Tip #14 Sequels

Sequels are a very sensitive subject when it comes to storytelling. It is very easy to completely ruin a sequel story. This week I will be going into how to properly set up a sequel and even tips on how to write a good sequel.  The first way to set up a sequel correctly is as follows. You need it to be subtle. You do not want to set up your sequel blatantly. You never know if your story is ever going to be good enough to warrant a sequel, so setting up an obvious sequel is a very bad move. In order to set up the sequel properly you should have the current story end, yet some plot threads are still open and could be answered. The plot threads should not be incredibly important to the current books story but could be explored later for more world building. Now there are a few key points that you should make sure to hit when you write a sequel. The first is making sure you expand the universe. There is no real point in making a sequel without expanding the universe of the story. Introducing new characters, new plot threads, and new character interactions. The second is remember that your characters are still the same characters that you left them as. Make sure that their characters stay consistent. At the same time, you need to understand that the characters need to go through character arcs for the story to be as compelling as it was before. Do not turn loved characters into one note stereotypes. That is an insult to the story and a sign of a cash grab. There are more steps, but these are the biggest ones I think should be known. That is all for this week. I hope you found it informative as always.