When Casee asked me to talk about how I choose which Psy/Changeling character to write about when, I had to think about it for a while, because in essence, it’s instinctive. But, if you break it down, two factors emerge as most important.
The first is the character’s readiness. For example, after Slave to Sensation, a lot of people thought I would write Dorian’s book, because he was a strong presence in StS. But Dorian’s book couldn’t come next because Dorian was too damaged then. How could he possibly fall in love when he was so shattered?
By contrast, Vaughn came onto the page and boy was he ready. I knew his story was next the instant he pinned Sascha with those almost-gold eyes and said, “If I’d thought you were going to harm Lucas, I would’ve ensured you never had the chance.” He was an incredibly powerful character and the choice to write his story wasn’t so much a choice as a compulsion. He was next and that was that.
As the series progresses, a second factor has also become important—the events in the world. As alliances and loyalties shift, the world changes. Sometimes, this means a character’s story has to wait—because it’s not possible to tell their story in the circumstances as they are. As the writer, you might think I can wrench things back to where I want them, but the world is what it is—I have to be true to its rhythms and flows.
However, while both those things are important, in the end, the characters rule supreme. It’s difficult to describe, but as I write one book, I begin to hear the voice of the next character. They tell me it’s their turn. For example, Judd wasn’t supposed to be book 3. I had some vague idea that he was a minor character when I wrote the first draft of StS. *Yes, I know you’re all laughing at me. Feel free to stop. Anytime. Really.* By the time I finished StS, I knew Judd was not only getting a book, he was getting it soon. Or else.
The same happened with Hostage to Pleasure – Dorian was so ready he was breathing down my neck. As you can see, he got his way. Then Mercy coughed and raised an eyebrow…
So, who do you want to come next? Any questions/comments about the series?
Everyone who leaves a comment goes into a draw to win a copy of THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAT anthology (out in October). I’ll post it out to the winner soon as my author copies arrive.
Well Hawke gets my vote to come next although I have a feeling he may not be quite ready yet. Am also intrigued by Indigo, one of Hawkes Lieutenants.
Am sooo enjoying this series – only discovered it a few weeks ago (yes, I live in a cave!) and had the pleasure of glomming the first 4 copies back to back. What stood out besides the great romances was the consistency, both of the worldbuilding and the characters throughout all the books.
If the competition is open to overseas bloggers I would love to enter.
Oh I just love this series! You’ve just created such a wonderful world and I love reading about it.
I’m very much looking forward to Mercy’s book and wondering how that’s gonna work with her man. They’re so very different.
I’m assuming (and hoping) that Hawke will be getting his book soon but am wodnering where you envision the series going after that. Will you focusing on the younger changelings in the Dark River pack?
*waving at Nalini*
You know, I actually prefer not knowing who is next. I love speculating about it as much as the next person, but not knowing for sure opens a much wider field for guesses and predictions, etc.
And I love being surprised by who the author ends up choosing–and why.
I have said this in many places, but I love love love the series. The world building is excellent–it develops with each book, and it was complex to begin with, while maintaining internal consistency. No easy feat, that!
Add so many great characters, good dialogue, good writing…
Have I mentioned how much I like these books? 😀
Like many others I’m looking forward to Hawke’s story. But the anticipation makes it so much better. I’m also with azteclady, I don’t mind not knowing who’s next for many of the same reasons she stated.
Thanks for blogging a Book Binge. Love the series, it just keeps getting better and better!!!!
I won’t deny that I’m anxious for Hawke to get his story, but I too am intrigued by Indigo as well as some of the other Lauren family members, like Walker.
Also, the excerpt from Angel’s Blood intrigued me. Is this going to be another romance series that has a different couple for each book or is it more urban fantasy?
(P.S. Would love a copy of The Magical Christmas Cat) 🙂
I want Hawke’s book. *g* He’s intrigued me since StS. I loved getting a better look at him as an alpha in CBI.
I’m also curious about Walker. Psy heroes just intrigue me.
I’m also dying to know if Kaleb Krychek (did I spell that right?) is good or bad.
Please enter me into the contest too. I love Nalini Singh’s books.
Nalini, you already know my answer.
KALEB
KALEB
KALEB
😀
Great contest ladies
Hawke gets my vote too 🙂 Indigo as well 🙂
I was wondering, I read somewhere that you would be introducing new packs soon. Are you also going to have a book away from San Francisco or is it going to stay in SF?
