Create characters that leap off the page--and into readers' hearts!Populating your fiction with authentic, vivid characters is a surefire way to captivate your readers from the first sentence to the last. Whether you're writing a series, novel, short story, or flash fiction,Creating Charactersis an invaluable guide to bringing your fictional cast to life.This book is a comprehensive reference to every stage of character development. You'll find timely advice and helpful instruction from best-selling authors like Nancy Kress, Elizabeth Sims, Orson Scott Card, Chuck Wendig, Hallie Ephron, Donald Maass, and James Scott Bell. They'll show you how to:Effectively introduce your charactersBuild a believable protagonistDevelop strong anti-heroes and compelling villainsJuggle multiple points of view without missing a beatCraft authentic dialogue that propels the story forwardMotivate your characters with powerful objectives and a believable conflictShow dynamic character development over the course of a storyNo matter what your genre,Creating Charactersgives you the tools necessary to create realistic, fascinating characters that your readers will root for and remember long after they've finished the story.