Fantasy series planning for me does not mean defining every scene in advance, but creating a **viable structure** in which the story can develop. I work consistently, logically, and orderly. At the same time, I leave room for the muse and for course corrections when the plot demands it. Planning is not a cage, but a framework.
1. Beginning and End as Fixed Points
My approach is deliberately unconventional: I don't plan a series in the technical sense, but a story with multiple parts. What is crucial is that I know the **beginning and the end**. Without these two fixed points, I lack direction. The beginning defines the initial state of the world. The end defines what is achieved or destroyed through conflict, loss, and decision.
I plan the middle section via **content points**. These are not chapters, but major developmental steps: war begins, alliance breaks, protagonist loses power, new threat arises. The middle section often changes, but its fundamental direction remains. Structure stays; details are fluid.
2. Structure of the Single Volume: Key Events
For the division into individual books, I work with **key events**. Each book needs its own goal and its own result. No volume may be merely a transit station. Every volume must contain a concluded development: victory, defeat, twist, or loss. Open questions remain, but the core conflict of the respective book is decided.
3. Rhythm and Scope: Reader Engagement
An important part of my planning is the scope. I have deliberately opted for **shorter volumes**, usually between 400 and 500 pages. Readers want to read series in manageable units. A series thrives on rhythm and reliability.
My goal is clear: at least two books per year, ideally three. This keeps the story present and the readership engaged. Series are not a single work, but an ongoing process. Therefore, planning must also be realistic. Whoever starts a series takes responsibility for its conclusion.
4. Thematic Development and Flexibility
Another important point is **thematic development**. A series must not only become larger but deeper. Questions of power, guilt, order, loss, and change must intensify from volume to volume. Every sequel must show that the past had consequences.
Flexibility remains necessary nonetheless. If a better path emerges during writing, it is taken. Planning must not become more important than logic. If a character, due to their personality, would have to act differently than intended, the plan is adjusted, not the character bent.
5. The Five Pillars of Series Planning
For me, series planning consists of five fixed pillars:
- Clear beginning
- Clear end
- Structured middle section
- Key events per volume
- Realistic publication strategy
Thus, not a loose sequence of books is created, but a coherent story with direction, development, and conclusion. A fantasy series is not a product of chance. It is a long-term project that only works when structure, discipline, and openness exist simultaneously.