Welcome to another Insecure Writer's Support Group blog post, where we connect with other writers. Learn more about the IWSG on their website and Facebook page.Our hosts for this month are Jenni Enzor, Jemima Pett, Jamie of Uniquely Maladjusted but Fun, and Kim Lajevardi.
Here's our question for the month: What was the most inspiring feedback you received from readers, including agents, editors, and beta readers?
Without going into too much detail, one reader's comment on a work-in-progress led me to develop a backstory for a side character that not only worked well for character development but helped advance the main plot. They were very engaged with my story, at least up to the climax. (I'm not sure if they ever read the ending.) It's the engagement with other writers and readers that keeps me motivated to write.
What kind of feedback inspires you? Feel free to share in the comments.
6 comments:
That's why I have test readers in addition to critique partners - their comments can send me in new and better directions.
Oooh, yes... backstory to characters you hadn't thought worth it.... that opens up content for at least one more book for me!
BTW don't click my google link (it wont let me change it)
Jemima @jemimapett.com
Every character needs a good backstory.
I love that! I only shared positive comments today, but one reader shared a story from her teaching days that inspired me to redo a backstory, which really deepened the connections and characters (I hope). I love feedback like that!
It sounds like you got and used some really good advice about how to integrate your side character into a story. Writing a side character to influence the story significantly can be hard. Ive inadvertently wrote them into my stories before not making them contribute to anything.
Yes, a backstory for a side character can lead in totally unexpected direction. Sometimes, that can spark an entirely new story as well.
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