The DTMO principle

 I read lots. And lots! Last month I picked up seven books. I finished two! And it frustrated me that I'd wasted good reading time on material I just couldn't finish.

But when reflecting on that, I realise that as a reader I know what ticks me off ...and because I write for readers who have a similar taste to mine, I hope that realisation prevents me from falling into the "Don't Tick Me Off" trap!  

And what ticks me off? Writers - especially those big names that I've followed for many years - who start 'padding' their novels.  You know what I mean... long-winded, superfluous passages that aren't taking you forward in the storyline, or reflecting the characters' thinking, or contributing to the character development. Overly long descriptions of the scenery, the weather, the location etc. For me, that just slows down the pace. 

When I get that from a favored author, I stop searching for their books, and take them off my 'waiting for..' list.

How about you? What ticks you off in a book. I'd love to hear from you, drop me a line.

And please, readers, let me know when I fall into the DTMO trap! 

 ***COMING SHORTLY*** The sequel to Loose Threads ....  "Road Trip" ...Annie's back and wait 'til you hear what's got her all tied up this time