Writing a book in 365 days – My Story

Time to move on – perhaps a sequel?

…

The Second Chapter: To Sequel or Not to Sequel?

Every writer dreams of publishing the book—the novel that captures hearts, lands on bestseller lists, and finally sees their name in print. But once the final page is turned and the final edit approved, a new question often creeps in, quiet but persistent: What about a sequel? Or a prequel?

For some, the journey doesn’t end with one book. For others, the idea of expanding their world feels unnecessary or even overwhelming. So where’s the line? Does every author have a second book in them? And more importantly, how do we know when a standalone story deserves to become a series?

Does Everyone Have a Second Book In Them?

In short—yes, but maybe not the same way.

Every storyteller has more tales to tell. Whether it’s within the same universe, through new characters, or a return to old favourites—there’s always more to explore. But here’s the truth: having a second story idea isn’t the same as having a necessary sequel.

A sequel shouldn’t exist simply because the first book sold well. It must earn its place. It should deepen the themes, evolve the characters, or expand a world in a way that feels organic—not forced. A prequel, meanwhile, must offer something the original didn’t: untold motivations, hidden histories, or emotional context that reframes the entire narrative.

Not every book needs to be part of a trilogy. In fact, some of the most powerful stories are those that end with finality. Consider The Great Gatsby or To Kill a Mockingbird. These stories are complete, and their strength lies in closure. Adding a sequel wouldn’t enhance them—it might even dilute their impact.

When Do You Know a Story is Meant to Be More Than One?

The shift from standalone to series often starts unconsciously.

Maybe it’s a character whose arc feels unfinished. Perhaps it’s a world so richly imagined that the first book only scratched the surface. Or it could be a central conflict that can’t be fully resolved in one narrative arc.

Here are a few signs your book might be destined for more:

Your characters won’t let you go. They start speaking in your head again. They have unfinished business—even if they don’t realise it yet.
The world feels alive. Readers ask, “What happens next?” or “What was it like before?” That curiosity is a signal.
The stakes grow beyond the personal. If the first book dealt with individual survival, but the world itself is now at risk—congratulations, you’ve laid the foundation for a series.
You’ve left intentional threads. Foreshadowing a larger mythology, introducing mysterious factions, or dropping cryptic lore can all be clues you’re building for more.

Timing matters too. Some authors plan series from the start—George R.R. Martin mapped out A Song of Ice and Fire with multiple volumes in mind. Others, like J.K. Rowling, realised the story was bigger than expected only after Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone exploded in popularity.

But here’s the secret: you don’t have to know from page one. You can begin writing a standalone and let the story tell you where it wants to go. Trust the process. Listen to your instincts. And don’t rush to monetize your success with a sequel that isn’t ready.

How Long Before We Begin?

That depends on why you want to return.

If the story is still burning in you—go ahead. Start drafting ideas, notes, and character journals. But if you’re writing a sequel just because fans demand it or you feel obligated, take a breath. Step away.

Many authors benefit from a cooling-off period. A year. Two. Time to reflect, gain perspective, and return with fresh eyes. Think of it this way: your first book was a discovery. Your sequel should be deeper, wiser, and more intentional.

Some writers begin thinking about a sequel during the final edits of Book One. Others wait until they’ve written something entirely new. There’s no right timeline—only the right reason.

Final Thoughts: Is a Second Book Necessary?

No. But it can be meaningful.

A sequel or prequel shouldn’t be a cash grab or a filler. It should feel inevitable—like the story demanded continuation. Whether it’s one more chapter in an epic saga or a deep dive into a character’s past, the second book must stand on its own merit.

So ask yourself:

Does this story need more?
Am I returning for the right reasons?
Do I have something meaningful to add?

If the answer is yes—then welcome to the next chapter. Your audience is waiting. And who knows? Maybe your second book will be the one that changes everything.

Now, tell me—do you have a sequel in you?

Writing a book in 365 days – 353

Day 353

Introduction: Why Your Choice of Software Matters

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page; it’s a craft that demands focus, organisation, and the right set of tools to bring ideas to life. The software you choose can:

Boost productivity – by cutting down on manual formatting and navigation.
Protect your creative flow – by offering distraction‑free modes and version control.
Scale with your project – from a single‑page article to a 500‑page novel or a multi‑chapter research thesis.

