A Word On Characters: From the desk of Danielle Krieger Just a bit of wisdom from me to you.

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So, I got a comment on Chapter 5 of Marked Target that got me thinking. I almost added some of this text to the reply to that commenter, but decided a blog would be the best way to do it. So, for the sake of other authors, I offer a little advice.

Characterization:

One of the biggest challenges to being a writer is, arguably, believable characters. These are the individuals your narrative is centered around. How developed they are will determine the immersion of your readers. If they are not believable, then the reader will become disinterested and not read what you've worked hard to write. If there's no audience, then your own self worth diminishes.

We go back to the first advice that should be given to any writer: "Write what you know." The writers of this site come here because of the commonality of subject matter. In one way or another, we know of the plight of being transgender--whatever that means for the individuals involved. We know what it is to be ostracized because of stigma. So, we come here for whatever reason with that common subject matter bringing us together.

The same should be true when you write your characters. Write not "what" you know, but "who" you know.

It is no secret that every author, by intent or by chance, puts a little of him/herself into their characters. After all, it is just as much our little fantasy as it is for the readers. I admit to that narcissistic tendency, myself. In ChangeDay: Advent, about half of Micheal/Mikayla's character is based on me. In Dream Come True, the basic template for Melissa is completely based on me. The difference, though, is in Marked Target. There's only about a teaspoon of me in Lex's characterization. The rest is based on a dear friend of mine: a very accomplished martial artist in his own right.

That brings me to another point. Take your friends and acquaintances then turn them into characters. This will add that spice of reality and diversity to your characters. Mike and his partner, Steven, are based on a living, breathing couple that actually do live up on Capital Hill in Seattle. Rachel is based on a friend of mine who actually is a concept artist at ArenaNet (the makers of Guild Wars and the soon-to-be-released Guild Wars 2). This also works with villains, too. Remember that bully who beat you up in elementary school? What about that jock that stole your girlfriend out from under your nose in high school? How's that boss that still refuses to promote you, these days? The inspiration can come from anywhere. Even if it's just basics, it's something to work with. Run with it!

Admittedly, I never take notes on characters. What's the point? I have living, breathing notes in my every day life. That nervous tick my friend has when he greets a new prospective girlfriend? Using it. That cute little inside joke a couple of friends shared while shoe shopping? Using it. The same goes for how they look, too. I'll use anything.

Good luck... and may the Force be with you.

--Danielle