I have four characters, Tadix, Etavke, Hofwu, and Koon. And I need them to be 'real' in the eyes of the reader.

Now with Tadix, he should have some sort of injury, not permanent, but something that restricts movement. Any thoughts besides broken limbs or illnesses?

Koon also should have a permanent injury, probably scars since he was a slave. But since he was a slave, what kind of fears, anger, depression would he have?

So do you imaginative people have ideas on how to make my characters realistic and deep? I'd appreciate any input!

Commander V

The Complete Guide To Writing Fantasy has something to say on this subject, they have a like 6 or 8 step thing to go through with each character. One of the steps (I think one of the first ones) is to make a timeline of your character's life. From when they were born to when they are in your story to when they die. Not that you should write every second of their existence, but at intervals like every five years figure out where they are in life, and then maybe detail some of those events. This process might help you find the answer to your injury questions, and help find out what fears, and bitterness Koon might have.

I recommend ordering the Complete Guide To Writing Fantasy from your library as well, it seems very helpful.
I hope this helps.

This blog has some helpful things to say about writing characters.

http://goteenwriters.blogspot.com/p/write-now-2011.html

http://goteenwriters.blogspot.com/2011/ ... acets.html

~ZA

Look in character development for Sir Emeth's post... You will have a very developed character after that.