Character Names give me a headache!!

Hi, I'm in writing a novel based on Asian cultures and hidden rituals. I have a very hard time coming up with character names, especially catchy ones..
Any pointers..

I take it become familiar with Asian naming conventions is too obvious a pointer?

You can try looking though an Asian phone book, or an on line directory with a lot of Asian members.

Or just make them up (off the top of your head), like real fiction writing.

sirmyk said:

Or just make them up (off the top of your head), like real fiction writing.

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Real fiction writing involves research. If you make up names that don't exist in the real world, then they will very probably sound false to anyone who has experience of Asian cultures.

This might sound a little odd, but check out a book (or website) that deals with baby names. Most of those will explain the meaning/significance of the names, especially with regard to the culture of origin. This might prove helpful if you're looking to use names that will serve as more than just a moniker for the characters.

Go to this site.

www.behindthename.com

They have a large selection of Asian names among other things. They get very specific. I would also suggest a baby name dictionary, like the one I have with 10,000 names. I think mine cost ten bucks, but it's worth it for an endless supply of character names. However, they typically focus on names that would be used more in America, not Asia, so the site I gave you would be more helpful now than a dictionary.