconscious was allerting me to it. But no. So I'm polishing a few earlier stories and really enjoying the break. I'm sure I'll get back to the trilogy when my brain is good and ready.

So I'd say go with what you're enjoying. And get the first novel sold.

steveg144 · Jun 25, 2008

Work on something new. Maybe do some short pieces; I find they make a great recreation between larger projects. Charging right into the sequel, you risk growing sick of your story and burning out.

Momento Mori · Jun 25, 2008

WillSmall:
What would you do? Work on the sequel? Work on the new story? Or, work on both at the same time

I agree with what the others have said and work on the new story. One point to bear in mind (and with apologies for sounding negative), is that there is little point in working on a sequel if the first book doesn't sell, particularly if you need to read the first book in order to follow the sequel.

Even though you say the sequel isn't flowing for you, keep it all ready and available to hand for when you do sell the first book, because an agent/publisher will generally be interested to know whether there's a follow-up.

MM

WillSmall · Jun 25, 2008

Thanks again, everyone, for your advice. My wife told me the same thing, and she is generally right. I mean...always right.

Phaeal · Jun 25, 2008

It depends on whether the first novel can stand alone. If not, if it needs the sequel to complete the story, I'd keep working on the sequel.

Otherwise, stay with the new novel.

The one caveat: If you find the honeymoon excitement of the new idea wearing off, to be replaced by yet another exciting new idea, you need to take a breather and figure out which story you should take to completion first. A lot of discarded one-to-seven night stands can get discouraging.

Clarec · Jun 25, 2008

Definitely the new one - sometimes writers have no choice iin what story to tell. I'm pretty sure once you've had a break your mojo for the other book will return.

And d'uh, of *course* wives are always right! ;-)

Clare

Charlie Horse · Jun 25, 2008

I don't think there's any question on how you should proceed.

What was the question again?

Decision Time

WillSmall

practical experience, FTW

Danger Jane

Aragon

kuwisdelu

Revolutionize the World

WillSmall

practical experience, FTW

triceretops

Kalyke

Wolvel

Write the Damn Book!

Mumut

Well begun is half done...

steveg144

Crusty Polemicist

Momento Mori

Tired and Disillusioned

WillSmall

practical experience, FTW

Phaeal

Whatever I did, I didn't do it.

Clarec

Charlie Horse

Speaking in metaphors