A commercial novel must always center on what the main character desperately lacks or needs? A story without a struggle against great odds isn’t much of a story.
The struggle is born out of the character’s nature? Is he/she capable or incapable of achieving the goal? How will he/she go about solving the problem or satisfying the need? It’s best of the reader can see something of himself or herself in the character. For example, a young female character might obsess about her flawed looks. She might think her teeth are too bucked or her lips too thin, and that she’ll never find a mate. A young reader will respond well to similar fears, while an eight-year-old may not. When you think about your characters, imagine what traits will connect with the reader.
Another element to consider is character’s environment. How does this place affect him/her? Is the house or town foreboding, mysterious, weird, or perhaps cheerful and welcoming?
What characters are for or against the hero/heroine? Andy why? What are their own goals and how do they conflict with Character A.
What three events will move the character closer or further from achieving success or survival? Think of the story as a three-act play. How will these key events converge to create a satisfying conclusion for the reader?
Most important, why do you want to tell this story. What does it mean to you? What impassions, or inspires or intrigues you most?
Writing a novel involves much careful thought. Do the thinking before setting a single word on the page.
