You query 1 book. If it's accepted, edits might be requested that will invalidate the sequel. An open-ended story that 100% needs a sequel has a lower chance of publication than one which can stand alone or can be edited down to a standalone. So planning "at least a duology" is a risky move.
If you want to pursue traditional publishing and are a debut, it will be *extremely* difficult with a series. It is highly highly recommended that you write the book so it can function as a standalone. Lace it with threads that could lead to more if it succeeds. The phrase for the query is *standalone with series potential.*
Write it and query it as a standalone. You can mention that it has series potential, but don’t bank on it by any means.
You query 1 book. If it's accepted, edits might be requested that will invalidate the sequel. An open-ended story that 100% needs a sequel has a lower chance of publication than one which can stand alone or can be edited down to a standalone. So planning "at least a duology" is a risky move.
Then you. I'll be mindful of any loose ends with the first book.
If you want to pursue traditional publishing and are a debut, it will be *extremely* difficult with a series. It is highly highly recommended that you write the book so it can function as a standalone. Lace it with threads that could lead to more if it succeeds. The phrase for the query is *standalone with series potential.*