I think you have done a fine job with who gets to tell their story next! So I’ll leave that to you :).
I love your books and was saddened when I went to the bookstore today and there was no copy of HtP. But of course the release date isn’t until the 2nd and none of my bookstores in my area ever put them on the shelves early. So I’m still waiting!
I am happy with your choices 🙂 I have enjoyed all of the stories very much!
I think I am going to have to get my hands on these books….. Then I can tell you who should be next 😀
I frickin love this series Nalini! Can’t wait to read Hostage!
I’m so in love with this series! I can’t wait for HtP.
As far as which character I’d like to see next…HAWK!! Please Nalini, say it’s HAWK!
Willa – the comp’s open to everyone, so you’re in. 🙂
Tracy – the excerpt for Mercy will be up on the website next week. As for what happens after Hawke…there’s some very interesting people left, like, say, the Ghost.
Azteclady – the check’s on it’s way 😉
Mollie – thank you!
Joni – the first two books in the new series will have the same main characters. After that, we’ll see. 🙂
Casee & Katie – Kaleb who? *grin*
I heart Book Gossip – you’re in. 🙂
Nath, yes, we’ll be moving a bit in the upcoming stories I think. You meet a new pack in Mercy’s book. But I think I’d still also like to keep the characters we already know in the frame 🙂
Nancy, thank you!
LOL Tasha – hope you enjoy them.
Zeek – thanks!
VampFanGirl – I love Hawke. I already have parts of his story written. But alas, he’s not next…not yet 🙂
Amy C – just a little while longer!
Hawke! Hawke! Hawke!
Or Andrew.
: )
Drew’s fun isn’t he? *g*
Ooooohhhh the Ghost!!!
And Walker.
And Hawke, of course.
And Lara.
And Anthony, Faith’s father.
And Kaleb, yes.
And a couple of people introduced in HtP–you know who they are!
Nalini, thanks 😉
Drew. Riley. Kaleb. Hawke. I NEED their stories. *esplodes*
But I gotta hold down the girls too. Aside from Mercy and Indigo, if you wanna throw us some more kick-arse femme warriors, I’ll be more than eager to glom it. Someone from another [predatory] pack perhaps. Someone unexpected who’ll throw a wrench in the works…*cough*…just a suggestion.
Walker.
I really enjoyed Judd’s story and am very, very interested in the rest of the Lauren family. I would love to see where their stories go and what kind of power Sienna has. The Psy family, and especially the Psy heroes, pique my interest the most.
I also liked Indigo and wouldn’t mind Hawke’s story too. Oh, and Drew and/or Riley. I wouldn’t mind following their stories either. 🙂
I will like Hawke or Walker or maybe Indigo.
Whoever you pick I bet will be good
I loved Judd so much (some might say a little too much) but I have a feeling things might change when Hawke comes along!!!!
I can’t wait to see who’s next after Mercy’s book! There are so many I want to read about 😀
I would love to see Hawke’s story after Mercy’s but sometimes anticipation and build up for a character like that can be a good thing. It worked for Dorian’s story! Honestly, I’d be up for any new Nalini Singh story I could get my hands on, regardless of the couple in question.
There are so many I want to see. I love your series, it is great!!
I guess at the moment like others, I am most looking forward to Hawke’s book. Can’t wait for the next book, whoever it may be about. Thanks for writing them. 🙂
I’d love a story about any of the people we’ve met so far but I think it’s entirely up to Nalini. I’ll read anything by her with great pleasure! However I would love to see Walker’s story! I think Hawke’s story is going to be further up the timeline though I’m anxious to read it. I think Drew’s story would be a good follow on to Mercy’s if her mate is who I suspect….
Oh the Ghost! Wow – that’s so cool – I never even thought of the Ghost.
This is my favorite paranormal series right now, both for the characters and the world-building, and the Net Mind, well done, Nalini.
Won’t even say Hawke as I know it’s not time for his yet, though I hope we get some inklings along the way, could even be it’s too soon for his heroine yet (been wondering about someone already). Kaleb and the Ghost definitely have me intrigued, but it’s too soon for them, too, I think with the plot.
Judd and Brenna’s story is still my favorite, and I’d like to learn more about Sienna too. So next up, I’d like to see Indigo.
I love this series! I hope Hawke’s book is next!
I have to vote for Indigo.
But I’m not picky. Whoever is up next is fine.
Sienna, Hawk and any of the unmated ones would work for me. I am loving this series.
