M. Lori Motley

http://hubpages.com/hub/Naming-Characters-in-Fantasy-Fiction

In a novel or short story you need characters that seem as real as possible and act in ways that make sense to the reader. Some people make a grand production of creating characters, filling out a 25 page character sheets, writing character episodes and even drawing artwork of their characters to get a real feel of what they look like. Other people just some open a baby name book, randomly choose a name and say, “Frank. Yeah, Frank is a great name for my stereo typical warrior.” And then they proceed to write the same warrior that has been found in every formulaic fantasy novel since the 1970s.

To get a truly believable character for your fiction writing, you probably have to fall somewhere between those two extremes. Of course, if you enjoy delving into the deep dark secrets of every character you make you can use character sheets and write stories of the character that will not end up in your finished novel. For simple characters, like the back up guy who gets killed by the rampaging werehog halfway through chapter 2, you probably could just give them the name and set them loose on your pages. Continue reading →

No More Too Perfect, Save the World, Unbelievable Characters

Mary Sue characters are found in much beginning fiction, especially fan fiction. They are to be avoided at all costs. But what is a Mary Sue character, and why are they bad?
Beginning fiction writers often have trouble creating believable characters. Some seem to create fiction as an extension, or escape, from their own boring life.

A Mary Sue character is injected into a story so that the writer may live vicariously through them. They are usually perfect, beautiful, and directly responsible for the story’s happy ending. Mary Sue characters get the most handsome male character, are friends with all the rest, and never messes up.

How to Avoid Writing a Mary Sue Fiction Character

Fan clubs happen wherever a character or personality catches the public’s interest. Fiction characters such as Harry Potter have many fan clubs where people talk about the character, pretend to be the character, and write fan fiction about the character. It is a fiction writer’s dream come true. If a fiction writer can generate enough interest in one of their characters to warrant a fan club, they are on the road to success.

How to Create a Fan Club for Your Fiction Character

Fiction Character Fan Club – Introduce Your Character

A fiction character’s first introduction to the public is usually in the book itself. However, it is possible to hype the impending publication of your book by introducing your character early. Have him promote the book. This is especially effective for the point of view character or narrator. Let him tell the public about the book and his story and life.