With a flood of options on the market, two camps dominate the conversation:

Dedicated writing software (think Scrivener, Ulysses, yWriter).
Run‑of‑the‑mill word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages).

Let’s dive deep into the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use‑cases for each, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your workflow.

1. Dedicated Writing Software – The Specialist’s Toolkit

1.1 What Makes a “Dedicated” App Different?

Dedicated writing apps are built from the ground up for long‑form, project‑based writing. They go beyond the classic “type‑and‑print” paradigm and provide:

Feature	Why It Matters
Project‑level organization (folders, corkboards, outline view)	Keeps chapters, scenes, research, and notes in one place without endless scrolling.
Distraction‑free modes	Full‑screen or “typewriter” view clears the screen of UI clutter, helping you stay in the zone.
Version control & snapshots	Capture a “snapshot” of a chapter at any point and revert without losing later edits.
Export versatility	Export to ePub, Kindle, PDF, Word, plain text, and even manuscript‑ready formats with a single click.
Metadata & tagging	Attach custom fields (e.g., POV, status, word count) for advanced sorting and filtering.

1.2 Scrivener – The Industry Standard

“If you write a novel, a screenplay, or a dissertation, Scrivener is the Swiss Army knife you never knew you needed.” — John H., bestselling author

Pros

	Scrivener Highlights
Robust Binder	Drag‑and‑drop chapters, scenes, and research PDFs into a hierarchical tree.
Corkboard & Outliner	Visualize story arcs with index cards; rearrange with a mouse swipe.
Split‑Screen Editing	View two documents side‑by‑side (e.g., manuscript + notes).
Built‑in Templates	Pre‑made templates for novels, scripts, non‑fiction, and academic papers.
Cross‑Platform	macOS, Windows, iOS (sync via Dropbox).

Cons

	Potential Drawbacks
Learning Curve	The sheer number of features can overwhelm newcomers.
Price	$49 (Mac/Windows) + $29 (iOS) – a one‑time purchase, but higher than a free Google account.
Collaboration	Not designed for real‑time co‑authoring (though you can share exported files).

1.3 Other Notable Dedicated Apps

App	Ideal For	Standout Feature
Ulysses (macOS/iOS)	Bloggers, journalists, Apple‑centric writers	Seamless iCloud sync + Markdown simplicity
yWriter (Windows)	Screenwriters & novelists on a budget	Free, robust scene‑based organization
Storyist (macOS/iOS)	Fiction & script writers	Integrated storyboard & script formatting

2. Run‑of‑the‑Mill Word Processors – The Everyday Workhorse

2.1 Microsoft Word – The Classic Giant

Word has been the default for decades, and its capabilities have expanded far beyond a simple text editor.

Pros

	Word Strengths
Universal Compatibility	Almost every publisher, editor, and academic institution expects a .docx file.
Advanced Formatting	Styles, footnotes, cross‑references, tables of contents – all built‑in.
Track Changes & Comments	Ideal for collaborative editing with editors or co‑authors.
Add‑ins & Macros	Customize with VBA scripts for repetitive tasks.
Desktop & Online Versions	Use the full‑featured desktop app or the cloud‑based Word Online.

Cons

	Word Weaknesses
Project Management Lacks	No native folder‑like binder; you’ll need to open multiple files or use a master document (which can be unstable).
Distraction‑Heavy UI	Ribbon, sidebars, and toolbars can pull focus away from writing.
Limited Export Options	Not as straightforward to output to ePub or Kindle format without third‑party plugins.

2.2 Google Docs – The Cloud‑Centric Contender

Google Docs is the go‑to for real‑time collaboration, especially in remote teams or classrooms.

Pros

	Google Docs Benefits
Real‑Time Collaboration	Multiple users can edit simultaneously with live cursors.
Automatic Cloud Saves	No risk of losing work due to hardware failure.
Add‑Ons Marketplace	Extend functionality (e.g., citation managers, grammar checkers).
Access Anywhere	Browser‑based; works on any OS with internet.
Free Tier	Generous storage via Google Drive.

