If you’ve already published one or two books, you’ve accomplished something many only dream of: you’ve created a world, developed characters, and shared your stories with readers. Now you may be hearing a creative whisper nudging you to return to that world—to explore what happened to a side character, tell the story from another perspective, or bridge the gap between books. That’s where a tie-in novel comes in.
A tie-in novel isn’t just another book in a series—it’s a chance to deepen the emotional resonance of your original story, reward loyal readers, and attract new ones. Whether you’re writing a prequel, a side-quel, or a spin-off, here’s how to do it well.
What Is a Tie-In Novel?
A tie-in novel is a book that connects to an existing work of fiction—usually one you’ve already published—and expands on its world, characters, or events. It’s not necessarily a direct sequel or part of a numbered series. Instead, it “ties in” to the original story in a complementary way.
Tie-in novels can take many forms, such as:
- Prequels – stories that take place before the events of your main book
- Side stories – focusing on secondary characters or parallel events
- Interquels – filling in the gaps between two existing books
- Spin-offs – featuring a new protagonist but set in the same world
Think of a tie-in as an opportunity to tell the stories that weren’t central to your original plot but still matter. These novels often appeal to fans who want to spend more time in the world you’ve created—and they can also serve as an entry point for new readers if crafted to stand alone.
In short, a tie-in novel extends your creative universe without requiring readers to follow a strict sequence. It enriches your fictional world and gives your audience more ways to engage with it.
1. Clarify Your Purpose
Before you dive in, ask yourself: Why am I writing this tie-in?
Some common motivations include:
- Exploring a character who didn’t get enough page time
- Filling in narrative gaps between two main books
- Telling the story from a different POV
- Introducing a new entry point to the world for readers
Understanding your goal will shape everything from plot structure to tone. If it’s character-driven, you’ll focus on internal arcs and backstory. If it’s world-expanding, you may need to develop new settings, cultures, or conflicts.
2. Respect Continuity (But Don't Be Afraid to Expand)
Your readers will expect internal consistency—timelines, character motivations, and world rules need to align with the original novel(s). Consider creating or reviewing a series bible to track details like ages, locations, backstories, and key events.
At the same time, a tie-in should offer something new. Introduce fresh stakes, unanswered questions, or subplots that enhance the original without rehashing it.
🔍 Tip: Don’t just summarize past events; reframe them through the lens of the new story.
3. Choose the Right POV Character
The most compelling tie-ins often come from a secondary character’s point of view. Ask:
- Who was affected by the main events but didn’t get to tell their side?
- Who might challenge the assumptions of the original narrator?
- Who’s at a personal crossroads that intersects with major plot events?
Letting a lesser-known voice take the lead not only makes the story feel fresh, but it can also cast new light on characters readers thought they already knew.
4. Decide Where It Fits in the Reading Order
A tie-in can live in several narrative slots:
- Prequel – Before the events of the original book
- Interquel – Between two published books
- Parallel – Occurring at the same time as the original but from a different perspective
- Sequel/Spin-off – After the original, often following a side character
Make sure the book can stand on its own while still offering added value to returning readers. Avoid relying too heavily on the original book for context—new readers should be able to enjoy the story without confusion.
5. Build in Easter Eggs and Callbacks
One of the joys of a tie-in is delighting readers with familiar moments or inside knowledge. A background event in the original novel might become the climax of the tie-in. A throwaway line could reveal hidden depth.
These nods create a sense of interconnectedness—just don’t let them distract from the new story’s emotional arc.
6. Plan Your Marketing Angle
From a publishing standpoint, tie-in novels can be powerful tools for audience retention and brand growth. Use them to:
- Reignite interest in an earlier book
- Build momentum for a new release
- Offer exclusive content to newsletter subscribers or Patreon backers
- Target niche readers (e.g., fans of a particular character or subplot)
Be clear in your marketing about how the tie-in relates to your other books. That clarity will help both loyal readers and newcomers decide where to start.
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted tie-in novel rewards your most dedicated fans, deepens your fictional universe, and keeps your creative energy flowing. It doesn’t have to be a major production—novellas or short novels work well too—but it does need a clear purpose, emotional stakes, and a strong connection to the heart of your original work.
When done thoughtfully, a tie-in can transform a single book into the foundation of a larger, more vibrant storytelling universe.