S16:E10: Checklist for Beginning Your Story: Introducing Your Characters

Master the art of introducing your characters in your first chapter. Learn to hook readers and lay the foundation for character development.

[@avisandhu]

This ep has been really helpful, like the other ones. thank you!

[@with_lime_ginger_vodka]

If I ever complete my novel, K.M. Weiland is getting a thank you page.

[@roblmurphy4135]

K.M. Weiland, I have been listening to your entire podcast playlist, counting back to zero, and as I close in on the lower thirties, my heart aches to finish such a fine college level course in the art and science of writing.

[@KMWeilandAuthor]

I'm so glad to hear you've found them helpful!

[@stgr6669]

I begin my story by introducing the main character as a side character. It starts with a villain observing a filthy tavern, and first he notices a sloppy waitress interacting with the cheap criminals he plans to hire. Later in the scene, he finds out that she's a horrrible cook, but a talented mechanic, who also claims to be a skilled driver. A couple of chapters later she reappears as a member of his team, we learn about her criminal background and she comes close to being eliminated by the good guys, as she is just some random henchperson, some obstacle to remove. It takes time for her to take matters into her own hand and eventually succeed where others, who looked like more important characters, failed.