About a week, then HTP will be mine! I keep hoping that Amazon will send it early, although I don’t want to adversely affect the book’s ratings by getting it before 9/2.
Who next … any of the Laurens, Hawke, Kaleb, Dev, Kaleb’s personal assistant – can’t remember her name… or a character that I have met yet?
Keep up the great work!
I have your books on my TBR pile. Can’t wait to read them.
Wait… An Angel’s Blood excerpt? Where?!
I should mention that I don’t need a copy of The Magical Christmas Cat. I broke my don’t-buy-trade-size rule and pre-ordered it because the excerpt on your website was so yummy. It’s a pretty strict rule, so you should feel proud! 😉
Any book is great, but one about Hawke and/or Sienna would rock 🙂
Do you plan to release 2 new books in the Psy/changeling series in 2009, Nalini??
And Anthony, Faith’s father.
Omg, AL, how could I forget Anthony?
Is he even on your radar of characters deserving of their own books, Nalini?
HI Nalini *waves*
I’m so hanging out for Hostage to Pleasure it isn’t funny 🙂 I really like it that there is fluidity (is that a word) is which characters’ books come next. I’m really looking forward to Hawke’s book, but I’m patient 🙂 I also hope we get to meet Drew’s mate and…I’m embarrassed to say I’ve forgotten his name…the policeman in Mine to Possess. Does he appear again please Nalini?
And I just wanted to say thank you Nalini. Reading your books is a joy!
orannia
Of course I’d love Hawke’s book next, but since its not time. I’d really love to see more of Indigo and Kaleb.
Hmmm…this one is difficult, because you’ve got Mercy & Dorian’s story coming out. I’d have to say Kaleb. Since I haven’t read Hostage to Pleasure or Mercy’s story, I don’t know how he progresses, but he is definitely a character I’d like to see delved into. 🙂
And how could I forget HAWKE (smacks head). I cannot wait for his story! 😀
I really love this series. It’s one of those series where I can pick the books up time and time again and not get tired of them. My favorite has to be Slave to Sensation. I’m constantly wondering how and what Lucas and Sascha are doing as I read the other characters’ book.
I would love to see either a full book or a novella on either Riley or Andrew. I fell in love with both of them in Brenna’s story.
Wow, I head out to run some errands and you all go crazy *Grin*
Azteclady – that’s some list you’ve got there 😉
Ezgi – LOL!
Barbarita / Dance Chica – I really want to write Walker’s story.
Amanda – it can never be too much *g*
Angela – I hope you enjoy Mercy’s book 🙂
Kris and Kelbar – thank you!
Jenny – you’ll find out soon about Mercy. The excerpt will go live the first week of Sep. 🙂
Tracy – yep, he’ll be interesting, but his story’s not for a while yet. 🙂
Pam P – thank you so much!
Amy S – what is it about that wolf? *g* I love him, too 🙂
Gail / Sweet – Indigo’s a riot. I think writing her book will be fun. But first she has to find a hero who can handle her…
Pamk – that’s what I like to hear 😉
Elizabeth – Kaleb’s personal assistant is Silver. She’s an interesting character for sure. 🙂
Ann M – hope you enjoy them!
MaryK – the ARCs had the BRANDED BY FIRE excerpt, but the mass market copies of the book have ANGELS’ BLOOD. It’ll also be up on the website next week.
And how awesome that you broke your trade-size rule!! Zach is yummy throughout, trust me 🙂
Bel – I’m on the same writing schedule ie. 2 Psy/Changeling books/year, but the release dates are entirely up to my publisher. At the moment, I think you should be getting 2 in 2009. 🙂
Casee – I really like Anthony, and I would like to write his story, but it depends on the series as a whole. He might possibly have his story through the books…
Orannia – the cop’s name is Max 🙂 And he doesn’t appear in Mercy’s book, but is mentioned. I definitely want to see him again!
Bridget – are you sure Kaleb is a good guy? *Nalini walks off whistling*
Lili – your wish might soon come true *grin*
Hi Nalini Oh I so hope its Hawke. But this was so hard to pick! Gosh tho, each one is just so special and unique in themselves and I bet they’ll tell you when they ready to tell their story to you too! Its so great to have so much to look forward to from you Nalini! Thanks for all you do!!
I’m gonna be reading Dorian’s book tomorrow…Hopefully the UPS man delivers it bright and early. *grin* But I want to read Mercy’s and Hawkes and Riley’s and Drew’s too…
I would love to read about both the NetMind and the DarkMind.
