If you're struggling to create dynamic, compelling characters that jump off the page and into readers' hearts, you're not alone. Whether you’re developing your protagonist or the bad guy’s sidekick, whether you know a little something about your characters or nothing at all, The Indie Author's Guide to Creating Captivating Characters will help you bring them to life with guided exercises for every stage of development:

• Generate character ideas

• Identify objectives and limiting beliefs

• Outline character journeys using classic character arcs

• Learn how character decisions drive plot

• Create primary and supporting character profiles

• Freewrite and reflect on your development process

These strategies—plus ten additional character development writing prompts—will help you eliminate “blank slate” syndrome so you can start to suss out exactly who you’re dealing with and how they got to be the way they are.