Backstory - how much is too much?
One of the struggles for many authors is to provide the backstory for the characters. What brought the protagonist and antagonist to this point in time. What motivates them to behave the way they do.
As a reader we want to get to know the characters but generally doesn't want to read a long narrative outlining the past. Personally, I get bored if there is too much description on the setting. Lengthy details about the surroundings lose me quickly unless they relate specifically to the action.
In Menu for Murder, I tried to insert some of Jayne's history into the story so that it was unobtrusive and didn't slow down the scene. For example, we first learn that Jayne's father has died an accidental death when she has a conversation with the mayor. We learn that Jonas had been married and his wife cheated on him with his brother when he and Jayne are having dinner. Of course, that scene was interrupted by Jayne's arrest!
When reading the next book, think about where the author inserts the backstory. Is it obvious or do you have to look for it? Hopefully the story is well crafted enough that you have to make a real effort to find it.
Happy trails,
Leslie
Visit my website
As a reader we want to get to know the characters but generally doesn't want to read a long narrative outlining the past. Personally, I get bored if there is too much description on the setting. Lengthy details about the surroundings lose me quickly unless they relate specifically to the action.
In Menu for Murder, I tried to insert some of Jayne's history into the story so that it was unobtrusive and didn't slow down the scene. For example, we first learn that Jayne's father has died an accidental death when she has a conversation with the mayor. We learn that Jonas had been married and his wife cheated on him with his brother when he and Jayne are having dinner. Of course, that scene was interrupted by Jayne's arrest!
When reading the next book, think about where the author inserts the backstory. Is it obvious or do you have to look for it? Hopefully the story is well crafted enough that you have to make a real effort to find it.
Happy trails,
Leslie
Visit my website
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