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In this episode of Wayward Writers, USA Today bestselling author Karen Od​d​en joins the show to discuss her fascinating journey from academia to a successful career in historical fiction. Karen shares her background, the inspiration behind her novels, her research process, and the intricate art of developing character backstories. The conversation delves into the importance of personal myths, worldly and personal realms shaping characters, and effective techniques to avoid the dreaded info dump. With interesting anecdotes and practical advice, Karen offers a wealth of insights for aspiring writers.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:56 Karen Od​den's Writing Journey
01:59 From Academia to Fiction
04:47 Victorian Mysteries and Inspirations
05:56 Book Covers and Author Input
08:32 Character Development and Personal Myths
10:33 Injustice and Revenge Themes
16:26 Building Backstory and Worldly Realms
18:01 Historical Divorce Laws and Women's Rights
18:29 Worldly and Personal Realms in Character Development
19:59 The Dreaded Info Dump: A Personal Anecdote
23:26 The Importance of Starting Your Story in the Right Place
27:20 Crafting Authentic Conflicts Through Backstory
27:33 The Queen's Gambit: A Case Study in Personal Myth
35:05 Advice for Aspiring Writers

F​ind out more about Karen Odden HERE!

​The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon

​The Stories We Live By: Personal Myths and the Making of the Self by Dan P. MacAdams

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