I try to write character-driven stories. When I’m reading, my immersion level increases dramatically when I can identify with a character. I don’t have to be similar to them in any way (and that’s my privilege talking) but that connection really drives the reading experience, and therefore, that’s how I like to write.
The physical description is only important to me if it drives the story. I tend to do minimal details and let the reader color in the visual person. I want their personality to come out in their dialogue and choices: what path do they take, what questions trip them up, etc. I think this is closer to how we get to know people in real life, and it’s a hell of a lot more fun.
For my Vella series, WOUND, I have a set group of characters that I use for point-of-view and a set point that are not. When I started season two I wondered if I should switch from one group to the next, but I worried that if any readers connected with, say, Carol, in season one, they may resent not hearing from her until season three (there are five planned in total). So I’m sticking with my four originals…that is, unless something happens.
I did want to take time to dig deeper into their stories (for research and for fun) and thought it might be interesting to post it here. Over the next couple of weeks I’ll be sharing some ideas and backstory of my characters in WOUND, point-of-view and other. I’ve also made some great picrew images of them, to help me paint their personality on their faces.
