I’ve learnt to have a rough idea of the characters a little before I begin because I can put myself into the mind-set of the characters while I research, and this helps turn knowledge to inspiration.
For example, while researching for Ring of Conscience, I knew my protagonist had a sense of wonder and curiosity. Investigating Greek mythology, I came across Artemis and realised that there was a sculpture of Artemis in the protagonist’s home town of Las Vegas. However, this Artemis had an eagle on her arm instead of leading a stag…