Have you ever read a book and wondered at the end of it, "What did he do after that?," or "Why did she do that? Couldn't she see what it would lead to?," or "If only they had ...?" I'm sure most of us have thought this. I know I find myself doing just that. And my husband and I have had many a discussion about books, or episodes of a favorite program on TV, after we've read or watched them, wondering about the characters actions... heroes and villains alike.
I am here to confirm something you have probably heard before....the characters in these stories DO have a mind of their own. I know mine do. At least to some extent.
When I begin a novel, I first research the basics of where the story will take place and what types of characters will be involved in the story line. (More research is usually needed along the way.) Next, I form a rough outline of events I want to include in the novel and what I think the plot should include. Then I sit down and begin the adventure and see where it takes me, all the while having my original notes close at hand. And I find myself amazed at how the story unfolds along the way as the characters begin to take shape. I've even had to change some of their names after a few chapters, as if they say "Wait a minute, that's not my name, it's really ..." Even different characters' feelings come out as I'm writing 'their' story that I hadn't planned on.
I can honestly say that I've been surprised at the reactions of several of my characters throughout my writing!
I am here to confirm something you have probably heard before....the characters in these stories DO have a mind of their own. I know mine do. At least to some extent.
When I begin a novel, I first research the basics of where the story will take place and what types of characters will be involved in the story line. (More research is usually needed along the way.) Next, I form a rough outline of events I want to include in the novel and what I think the plot should include. Then I sit down and begin the adventure and see where it takes me, all the while having my original notes close at hand. And I find myself amazed at how the story unfolds along the way as the characters begin to take shape. I've even had to change some of their names after a few chapters, as if they say "Wait a minute, that's not my name, it's really ..." Even different characters' feelings come out as I'm writing 'their' story that I hadn't planned on.
I can honestly say that I've been surprised at the reactions of several of my characters throughout my writing!
