Creating Realistic Characters

THE WORKSHOP

Do your characters feel a little flat? Do you struggle to make them feel relatable, or simply want to learn a few tips and tricks to give them that extra oomph? Do you want your characters to feel realistic, no matter your genre or story format? This workshop is all about that: writing and editing realistic characters. What do you as a writer need to know about them? What makes them tick? What could make them more relatable to your reader, or make their decisions more logical? And just how much can your characters impact your story if something about them isn’t quite working?

Whatever stage your writing is at, and no matter your experience, you’ll come away from this session with key questions to ask as you write and edit your characters, how to make them more realistic, and how to assess their behaviours. We’ll also touch on how strong, realistic characters can strengthen your overall plot, provide opportunities instead of obstacles, and make your reader’s experience all the more enjoyable.

THE TUTOR

Heather Ivatt runs the Ivatt Editorial Consultancy, a fantasy-fiction-focused consultancy that offers bespoke services and a unique editing approach. Using her experience as a change manager, she has designed ways to make characters more realistic and advises clients on how to manage the rippling impacts of editorial changes. You can find her on Instagram and TikTok (@ivattedits), where she talks about her services and her experience of exhibiting at London Book Fair 2026.

DETAILS

A great opportunity to connect with fellow writers, explore your creative imagination and learn from an experienced local writer.

The event will take place in person in Room 4 at Central Library Nottingham, which is situated conveniently near to city transport links and has ample parking nearby.

Map link here.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions or specific requirements.

Thank you

NWS Team