As many have said, I am looking forward to Hawke’s story.
I would love to read the story of Hawke or Sienna. I know she is very young at this time so I’ll be patient and choose only Hawke *gg*
Or maybe the Ghost???
I loved HtP! I consumed it in a day. I find I am intrigued by Drew. Can’t wait for Mercy’s book.
Hi Nalini.
I love this post. I’m always fascinated by how a series progresses from the author’s POV.
The first character to come to mind for a near future book is definitely Hawke. And Sienna. But I’m hoping their stories are just one and the same.
I’d also like to read about Indigo. But frankly, whoever’s story is next, it will make perfect sense in the Psy-Changeling world, because that’s just what you do!
Anxiously (like to the point that it hurts… ) awaiting the release of HtP! 🙂
As far as I am concerned, pick who wants to be next. That has been working so far! I love your stuff, you are one of my favorite writers. I have fallen for every one of the heroes, they are all special in very different ways but I have a special place in my heart for Lucas since he was first.
I know the blog was from yesterday but I just have to add my 2 cents. I love this series and HtP rocks!!!!! It’s my favorite so far.
I can’t wait for Mercy’s book, the excerpt in the ARC was very HOT.
I saw HtP at my book store on Sunday but wouldn’t buy it yet because 1 I’ve already read the ARC (this is definitely a keeper series) and 2 I wanted to wait until the on-sale date so the sale would count toward the best sellers list.
I pick Kaleb. LOL am I being predictable.
But I have a feeling his story won’t be along for a while yet.
Other than Mercy’s book? Definetly Hawke… I he’s sooo sexy and badass. :p
Other questions:
So what animals are changelings and will we be seeing any other protagonists that aren’t either cat or wolf? Or maybe other species of cat?
I can’t wait to read Hostage to Pleasure!!!!!!!
Well, Hawke, obviously.
But I love reading about kick-ass heroines, so I am really glad Mercy is next! Indigo, too, seems like she would not only hold her own but possibly win *gasp* in a fight. We need more kick-ass females in romances!
Love the Changling series, Nalini. Can’t wait for Angel’s Blood! Anything you want to tell us about it? Anything at all?
Caffey – thanks! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the books.
Zhan – enjoy! 🙂
Ana – they’re definitely an integral part of the series.
Sissi, CrystalGB – you’ll see a bit of Hawke in Mercy’s book 🙂
Tiff – I’m delighted you loved HTP!
Christine – not long to go…:)
Lesleen – thank you 🙂 🙂
Habrewer – thanks for thinking of the lists!
LesleyW – LOL 🙂
Akiakiaki – good description – sexy and badass so fits him! You’ll be meeting some very different changelings in Mercy’s book, say perhaps those who rule the sky….
Maered – an excerpt from AB will be up next week!
Thanks everyone for coming by and commenting!!
I’m also looking forward to Hawke. He can’t be doomed without a mate because of the one that died when they were young.
Hi Nalini,
I have had this book on my wish list for months! Can’t wait till 10/7.
Thank you,
Susan B.
sbussey AT windstream.net
Oh I can’t wait for Dorian!
Honestly, I trust you to know what works best so I’ll read whatever you wanna write :p Hawke, Kaleb, Walker, and maybe some more info on the mystery Ghost person.
Keep ’em comin’!
Nalini,
you already know how I feel about your books. As for upcoming characters/books I have to agree with everyone else.
Hawk
Drew
Sienna
Walker
Kaleb
Amara
Indigo
As long as you keep them coming I’m good.
You can enter me in your contest as well as I have been put on a book budget, and can’t buy anymore until we find a house, but if I win one…well that’s different all together dontcha think?
I want to see Hawke, Sienna, Drew, Kaleb, Walker, Amara next!!!But I’ll pretty much be happy with any of them! Anything Nalini writes is amazing :):)
Hi Nalini 🙂
Well you know Dorian’s my fave *g*, but after him I want to know about Kaleb. So the sexy, dark Kaleb is my vote for next after Mercy 😀
Hugs,
Kat
Hi Nalini! Sorry, I’m lat to teh party, I know, but…com on, you can tell me about the Ghost. You know you want to…
😉
Ok, apparently my E isn’t working tonight. Sheesh! Sorry. 😉
Gretchen – Hawke has a great story ahead 🙂
Susan – hope you enjoy it!
