Your first (or latest) book is under your belt and it’s time to write your next book. Are you struggling to get that second book out of your head and onto paper? Here are seven questions that can help steer your next book in the “write” direction.
- What did my readers love about my first book?
Was a main character their favorite part? A particular plot twist? Whatever kept your readers attention and led to sales, use it to build on as you write your next book.
- Can this book become an extension of my previous book?
Turning one book into a series is a good idea (see step three). You can also build on a theme. For instance, if your first book is geared toward your target market, you can write your next book for your professional peers.
- Can this book help me turn my previous book into a series?
A series can be built on a single character, location, or topic Choose the way you want to build a series as you write your next book. One good tactic for fiction writers is to bring a secondary character to the forefront in a subsequent book. A smart tactic for non-fiction authors is to create a 102 follow-up to a 101 book.
- What were my best marketing outlets for my previous book?
Make note of the most successful marketing tactics and outlets for your previous book. Use those to do advanced marketing as you write your next book.
- Can I easily package this book with my previous book to create a sales bundle?
Bundle according to topic, genre, author, or main character. Creating a book bundle is a strategic way to keep those books flying off the shelves.
- Can the readers and reviewers of my previous book create direction for this book?
When you prepare to write your next book, survey your readers. They’ll tell you what they want to hear and how much they’re willing to pay if you just ask them.
- Is this book an original and not just a reworded version of the first book?
Make sure you build on, not copy, your original work. This is particularly important if you’re writing a sequel.
Asking yourself these seven questions can help ensure that your second (or next) book compliments your first. Your second book doesn’t have to be the beginning of a trilogy or the start of a series, but your author brand and voice should start to take shape in the eyes of your reader. If you’re ready to write your next book, drop a link to your first book in the comments section. Fellow authors and blog readers might be able to offer some helpful tips and advice.
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