Session 2 of Fans Q&A. Thanks again for all of your fun and interesting questions!
1. Are there any advantages to modeling a character after someone you know? (Andy, 14, Rhode Island, USA)
A. I do tend to model characters after people I know or have met and spent some time with. My characters usually evolve the more I write about them. I feel as though I'm getting to know my character on a truly personal level; as though we were friends and I am always excited the more I discover about them. That being said, I often find multiple similarities to myself in every character I introduce.
2. When did you first call yourself a writer? (Linda, 43, Spokane, Washinton, USA)
A. Honestly, it took me a while to consider myself a real writer. I spent a lot of time thinking I needed to do or be more to call myself a writer. It was during a game of Dungeons and Dragons when one of my players said that they enjoyed my campaigns and said that I was a good writer that I accepted the title.
3. What comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why? (Edward, 23, Salford, England, UK)
A. One of my favorite things to do is character creation. That, combined with world-building makes the writing experience so much fun for me.
4. Would you and your main character get along? (Klara, 17, Zagreb, Croatia, EU)
A. Josef, from The Wild Expanse, is based on me, as is Radoslav and Pavol in my current work in progress. Josef the Roman Soldier is based on my 14 years of military service and Radoslav is the quieter, more reserved me. Pavol is me as a child.
5. Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite? (Lucas, 35, Mississauga, Ontario, CA)
A. I listen to a lot of music when I write. Everything from The Minstrels of Mayhem to Cannibal Corpse. I can't say that I have a true favorite, per se, but I'm quite fond of The Beatles and Pearl Jam.
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