It is generally accepted that a novel can be split into various parts or elements, which helps to establish the different ways that we write prose in a work of fiction. These elements are often referred to as the plot, setting, narrative, description, backstory, Point of View (POV) and writing fictional characters.

Even though it's the combination of all these elements, and more, that creates a great book, by far the most important ingredient is to create characters for novels. It's often said that the reader will not believe in your character unless you do, this is very true. He or she is your creation and it's your job to give your characters life. They need to be realistic to make the reader care for them, and also what happens to them.

What will you learn in this course?

• Where to get inspiration for creating a character profile
• What elements to include in your character profiles
• Characters: writing different types of character in your book
• How to write a book with two dimensional and three-dimensional characters
• The essential ingredients your characters need to be either liked or hated
• Writing characters: identify conflicts and change in your hero that will drive your story forward
• Understand the needs of the reader: what do they want from a novel?