HOW I DEVELOP CHARACTERS by Marilyn Meredith

I really thought END OF THE TRAIL would be the last of the Deputy Tempe Crabtree series, then another idea for a new book came along, one I knew I had to write. 

Yes, this was another question from someone on Facebook, and it's a good one.
Because I write two series, I already have some set characters who at this point are very real to me. What is important with them, is that they stay true to their personalities and beliefs, but show some growth over time.

When developing new characters as I just finished doing in the latest in the Deputy Tempe Crabtree series because the main setting is an over 55 residential community--nearly all the characters are older. The only younger ones are a police officer and detective. Outside of names and descriptions, I didn't do much with either as they are not as important as others to the plot.

As usual, I had to come up with a murder victim and the murderer. And as I usually do it, I had to figure out why several people might want her dead--and who the actual murderer might be. The victim was easy, and I had fun coming up with the various reasons her peers might not like her enough for  a motive for murder. The identity of the actual killed didn't become clear to me until I was really involved with writing the book, seeing the characters, how they look and act.

Names of characters are also important to me; I want them to fit the person's personality. The name needs to be one that I can remember and when I use it, see the character in my mind's eye. People tend to dress in a certain way, and I think it's important that I describe the clothing folks wear.

And dialogue--everyone speaks in a different manner. The differences may be subtle, but there should be some differences. For instance, a school teacher will use proper grammar where others may not.

The dialogue really must move the story along--and remember, some folks are truthful, others may add to the truth, some will withhold knowledge if its in his or her best interest, and some are out and out liars.

All of the above works for characters in my Rocky Bluff P.D. series too. The process is the same.

And that's more or less how I develop my characters. 

Marilyn

Comments

Nancy LiPetri said…
Fascinating to know your killer came to light for you as you wrote the story. Bet readers will feel that same process of revelation.
As you know, I'm fond of many of your characters! I also like your sometimes "special naming" of characters. Keep 'em coming, Marilyn!
Thonie Hevron said…
Thanks for this insight, Marilyn. Still a happy reader!

Popular posts from this blog

Need to Catch Up With My Blog Tour?

Meet Morgen Bailey from the UK

The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries By Heather Haven