Series Characters

Not long ago in chat over at Long Ridge someone asked me what was the key to remember when developing characters that might be the start of a series.

We discussed several things we thought important and I thought I'd share my top three with you.

1. A series character must be likeable. This is a character the writer will be spending a lot of time with and getting to know better than their best friend. And, if we're lucky, our readers will be spenging lots of time with this character too. It's darn hard to spend time with someone you don't like and most of us won't.

2. A series character must be interesting. I think this is why so many series characters have such cool jobs. Landscapers, privite detectives, cops, forensic specialists, caterers, medical professionals and the list goes on. Not only does the writer get a chance to try out a new profession, but the reader gets tag along. Of course, the character's profession must be done correctly or your book will end up a wall banger and none of us want that.

3. A series character must have room to grow and develop. Not only as a person but in their career. Again, this character is going to be around a long time. Growth keeps them from becoming stagnant. Stagnant characters get boring quick. And we don't want that either.


So, what do you think are important when considering a series character?


Jean


Tomorrow I'll post a review of Get Known Before the Book Deal by Christina Katz.