Meaning: This quote by Jane Haddam, a renowned writer, reflects the delicate balance that authors must strike when developing characters in a continuing series, particularly in the context of mystery or crime novels. Haddam's words capture the challenge of maintaining the interest of readers over multiple installments while avoiding the pitfalls of creating characters who become overly sentimental or exaggerated. The quote also alludes to the alternative approach of focusing more on the suspects within the narrative, suggesting that this can be a viable strategy for keeping the storyline compelling.

In the realm of literature, particularly within the genre of mystery fiction, the creation and evolution of recurring characters pose a significant creative challenge for authors. As the quote suggests, authors must find a way to keep their continuing characters engaging and multifaceted without succumbing to the temptation of overly dramatic or sentimental portrayals. This task becomes increasingly complex as the series progresses and the characters' arcs unfold across multiple books.

At the heart of Haddam's quote lies the notion of authenticity in character development. The term "maudlin" refers to a character who is excessively sentimental or self-pitying, while "overwrought" conveys the idea of a character whose emotional state is exaggerated or melodramatic. Haddam's caution against these traits points to the importance of crafting characters who resonate with readers on a genuine and relatable level. Characters who veer into maudlin or overwrought territory risk alienating readers and undermining the integrity of the narrative.

One of the key challenges for authors of continuing series is to ensure that their characters exhibit growth and complexity without succumbing to clichés or predictable emotional arcs. This requires a nuanced approach to character development, where the characters' experiences and relationships evolve in a manner that feels organic and authentic. By doing so, authors can maintain the readers' investment in the characters' journeys while avoiding the trap of sentimentality or melodrama.

Furthermore, the quote suggests an alternative approach for authors facing difficulties in maintaining the interest of their continuing characters. Haddam proposes that authors can shift the focus onto the suspects within the narrative, thereby injecting new energy and intrigue into the storyline. This approach acknowledges the dynamic nature of mystery fiction, where the development of compelling and enigmatic suspects can drive the narrative forward and captivate readers.

In essence, Haddam's quote encapsulates the ongoing creative dilemma faced by authors of continuing series, particularly within the realm of mystery fiction. It underscores the importance of balancing character development with the need to sustain reader engagement over multiple installments. By heeding Haddam's insights, authors can navigate the complexities of crafting continuing characters and suspects, ultimately enriching their narratives and captivating their audience.