Originally Posted by
Gary Ragatz
I think in Robert B. Parker's case, his estate has turned over each individual franchise (Spenser, Jesse Stone, etc.) to a different author. I've read a couple of the Spenser books by Ace Atkins, and I think they're pretty good, but not as good as Parker's own. I think all of these are billed as "Robert B. Parker's (insert title here)" by Ace Atkins. But Atkins's name is in much small type than Parker's.
James Patterson, who is still alive and writing solo works, has co-authored a ton of books with others. I gather this is a combination of money-making and helping newer writers develop a market for their work.
The last couple of books I've read in Lee Child's Jack Reacher series have been co-authored with Child's son, Andrew. I assume Andrew is expected to take over the franchise at some point.
The Parker thing is also true of Ian Fleming. I think they're on at least the third generation of replacement authors.
The Jack Reacher series is indeed being handed off to Child's younger brother Andrew. We'll see how that goes, at least they're working together for awhile before the changeover.
I've read one of Patterson's "ampersand" books...never again. And forum rules prevent me from expressing my opinion of the various Dune prequel/sequel series by Frank Herbert's son.
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