Tag: writing a novel

The Hardest Parts of Being an Indie Author (And How I’m Tackling Them)

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

Last week, I shared everything I’ve learned as a self-published author. This week, I want to take it a step further and talk about the hardest parts of being an indie author—because let’s be real, this journey isn’t easy. But just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

1. Marketing Feels… Weird?

For some reason, marketing is the hardest part of being an indie author for me. I always worry:

  • Will people even care?
  • What will people think?
  • Am I annoying people by talking about my books?

And yet, here I am, making videos and writing this blog post because I know the only way to push past fear is through action. Marketing is really just about connection—connecting with readers, fellow authors, and people who love books as much as I do.

To push through, I’ve been:
✔️ Learning new strategies (hello, Pinterest!)
✔️ Asking for advice in writing groups
✔️ Testing different approaches and adjusting when needed
✔️ Taking small weekly action to get me closer to my big goals

2. Talking About My Books is Harder Than Writing Them

I spend years writing a book—building the world, developing the characters, crafting the plot. And then when someone asks, “What’s your book about?” I freeze.

I have an elevator pitch, but it always feels awkward. (Imposter syndrome, anyone?) To get better at this, I’ve been:
✔️ Joining a weekly writer’s group where I introduce my book to new people
✔️ Practicing talking about my book in a casual, natural way
✔️ Reminding myself that readers do want to hear about it

3. Writing Sales Copy is a Struggle

If I have a hard time talking about my books, you can bet that writing about them in an engaging way isn’t much easier. Launch emails, book blurbs, social media captions—it all feels so tricky to get right.

To improve, I’ve started using AI tools as a jumping-off point. I don’t copy and paste—I tweak, rewrite, and make it mine. And with each launch, I feel like I’m getting better.

The Biggest Challenge? Fear & Imposter Syndrome

At the end of the day, all these struggles come back to fear—fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear that no one will care. But I remind myself that fear is just my brain trying to protect me. It’s not real.

I used to perform in musical theater, and right before stepping on stage, I’d get the jitters. But as soon as I was under the spotlight, the nerves disappeared. It’s the same with marketing, pitching, and putting myself out there. The fear fades once I take action.

So, here’s what I’m holding onto:

  • It’s okay to be awkward.
  • It’s okay to not be perfect.
  • It’s okay to mess up.

Because at the end of the day, I love being an indie author. I chose this path, and I’m still so happy I did.

If you like to keep up with my writing journey as I create this new urban fantasy series, then join the waitlist for Book 1 – World Ablaze! I’ll be sending out monthly updates, secret behind the scenes look at characters, and more fun as I spend the next few years on this fun, magical adventure!

6 Things I’ve Learned as a YA Indie Author

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

I’ve been self-publishing since 2018, and in that time, I’ve worn all the hats—writing, marketing, formatting, working with cover designers, and everything in between. Being an indie author is exciting, challenging, and constantly evolving. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot, and today, I’m sharing six of the most valuable lessons from my journey.

1. Keywords and Categories Matter

When I published my first book, The Art of Lying, I chose keywords and categories that made sense to me—but they weren’t the best for discoverability. Later, I realized how crucial it is to use marketable keywords that readers actually search for. Thankfully, platforms like Amazon allow updates, but knowing the right keywords from the start can make a big difference in your book’s visibility.

2. Always Keep Learning

There’s so much information out there—courses, YouTube videos, books on indie publishing—and they’ve all helped me level up. My first book launch was trial and error, but by my second and third, I had learned strategies that improved my results. The publishing world is always changing, so staying curious and willing to learn is key.

3. Book Promotion Never Stops

One hard truth? Once you stop actively promoting your book, sales slow down (or stop completely). Yes, keywords help people discover your book, but you have to keep talking about it, engaging with readers, and keeping the momentum going. Still, every time I see a new Kindle Unlimited page read or book sale, I get that same thrill—it never gets old!

4. Your Newsletter is Gold

Social media platforms change, algorithms shift, and accounts can disappear (looking at you, TikTok bans). But your newsletter? That’s yours. I wish I had started building my email list before publishing my first book. Having a direct way to reach your readers—without relying on social media—is one of the smartest things you can do as an indie author.

