Friday, October 19, 2007

Writing the sequel

In a few weeks, I'm going to start writing the second book in the HJ series. Now, when I wrote book one, I had no outline, no character sheets and no idea where the book was going. This time, I've got a detailed outline, character sheets, a semi-complete timeline and a definite decision as to how the book will end.

It's definitely a different feeling to write a sequel. There's no figuring out who my characters are or determining a location. Sure, I've got to find ways to put fresh spins on those things, but I also know my characters well and that will come in handy during the writing of this next book. It's an odd feeling for a first time sequel writer to start a book already knowing my cast. Know what I mean?

What method do you use when you write? The outline method or go without anything method? Anyone written a sequel before?

5 comments:

Carrie Ryan said...

You know, I'm about to start on a sequel as well. With mine, it's set far enough in the future that I don't think you really have to know much about book 1 so that helps. But I think one of the things that stands out in book 1 is the world and you can't rely on that trick for more than one book. So now I need a new gimmick :)

It's def. interesting to start on the next book in a series!

Btw, did I ever mention that I tought at Foxcroft -- totally a horse dominated school in Virginia. Your book premise so reminds me of those days!

Jessica Burkhart said...

OMG, Carrie, are you kidding me about Foxcroft?? I have their brochures, talked to a couple of students and lightly based my book with on my vision of their school!! That's so crazy! :)

Carrie Ryan said...

Oh yeah -- but I know the dark behind the scenes stuff :)

Jessica Burkhart said...

It's settled. I'm coming to you when I need juicy stories. :)

Carrie Ryan said...

Please do! Boy do I have some good ones :) You're totally welcome to ask me anything!

Counting down to Saddlehill Academy!

  Hii, friends! I'm so very thrilled to remind everyone that NEXT MONTH (!!!) is the release of my first novel in eight years! Ahhhhh!!...

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