When You Didn't Have Me at Hello

Hocus Pocus and All That 

When You Didn't Have Me at Hello

…And Other Book Pet Peeves 

By Maureen L. Bonatch 

As an author, I’ve found it difficult to be too judgmental when I’m reading a book. Because I know just how much time and effort have gone into the story. How hard it probably was for the author to release their “baby” into the world for critical reviews and comments. So, I must pause to identify My biggest pet peeve in a book. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t one thing I could identify that makes me put the book down, or forget to pick it up again.

Book Pet Peeves
I’ve talked about things that irritate me in a story before (like right here). Some other book peeves include having too much description, too perfect characters and the dumping of backstory. But I can skim those parts and keep reading if I’m caught up in the story. Therefore, the challenge is getting me ensnared into the story in the first place.

First Impressions Count
Although I enjoy a nice cover and love a good blurb, when I’m picking a book to read I could care less about any of that, or even the title. I open the book up and read the first paragraph, or the first page. If I don’t like the writing style, or how the story begins, my limited attention prevents me from continuing reading. The only exceptions I’ve made are when it’s a favorite author of mine, or if I’ve picked up a book from a recommendation.

Facing the Music
This presents an ugly truth to me as an author about the importance of those first pages. I spend more time slaving over those pages, and that first line than anything. I know if a reader gets bored, they aren’t going to take the time to get to the good part. Authors must strive to make the whole book ‘the good part.’ 

The ability to capture my—or any reader’s—attention in an impatient world thriving on immediate gratification and an overload of stimuli is both magnificent and magical.

What Keeps You Turning the Pages?

Originally published on http://www.maureenbonatch.com 

© 2018 Maureen L. Bonatch All Rights Reserved

Maureen Bonatch grew up in small town Pennsylvania and her love of the four seasons—hockey, biking, sweat pants and hibernation—keep her there. While immersed in writing or reading paranormal romance and fantasy, she survives on caffeine, wine, music, and laughter. A feisty Shih Tzu, her teen twins & alpha hubby keep her in line. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/