We have all had our share of second: pieces of pie, dinner, drinks or engagements in an activity. Usually the second time participating in a sport we are better. Then once in a while our second try at something we fail.   Maybe it is over confidence that makes us lazy, but whatever it is seconds can become thirds.  Third time is always the charm.

I recently had an agent tell me my second novel was just not as good as the first. That my characters were one-dimensional and the plot was very similar to what is out there. Determined, I decided that I need to go back and fix my weaknesses. I just do not see why I should move forward on a new book if I can not create a great second.

For readers out there: Have you had any bad seconds?