{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Standalone or series?","description":"SHOW NOTES: Should your book be a standalone novel or the start of a series? In this episode, Inger Johnson explores one of the most important decisions aspiring authors face. She discusses the creative, marketing, and reader-engagement differences between standalones and series, explains how genre expectations influence success, and shares why a &quot;standalone with series potential&quot; may be the ideal approach for many first-time authors. Whether you're writing historical fiction, fantasy, mystery, or literary fiction, this episode will help you make a more informed decision about your writing journey. &amp;nbsp; Talking Points:   The standalone vs. series decision affects far more than storytelling.   Different stories naturally fit different formats.   Reader psychology plays a major role in publishing success.   Series often provide stronger long-term marketing advantages.   Standalones can deliver powerful, emotionally complete experiences.   Understanding your creative style is crucial when choosing a path.   A standalone with series potential offers flexibility and reduces pressure.   There is no &quot;wrong&quot; choice only the choice that best serves your story.   &amp;nbsp; ","author_name":"Lone Star Gridiron","author_url":"http:\/\/www.lonestargridiron.com","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/41746300\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/203240925"}