Many agents and editors are looking for that “unique voice” that commands attention, that sounds fresh to the reader’s ear, that conveys the sense of a fully developed emotional and mental life. But having a strong voice for your narrator or protagonist is only the first step.
In this workshop we explore how to create backstories for the protagonist and In this workshop, we discuss point of view as distinct from focalization; and we explore a variety of ways to make the voices of your protagonist and secondary characters sound unique and true to themselves and to their backstory.
This workshop lasts 1.5 hours and includes time for discussion and Q&A.
Contact Karen for participation information.
Praise for Karen’s Workshops
“USA Today bestselling author, Karen Odden, proves time and again that she is a master storyteller. Fortunately for writers around the globe, she’s also an exceptional teacher. The multi-award-winning author’s newest workshop, What is the Why? Building A Backstory for Nuanced Characters and Authentic Conflict, provides specific guidelines—and the critical keys authors need—to craft fascinating stories with plots and characters that captivate readers. At our recent event, she held an audience of 70+ in the palm of her hand, graciously staying past her scheduled time to answer questions for enthusiastic writers from across the U.S. and Canada, who clearly didn’t want the meeting to end. With extraordinary and original content, clear delivery and obvious skill, Odden demonstrates the master storyteller is also a master instructor.” – Sisters in Crime Grand Canyon Writers, Scottsdale, Arizona
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About Karen
Karen received her Ph.D. in English literature from New York University and subsequently taught at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her first novel, A Lady in the Smoke, was a USA Today bestseller and A Dangerous Duet and A Trace of Deceit have won awards for historical mystery and historical fiction. Down a Dark River introduces readers to Inspector Michael Corravan, a former thief and bare-knuckles boxer. The sequel, Under a Veiled Moon was recently nominated for a Lefty Award. Karen lives in Arizona with her family, and she loves to hike the Sonoran Desert. Read More