120. Manga and Romance Blog Hop!

Relationship Development

(AKA: My Characters Do What They Want)

Naliel and Sarnaiel by SeriousBreakfastTime

It's uncommon for me to end up being in control over my character's relationships. As a romance writer, naturally I create characters who will eventually come together and express their undying love (be through actions or words, and hopefully in a non-cheesy fashion). Although Destined was the first book released in my Arcanus Series, it is actually Bound by Blood where everything began. Rioran and Liari were my first creations, two individuals bound together by fate and circumstance.

Naliel and Sarnaiel's development ended up being rather random. I wanted to create a back story for this half-elven hunter who was quickly growing to be a close friend and confidant for my surly redhead. Sarnaiel initially had been mentioned as a lover whom Naliel had lost years ago, but his character spoke out so strongly against such a mundane death that I decided to change things around a bit. For those who have read Destined, yes they're in the upcoming second novel, much older and wiser. Sarnaiel completely took over all of my ideas for Naliel in his single life, and of course he made little protest over having his lover alive and well.

Although Sarnaiel bulldozed his way into the story, it was Naliel who informed me of who he was when he initially explained his past to Rioran. There was no plotting in mind, not the way I had planned out Rioran and Liari's relationship. No, Naliel made himself clear: He had a lover in the past, and that person had been male. For the most part, every other relationship I have created in this series has followed this formula.

Vari, Maria, and Rori by LaElizO

I find the end results to be rewarding. I've had relationships completely change due to character dynamics. One relationship I struggled with for a while as two characters fought in my head for another, until the character they were fighting over settled the situation by having them both become his lovers. Am I looking forward to delving into my first polyamory relationship? Absolutely.

Then there's the characters who I had absolutely no intention of pairing with anyone, simply because they weren't interested or too anti-social for any of my characters to want to bother with. Now I have an entire book plotted out with my two guys, ready to be written. I'd reveal more, but it'll just have to wait until book two is released.

Bottom line, my characters do whatever they want with whoever they want, and I'm just along for the ride. It's a fun roller coaster, full of headaches and hair pulling, but it's so rewarding to simply let the relationships be. Whether M/M, F/F, or even M/M/F, I know my guys and gals will keep things interesting.

Thanks for stopping by everyone! If you're interested in learning more about my series, feel free to follow or bookmark this journal or click on the 'Arcanus Series' tag. If you're interested in starting the series, you can purchase Destined here (If you purchase from the publisher from now until the end of June, you'll get 10% off!). You can also find my novel at most major bookstores online.


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