Sporadic Sleuth

Sporadic Sleuth

I realized today that I am about a quarter of the way through the book I’m writing, and I’ve only just introduced a very important character. Does it matter if a main character is not referred to very often? This character is pivotal to the story so cannot be removed, although he is only in a few chapters throughout the book, it wouldn’t be very much of a tale without him.

Do you know of many stories where a main character, who is necessary to the plotline, is not often seen, and even more rarely referred to? I know it may seem strange but there is a point. This character has a strong personality which is felt throughout the book long after his initial appearance. This strong personality is what keeps him part of the story, but not so involved that he is at every scene. It is necessary that during this murder mystery, our sleuth (who is the character mentioned) is kept in the dark. The narrator is telling the reader everything they need to know, but withholding it from the sleuth so the reader can see the story develop before the detective character gives it all away. The investigator is a mysterious individual who’s brilliant mind works on a level far above my own, and so the reader must be given the chance to try and work out the mystery before the sleuth discloses all at the big reveal at the end.

As such, we are left wondering throughout the novel who’s side the detective is on and what his agenda is. I find this adds tension and intrigues the reader.

But what are your thoughts on this matter? Do you prefer to know everything about a character straight away? Do you prefer to see main characters on a regular basis or does the rarity add intrigue? Let me know your thoughts.

Read, follow, comment and enjoy. M x