How much should an author hold your hand?
Feb 16, 2023 5:24 am
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Dear reader,
How much do you think an author should hold your hand when describing their world? I've been pondering this question quite a bit lately, and I'd love to hear your insights.
On one extreme, I really hate it when I feel like an author doesn't trust me to keep up/follow along with their story or worldbuilding. Not naming any names, but I find it super condescending when I'm three or four books into a series, and the author is still info dumping an explanation about the basics of the magic system.
Like... I get it, dude.
In fact, I got it three whole books ago.
However, on the other extreme, I have definitely fought through some books that stretched my detective skills past their limits: dense, jargon-heavy stories where I had to read and reread chapters trying to glean a few clues to help me decipher the worldbuilding, books that really would have benefitted from a bloody glossary, you know? Dune and The Neuromancer both come to mind. Both truly excellent books, but dang. Thick.
So what do you think? Does it feel condescending to you when an author over-explains or re-explains things? And is that a greater crime than under-explaining things? Most importantly of all, what books have you read that struck that perfect balance? Clear but not condescending; mysterious but not confusing.
Shoot me an email with your recommendations. I'd love to check 'em out!
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Also, look at this super cool cover for book four! It's currently sitting at over 150K words, and getting mighty close to the finish line. I'd probably put it at 85%-90% complete at the moment. For those of you interested in ARC review copies or being a beta reader, stay tuned. I should be sending out some of those links in upcoming emails.
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As always, here are some awesome fantasy deals for you to check out this month from a variety of authors and retailers:
You can also grab your free copy of the Of Metal & Magic Compendium with a subscription to Douglas W.T. Smith's newsletter
Also, be sure to check out Spirit of the Dragon and Slaver's Bane, both available in a variety of stores:
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Thanks for all you do, friends, and happy reading!
Ben Schwarting
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My Books:
The Sum of Ages Series is available from a variety of retailers
Kindred Straits is also now available from a variety of retailers
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