Just to let everyone know a little about the way I wrote Of Vital Interest. I spend a few weeks to a month writing an outline by chapter that I try to follow. It makes it easier for me to keep the story moving in the direction I want it to go.
I also do a character sketch of the main characters to keep focused on who they are when I write. There are always lesser characters that show up in the story without effecting the major themes or outcomes. Sometimes I like to style those characters kind of like extras in a movie. If I go back and use them again in another book I might expand their presence and build upon their character sketch.
Writing is a great joy to me and I hope everyone enjoys reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.