If you’re an author hoping to connect with readers on a deeper level, one of the most important questions you can ask yourself is: Do my readers actually care about my characters?
It’s a hard truth, but sometimes even the best plots fall flat because the characters feel two-dimensional or lack motivation. As writers, we’ve all experienced that moment of setting a book aside because we couldn’t relate to or invest in the story’s people. That’s why character development in fiction writing is critical—and it starts before you even begin writing your first chapter.
One of the best resources to help with this is Plot Versus Character by Jeff Gerke, which guides writers through building compelling character arcs before diving into plot structure.
Many writers—Christian fiction authors, indie authors, and novelists—have asked some version of this question, even if worded differently. Maybe you’ve asked one of these:
- Why do my characters feel flat?
- How do I create relatable protagonists?
- What goes into a compelling character arc?
- How do I write strong antagonists?
- Is there a formula for building character backstory?
In this article, we’ll explore essential tools and approaches for building rich, believable characters that truly move your story forward and keep readers engaged to the final page.
What makes character development essential?
A well-developed character brings a story to life. Even the most action-packed plot won’t resonate if the reader doesn’t care what happens to the people within it. Your characters need goals, motivations, and internal struggles that unfold naturally over the course of the story.
Start by asking yourself:
- What does this character want?
- What’s standing in their way?
- What lie do they believe?
- How will they change by the end of the story?
Start Before You Write
Character development begins before your first draft. This early work shapes your story’s emotional core and helps ensure your plot serves the characters—not the other way around.
Use Personality Tools
Understanding your character’s temperament can be incredibly helpful. These tools offer insight into how your characters think, feel, and behave.
- Please Understand Me II by David Keirsey: A deep dive into the 16 temperament types
- 16 Personalities Test: A user-friendly tool that helps define key character traits
“You must know your character’s internal journey if you want to create emotional depth in your plot.”
— Jeff Gerke, Plot vs. Character
Develop a Meaningful Backstory
Knowing where your character came from will help you show where they’re going. You don’t have to include every detail in your book, but you, the author, should know:
- Their upbringing and family dynamics
- Defining life events
- Core values and fears
- Past failures or regrets
This work informs their decisions, goals, and reactions throughout the novel.
Flesh Out the Antagonist
Your antagonist is more than just a villain. Like your protagonist, they need goals, motivations, and depth. Consider:
- Why they believe they’re doing the right thing
- What they’re trying to achieve
- What makes them sympathetic or relatable
A strong antagonist raises the stakes and makes your protagonist’s journey more meaningful.
Recommended Resources
Here are a few tools that can help you dive deeper into character development in fiction writing:
- The Art and Craft of Writing Christian Fiction by Jeff Gerke
- Plot Versus Character by Jeff Gerke
- Please Understand Me II by David Keirsey
If you’re a Christian fiction writer, indie author, or novelist…
…and you’re struggling to create characters that feel real, memorable, and emotionally compelling—know that you’re not alone. Character development takes work, but it’s work that pays off.
We provide character development insights, resources, and encouragement to help you grow as a writer and fulfill your storytelling mission.
Lori Domingo Writing and Ministry Resources
A character development in fiction writing resource for Christian fiction writers, indie authors, and novelists
Whether you’re working on your first book or refining your tenth, Lori Domingo offers faith-filled guidance and powerful storytelling tools. Discover how character development and deep storytelling can reflect spiritual truths and inspire readers.
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