Starting Book Two
When I started writing the second book in the series, I had no idea how difficult it would be to find that balance between too many references back to the first book or not enough.
Should I start with a recap of what happened at the end of the first book to stir up the reader’s memory, or hope the reader remembers enough to start following the continuing story line? I know for me, since I read a fair number of books, I don’t always remember a lot of details. I know other writers who can remember characters, setting and plot, long after they’ve read the book.
My first attempt to start the book was by continuing exactly where the story ended in the first book. That didn’t work at all, especially since the first book ended in a major fight and now we are at the aftermath. Starting the story at the end of an action scene does not work. My critique group thought it was well written, but most had no idea what was really going on. I had done nothing to set the scene and the main character was absent, leaving a secondary character to start the story. As with any major confrontation, there are a large number of persons involved. I brought too many of them into the story too soon.
For my second attempt, I had the secondary character spend a short time reflecting on what happened and the affect it had on her. I devoted more time developing the scene through her eyes as she moved through the chamber, healing one person at a time. I took the time to develop the other characters and remind the reader of their positions in the story. I felt this was a much better start and my critique group liked it better, but most were still lost. They just didn’t remember who some of the characters were.
I’ve contemplated writing a prologue to summarize what happened in the first book. Here again I run into the problem of how much to include. The first book was long with numerous characters and plot lines. The other problem is that prologues have become unpopular since many writers don’t know how to write a good one. Some readers will take the time to read a prologue, but most will just skip them.
I think the best I can do is write a short, concise prologue highlighting the major events and characters. My hope is that those who remember the story will glance at the prologue and maybe just pass over it, while others will stop and read the entire prologue to refresh their memory of what went before.
Unfortunately, no matter which way I go, there will always be those who want more back-story and those who want less.
Thanks for following along with my thought process and helping me make up my mind of what I will do. You’ve all been a great help! LOL
The following is a short section from my second attempt at an opening.
Taking a deep breath, she faced Mathias. “Your friend lives. While there is life in me, I will not allow the Eye of Death to claim him, but I need help.”
Those still in the audience chamber gasped in surprise when Silverstar and his pack, including Moonlight, padded through the door and placed themselves before the princess.
It took all of Sofia’s resolve to not drown in the flood of Elder power granted to her. While the power of the storm inside gave her strength to destroy, this was a power so deep and pure it brought tears to her eyes. No wonder the Scared Mage despised them.
“Mathias, while I work on healing his wound, it will be up to you and others to get him to swallow as much soup and wine as he will tolerate. I cannot replace the blood he’s lost, but I can encourage the body to generate new blood from the food you give him.”
She faced Ronald and gripped his arm. “My friend. Please find me a med kit and then hold me. Whatever you do, do not let me fall.”
The audience chamber filled with the sound of murmuring as the word spread that Rafael still lived. A hush then fell when everyone realized something momentous was about to happen. None had ever experienced the wonder of Elders and Deluti working together. The echo of Moshere’s hooves outside the chamber and the sight of so many large mountain wolves arrayed at Sofia’s feet reinforced that belief.
