You’ve finished your first book, or maybe you’re outlining it, and a question keeps tugging at you: Should this be a standalone, or the start of a series?
At Winterwolf Press, we get this question a lot from authors during the submission stage. And honestly? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Publishing a series vs. a standalone book comes down to your story, your goals, and the kind of experience you want to create for your readers. Let’s walk through the pros, cons, and key questions to help you decide.
The Case for a Standalone Book
Pros:
- A complete, satisfying arc in one volume
- Easier entry point for readers
- Quicker turnaround from writing to publishing
- Lower pressure if you’re a debut author testing the waters
Standalones Are Ideal If:
- Your story wraps up cleanly in one book
- The stakes and character arcs feel resolved
- You’re experimenting with different genres or voices
- You want a strong launch before committing to long-form storytelling
What Publishers Think:
For new authors, standalones can be a great way to build confidence and establish voice. They also reduce risk on both sides, especially when we don’t yet know how readers will respond.
The Case for Writing a Series
Pros:
- Strong reader investment and anticipation
- More marketing momentum over time
- Greater word count flexibility
- Room to explore complex worlds and character growth
Series Are Ideal If:
- You have a rich world or long character arc to explore
- Your book ends with open threads or sequels naturally fit
- You want to build a long-term author brand around a core concept
- You enjoy continuity and expanding lore
What Publishers Think:
A well-planned series is exciting, but only if the first book can stand on its own. We often look for Book One to feel satisfying even if it’s the beginning of something bigger.
If you’re querying with a series, make sure:
- You’ve fully written or outlined Book One
- You’ve mapped the overall arc of the full series
- Each book can be sold or pitched with a clear hook
Marketing Considerations
- Standalone books are easier to promote to new readers. They can pick up the book without backtracking.
- Series books allow for long-term marketing and loyal fan bases but require readers to stay invested across installments.
At Winterwolf Press, we often recommend starting with a standalone with series potential. That way, if the book performs well, both you and your publisher can confidently move forward.
Can You Do Both?
Absolutely. Many successful authors alternate between the two. A standalone can give you breathing room between bigger commitments. A series can deepen reader loyalty over time.
Ask yourself:
- Would I enjoy writing these characters/worlds for years?
- Am I prepared to keep continuity and energy across multiple books?
- Does this first book deliver enough punch to stand alone if needed?
- Related Reading: What Are You Writing? (Standalone, Series or Serial) And How Long Should It Be?
Final Thoughts
Publishing a series vs. a standalone book is less about strategy and more about clarity.
Tell the story that wants to be told. If it’s big, bold, and epic? Go series. Is it sharp, focused, and complete? Go standalone.
At Winterwolf Press, we’re open to both, especially when the storytelling feels intentional.
Whether your story takes one book or five, what matters most is that it feels true, impactful, and complete in the way it was meant to be.
Related Reading: Need help in writing your author bio? Read here: How to Write a Professional Author Bio
