Other writers continuing one's stories?

[adreamweaver]

Could I ask another question of the experienced writers out there?

I just got an email as follows:  'hey. i just read your fanfics "changes" and "her way" and they kinda gave me some new ideas for a fanfic i've been trying to write but been having writers block with. so i was wondering if i could continue your story with mine? you would get the

Comments

[cordykitten]

What if you don't like the second writer writes your Buffy and Spike, making them different (or acting out of character = not acting like in the 'prequel'). (Not sure if I can express this right.) Can you influence that?
(That were the first thoughts coming to my mind.
Every writer has a writing style that is a bit different.)
Just my humble thoughts but I'm not a writer. And yes, I'm too careful sometimes.

[adreamweaver]

That's exactly why I was worried - that this person would make them act out of character. I'm very involved with my Spike and Buffy, and the way they think and act is crucial - similar in all my stories, past and future. I would hate to find that twisted or spoilt by someone else not seeing them the way I do.

I wouldn't be able to influence it at all. This person is a complete stranger! I'm so glad you have the same doubts as I do. I wasn't sure what was right in fanfic circles, but now I can say no without feeling like a jerk. Thank you!

[cordykitten]

I don't know what's right (common) but I can tell you two thinks:

One taking a story from another author and continue it without asking was brought before stop_plagiarism once.

Second: Zarrah gave permission to another fanfic writer ones to continue her story Cabin fever because she left the fandom (write books for money now). Not sure what the reason was but she took permission back. (And than she made an original book out of it - what must have been the reason for it.)
Do what you feel right (not because it's common).

[adreamweaver]

If there had been money involved, I'd have known how to react - copyright laws being as clear as they are. But here, we're all playing in Joss's sandbox, so I wasn't sure whether somebody could do a sequel without asking. I'm so glad to find that they can't!

At least, she did ask. So I was able to say no. I don't think she meant any harm; she was just as naive about it as I am. But I'm very, very possessive about my Spike and Buffy and really didn't want anyone messing with them. I love reading other Spuffy writer's take on them, but I didn't want my own version spoiled!

Thank you so much! You helped more than I can say!

[cordykitten]

You're welcome! Glad when I could help.