Character & Emotion Resources
I’m a character writer. I’ve always been a character writer. I’ll probably always be a character writer.
But if that’s not the case for you, the free resources below are intended to help you at least get to know your character’s backstory, current emotional journey, and the twists and turns they’ll eventually take on their path to their best self.
If you’re looking for something even more in-depth, head on over to my store.
And of course, remember that I’m a trained professional story coach and developmental editor thrilled for the chance to guide you on your drafting and revising journey. Check out my Services page to book your free consultation, and let’s get started reflecting on your story one word at a time!
With nothing pressuring your character to change, nothing forces them to move through the story. Use this Conflict Map to help figure out your POV character’s why is, and what they’ll lose if they don’t get it, scene by scene.
If your pacing keeps sagging, this quick diagnostic helps you spot the kind of conflict your draft is missing most. Download it to identify where your scenes are losing pressure, strengthen story momentum, and make revision decisions faster without overcomplicating your plot.
When a scene drags, it usually needs sharper pressure and clearer consequences. Download this fast scene-check tool to pinpoint where momentum breaks, strengthen cause and effect on the page, and make each scene pull more weight in your story.
If your pacing feels off, your draft may be missing the right kind of pressure. The Escalation Ladder diagnostic helps you spot what’s thinning out your scenes. That lets you find a clearer path to stronger momentum, sharper tension, and a story readers won’t want to put down.
A weak antagonistic force can make even a strong premise feel flat. Download this worksheet to clarify what’s pushing against your protagonist, sharpen the story’s pressure points, and raise the stakes in ways that feel specific, believable, and much harder for readers to ignore.
If your character’s arc feels vague, this one-page download helps you pinpoint the inner tension shaping their transformation. Use it to clarify what’s keeping them stuck, strengthen emotional credibility, and build a character journey that feels earned instead of abstract.
Strong interpersonal conflict adds tension without needing anyone to become the villain. Download this prompt pack to create richer scene friction, deepen relationship dynamics, and make character interactions feel more charged, layered, and story-shaping from one conversation to the next.
If your character’s inner struggle stays stuck in narration, this resource helps you bring it onto the page. Download it to make internal conflict feel visible, active, and consequential so your character arc gains more tension, credibility, and emotional pull during revision.
More resources on the way!
Reflecting On Your Story One Word At A Time!