Lissa Oliver
asked
Clare O'Beara:
It was interesting to read that 'Dining Out Around The Solar System' was inspired by a conversation about restaurants. But which comes first for you, the plot idea or the characters?
Clare O'Beara
Thanks for the question.
While this varies a little among books, in general the first of a series starts with a Situation or Plot which is a turning point (could be a mystery, a dystopia, an inheritance). As I think about this I picture the Characters who would fit this scene, and the talents and challenges they would bring to the story. When I begin writing, those characters swiftly take over and develop personalities and interactions.
The later books in a series already have the Characters established so now the Plot takes precedence when I am planning out the story. This does not prevent the characters from going their own ways and taking me by surprise on occasion.
While this varies a little among books, in general the first of a series starts with a Situation or Plot which is a turning point (could be a mystery, a dystopia, an inheritance). As I think about this I picture the Characters who would fit this scene, and the talents and challenges they would bring to the story. When I begin writing, those characters swiftly take over and develop personalities and interactions.
The later books in a series already have the Characters established so now the Plot takes precedence when I am planning out the story. This does not prevent the characters from going their own ways and taking me by surprise on occasion.
More Answered Questions
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more