When it comes to writing compelling characters, I take a page out of David Baldacci’s book and use what he calls the “writer’s prism.” In essence, this means I draw from real-life people, situations, and experiences but filter them through a creative lens to craft something new and unique. It’s not about copying reality but rather about reshaping and reimagining it to serve the story.

For me, the process of character development begins long before the first word hits the page. It starts with observation—paying attention to the way people talk, how they react in different situations, their quirks, strengths, and flaws. Sometimes it’s a passing comment from a stranger, a moment of vulnerability I witness in someone close to me, or even an unspoken tension in a room. All of these elements can spark the creation of a character.

But the real magic happens as the story unfolds. Characters, much like real people, are not static. They grow, change, and evolve as they navigate the challenges and triumphs I put before them. I might start with a general idea of who they are—a confident leader hiding insecurities, a quiet observer carrying untold secrets—but they reveal themselves more fully as the story progresses.

Take Matthew from my debut novel, Love Before Law, as an example. When I first envisioned him, I knew he’d carry a sense of guilt and regret tied to his past encased in the hard exterior of a ruthless businessman, but the true depth of his emotions only emerged as I wrote his scenes and got to know more about who he really was. His bravery and vulnerability took shape organically, influenced not just by my planning but also by the events that unfolded around him.

One of the most fulfilling parts of character development is weaving in the tiny, human details that make them feel real. Sometimes, these are based on people I’ve known or moments from my own life. It might be the way someone always fiddles with their watch when they’re nervous or how a quiet introvert surprises everyone by standing their ground in a heated moment (there are several moments like this in my upcoming thriller, We Never Told, due out in March).

As Baldacci says, “You start with reality and put it through the writer’s prism.” My characters are a mosaic of real-life inspiration and creative invention, and I hope they feel as alive to you as they do to me.

Reminders

My very first Kickstarter campaign is live for another 20 days and we are just over 50% funded! You can be a part of bringing this new novel to life and get some AWESOME rewards at the very same time. Click the photo below to learn a little more about it. Thank you in advance!

You can get a FREE copy of my latest novel, Their Last Spring Break by clicking the image below. Simply sign up for my email list and get a free copy delivered to you in seconds!

You can now purchase signed print copies of any of my books directly from my website! This a great news for two reasons; first, every book that I send out myself comes signed and accompanied by a personal thank you note from yours truly. Second, I get to sell them at a SIGNIFICANT discount over the big retailers like Amazon, Barnes and Noble, etc. Reason being is that by selling them directly to you, I don’t have to give those retailers a huge chunk of the revenue and therefore I get to pass the savings on to you! Click the image below to check out all of my books and get your signed copies today!

Thank you for reading and if you’ve made it all the way here to the end, I want to extend a special thank you for taking the time. As a gift from me to you, if there are any of my books that you’ve really been wanting to get your hands on, I would like to offer you a 50% discount on one signed copy of any of my books. Yes, a signed copy of any one of my books for only $4.99, my only ask is that you pay the shipping! If you want to take advantage, send me an email at tylerporterbooks@outlook.com with the phrase “I made it to the end” in the subject along with which book you would like and I will get you sorted out right away! Thank you so much and happy reading!

Tyler