Cons

	Google Docs Limitations
Limited Formatting & Styles	Complex manuscript formatting (e.g., long TOCs) can be clunky.
No Built‑In Project View	You’ll need to manage individual files manually in Drive.
Offline Mode	Works, but requires setup; performance can be slower offline.
Export Formats	Primarily PDF, Word, plain text; no native ePub/KDP export.

2.3 When Word Processors Shine

Scenario	Recommended Tool
Academic Papers (APA/MLA/Chicago)	Word (styles, citations, footnotes)
Team Reports or Shared Docs	Google Docs (real‑time editing)
Short‑Form Content (blog posts, newsletters)	Either – choose based on collaboration needs
Final Manuscript Formatting for Publishers	Word (industry standard)

3. Decision Matrix – Matching Tool to Writer Type

Writer Profile	Primary Needs	Best Fit
Novelist (300‑500+ pages, heavy outlining)	Project organization, scene tracking, flexible export	Scrivener (or Ulysses for Mac/iOS)
Screenwriter	Script formatting, beat boards, quick revisions	Final Draft (industry) or Scrivener (script template)
Academic Researcher	Citation management, footnotes, large reference library	Word (with EndNote/Zotero) or Google Docs + add‑on
Freelance Blogger	Fast drafting, SEO collaboration, easy publishing	Google Docs (collab) or Word (if you prefer offline)
Non‑fiction Author (multiple chapters, interviews, PDFs)	Mixed media integration, flexible export, version snapshots	Scrivener
Team of Editors	Real‑time comments, change tracking, simultaneous editing	Google Docs (or Word Online)

4. Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Chosen Software

Start with a Template – Most dedicated apps ship with ready‑made templates that handle margins, headers, and chapter styles. Save time by customising once and reusing.
Leverage Cloud Sync – Even if you love Scrivener, store your project folder in Dropbox or OneDrive to protect against hardware loss.
Combine Tools – Write first drafts in a distraction‑free environment (Scrivener, Ulysses, or even a plain‑text editor), then import into Word for final formatting and submission.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts – Learn the top 10 shortcuts for your platform; they shave seconds off every page.
Backup Regularly – Set up an automatic backup schedule (e.g., weekly zip of your project folder) regardless of cloud storage.

5. Bottom Line: There Is No One‑Size‑Fits‑All Answer

If your writing is project‑heavy, non‑linear, and you need robust organisation, dedicated software like Scrivener (or its Mac‑centric cousins) is the clear winner.
If you work primarily in teams, need instant collaboration, or are delivering polished documents to publishers or academia, Microsoft Word or Google Docs will serve you better.

My personal recommendation? Use a hybrid workflow: draft and outline in Scrivener for its unrivalled project management, then export your manuscript to Word for final polishing, formatting, and sharing. For collaborative pieces, switch to Google Docs during the editing phase, then bring the clean version back into Word.

Bonus: Quick Comparison Chart

Feature	Scrivener	Ulysses	Microsoft Word	Google Docs
Project Binder
Distraction‑Free Mode
Real‑Time Collaboration			(online)
Advanced Export (ePub, Kindle)			(needs add‑on)
Citation Management	Limited	Limited	(via add‑ins)	(via add‑ons)
Price (as of 2026)	$49 (one‑time)	$49.99/yr	$149.99 (Microsoft 365)	Free (Google Workspace)
Learning Curve	Moderate	Low	Low	Low

Take Action Today

Identify your primary writing goal (novel, article, thesis, team report).
Match the goal to the software using the matrix above.
Download a free trial (Scrivener offers a 30‑day trial; Word has a 60‑day Microsoft 365 trial).
Test a small project—write a single chapter or a 1,000‑word article. Observe how the tool fits your workflow.
Commit to the software that feels like an extension of your creative mind, not a barrier.

Happy writing!