5. Marketing is Trial and Error

What works for one author might not work for another. I’ve experimented with different platforms, strategies, and messaging. Some things flopped, others gained traction, but I’ve learned that marketing is all about testing, adjusting, and figuring out what works for you and your audience.

6. Being in Control is Both Exciting and Overwhelming

As an indie author, I get to make all the decisions—but I have to make all the decisions. From book covers to marketing plans, I have the final say. It’s empowering, but it can also be a lot. The key is to take it step by step, stay open to learning, and keep going.

Being an indie author is a journey, and I love that I get to share it with my readers. If you’re an aspiring author, I hope these lessons help you on your own path.

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A Peek into My Writing Routine: Music, Tarot, and Rewards

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

Writing a book is both magical and messy, and every author has their own way of bringing words to life. Today, I’m sharing my exact writing routine—from the moment I sit down at my desk to the little rituals that keep me inspired.

1. Setting the Mood

Before I write a single word, I set up my space with a few must-haves:
✔️ A beverage (today, it’s water in my Minnie Mouse cup)
✔️ My outline, writer’s notebook, and a fancy pen
✔️ A tarot deck (more on this later!)

Music is also a huge part of my process. I usually pick a playlist on Amazon Music or Spotify. Sometimes it’s modern pop, and other times, I go straight for my comfort zone—the Harry Styles channel. His album Harry’s House practically carried me through the writing of Aerial Ambitions!

2. Getting into the Story

Once my setup is complete, I open Scrivener, my writing software, and read the last few lines of my manuscript. This helps me reconnect with the scene before diving in. I also scan my writing notes, checking for anything I need to remember—like character name changes or plot tweaks. I never edit while drafting, so if something needs fixing, I simply leave a note for my future self.

3. Using Tarot for Story Inspiration

One of my favorite writing tools? Tarot cards. I shuffle my deck, think about the scene I’m about to write, and pull a card. The symbolism often sparks new ideas or deepens my character’s motivations. For example, I recently pulled the Son of Pentacles (Knight of Pentacles), which is about taking action. Since my main character has earth-based elemental powers, this made me realize she could use her abilities to boost her confidence in a pivotal moment.

4. Choosing a Reward

Writing isn’t always easy, so I motivate myself with small rewards:
⭐ Writing for 10 minutes = A cup of tea and an episode of Gilmore Girls
⭐ Hitting 2,000 words = Time to scroll my favorite social media app or some yummy chocolate
⭐ Finishing a chapter = Telling a friend so she can cheer me on

5. Writing Time!

With my scene planned, my tarot card pulled, and my reward in mind, I dive into the words. Whether I’m writing solo or in a co-writing session, this routine keeps me focused and inspired.

What’s your writing ritual? Do you use tarot or music to spark creativity? Let’s chat in the comments!

Want more behind-the-scenes content about my upcoming urban fantasy series? Sign up for my newsletter below! As a bonus, you’ll get the first three chapters of Aerial Ambitions for free.

Overcoming Impostor Syndrome as a Writer: How to Keep Creating Despite Self-Doubt

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

If you’re an indie author, chances are you’ve asked yourself: Am I good enough? Will readers figure out I’m a fraud?

Impostor syndrome is something almost every writer experiences at some point. It can be paralyzing, making it difficult to sit down and do the work. But the good news? You can overcome it. Here’s how I deal with impostor syndrome and keep writing.

Acknowledge Your Fears

The first step in overcoming impostor syndrome as a writer is to acknowledge it. Ignoring or pushing it away won’t make it disappear—it’ll just creep up when you least expect it. Instead, try these methods:

  • Journal about it – Write down your fears and get them out of your head.
  • Talk it out – Share your thoughts with a trusted friend, spouse, or (better option) a therapist.
  • Personify your inner critic – Give it a name, have a conversation, and take away its power over you.

When you sit with your fears rather than fight them, you can process them and move forward.

Take Action to Counteract Fear

The best way to silence impostor syndrome? Take action. Fear thrives on inaction, but even small steps forward can help you break free.

