Before I became an author, I never really understood what it meant to have your characters come alive. I thought it was kind of crazy. How did these characters talk back to you? Aren’t you the creator?
Well now, after writing and publishing many books, I finally understand. Though I may have brought them to life, sometimes these characters have a mind of their own. Take for example, Dutchy from Blackstone Ranger Guardian.
This book had been in my head for so long, ever since I created Dutchy. I was initially resistant to the idea of having her paired up with a ranger, because I really wasn’t planning to write the rangers series until I’d at least done a dragon and a PD or FD series (which is why we don’t meet Damon in the previous books, but I mentioned Cole and Will several times).
I even tried pairing up Dutchy with a certain silver dragon, but she wouldn’t have it. I tried really hard, guys!
Here’s how the dialogue went:
Me: But Dutchy, he’s a dragon AND a duke. You’re named Dutchess! It would be perfect!
Dutchy: NO! I want my cuddle, growly bear mate.
Me: Are you sure? Ian is really charming. Do you really want a grumpy bear? Dragons are way cooler.
Dutchy: Noooo! I want a giant teddy bear to cuddle me all night long.
Me: But Dutchy …
Dutchy: You just don’t want to write the rangers books yet! (points to the keyboard). Now start writing! I want my Happy Ever After.
And so, Krieger and the rest of the rangers were born.
I was gonna end this series here, but then J.D. climbed out of my computer and threatened to murder me if I didn’t give her a book.
But that’s another story for another day …
I think there is nothing wrong with sorting out your thoughts for your books. I kinda enjoyed it.
I need more of these lol. Love it.
I loved that. And why can’t we talk to characters, it makes sense to me, I actually talk to them when I’m reading the books. So many people talk to their selves why not the characters, LOL. I love my bears too but dragons are just so cool!
The characters are completely real to me when I’m reading your books so how could they not be to you when your writing them! I love Dutchy and I’m so glad she got her way.