How to Create a Villain

Villains are some of the most fascinating, and (in my opinion) easiest to fumble.  A great villain makes a book better, an adequate villain doesn't really do anything either way. This post is with urban fantasy villains in mind – since that's what I write its also what I think in terms of.

Right from the start, its important to remember one of my favorite pieces of advice:  The Villain is the hero of his own story. Great villains – whether they're great because of the dialogue they get to...