Author Insights: Writing 'Verti' and Its Vibrant Characters

Creating a compelling narrative is no small feat, especially when it involves crafting a world filled with dynamic characters. In my latest novel, Verti, I explored the intricacies of character development and world-building, resulting in a story that resonates with readers on multiple levels. This blog post will delve into the creative process behind Verti, the vibrant characters that inhabit its pages, and the lessons learned along the way.

The Genesis of Verti

Every story begins with an idea, but Verti was born from a blend of inspiration and personal experience. I wanted to create a world that felt alive, where readers could escape into a realm of adventure and emotion. The initial concept revolved around a unique setting—a aircraft hangar where a hummingbird was trapped.

Inspiration from Real Life

To bring authenticity to my fictional world, I drew inspiration from various cultures and landscapes. The life journey of Verti is influenced by my own travel, combined with imagining a hummingbird dispersion event. I spent time researching how different animals adapt to their environments, which helped me create a believable journey for my characters.

Crafting Vibrant Characters

Characters are the heart of any story, and in Verti, I aimed to create a diverse cast that reflects the complexities of human nature. Each character has their own motivations, fears, and desires, making them relatable and engaging.

Protagonist: Floret

Floret, the protagonist, is a young woman with a fierce determination to uncover the truth about her family's past. Her journey is not just about external conflicts but also about self-discovery. I wanted her to embody resilience and courage, qualities that many readers can identify with.

Character Development Techniques

To develop Floret, I employed several techniques:

• Backstory Creation: Understanding her past helped shape her present. I crafted a detailed backstory that informs her decisions and relationships.

• Flaws and Strengths: Floret is not perfect; she wants more for her kind to survive and she uses her hatchings in a plan to save them from doom.

• Dynamic Relationships: Her interactions with other characters reveal different facets of her personality, allowing readers to see her growth throughout the story.

  
  

Supporting Characters

While Floret is the focal point, the supporting characters in Verti are equally important. Each one serves a purpose in the narrative, whether to challenge Floret or to provide support.

• Taw-nay: A Towhee songbird who helps Floret navigate the complexities of nesting alone. Her logical approach helps with Floret's peaceful nesting, creating friendship.

• Chloe: A fun finch who helps Floret to make herself at home in a strange land. She represents a friend that will be her extended family and encourages Floret to embrace their newest home.

  
  

Thematic Elements

Verti is not just an adventure story; it explores deeper themes that resonate with readers. Some of the key themes include:

• Identity and Belonging: Verti's journey reflects the universal quest for self-identity and the struggle to find one's place in the world.

• Courage and Resilience: The characters face numerous challenges, showcasing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

• Friendship and Loyalty: The bonds formed between characters highlight the significance of relationships in overcoming obstacles.

  
  

World-Building Techniques

Creating a believable world requires attention to detail and consistency. In Verti, I focused on several aspects of world-building:

Geography and Environment

The Bering Sea and new land is not just a backdrop; it plays a crucial role in the story. I developed a unique geography that influences the culture and lifestyle of its inhabitants. For example, the varying levels of wilderness affect how animals move and interact with their environment.

Culture and Society

To make Verti feel authentic, I created a rich cultural tapestry. This includes:

• Customs and Traditions: The inhabitants have unique rituals that reflect their connection to others and nature.

• Survival and friendship: I developed distinct ideas that add depth to the characters and their interactions to survive. I showed how friends can help others to learn more ways to survive.

  
  

Writing Process and Challenges

Writing Verti was a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. Here are some key aspects of my writing process:

Outlining and Planning

Before diving into the writing, I created a detailed outline to map out the plot and character arcs. This helped me maintain focus and ensure that each element contributed to the overall narrative.

Overcoming Writer's Block

Like many writers, I faced moments of self-doubt and writer's block. To overcome these hurdles, I found it helpful to:

• Take Breaks: Stepping away from the manuscript allowed me to return with fresh eyes and new ideas.

• Engage with Other Writers: Joining a writing group provided support and accountability, helping me stay motivated.

  
  

Revising and Editing

The revision process is where the magic happens. I spent countless hours refining the manuscript, focusing on pacing, character development, and thematic consistency. Feedback from beta readers was invaluable in this stage, providing insights that I might have overlooked.

Reader Engagement and Feedback

Once Verti was published, I eagerly awaited reader feedback. Engaging with my audience has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being an author. Here’s how I approached this:

Building a Community

I utilized various platforms to connect with readers, including book clubs and online forums. This allowed me to share insights about the writing process and gather feedback on the characters and story.

Listening to Feedback

Reader reviews provided valuable perspectives on what resonated with them. I learned which characters were favorites and which themes sparked meaningful discussions. This feedback will undoubtedly influence my future writing projects.

Conclusion

Writing Verti has been an enriching experience that taught me the importance of character development, world-building, and reader engagement. The vibrant characters and their journeys reflect universal themes that resonate with many. As I continue to write, I carry these lessons with me, eager to create more stories that captivate and inspire.

If you’re an aspiring writer, remember that every character you create has the potential to connect with readers on a profound level. Embrace the journey, learn from your experiences, and let your imagination soar. What stories are waiting to be told in your world?