Jennifer – it’s almost release time for Dorian!
Heather – I’m loving writing these books, so I’m hoping to do it for quite a few more books yet!
Kat – so you’re in the “Kaleb is Good” camp? Hmm, why?
Holly – the Ghost? Gosh, I’ll have to ask him – he gets testy if anyone threatens to unmask him 😉
Mmm. I actually can’t wait for Kaleb’s book to come out (and I’m REALLY hoping he gets his own book!). I don’t even know if he’s a good guy or a bad guy yet–and he’s so awesome, I don’t even care!
Hawke’s my second pick, because he’s just such a strong presence in the series that he practically looms. He’s wonderful and rough in a way that makes me want to read his book so I can see the woman in whom he’s met his match.
But, on further reflection, from the way the overarching story is unfolding Hawke’s book will probably come before Kaleb’s ::tears up::
::talking to herself:: It’s fine. Really. No, I can wait. Yeah. ::looks over:: Why are you looking so skeptical?
And, as if I really need to say it, I just want to put out there that I adore this series, and it’s my favorite paranormal romance series of all time. Nalini’s such a fantastic writer that I’m sure it’ll keep its place on top for years to come.
Vicky – thank you!
Jae – we cross-posted! LOL about talking to yourself. I do it alllllll the time 🙂
Actually, I think Kaleb IS the ghost. Am I right/?
I think I shall leave you in suspense *grin* (You know you don’t REALLY want to know…)
If your publisher is lurking here, yes we want 2 more books next year, it’s so hard waiting for the next?
You know, I’m reading these comments and agreeing with them and then wondering how the heck to pick only one character out of so many great ones? It’s like picking a star from the sky. Which one? I was thinking Hawke but the truth is I’m happy with everything you write and want to know everyone’s stories.
I don’t care who’s next, I’d buy it no matter 🙂 I just can’t stand the wait 🙂
I’ll read whoever you come up with, so no worries there. I’ve been rabidly, er, avidly awaiting Dorian’s story, but after him I’m really fascinated to see what you have in mind for Hawke. One of these days, hopefully sooner, rather than later, you’ll share what nefarious plans you have for him.
Jennifer K. (simply crazy about this series)
I love your writing and will gladly read whoever you write about. A while back on your blog you recommended Lora Leigh. I have really enjoyed her books too.
Pam, I’m like that with JD Robb. Must. Have. MORE! 🙂
LadyVampire / Ali – I hope you keep enjoying the series!
Jennifer – and they nefarious indeed 😉
Joyce – thank you. And isn’t LL great?!
Hawke Please! 🙂
I’ve loved every single one of the books in this series so far…though I’ll have to admit…Vaughn holds my heartstrings. I luuuurve alpha males. Anyway…to answer the question…I rather like being surprised…so I’ll leave it to you/them to pick in what order their stories come. 😀
I like Hawke… with Sienna?!? But perhaps Sienna is not quite ready for her story… so Hawke’s will have to wait as well?!? Hmmm 😉
I am happy to just follow along for the ride. I think everyone deserves a story, but I always think that when I read a book. Smiles, Shunda
One thing I’ve always loved about many romance series is the ability to pick up the next book with a character we’ve already started to like as a minor character and have them truly shine! I’ve often wished there were more genres that played with this approach–it would be fun to see a high fantasy series where the main character/hero changed from one book to the next.
I’d love to see both Sienna and Kit get their stories, but I’m happy to wait until they’re old enough. In the mean time, I’m just loving how the world expands with each novel!
At the risk of being predictable…HAWKE! And even though I have my theories on his mate, don’t you think it would be so, so, so, so much fun if his heroine were named Kat? 😉
And I’m curious about Kit, too, although I can wait for his story. I still imagine him as being borderline bratty.
I really like how the next pairing isn’t obvious from the current story. I was just thinking this morning that one of the things I love about this series is that I never feel that the romance is being sidelined for the series arc or to set up the h/h for the next book.
at the risk of being sycophantic…
I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!!!! (pant, pant)
okay. now that i’ve got that out of my system, who should be next?
well, i would, of course, love to see Walker’s story. and Hawke, too.
not sure i believe that Kaleb is a hero or villain. should be interesting to see what develops.
btw, Judd is my favorite hero to date. there is just something so powerful about a man who was bound by ice melting. (quiver)
so who do i want you to write about next? WHOEVER! DON’T CARE! JUST KEEP WRITING!!!
Denice