Hello! I don’t have a lot of time to write this, but it’s a fun topic, so I’m going to get right into it. Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly discussion post created and hosted by Rukky @ Eternity Books. This week’s topic is: What makes a good villain

Why the villain is a villain… aka a good backstory

Does your favorite villain have a past that has led them into a life of crime? Are they out to seek revenge? Are they facing a severe case of jealousy? All of those scenarios could turn a character evil. And those aren’t the only possible scenarios. I just want to know why that evil character who’s ruining my favorite character’s life is evil. I need to learn about the character’s past, to slowly have an understanding of why this villain is a villain.

An interesting personality

Lots of books have villains, and in each of there are lots of different types of villains. And just like every villain has a different backstory, every villain has a different personality. And I want to read about that personality. I don’t just want to read about the villain waltzing in, making trouble and walking out. I want that villain to make me laugh, and make me scream. Most of all, I want that villain to have a presence, to add depth to the story, and to make it more enjoyable!

A good motive

Villains need more than just the desire to do bad, or the desire to stir up trouble. It could be seeking revenge, attempting to obtain control, or a need to do something based on an interesting backstory. The villain needs a reason to be a villain, and that reason needs to be good.

So, to sum this all up…

There are lots of things that make a good villain. In my opinion, some of those major things are:

• A good backstory
• An interesting personality
• A good motive

What do you think makes a good villain? Do you agree with what I listed? Chat with me in the comments below!