Are you ever scared to write the sequel(s)?

WriteMinded said:

I often see comments similar to this one. What if the first book is a stand-alone and the second and third (or 10th) are also stand-alones? Would you still say that if #1 isn't picked up none of the others will be either?

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No, because agents and editors are humans and operate through weird subjective processes. If the writing and plotting is reasonably solid throughout, you're left with their emotional reactions to your work. All of which can change according to variables outside your control. Book #1 may not strike the right note with anyone during one query round, but book #2 or #3 will get lots of responses. You can't know ahead of time, so don't use that worry as an excuse not to query, either.

This business is crazy enough without writers creating more performance anxiety for themselves.

John342 said:

My view on sequels is that you really need to get published. If you write a sequel to a book that gets roundly rejected then you are wasting effort. A fresh piece may hit a cord that the first didn't.

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I wouldn't call it wasting effort. I was working on my second novel and started on my third all the while looking for a publisher for my first. In the meantime, my writing improved and I was able to make improvements on my first novel and add or change things for continuity sake.

And another advantage to starting on the sequel(s) right away or soon after: when the first book is finally published, and it does well, you'll be well ahead of the train.