Series or Change Character names

[Monet]

I have been tossing this around for several weeks. I have two completed novels in uppermiddle/YA Paranormal. I used the same characters in both novels, wanting it to be a series -- different stories, same characters -- something in tune to Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, etc.

I'm not sure if I want to continue after two books, because even though I enjoy writing for the uppermiddle/YA age group, I also write adult romance.

I haven't sent them in yet, because when I wrote the first one I was in the middle of moving (didn't want my mail to be scattered between addresses) and in the mean time I started the second one and have since finished and polished it as well.

My question in thought is, should I send them in as is and when they sell, continue the series, or should I change the character names so that they are completely separate? I enjoyed writing them, but would they sell better as two separate, in no way connected novels.

What is your opinion on the question in hand?

Thanks

[SindbadtheSailor]

Hi Monet,

I've also written a book and I have decided to write a sequel, not because I planned a series but ideas came to my head. If you have good ideas for the third, you'll write it sooner or later. It is up to you. Inspiration is a must for any creative work. If you are more interested in writing a romance novel right now, go ahead. Surf where the tide is higher. Let your imagination decide on this. Best of luck.

Sindbad.

[Cathy C]

I enjoyed writing them, but would they sell better as two separate, in no way connected novels.

What is your opinion on the question in hand?

Thanks

Well, if they're already written, leave them. This will give an agent something to offer to a publisher. They like to have more than one book to sell for a first contract, and books that are related tend to sell better. However, each book must stand alone, even with returning characters. The characters in book 2 must be introduced to the reader as though they'd never existed. No loose threads to wrap up in the second book, either.

However, if they aren't both written, then you might consider changing the character names and submitting each one as a separate book. It might be that the plot of the second book suits a publisher better. At least, it gives you more options! Good luck! :D

[Monet]

Thanks. After reading your thoughts on the subject, this is what I'll do.

I think since they are both completely done and polished, that I will leave them as they are.

If the publisher wishes them to stay as a series that's good, and if not,
then I can always change the character names (and the few minor location names) later.

I already have a basic outline for two more books in the series.

I really guess what my issue was, now that Sinbad mentioned it, is that I wanted to break from the genre for a while and work on the romance that has been filling my thoughts. I was just hesitating because a series is more than two books, but my head and heart wasn't into writing the third one yet and I wanted to get these sent out!

Thanks for your help...