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Washington State

Discover Washington’s Hidden Treasures: A Road Less Travelled Adventure

Washington State is often synonymous with bustling cities, iconic peaks like Mount Rainier, and the majestic Olympic Peninsula. But for those who crave a deeper, more authentic connection with the Pacific Northwest, a quieter side of Washington awaits—off the crowded highways and beyond the usual tourist map. If you’re ready to trade the familiar for the extraordinary, here are five must-experience adventures on Washington’s road less travelled.

1. Stehekin: The Remote Gateway to North Cascades Wilderness

Tucked deep within North Cascades National Park, Stehekin is a place only accessible by boat or floatplane. This secluded 360-square-mile paradise feels like stepping into a living canvas of alpine peaks, glacial lakes, and ancient forests.

Why It’s Special: With no cars allowed, the only way to reach this hidden gem is via a 2.5-hour boat ride from Wenatchee. Once there, the hiking is legendary—trails like the Skyline and Cascade Loop offer jaw-dropping views, while Lake Chelan’s turquoise waters invite kayaking or picnics. Stay at the cozy Stehekin Resort, where lodging includes meals prepared from local ingredients.

Tip: Best visited May–October. Pack layers; the mountain climate can shift quickly.

2. Methow Valley: Wild Beauty and Cultural Gems

Nestled in the North Cascades, the Methow Valley is a playground for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. Often dubbed “One of America’s Last Frontiers,” this region blends dramatic scenery with a quirky, artsy vibe.

Why It’s Special: Drive Highway 2 through wildflower meadows and pine forests to towns like Winthrop and Twisp. Hike the iconic Hidden Lake Trail in North Cascades National Park, or horseback ride along the Methow River. Don’t miss the Methow Arts Trail, which connects galleries, studios, and local markets in towns like Trout Lake and Pateros.

Tip: Visit in late spring for wildflower blooms and in the fall for incredible fall foliage.

3. Palouse Region: A Sea of Scrolling Gold and Green

The Palouse—a region spanning southeast Washington and Idaho—is a surreal blend of rolling hills, historic prairie landscapes, and vibrant college towns. Known for its wheat fields and kaleidoscopic sunsets, this area feels like a step into a different world.

Why It’s Special: Follow the Palouse to Cascades Trail for scenic drives with panoramic views of the bluffs. Hunt for quirky “Cereal Box Art” dotting the hillsides, and explore the charming college town of Pullman, home to Washington State University. Don’t miss the Palouse High Prairie—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—and the nearby Tumwater Falls Park in Cle Elum.

Tip: Visit in the spring or fall for the most colourful landscapes.

4. Cispus Falls: A Secret Waterfall Oasis

For a true off-grid adventure, head to Cispus Road in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This 26-mile gravel road is a haven for those seeking seclusion, with lush evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls, and natural springs.

Why It’s Special: Park at the trailhead and walk to Cispus Falls, where icy water plunges into a perfect-pool swimming hole. Further down the road, discover Pine Creek Falls and hidden swimming spots. The area is a favourite among locals but remains largely undiscovered by tourists.

Tip: Prepare for rough terrain—four-wheel drive is recommended. Visit in summer for warmer water and hiking conditions.

5. San Juan Islands: Slow Life on Lopez Island

While the San Juan Islands are a popular stop for ferry rides, Lopez Island offers a serene alternative to the bustling Friday Harbour. This car-free island (except for a few local vehicles) invites you to slow down and savour the pace of island life.

Why It’s Special: Rent a bike or hike to Gold Beach, where you can kayak, birdwatch, or simply relax. Visit the American Museum of Wine in the quaint village of Lopezport, or join a farm-to-table tour at Lopez Island Creamery. Night owls will love stargazing—light pollution here is so low that the Milky Way seems to touch the ground.

Tip: Take the Washington State Ferries from Anacortes or Clinton.

Conclusion: Embrace the Road Less Travelled

Washington’s lesser-known corners offer more than just stunning landscapes—they tell stories of the state’s rich history, thriving ecosystems, and resilient communities. Whether you’re hiking through Stehekin’s alpine silence, biking the Palouse’s golden hills, or floating above Cispus Falls, these adventures promise moments of serenity and discovery. So, next time you’re planning a road trip, veer off the map and let the unexpected lead the way. The road less travelled is waiting to surprise you.

