Killing off Characters

ChrisYA

How do you feel about authors who kill off characters? I’m not talking about main characters, because unless you write for Supernatural that is reprehensible. But back to the topic at hand, how do you feel about authors who kill off  secondary characters that you’ve grown to know and love over a few books? Not that I’m asking for any particular reason… … Read More

To Kill A Character

ChrisFor Writers, Readers, Uncategorized

I’ve been facing an authorly issue.  While writing Trial By Fire, the third book in my shape-shifting dragon series, I accidentally killed off a character…a beloved character…a character I never meant any harm. After I finished typing the scene I just stared at my screen. How had this happened? What the heck was my brain doing? Would people hate me … Read More

Naming Characters

ChrisFor Writers, home, Readers, UtopYA

When you create a character, you spend a lot of time coming up with the perfect name. It has to hint at their character and their appearance and not remind readers of a famous character they know from another book. That last part is easier said than done. You decide to name your character Dezirae. It’s unusual, not too trendy, and … Read More

Characters Who Make You Suspend Disbelief or Roll Your Eyes

ChrisFor Writers

How much is too much when it comes to the main characters in the book you’re reading? We want the women to be smart, attractive and spunky. We want the men to be smart, attractive and brave. Every once in a while, the characters cross over into the land of there’s-no-way-that-could-happen. I recently read a book I enjoyed. Bad guys … Read More

Fashion Rant, or How to Write Your Character’s Wardrobe.

ChrisFor Writers

This is a public service announcement. Attention any man wearing skinny jeans. You need to go home right now and change into a pair of normal Levi’s. Men do not look good in skinny jeans. And if you wear a striped shirt with your skinny jeans, you look like you’re channeling Where’s Waldo. While I’m trashing fashion trends, can  someone … Read More