1. Use Accountability Groups

Writing alongside others keeps you motivated. I have three accountability groups throughout the week where I write with other people. This method, often called “body doubling,” can be especially helpful for neurodivergent writers.

2. Set Timers for Short Writing Sessions

When fear stops me from writing, I set a five-minute timer. I tell myself I only need to write a few sentences, maybe just 25 words. This simple trick helps my brain relax, and I almost always end up writing more than I expected.

3. Focus on Your Why

Why did you start writing in the first place? For me, it’s the art of discovery. Even though I outline, I love when unexpected characters or plot twists appear in my drafts. That excitement keeps me coming back to the page. When impostor syndrome starts whispering doubts, remind yourself why you love to write.

Shift from External to Internal Motivation

Impostor syndrome is often outward-focused: What will people think? Will they like my book? Instead, shift your mindset inward. During the drafting phase, allow yourself to be selfish. What excites you? What scenes make you eager to keep going? Make sure you keep your why somewhere you can see it before each writing session to remind you.

Later, during revisions, you can shift focus to your audience, but for now – give yourself permission to write for you first.

Final Thoughts

Overcoming impostor syndrome as a writer is an ongoing process. Some days, it’s louder than others. But by acknowledging your fears, taking small actions, and remembering your motivation, you can keep writing despite self-doubt.

If you have any questions or topics you’d like me to cover in future posts, drop them in the comments below. 

The Ultimate Writing Toolbox: My Favorite Analog & Digital Writing Tools

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

Whether you’re a new or seasoned writer, finding the right tools can help boost creativity and streamline your process. Let’s dive in!

My Go-To Analog Writing Tools

Sometimes, nothing beats the feel of pen and paper. Here are my top three must-haves for brainstorming and planning:

1. Spiral-Bound Notebooks

I stock up on these during back-to-school sales, but Amazon also has great deals. I use them for brainstorming, outlining, and keeping track of ideas. For my current urban fantasy series, I dedicated an entire notebook to jot down initial thoughts, asking myself what if questions to spark creativity, and for keeping track of character names and descriptions.

2. Index Cards

These are a lifesaver for outlining! I love that I can move them around, shuffle ideas, and visualize my story structure. Using different colors helps me track changes during revisions—sometimes I even highlight corners or use washi tape to categorize sections.

3. Tarot Cards

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know tarot is a big part of my writing process. I use it for character creation, conflict development, and even as a daily writing prompt. I’ll be sharing more about this in an upcoming post, so stay tuned!

My Favorite Digital Writing Tools

While I love analog tools, I also rely heavily on digital ones. Here are the writing programs I can’t live without:

1. Scrivener

I’ve been using Scrivener for years, transferring it across multiple laptops. The digital corkboard allows me to move my scenes around effortlessly, which is a game-changer compared to cut-and-paste in Google Docs. While Scrivener can be overwhelming at first, taking a course or reading a tutorial helps unlock its full potential.

2. Google Docs

Though I don’t draft in Google Docs, I am currently using it to create a series bible to track characters, settings, and major plot points across the five books I have planned. It’s free, accessible, and great for collaboration – I can share the file with my editor or beta readers easily and track comments across multiple people.

3. Amazon Music & Spotify

I have to have music to write – at this point, it’s non-negotiable. I love being able to choose playlists, radio stations, or whole albums on various music websites. It allows me to groove to the many genres I adore like 90s hip-hop, Broadway soundtracks, or modern day pop music. 

4. Vellum

This is a Mac-only software that I use to format my books beautifully for both print and digital publishing.  It’s pretty magical, since none of my books have images, I can format my entire novel in 2 days and have files ready for the eBookstores in a flash.

My Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, all I really need to write is my laptop. But my notebooks, index cards, and digital tools make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

I’d love to hear about your favorite writing tools! Share them in the comments or connect with me on Instagram.

How to Balance Writing as an Indie Author: Tips for Productivity and Flexibility

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

 As an indie author, one of the most common questions I get is, “How do you find the time to write?” Balancing writing with a day job, family responsibilities, and everything else life throws your way can feel overwhelming. Over the years, I’ve developed a system that works for me, and today I’m excited to share my formula for staying productive and consistent as a writer. 

