Series Vs. Serials

Series Vs. Serials

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Kristin holt | Kristin Holt | Series vs. Serials. Photograph: wooden hand places the final puzzle piece. Copyright Dana Rothstein, Dreamstime Stock Photos.

Copyright Dana Rothstein, Dreamstime Stock Photos

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Series

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A Series, in fiction, can be (among other definitions) a set of loosely related books connected by a cast of characters (such as a family [brothers]. Or a group [SEAL Team]). Sometimes a location [city] or an event [the apocalypse] tie the stories together. Often these books can be read in any order. Even better, the reader still understands the premise and hasn’t missed much. For example, secondary characters in the book you might read first are married. But in a previous book in the series, they were the main characters. We enjoyed watching their romance blossom and grow toward impending marriage.

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By this definition The Bride Lottery is the first book in a new series: Prosperity’s Mail Order Brides.

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This series, like my others, will contain loosely connected books that may be read and enjoyed in any order. Each book is a complete romance, and as a romance has a happily-ever-after. Still, the lives of the characters naturally progress. They age. Have more children. Add on to the house. Experience more life. The book has a tidy and intentional finish.

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A reader could enjoy a single title and not miss out on anything; reading enjoyment is typically maximized by picking up multiple books within the series. The loose connections sweeten the experience. It’s almost like a visit with old friends to see familiar characters either before or after their starring role.

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Serials

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Serials are quite different. Episodic in nature, serials can be viewed much like episodes in a favorite TV show. Multiple episodes (each a serial) make up a season (the whole book). Sometimes TV shows run for many seasons.

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If a reader picked up a book in the middle of a series, they missed out on important information. Some details simply can’t be recapped adequately. Expect cliffhangers at the conclusion of each episode. Some problems resolve in an episode but many long-term conflicts remain. The story remains incomplete.

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Because the current generation loyally follows favorite shows on TV, it’s no surprise fiction adopted the model. Some readers want to finish under 2 hours of reading time. Others thrive on a power ending, often a cliffhanger. Still others love picking up again with the next serial in a week or two. More power to them.

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Some types of fiction lend themselves to the serial format. Others do not.

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Personally, I dislike this format in the romance genre, and I promise my series are not serials.

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Invitation

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Please tell me…what is your preference–Series or Serials?

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Updated July 2022
Copyright © 2015 by Kristin Holt LC
Series Vs. Serials