Are You in Your Characters?

characters and writers woman-2531571_courtesy of pixabayIt’s a question every author of fiction is familiar with in one form or another. “Is the main character really you?” “Which character is most like you?” Of course the answers always vary, but they also have similarities that we often overlook.

We are told to “write what we know,” and who do we know best but ourselves? Seems obvious doesn’t it? Not so fast. There are times when the obvious is way off base. And knowing ourselves is, in my opinion, one of those beliefs we take for granted that may not be true. Sometimes others may know us better than we know ourselves.

So, when I am asked that question, my first reaction is Continue reading “Are You in Your Characters?”

Can Matchstick Literary Pass the Predator Test?

#PublishingFoul Logo Indies UnlimitedA week ago I received an email from Matchstick Literary.  (We’d give you the link but we don’t want to send you there.)

Let my observations serve to guide you through the initial things that serve as red flags when searching for a company to publish or market your books.

Here’s how it began: Continue reading “Can Matchstick Literary Pass the Predator Test?”

The “Rules” on Writing Inner Thoughts in Books

writing inner dialog human-1138002_640 courtesy Pixabay.comSometimes a disagreement gives me pause to explore how I see a certain style of writing and why. In this case, a member of my critique group and I differed on the use of italics for inner dialogue, or thoughts. He hates them. I use them. It has caused some strong discussion. (Yes, we remain good friends.)

I know what I like, how I write and what I like to see when I read. Still, in the interest of fairness and to educate myself further I did a little research. Continue reading “The “Rules” on Writing Inner Thoughts in Books”

The Beta Hero: A Non-Stereotypical Male Character

beta hero antihero hipster-358479_960_720I think, somehow, I am destined to create what I learned only yesterday are beta heroes. I had never, until this week, heard there was such a phenomenon. Now I am so glad I know what he is. You see, several members of my critique group have been telling me that the male protagonist in my current novel is not “strong enough” – that he ought to be more macho, more – and these are my words now – traditional. It has been a profoundly frustrating experience. You see, I don’t want my main characters to be constrained by traditional boxes, not the men and especially not the women. So, while all the members of my group think my female lead is great, they have been telling me my male lead ought to be more stereotypical (my words again). I was even told he is a “wuss” and that that’s not what readers want. They seem to equate “strong” with “macho.”

I beg to differ. When I think back to my previous books, none of my male protagonists really fit the mold. Yet, my readers have loved those characters. They see no problem with them. And this is true even of my male readers. It seems readers and writers respond differently. Hmmmmm. Continue reading “The Beta Hero: A Non-Stereotypical Male Character”