Final Tip: Always check local regulations and trail conditions before heading out. Share the trail, pack out trash, and respect the land—because these hidden gems are worth protecting for future travellers.

Where will your next detour take you?

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – New York

Beyond the Skyline: 5 Off‑the‑Beaten‑Path Experiences in New York City

You’ve checked off Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and the Met. Now it’s time to slip into the city’s quieter corners, where locals and seasoned explorers discover a side of New York that most tourists never see. Below are five unforgettable, low‑key adventures that let you experience the “real” New York—without the selfie‑stick crowds.

1. Wander the Forgotten Tunnels of the Elevated Acre

What it is: A hidden 2‑acre rooftop garden perched atop a 19th‑century freight elevator shaft at 55 Water Street, overlooking the East River. The space is a lush, industrial‑chic oasis complete with a waterfall, pine forest, and a panoramic view of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Why it feels off‑beat: The Elevated Acre is tucked behind a nondescript metal door that looks like a service entrance. Only the occasional office worker or curious local stumbles upon it, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation or a low‑key picnic.

Insider tip: Arrive just after sunrise (the garden opens at 6 a.m.) to watch the city wake up. Bring a reusable coffee cup—there’s a small café kiosk that serves locally roasted brews and pastries.

Cost & Logistics: Free entry. The nearest subway stop is Wall Street (4/5) or Broad Street (J/Z); a short walk east across the waterfront will bring you to the entrance on Water Street.

2. Catch a Silent Disco in the Underground Tunnels of the Grymes Hill Tunnel (Brooklyn)

What it is: A pop‑up, headphone‑only dance party held inside the historic, brick‑lined railway tunnel beneath the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. DJs spin everything from deep house to vintage funk, while participants groove to their own private soundtrack.

Why it feels off‑beat: The tunnel is usually off‑limits to the public and used only for maintenance. The secretive nature of these events draws a small, eclectic crowd—often artists, students, and New York’s indie music scene.

Insider tip: Follow the whisper campaign on the neighbourhood’s Facebook “Brooklyn Secret Events” group for the next date. Arrive early to snag a spot near the tunnel’s natural “light well,” where shafts of sunlight pierce the ceiling—perfect for Instagram stories that look like a scene from Inception.

Cost & Logistics: Tickets range $15‑$25, which include the headphones. The entrance is at Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park; take the 4/5 to Fulton St then walk south along the waterfront.

3. Explore the Vegan Artisanal Market at The Gowanus Canal’s “Greenhouse”

What it is: A seasonal, open‑air market set on a reclaimed warehouse rooftop overlooking the industrial‑chic Gowanus Canal. Local vendors showcase vegan cheeses, fermented kombuchas, hand‑crafted soy candles, and artwork inspired by the city’s waterways.

Why it feels off‑beat: While the Gowanus Canal is often associated with gritty urban renewal, this market celebrates sustainability and community creativity, drawing in a crowd of eco‑conscious locals who prefer farmers’ markets in the Bronx or Queens.

Insider tip: Bring a reusable tote and a curiosity for “wild” flavours. Try the cashew‑based mozzarella paired with locally grown heirloom tomatoes, then stroll across the canal’s footbridge to watch kayakers glide by at sunset.

Cost & Logistics: Entry is free; items for purchase range $3‑$20. The market runs on the first Saturday of each month from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Nearest subway: F to York St, then a 10‑minute walk west on 9th St.

4. Attend a Midnight Screening at The Film Forum’s “Cinematic Night Shift”

What it is: A series of late‑night showings of obscure foreign films, cult classics, and experimental works, held in the intimate 224‑seat theatre on the Lower East Side. Each session includes a brief Q&A with the director or a film scholar.

Why it feels off‑beat: While most visitors flock to the big multiplexes in Times Square, Film Forum’s midnight series draws cinephiles who value conversation over popcorn. The dimly lit lobby, vintage posters, and the smell of old leather seats create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a secret society of film lovers.

