In my mind, my characters are alive and real. I can see them in conversation, walking through a scene. But once I put fingers to keyboard, that very personable character disappears.
How can I get what’s in my head onto the page?
Several ways.

First, I might revisit notes or a character bio I’ve written. If I feel like those lack depth, I might brainstorm motivation or story line.

Second, I keep writing, editing and rewriting. A story rarely comes off authentic the first draft. This is where the character, story and dialog form a rough picture for the author – in this case me.

I’ve heard many authors talk about how hard they work at getting the story on the page. Some says it takes several drafts just to feel like they’ve known the character.

It’s important to let the character and the story breath. Though I start writing with a preconceived idea of who and what I want the story to be about, I let things change. If you try to keep to an original idea that’s not working, it can make for long manuscript writing.

In Sweet Caroline, coming in Feb 2008, I wanted the hero to be a country music star. As I wrote, Mitch didn’t feel generic to the story. I wanted to change him, but wanted to stick with the plan and keep the country music tie with the NashVegas books.

It took a long time to connect his character to the setting. Know what? I should’ve called my editor and told her it wasn’t working. In the end, I loved Mitch, but it took a lot of writing to make him come alive.

Third, keep writing and rewriting. Rework the dialog, add something to the setting. Take a break, go for a walk or to the gym and observe people. I’ve gotten some really good ideas for my character’s that way. And, it adds to their voice and presence on the page.

Hope this helps. Another tip from Your Book Therapists.