Why Writing a Book Series Might be the Smartest Move You Can Make

Why Writing a Book Series Might Be the Smartest Move You Can Make

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: writing one book is like a gateway drug.

In today’s episode of the Smart Publishing Impact Series, I’m coming at you solo (and still slightly raspy—thanks to the plague my daughter brought home from school) to talk about something I’m surprised I haven’t tackled on the podcast yet:

Book series.

Whether you’re a fiction writer or nonfiction author, if you’re thinking about writing a book—or if you’ve already written one—it’s time to think bigger. Because one book is great… but a series can be transformational.

Why Book Series Matter

Let’s get this out of the way: if you’re a fiction writer, a series isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Readers don’t just want stories anymore—they want worlds. Characters they can fall in love with, plotlines they can follow for years, and authors they can trust to deliver again and again.

And the writers who are gaining real traction in the market? They’re almost always series writers. Just like a musician drops albums, not one-hit wonders, successful fiction authors build collections—because a single book rarely makes a lasting impact (or consistent income).

But nonfiction authors? You’re not off the hook. Creating a series isn’t a must, but it’s absolutely something to consider.

The Strategy Behind the Series

If you're already outlining your first book or even halfway through it, think:

“Is there more here? Could this topic expand into multiple volumes?”

Even if you never follow through with more than one, having the potential gives you flexibility—and an edge. Especially if your readers finish Book 1 saying, “I wish there was more on ___.”

And if you do create a series, here’s what I want you to remember:

Volume > Royalties.
Your first book is your entry point. It should be priced to attract readers—not to rake in profit. A $2.99 Kindle price tag might feel low, but it opens the door for readers to become fans. And fans buy more books.

The math? Simple. If you hook a reader with Book 1, they’re much more likely to buy Book 2… and Book 3… and so on. A single $1 royalty becomes $25+ when you’ve got a 10-book series.

And 10? Research shows that’s the magic number where real momentum starts to build.

Why It Works

Amazon knows what it’s doing. When your books are part of a series, the platform automatically groups them together, offering readers a convenient “buy the whole series” button.

And readers use it.

I’ve seen it play out over and over again—people land on one book and end up buying the whole collection in one click. That’s how series turn casual browsers into loyal customers.

Plus, your fan base gets stronger. Amazon followers get notified every time you release something new, which means you’re building not just readers—but subscribers.

But First… Make It Good

None of this works unless the writing works.

Whether you’re in fiction or nonfiction, your book has to deliver. For fiction, that means memorable characters and tight story arcs. For nonfiction, it means clarity, usefulness, and a voice that connects.

And if you’re a fiction writer? Get beta readers. Seriously. If your characters don’t land or your plot fizzles out, readers won’t stick around for Book 2.

And most importantly? Remember this:
You are not your only reader.

Yes, writing is personal. But if you want people to buy your work, you need to make sure it’s for them, not just for you. That means being open to feedback, improving your craft, and understanding that marketable doesn’t mean inauthentic.

It means you’re doing the work to make your message land.

Final Word

Whether you’re brainstorming your first book or already planning your fifth, ask yourself this:

“How can I turn this into a series?”

Because the authors who are building audiences, growing income, and making a lasting impact?
They’re not stopping at one.

And neither should you.

Keep writing your story—because the world needs your voice.

—Renee