Voices of Fiction - Getting Readers Involved - Wrap Up

Welcome to another edition of Voices of Fiction.

Over the last few weeks, the authors have shared their ways of getting the reader involved in the story. As you’ve seen from the variety of answers, we writers are all different and yet very much the same.

The techniques of grabbing the reader’s attention has ranged from character to conflict, from plot to pace, and even some world building technique. The one thing in common with all the answers is the story has to be interesting no matter which component(s) the author concentrates on the most.

How do you get your readers involved in the story?

I begin my stories with an idea germ, move to an interesting plot line, and then cast unique characters to live within the pages. The work doesn’t stop there. Well written words also help pull the reader into the imaginative world.

Producing emotions for the readers is a sure way to pull your reader in. You know you have a work of art in your hands when you find yourself laughing and crying as you read.

Writers who give intriguing settings really grab my attention. I love being swept away to places I’ve never been, whether it’s a new state or country or just the inside of a business or diner. It’s one thing to feel as if you walk beside the character, it’s another to see, smell, taste, and feel their surroundings. 

V.C. Andrews’ writings remain one of my favorites in this aspect. I’ve traveled many places thanks to her story creations.

Amanda Stevens swept me away with her settings of South Carolina.

Dean Koontz takes the reader in through his characters, pacing, and amazing plots.

Stephen King brings us characters we will never forget. He also grabs us by the fear bone, dragging us under and making us love it.

There are many wonderful writers out there, and each day many more pop up into the world of writing. Some rely very heavily on one aspect, while others weave together a combination of traits, all producing text for our enjoyment, but also text for learning.

The one advice most writers will give a new writer is to read A LOT. The reason for this is that every single book produced holds a lesson within its cover - anywhere from what to do, what not to do, and techniques for building upon your skills.

So, if you want to be a writer, I pass this along in great hopes that you are listening. Read in and out of your desired genre, and then reread studying the writer’s techniques. You will find some writers better in different areas. Learn from their talents and from their mistakes and then put it all into play within your own writings. And, remember, you never quit improving. Keep writing, reading, and learning. Good luck to all writers, experienced and aspiring.

Thank you all for joining us as we explored ‘how to get readers involved in the story.’ Next week, we'll begin exploring another topic on "Voices of Fiction." Feel free to join in.

Readers send questions to chergreen@chergreen.com, Subject: Voices of Fiction Question, and have them answered by the participating authors in later editions.

There’s also room for more authors to participate. Drop me an email, Subject: Voices of Fiction.