: Re: Misdirection for suspense/plot twists - what's acceptable and what's dishonest? Note: I'm primarily asking this question because while Surtsey, the original asker of the question didn't actually

@Carla500

Vote Up Vote Down

Acceptable to whom?

I just read a top bestseller in which the viewpoint character sees something unsettling every few chapters, but always the narrator withholds that information from the reader for a page or two to increase suspense.

Personally, I find this extremely annoying, but nevertheless this is a celebrated author and the book at the top of the bestseller list.

So quite apparently, while I find it unacceptable, it was acceptable to both the agent, editor, and other industry professionals who worked with the author on the book as well as the majority of the audience who keep buying this author's books.

Many books feature similar irritating tricks, and yet they sell.

(0)

Login to post a comment!