Today I’m sharing some links and resources I’ve found helpful in creating fictional characters, particularly if you are writing your first manuscript or possibly stuck in a frustrating re-write with characters that seem “flat”. Writing a must-read romance requires the development of heroes and heroines we want to cheer for, from the opening line to the grand finale. While backstory isn’t a good thing in the beginning of the novel, some work behind the scenes with character interviews will help the writer understand the internal and external conflicts, which will drive the plot forward and keep the reader engaged. I know. It’s weird. How do you interview a ‘person’ you’ve made up? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: “I hear fake people.” It’s a gift. In my limited experience, I’ve found heroes to be easier to develop than heroines. More straightforward, less drama–Still haven’t plumbed the depths of that dilemma … that’s a post for another day, I suppose.

Enough about me. Let’s get right to it:

1. Character Interviews/Worksheets: There are many options but here are two that work well for me:

• Jody Hedlund’s character worksheet http://jodyhedlund.blogspot.com/p/character-worksheet.html
• Gail Gaymer Martin’s character worksheet: http://writingright-martin.blogspot.com/search/label/character%20worksheet

2. A post I’m certain I need to revisit, Jody Hedlund’s post about how to make characters likeable: http://jodyhedlund.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-avoid-trap-of-creating-unlikable.html

3. Author K.M. Weiland generates a lot of helpful material pertaining to the craft of writing. If you sign up for her newsletter, you will receive a copy of her free e-book Crafting Unforgettable Characters. It’s been tremendously helpful for me and her newsletters are excellent, as well. For more details, click here 

Your turn: What’s your process for breathing life into a fictional hero or heroine? Any favorite resources you’d like to share? I’d love to hear from you.