Party Crashers

If you’re a writer flying the Camp Pantster flag over your computer, you know that your WIP often surprises you with plot twists and turns. But what happens when a Party Crasher walks into the room?

Exactly what my Pardon Falls Party Crasher would say.

Because the Muse – like Father – knows best, you welcome this new character with open arms.

Writing a story is sometimes like a flood. As the piece gains momentum, you pick up new characters along the way. These characters are very organic, feeling like they are part of the tapestry you’re weaving. The Party Crashers are a bit different. These characters can be major game changers, catalysts to the story.

My own personal Party Crasher came to me several months ago. She’s going to be a POV character in my third novel, but I should have known that when she started speaking to me out of turn, she’d show up in Pardon Falls.

I already know that in book 3, she’s going to be an antagonist to Amanda, my main character. She’s not a bad guy, quite the opposite, she’s in law enforcement – which doesn’t bode well for Amanda considering she’s on the run. But this new character, Fallon, is more than an external antagonist, she ignites something in Amanda – doubt, determination and jealousy.

That’s quite a load for a character to carry. Which could be why the other day, while driving to work, Fallon revealed to me that she doesn’t want to wait her turn. And, when I asked how in the world this was going to work, she showed me the way … which cruelly, adds to Amanda’s jealousy.

Party Crashers in writing aren’t like those who show up at your party to drink your good wine, double dip in the ranch dressing and flirt with your boyfriend. They can show up bearing incredible gifts for your story.