: Re: Can the first book in a series have a sad ending? (The antagonist wins) I have an idea for a series, but I want the protagonist to die at the end of the first book, and make it seem like

@Rivera824

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This is acceptable, and sort of done before.
I don't know how familiar you are with games but the first 2 stories from the main StarCraft saga both end in a crushing defeat for the good guys (and the third one they had "won" the battle but were still losing the war). (Note: The first 3 stories were released together) Only until the 7th out of 9 stories the good guys finally seem to be winning(barely). With their victory eventually coming from multiple sides joining together.

Your description lacks a few details to give a proper answer so maybe add some more details on your situation? But generally speaking it is possible by just adding/revealing variables that were first unknown to the reader. (You can even hint at them as a form of foreshadowing). For example the dying actions of your main character could inspire neutrals/hostiles to have a change of heart and slowly switch sides boosting the chances of the remaining good guys.

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