I’ve read a lot of expert advice recently, via blogs or newsletters or websites; all about writing. I am constantly reading about writing. It’s something we do – not only do writers write, but they read. Constantly. It isn’t always fun, but it is educational, which is helpful.
The message finally sank in: readers love a series. And this is so true. My favorite historical romances aren’t one-off books, but rather the series written about the Sherbrooke or Mallory clans…(to name just two). Not to mention that two characters are already trying to push their way to the front of the line, when they aren’t major characters yet. So here I am, in the middle of outlining my novel and I have to expand the universe. Why? Well because I knew exactly what I wanted for this one book, but I need to delve further.
So, the outline is on the back burner, and might eventually get scrapped all together as I rethink this plot. And tonight? I’m creating a list of things I want in my universe before I sit down and fully expand it. Mind you, we’re doing ‘immortal’ characters. I have a headache and I’m tired, but this is, I believe, going to be super fun!
Tell me – if you were creating a universe, what would you want in it?
Also, I have a new thing – I have an empty tub from work (plastic bin that some sausage treats came in) that I’m going to fill with work-in-progress writing prompts. That way, I’ve always got something at my fingertips. What do you think?
Laura Michaela Banse, Author 