1. Planning Is Key

The foundation of my writing routine is planning. I use two tools to keep my schedule organized:

    • Google Calendar: This helps me schedule everything digitally and sync with other commitments.

    • A Paper Planner: As someone who loves stickers and creativity, this adds a fun, tactile element to my planning.

Each week, I sit down and plan my schedule, including dedicated time for writing. My goal is to write at least three times a week, sometimes more if I can. I also prioritize flexibility, because life is chaotic and unpredictable.  For example, I’ll often plan a Monday writing session, but if Monday doesn’t work out, I move that session immediately to Tuesday in my Google calendar

2. The Power of Accountability

Accountability has been a game-changer in my writing journey. I rely on two consistent co-writing sessions every week:

    • Thursday Co-Writing with a Friend: This is a focused hour where we start by sharing our goals and then spend 50 minutes writing. These sessions are incredibly productive—just last week, I wrote 2,100 words in 50 minutes!

    • Friday Writing Group: This is a 90-minute session with fellow writers. We spend about 30 minutes chatting and problem-solving, followed by an hour of solid writing.

These sessions provide both structure and motivation. Writing alongside others, even virtually, creates a magical sense of focus and accountability.

3. Staying Flexible

Life happens, and flexibility is essential. While I rarely miss my Thursday and Friday writing sessions, I’m ready to adjust if a family member gets sick or a day job project comes up. If I miss my usual times, I’ll carve out time later in the evening or even on a weekend if I’m on a deadline.

When I do need to shift things around, I communicate with my family. For instance, I’ll let my husband and son know that I need an hour to write after dinner. This balance ensures that I meet my goals without sacrificing family time.

4. Setting Goals and Staying Motivated

Another critical piece of the puzzle is setting clear goals. I set yearly goals for my writing, breaking them down into monthly, weekly, and even daily tasks. For example, my current goal is to publish the first book in my urban fantasy series this fall and draft the second book while waiting for edits.

I also keep the bigger picture in mind: my dream is to publish all five books in the series within the next five years. Staying focused on this long-term vision helps me stay motivated and consistent, even on busy days.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Writing and Life as an Indie Author

Balancing writing with everything else requires careful planning, accountability, and flexibility. By scheduling time to write, staying committed to accountability groups, and remaining adaptable when life throws curveballs, I’ve been able to make consistent progress on my books.

If you’re an aspiring writer and struggling to find time, I’d love to help! Drop a comment below, and let me know how I can support you in your writing journey.

And if you’d like to follow my writing progress, subscribe to my newsletter by clicking the image below – bonus, you’ll get the first three chapters of my latest young adult sweet romance novel, Aerial Ambitions, for free!

My Writing Routine: Balancing Creativity and Structure

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

When it comes to my writing process, I love to embrace the concept of loose structure. For me, it’s all about having a plan, but leaving enough room for inspiration to strike. Whether I’m working on my weekly schedule or crafting a new story, I need that white space to allow my creativity to flow freely.

Outlining with Flexibility

One of my favorite tools for outlining is good old-fashioned index cards and Papermate Flair pens. I outline each scene or chapter on a card, noting the location, the characters, and one or two key points. This gives me a roadmap, but it’s not set in stone. I can easily move the cards around if something new sparks my interest, take out a scene that isn’t working, or add something fresh. It’s a flexible system that lets me adapt as the story evolves.

Color-coding drafts is a little obsession of mine. I start with one color for the first draft—this time, I used pink index cards—and when I move into the second draft and make changes, I grab a new color. For my current work-in-progress, that meant blue cards for the second draft. When I move to the next round of edits, I might add yellow or green. There’s something about using different colors for different drafts that makes the process feel more organized and visually exciting.

Bringing the Outline into Scrivener

Once I’m happy with the order of my cards, I transfer everything into Scrivener, my go-to writing software for over a decade. Scrivener has a bit of a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a fantastic tool for organizing scenes and keeping track of your progress. After the outline is in place, it’s time to dive into the first draft!

First Drafts and Breaks

First drafts are a whirlwind, and they usually take me anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks to complete, depending on how much time I have outside of writing (because, let’s be honest, being a mom and working doesn’t leave endless writing time). Once the first draft is finished, I always let it sit for a while before diving back in. Usually, I give it 1-2 months so I can return with fresh eyes, but my current work-in-progress sat for almost 8 months while I wrapped up another project and got it published.

