#ISWG - What is a Serial? | Renee Scattergood

Originally posted by Renee Scattergood:

I've gotten a few comments (and complaints) lately that my Shadow Stalker episodes are too short.

Well, they're meant to be!

Many of my readers know I mainly have been writing short works over the last two years, but now that I'm gaining a lot more new readers, readers that may be accustomed to novel length works, I think I need to explain why I write this way.

First, let me start by explaining what a serial is. Serials are short pieces of a bigger work that are published in intervals, and they are usually the length of a short story or a chapter in a novel.

Many authors serialize their novels simply by publishing each chapter of their novel as they write it. Others, like me, write their work specifically as a serial in episodes.

Think of a TV series. It's just in written form.

I started Shadow Stalker as a serial because I was scared about making mistakes during the self-publishing process. I figured it would be better to make mistakes on a small scale as I'm learning the industry, than huge ones on novels. And it's worked. I've learned a lot over the last few years.

I've also discovered that I love writing serials over longer works!

1. Because I can release books more often, which means you can read my work more often (once a month as opposed to 2 or 3 times a year).
2. It helps keep me motivated when I have to release something more often and keep to a schedule. I can get lazy when it comes to writing novels because I figure, "well I've got plenty of time."
3. They're just fun to write!

Of course, I cater to those who prefer longer works as well, which is why I release my bundles each year. And I'm working on a novel series as well for those who prefer novels. In the meantime, I'll keep writing and publishing my serials and short stories, and hope you keep enjoying them! :-D

Do you enjoy reading/writing serials? Or have you considered starting one? What have been your experiences? Do you like or dislike them? Why? I'd love to hear about it. Tell us your story in the comments below.

Check out some other great #IWSG posts by other great authors!