Writing by the Seat of my Pants - It's All About The Spark

 

Creating engaging characters takes time, inspiration and a hell of a lot of work. My first published novel Wolf's Castle is filled with drama and romance with a mix of Gothic elements on the side. Enjoy meeting my characters below and if you haven't read Wolf's Castle, give it a chance. 


 

 

Lord Galen Maclean — The Beast of Lomarcan Castle

Title: Lord of Lomarcan Castle
Vibe: Brooding Highlander with a soft center (when coaxed out)

Personality Snapshot

Galen is the classic tortured hero — fierce, stubborn, and sworn to guard his isolation at all costs. He’s known as the “beast” of the castle because of his temper and fearsome reputation, but deep down he’s loyal and passionate.

Hobbies (when he’s not glaring at intruders)

  • Whiskey at dawn — nothing says “ruler of the Highlands” like a man deep in his cups before he breaks his fast.

  • Sculpting stone gargoyles for the castle ramparts — artistic outlet meets intimidation factor.

  • Midnight walks through foggy moors — he claims it’s “for the fresh air,” but really it’s just dramatic.

Favorite Food

  • Smoky Highland stew with roasted root vegetables and thick, buttered bread (a meal worthy of fueling epic brooding).

  • He secretly adores haggis — don’t tell anyone, especially the sheep.

Ideal Mate

Galen’s ideal match is someone who is:

  • Bold enough to lock eyes with him

  • Unafraid of castle corridors at night

  • Quick with a laugh and a sharp retort
    In short: someone who can turn his growls into grins.

 

Vivian Stuart — The Uninvited Light

Title: Wandering Woman with Courage to Spare
Vibe: Intrepid, compassionate, and unshakably curious

Personality Snapshot

Vivian is the spirited heroine who stumbles into Galen’s gloomy world — and refuses to be cowed by his cold exterior. She’s brave, warm-hearted, and fiercely determined to be heard.

Hobbies That Fit Her Spirit

  • Directing fanciful plays — she knows it will anger the beast, but the isle inhabitants deserve to have a bit of dramatic fun.

  • Journaling by candlelight — vivid descriptions, elegant sketches, and many unsent letters to Galen’s softer side.

  • Meddling in castle affairs — if she's stuck on the isle, she might as well make herself useful.

Favorite Food

  • Honey-herb scones with clotted cream — a touch sweet, a touch wild, perfectly balanced (like her personality).

  • She loves fresh berries with cream picked straight from the hedgerows at her home, alas, no berries at Wolf's Castle.

Ideal Mate

Vivian dreams of someone:

  • Strong but emotionally honest

  • Loyal even when the path is hard

  • Capable of protecting her world without trying to control it
    She’s not looking for perfection — just a heart that’s brave enough to love hers.

Why These Two Spark

Galen and Vivian are a classic tale of fire meeting flame — a gruff guardian meeting a bright spirit who refuses to be confined by his past. Their dynamic isn’t just about passion; it’s about growth, courage, and finding unexpected companionship in a haunted castle’s shadowed halls.

 


 

 

 

 

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