Insider tip: Arrive early for the complimentary “screening cocktail”—a rotating concoction inspired by the evening’s film (think a “Bong Joon‑ho” mocktail for a Korean thriller). Seats fill fast, so reserve online at least a week in advance.

Cost & Logistics: $12 per ticket, plus a small “donation” for the Q&A. The theatre is located at 209 West Houston St; accessible via B/D at Grand St or L at 1st Ave.

5. While officially called the Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour, the experience is described by visitors as “eerie” and “haunting,” and includes access to areas like the former morgue and contagious disease wards.

This 90-minute guided tour offers a fascinating look into the abandoned hospital complex, which has been closed to the public since 1954.

Tour Details

Age Restriction: All participants must be at least 10 years old.

Focus: The tour focuses on the history of the hospital and the experience of the over one million immigrants who passed through its doors. It’s not a ghost tour with actors or jump scares, but the abandoned atmosphere provides a naturally eerie environment.

Key Sights: Visitors walk through the contagious disease wards, laundry rooms, kitchen, staff quarters, and the autopsy room, which features an eight-cadaver refrigerator. The tour also features an art installation by JR, with life-sized historical photographs placed within the decaying buildings.

Tour Operator: These exclusive tours are offered only by Save Ellis Island, the non-profit partner of the National Park Service dedicated to the preservation of the hospital complex. Tour fees support these conservation efforts.

Booking: Tours run daily, year-round, but must be booked in advance as they often sell out. You can purchase tour tickets through the Save Ellis Island website or the ferry operator, Statue City Cruises.

Tickets & Pricing: The Hard Hat Tour costs approximately $50 extra per adult, in addition to the ferry ticket required to reach the island.

How to Weave These Hidden Gems Into Your Itinerary

Map Your “Off‑The‑Beaten‑Path” Day: Start early at the Elevated Acre for sunrise, then head downtown for the Ghost Walk in the evening.
Balance the Unusual with the Classic: Pair a quiet morning with a traditional brunch in the West Village, then cap the night with the silent disco.
Travel Light, Travel Curious: Pack a small backpack with reusable items (water bottle, tote, portable charger) so you’re ready for any spontaneous discovery.

Final Thoughts

New York’s allure isn’t limited to its glittering skyscrapers and iconic museums. Its true soul lives in the nooks and crannies that only the curious dare to explore—whether it’s a rooftop garden hidden above the financial district, a clandestine tunnel humming with music, or a silent hallway echoing with ghost stories.

Next time you book a trip to the city that never sleeps, give yourself permission to wander off the well‑trodden path. You might find that the best memories are made in places you never expected to see.

Happy exploring, fellow wanderer!

Writing a book in 365 days – 353

Day 353

Introduction: Why Your Choice of Software Matters

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page; it’s a craft that demands focus, organisation, and the right set of tools to bring ideas to life. The software you choose can:

Boost productivity – by cutting down on manual formatting and navigation.
Protect your creative flow – by offering distraction‑free modes and version control.
Scale with your project – from a single‑page article to a 500‑page novel or a multi‑chapter research thesis.

With a flood of options on the market, two camps dominate the conversation:

Dedicated writing software (think Scrivener, Ulysses, yWriter).
Run‑of‑the‑mill word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages).

Let’s dive deep into the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use‑cases for each, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your workflow.

1. Dedicated Writing Software – The Specialist’s Toolkit

1.1 What Makes a “Dedicated” App Different?

Dedicated writing apps are built from the ground up for long‑form, project‑based writing. They go beyond the classic “type‑and‑print” paradigm and provide:

Feature	Why It Matters
Project‑level organization (folders, corkboards, outline view)	Keeps chapters, scenes, research, and notes in one place without endless scrolling.
Distraction‑free modes	Full‑screen or “typewriter” view clears the screen of UI clutter, helping you stay in the zone.
Version control & snapshots	Capture a “snapshot” of a chapter at any point and revert without losing later edits.
Export versatility	Export to ePub, Kindle, PDF, Word, plain text, and even manuscript‑ready formats with a single click.
Metadata & tagging	Attach custom fields (e.g., POV, status, word count) for advanced sorting and filtering.