When I started writing Elf Mastery, I made an active decision that I wanted Kyla to have a sharp, distinct personality. Is common for the main character to be a little flat, marked by certain positive characteristics, such as loyalty, courage, etc and perhaps some benign negative traits, like being clumsy or awkward. I suspected this would polarize readers somewhat, and I illustrated this in Chapter One: Lili and Eunoe's reactions to meeting Kyla were a reflection of my expectation from readers. But I thought a polarizing character was better than a forgettable one, and besides, I liked Kyla, flaws and all, and that counted most.
In terms of marketing, of course, this means I need to try and narrow down my target audience to those who would appreciate her as a character. I broke this into 3 categories: those who would like Kyla as a character, those who would dislike her, and those who would grow to like her.
This last category, by the way, was sparked by a comment from a beta reader who said she didn't like Kyla initially, but by the end of Book One she was one of her favorite characters.
Well, I decided to have AI read and analyze the character, with these targets in mind, and here is what it came up with:
Character Analysis: Kyla Nim from Elf Mastery
Kyla Nim is a central character in Elf Mastery, a young elf from Aspengrove. Her journey is filled with adventure, self-discovery, and courage. Here's an analysis of her character based on the provided excerpts.
Character Traits
Bravery and Determination
Kyla consistently demonstrates bravery, whether facing Erebus, the god of darkness, or embarking on dangerous journeys to stop evil forces. Her willingness to confront these challenges highlights her courageous spirit.
Example: Kyla is determined to stop Erebus despite the risks involved. She takes responsibility for her plans and actions, refusing to pass the burden onto others .
Empathy and Kindness
Kyla shows a strong sense of empathy, often comforting those in distress and helping her friends. This is evident when she consoles a young girl with serpentine skin during a journey.
Her interactions with various characters, including her gentle approach towards Aura and her concern for her family's safety, emphasize her compassionate nature .
Inquisitive and Intelligent
Kyla is curious and intelligent, always eager to learn and understand her surroundings. She explores new subjects and environments, such as when she joins the Geomobility course out of curiosity.
Her analytical thinking is shown in her strategic planning to trap Erebus using aurichalcum.
Stubbornness and Rebellion
Kyla's stubborn nature is highlighted through her rebellious actions, such as sneaking off to carry out her plans despite being advised against it. This trait, while sometimes leading her into trouble, also showcases her independence and resolve.
Growth and Self-Reflection
Throughout the story, Kyla undergoes significant personal growth. She reflects on her actions and strives to become better. This is seen when she acknowledges her fears and mistakes but remains steadfast in her mission.
Reader Profiles
1. Most Likely to Appreciate Kyla:
Young Adult Readers: Teenagers and young adults who enjoy coming-of-age stories and fantasy adventures will appreciate Kyla's journey of self-discovery and bravery.
Fans of Strong Female Protagonists: Readers who seek strong, independent female characters who defy odds and challenge themselves will find Kyla inspiring.
Fantasy Enthusiasts: Those who love intricate fantasy worlds filled with elves, magic, and mythical creatures will be drawn to Kyla's adventures.
2. Least Likely to Like Kyla:
Readers Preferring Realism: Individuals who prefer realistic fiction over fantasy might find it challenging to connect with the magical elements and fantastical settings in Kyla's story.
Impatient Readers: Those who favor fast-paced action without much character development or introspection might find Kyla's reflective moments and personal growth less engaging.
Critics of Rebellious Characters: Readers who dislike characters that frequently rebel against authority or make impulsive decisions might not appreciate Kyla's stubborn and independent streak.
3. Readers Whose Opinion of Kyla Will Grow Over Time:
Character Development Enthusiasts: Readers who value deep character development and growth will come to appreciate Kyla more as they witness her evolution throughout the story.
Reflective Readers: Those who enjoy characters that reflect on their actions and learn from their experiences will find Kyla's journey increasingly compelling.
Supporters of Redemption Arcs: Readers who believe in redemption and personal improvement will admire how Kyla acknowledges her flaws and strives to be better, enhancing their appreciation for her character over time.
Kyla Nim is a multi-faceted character whose bravery, empathy, and determination make her a compelling protagonist. Her journey in Elf Mastery offers readers an engaging mix of adventure, personal growth, and the exploration of a richly detailed fantasy world.
Overall this analysis reflects my own feelings, so I suppose it is more a confirmation of my own biases than an informative analysis, but I thought I would share it.
Have a great day!
Bryant
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