So…what’s a new author like ME doing in an established series like The Colton’s???
Hello everyone! Charlene Parris here. Today, I want to talk about an experience I thought I’d never get until my author career was further established—writing a continuity book.
One day, my former editor, Emma Cole, surprised me with an email. And the title?
Colton Book Opportunity.
The Colton’s is a popular continuity series and often written by well-established Harlequin authors.
So how did a newbie like me get this chance?
I think my editor believed I could produce a worthy manuscript, which is a HUGE compliment. So I immediately said YES and was provided a general outline for the series. The editor and authors also met via Zoom for a meet and greet.
Why did I decide to say yes?
It’s a completely new challenge for me, and I love trying new things!
What did this involve?
I was provided a short synopsis of my book which included its theme and how it connected with the other books. Details were hammered out between the authors and editor to ensure consistent flow throughout the books—things like new characters, and the layout of the resort where the stories took place.
What Did I Learn During the Writing Process?
- This is the first time I’ve written a continuity book, and I’ve learned this method of writing can feel limited. You have to follow the series bible and make sure your manuscript picks up from the previous books while writing your story.
- The series bible can change. This is where constant contact with the authors and editor is a must. For my book, I thought I was only writing the wedding, but it turned out I also had to write the bridal shower, and I discovered this after a chat with the author whose book came before mine.
- Being a fast writer comes in handy with continuity series. Case in point—I was the last one to turn in my manuscript, and I wrote Book 5 of 6 (I have a full-time job along with writing). Because I was last, I needed to make edits to reflect what happened in Books 4 and 6. Thankfully, I didn’t have a lot to do, but it could have become a lot more complicated.
With What I Know Now, If I Get Another Opportunity to Write in a Series, I’m Going To…
- Take a DEEP BREATH. The excitement will hit you hard, and you will say “Yes!” without thinking. I would suggest stepping back first, so that you can read the information again with a calm mind and ask questions before signing the contract.
- Make sure to have an initial meeting between the editor and other authors. Introduce yourself during the Zoom chat and get as much additional information on the continuity series as possible.
- Ask lots of questions! Your editor, the series authors—whenever you need clarification on something, please ask. Things can change, and if you don’t stay on top of it, you could face a lot of work, from rewrites to a complete revamp of your story.
- Provide a quicker turnaround time. Although I wasn’t late in turning in my manuscript, being a slow writer meant I was the last author to finish. I write clean, so edits—including changes to reflect the previous books—weren’t too bad, but it could have been worse!
Receiving an invitation to write in a popular continuity series was a unique experience for me. If you’re offered the opportunity, I hope my thoughts will help you write the best book you can!
The latest in the Colton’s of Arizona series, Colton’s Vow, is available now!
Going undercover at a wedding, may place her heart in danger.
Dani Colton is visiting her family’s exclusive Arizona resort to attend her sister’s wedding. But when her siblings persuade her to use the occasion to get close to guest Matthew Bennett, she’s conflicted. Matthew’s aunt, their stepmother, may be responsible for a series of dangerous “accidents” at Mariposa. Dani must find out whether Matthew is colluding with his relative. But the powerful attraction smoldering between them is a huge obstacle. What if he’s guilty? And if not, how will Matthew react when he finds out she’s been deceiving him?
Colton’s Vow by Charlene Parris is out now! Check it out on Harlequin.com
