Have you ever dreamed of being a character in a movie or in a book? Well, I’m giving some of my readers the opportunity to live out both of those dreams!
Movies aren’t only about the stars – and books aren’t only about the main characters. In fact, one of the most difficult things for an author to do is to provide all the background to make everything come together. I spend a good amount of time researching names, clothing styles, and even small details such as jewelry and haircuts so that they’re appropriate for the place and period in which I’m writing. But one of the most important elements for me is that I get a sense of each character I describe, no matter how big or small a part they play in the plot of the book.
When Alfred Hitchcock made his later films, he always tried to find a way to insert himself into one of the scenes in a cameo role. The same is true of Marvel Comics creator Stan Lee. Cameo roles can be what are sometimes called “Easter Eggs”, or things that true fans try to find to enhance their viewing pleasure. I think there were times that Mr. Hitchcock and Mr. Lee simply couldn’t resist inserting themselves into their work because it was so personal. I often wish I could do the same, but I’ve done the second-best thing by writing stories about people I’ve known and loved.
As I am finishing Hoofers & Hooch (Book 3 in the Inherited Treasures series), I need a new group of characters for Book 4, Gangsters & Reels. They will serve as “extras”, who will be important to the plot and will interact with the main characters. This is the perfect opportunity to involve my readers in the writing process.
If you are interested in participating in this opportunity, log onto my website at DorrieParsonsAuthor.com. Include your name, physical description, and something interesting about yourself. It might be something you do well (dance, sing, whistle, play the ukulele?) or something remarkable about you (a physical attribute or emotional trait) so that I can create a character and incorporate it into the story. Finally, tell me why you would be an interesting character, if you have an idea for a name, and you might like to be!
Winners will be announced at the end of September, and you will be acknowledged in the Author’s Notes with a short Bio alongside your character’s name.
UPDATE: THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED AND NO NEW APPLICATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED. PLEASE WATCH FOR NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN THE FUTURE.
