Okay so I might have researched every way to write a series and found 0 in-depth resources about writing the later books in your series. There is a difference for me in writing the first three as the next three ****in terms of plot, world building, and character.
My impressions of writing the later books of a series in no order:
- the usual plot outlines and beats in the first act (like introducing her to the world or 'putting her head' in the sand or 'call to adventure') don't fit as well on a seasoned heroine. It feels like act 1 shrinks and act 2 gets bigger with each book for me. The first act is especially hard. I am using this in book 5 as a framework for the First act**:** Hook → Build up & Inciting Incident (pushing a character out of their comfort zone) → impossible choice.
- my series is set up in clumps of mini series and arcs so the whole series has a structure that includes its one subplots, overall character arc, etc. I think this is why I am as excited to start book 5 as I was book 2 because I am getting to a character arc that I have been wanting to write since I outlined it.
- I am using the Dan Harmon story circle as the series structure of my books. I had 'exit strategies' to end the series by book 3 if it didn't sell, I am pretty confident that I can publish the full series story line but I have another possibly exit plotted ahead.
- if you aren't doing a series of standalones like the jack reaper style where your MC moves on, you collect an excess of characters. I find it can be dramatic to bring them back for other books to make for a richer plot line and its easier to connect the reader instead of recreating a new villain or ally. Look out for anchoring characters who keep the MC & co in a place or mindset. These are the most useful characters to kill because it shakes up the status quo and sets off new character conflicts/growth arcs in case things are getting stale.
- secondary characters have more importance with agency that moves the plot. most of my important secondary characters have arcs that span 1-3 books.
- you'll get your worst reviews on book 1 from the people who randomly decide to read your book even if its not their thing. I got a review recently complaining about vampire politics in a book advertised with that as a plot point. You take it on the chin and move on quicker by book 5.
- Write the story for the people who like it, not the folks who don't. I write character-driven supernatural thrillers (things don't just happen) where people have conversations (to avoid stupid misunderstandings my people actually talk to each other) and my MC was intentionally the weakest one (magically, politically, etc) for bigger stakes/tension. This isn't everyone's cup of tea. It gets easier to spot the constructive feedback and someone's preferences.
- my story bible is invaluable It comes in handy on every page as my mythos grows. I use it to organize the big beats of later books so I can weave in foreshadowing and make sure to put in clues and setup.
- Subplots and tangents can be seductive, advice from Andy White. You need them to add richness to your world, but don't be afraid to write an idea as a short story instead of shoving it into one of the main novel. You can use these for newsletter opt-ins or extra content for a box set.