When I do come back to that first draft, I read through it in Scrivener, taking notes as I go. These notes are often hilariously random, like, What was I thinking? What is with that name? or Who’s Marjorie? (Seriously, who is Marjorie?) Sometimes, it’s a more specific note like, Where did her dad go? or This chapter is missing something—but what?

Setting the Scene for a Writing Session

I have a few rituals that help me settle into a writing session. First, I make sure I have something yummy to drink—usually flavored water—and I always have a reward in mind for when I’m done. That reward could be food, but sometimes it’s just TikTok scrolling time (because, priorities).

Next, I choose my music for the session. Music helps me set the tone for what I’m writing. I also grab my tarot deck and pull a card for the day. If I’m stuck on a problem in the story, I’ll spend a few minutes journaling about how the tarot card might relate to my characters or plot. Sometimes, I just do this in my head and jot down a quick note on a post-it, then get straight to work.

Writing Sprints and Weekly Goals

I like to work in 25-minute writing sprints with a 5-minute eye break in between, and I usually aim for two sprints per session. Ideally, I write three times a week, but when I’m on a deadline, I’ll either add more writing days or extend my writing sessions to cover more ground.

What I love about this loose structure is that it gives me the freedom to adapt my writing routine to the week I’m having. If I have doctor’s appointments or meetings, I can shift things around rather than feel frustrated by interruptions. It also gives me space to think about the story when I’m not actively writing, which allows my muse to work in the background, sparking new ideas and keeping the story moving forward.

Balancing Creativity and Structure

Using this loose structure allows me to honor both the creative side of writing and the structured side of planning. The flexibility gives my characters room to tell me what they need, while the structure helps me stay on track and meet my deadlines. Plus, it ensures that I’m not just reacting to the pressures of life but incorporating them into my routine, so they work with me, not against me.

At the end of the day, it’s all about balance. Writing requires creativity, but it also demands discipline. By using loose structure, I can find the sweet spot between those two forces and keep my stories—and my writing process—on track.

World-Building 101: Crafting a Unique Setting

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

World-building is one of the most exciting parts of writing for me, but it’s also a process that evolves with each story I write. My first three books were all set in real places: New York City (and New Jersey), St. Louis, and Chicago. I’m comfortable using real settings because it allows me to draw on real-life experiences and the unique vibes of these cities. But with my next book—the first in a new series—I’m diving into something different. While the story is still set in New York City, I’m adding an element of magic, with time portals and alternate realities, which has pushed me out of my comfort zone and into uncharted territory.

Brainstorming the Basics

The biggest challenge with this new world-building adventure has been figuring out how the magical elements work within a real-world setting. I started by brainstorming what these time portals and alternate realities actually mean. How do they function? Where do they lead? What are the rules of these magical spaces? Even now, as I head into the second draft, I don’t have all the answers. That’s part of the journey. My goal for the second draft is to nail down exactly how these portals work and what to call them, but for now, I’m enjoying the creative freedom of discovery.

Using Real Maps to Ground the Story

Since much of the story is still rooted in the real world, specifically New York City, I rely heavily on Google Maps to get the lay of the land. My main character, Ruby, lives in Queens, but she spends time in Brooklyn for training, and some of the action takes place in Manhattan. By using Google Maps, I can get a close look at the streets, neighborhoods, and subway routes Ruby would travel, which helps me keep the setting realistic even as I blend in the magical elements. I always keep a subway map open while I’m writing, ensuring Ruby’s journey through the city is as accurate as possible.

Filling in the White Space

I tend to be what I call a “white space first drafter,” which means that when I write the first draft, I don’t always focus on describing the setting in detail. The characters are having dialogue, doing things, but the world around them is often left blank in my mind. It’s only when I move on to the second draft that I really dive into the details of the environment.

