Behind the Scenes: Crafting Characters for My Latest Novel

1. The Genesis of Characters

Creating characters is one of the most exciting parts of writing. For my latest novel my journey began with a deep dive into who my characters would be. I started by sketching out basic traits and backstories, often inspired by real-life individuals, historical figures, and my own experiences. Each character needed to have a purpose and a place within the story, and it was essential for me to build characters who felt authentic and compelling.

2. From Concept to Creation

Initially, my characters were just outlines on paper. I asked myself questions like:

What motivates them?

What are their strengths and weaknesses?

How do they change over the course of the story?

For instance, Megan Turner, one of my protagonists, was inspired by the idea of a strong, principled individual grappling with their own code of ethics. Her military background and personal struggles were shaped by real-life stories and extensive research into military and law enforcement careers.

3. Inspiration and Real-Life Influences

My characters are often influenced by a mix of personal experiences, observations, and media. For Sienna Blake, I drew inspiration from the world of high society and its complexities. Her background and demeanor were influenced by the contrast between old money elegance and the modern world’s challenges.

4. Research and Authenticity

To make my characters as realistic as possible, I conducted thorough research. This included reading up on relevant professions, cultural backgrounds, and my plan on interviewing experts. For Megan’s role as a combat engineer and RCMP officer, I’ll be immersing myself in the details of these professions to ensure accuracy and authenticity.

5. Challenges and Surprises

One of the biggest challenges was ensuring that my characters remained consistent yet dynamic. As I wrote, I discovered new facets of their personalities and backgrounds that surprised even me. For example, Megan’s deeper emotional struggles emerged as a significant part of her character arc, adding layers to her initial persona.

6. Character Interactions and Development

The interactions between characters are crucial for driving the plot and revealing their true selves. I spent considerable time crafting dialogues and scenes that would showcase their relationships and conflicts. This involved plotting out key moments and ensuring that each character’s voice remained distinct and true to their development.

7. Visual Inspirations

I also created mood boards and sketches to visualize my characters. These visuals helped me maintain consistency in their descriptions and provided a tangible reference as I wrote. Here are a few examples of these early sketches and inspirations: