Hi my name is Tara. I entered your contest for Omen, thought I would let you know. Anyway my question is this, I am writing story that involves a lot of backstory to the characters. What I was wondering is even though you can't tell the entire backstory to

Here’s what I do. I come up with extensive backstory for all my major characters. When I’m writing the first draft, I don’t put it in intentionally, but I don’t hold it back either. I go ahead and write in whatever I’m compelled to add as I work through the book. Then, in edits, I take out every last word of backstory that isn’t necessary for that particular plot—for explaining a plot point or for understanding why character x does y. Backstory is primarily important for the writer, so that you have a fully rounded character. Resist the temptation to add it just because you know it and want to share. Save that for prequels :)