This is where I start to ask myself all the important questions about the spaces my characters occupy. What do the rooms look like? How do they smell? What items are scattered around? For example, I think about Ruby’s bedroom—what kind of personal touches does she have? How does her room in Queens compare to her best friend’s space, or to the apartment in Manhattan? I jot down all these questions and notes as I plan my edits, and then I refer to them as I go back through each scene, ensuring the settings feel vivid and grounded.

Weaving Magic Into the World

The biggest difference in this current work-in-progress, compared to my previous books, is the use of magic and the battle against evil beings. I had to spend a lot of time journaling to figure out how magic came into play. Where did it come from? How did it travel from its original world to ours? And what about the villain—how did he gain his magical powers?

In the first draft, some of these answers were there, but they weren’t fully fleshed out or didn’t make complete sense. But that’s the beauty of the first draft—it’s a space to explore ideas, even if they’re messy. Now, as I approach the second draft, I’m honing those magical elements so that they’re clearer and more consistent. Since I plan to send this draft to my editor to begin the development process, I want the magic to feel seamless and logical, even within a fantastical world.

Bringing the World to Life

World-building isn’t just about geography or magic; it’s about atmosphere. To help me get into the right mood for different sections of my book, I turn to a few tools: Pinterest, music, and more maps. I love creating Pinterest boards filled with images that reflect the mood and tone I’m aiming for. It’s a great way to get visually inspired, especially when I’m trying to capture the essence of both New York City and the magical elements I’m weaving in.

Music also plays a big role in setting the tone. I create playlists that help me sink into different scenes—whether it’s an intense fight scene, a quiet moment of reflection, or a mysterious encounter in one of the magical portals. The music helps me connect emotionally with the scene and gives me the energy I need to bring it to life on the page.

Google Maps continues to be my trusty sidekick for looking around parts of the city that I can’t always visit in person. For example, I lived on the Upper East Side for years, but now that I’m writing from Queens, it’s not easy to just pop over there whenever I want. Using maps and street views lets me virtually “walk” around those areas, giving me a sense of the neighborhoods that my characters are moving through, without needing to leave my writing desk.

Embracing the Fun of World-Building

For me, world-building is one of the most enjoyable parts of writing. It’s a chance to immerse myself in both the familiar and the unknown, blending real-world settings with magical possibilities. While creating these worlds takes time, it’s always worth the effort when the setting starts to feel like a living, breathing part of the story. Whether I’m writing about real places like New York City or inventing entire alternate realities, my goal is to craft a world that readers can step into and explore, a world that feels as tangible as the characters who inhabit it.

World-building might seem daunting, but it’s an exciting way to stretch your imagination and deepen your story. Whether you’re setting your story in the real world, a fantasy realm, or a mix of both, the details you create will help your readers feel truly immersed in the world you’ve built.

How I Develop Characters: From Concept to Creation

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

When I sit down to write a new story, the first thing I think about is the characters. For me, they’re the heart of every story, and I like to build them up in layers, starting with a simple question and growing them into fully fleshed-out people.

Starting with a Question

Most of my stories begin with a “what if” question. What would happen if someone was born into a famous flying circus family but was terrified of heights? Or what if a teen girl woke up one day with magical powers, and her mom wasn’t surprised at all? These kinds of questions spark my curiosity and start shaping the bones of my characters.

The question not only sets the foundation for the plot, but it also helps me think about who my main character is and how their internal struggle will drive the story forward.

Using Tarot to Create Characters

Once I have my “what if,” I turn to one of my favorite tools for character development: tarot cards. Tarot has always been a creative tool for me, and I use it to dive deeper into who my characters are.

Because I write YA, I know that most of my characters will be high school or college-aged and usually girls. But when it comes to their deeper traits—like what they look like, what their interests are, and what makes them tick—I pull a card or two to guide me. The tarot helps me figure out their quirks, strengths, and weaknesses. It’s a way to get creative and let the cards guide me toward traits I might not have considered. Sometimes a card gives me a hint about their hair or eye color, while other times it gives me insight into their personality or history.

Pinterest and Casting Characters

With some basics in place, I move on to creating a visual representation of my characters. I head over to Pinterest and start putting together a mood board for the story. This is where I start to “cast” my characters.

Sometimes I’ll use images of famous people—like Harry Styles or Maya Hawke—to give me a face for my characters. Other times, I find inspiration from models or random photos of people who fit the vibe I’m looking for. Seeing them visually helps solidify the character in my mind and brings them to life in a way that goes beyond just words on the page.

Defining Their Core: Desires, Flaws, and Growth

Now that I have a solid image of my character, I start diving deeper into who they are. I ask myself a series of key questions:

  • What do they want?
  • What do they need?
  • What is their fatal flaw?

These questions are crucial because they define the character’s arc in the story. What they want is usually a surface-level goal, but what they need is often deeper and tied to their personal growth. Their fatal flaw is the thing that stands in their way, and it’s what makes them human. I also make sure to define their quirks and behavior traits, things that might not be obvious at first but make them feel real. These are the details that I hope will make readers fall in love with them, or at least feel something strong about them—whether that’s admiration, empathy, or even frustration.

Journaling as My Characters

Once I have the basics in place, I dive into my first draft, letting the characters guide me through the story. After the draft is complete, I take some time to journal as if I am the characters themselves. I write as though I’m inside their heads, allowing them to tell me what I might’ve missed, what I need to change, and how they would react in certain situations.

This exercise is especially helpful because I write in first-person POV, meaning I’m often focused solely on the main character’s internal thoughts and perspective. Journaling in the voice of my side characters helps me connect with them more deeply and craft dialogue that feels authentic to each one’s unique personality.

Refining Through Each Draft

Every draft gives me the opportunity to understand my characters better. It’s during these rounds of revision that they start to feel like real people—people with flaws, strengths, and depth. I want my readers to experience these characters as fully human: to fall in love with them, to hate them, to root for them, or to want to see them fail. My goal is always to make them relatable and multi-dimensional, not perfect, but real.

For my current work in progress, World Ablaze,’ this process has been especially important. With a cast that includes Ruby and her parents, the girls with elemental powers, and Ruby’s best friend Sophie, there are a lot of personalities to manage. But taking the time to develop each one individually, from tarot readings to journaling, ensures that they all feel fully realized by the time I’m done.

This process of developing characters has become one of my favorite parts of writing. It’s like meeting new people, getting to know them little by little, until eventually, they feel like old friends (or enemies). And I hope when readers dive into my stories, they’ll connect with these characters in the same way I do.

The Art of Editing: What I’m Focusing on in My Next Book

Posted on by Jennifer Gregson

Second-draft land is a weird place. After the whirlwind of writing a first draft, you might think the second draft would be easier. But, as I’ve learned, it’s anything but.

In the first draft, you’re essentially telling yourself the story—letting your imagination run wild and figuring things out as you go. But in the second draft, the real work begins. You kind of know where you’re going now, but you’ve got holes to fill, changes to make, and things to fix. This is when you look back at your first-draft self with a mix of compassion and frustration, sometimes even asking, “WTF were you thinking?”

Take my current project, for example. In the first chapter, my main character gets dumped. I originally named the guy Dylan, but then I realized—his family is from Colombia, and they moved to New York just before he was born. They wouldn’t have named him Dylan! So, back to the drawing board I went and I changed it to Diego. (Thank goodness for Find and Replace tools)

Then, in the second chapter, I had my main character, Ruby, wake up, go to school, and head to swim practice—all in the span of three sentences. That obviously wasn’t going to work, so I had to add about 300 words just to make that opening flow. Like, did she want to talk to her parents where her parents even home, how was she feeling after getting dumped, was she worried about seeing him at school? 

This book also has magical elements, and I had no idea what I was doing in the first draft. So before I even touched the second draft, I had to sit down and figure out where the original magic came from, why the villain is so angry and how he got his powers, where everyone’s been hiding (spoiler: time portals and alternate universes are involved), and why the boots they wear are so essential to their tech. It was a lot to sort out!

But second drafts are where the real magic happens. This is where you uncover those juicy details that you can drip in earlier to delight your readers, where you truly get a sense of your characters, and, for me, where I tighten up the sense of place and how everything fits together.

The journey doesn’t end here, though. I’m going to be working on this book and refining it over the next few months. If you want to follow along with my progress, join my newsletter to stay updated on all the drafts, edits, and discoveries along the way.