There is a fine line any author needs to walk. To a real extent, this applies to writers of nonfiction as well, but it’s true of fiction in a unique way.

This “fine line” is one of the major reasons we all need beta readers and editors, because it’s hard, if not impossible, to tell as the author of a novel if you’re walking the line.

The line is this:

-If you explain things too much, and remind readers of too much, they’ll get frustrated and think you think they’re stupid.

-If you don’t explain things well enough or give timely, helpful reminders, you’ll lose some readers.

It’s a TOUGH line, because every reader is different, has different preferences, and will latch onto, connect with, and remember different points that aren’t super major.

As the author, considering that you know EVERYTHING, it’s nearly impossible to judge what outsiders will (for the most part) need reminders of, and what they will need explained.

Two points to end on: HAVE A TARGET AUDIENCE IN MIND. As I said above, seeing that everyone is different, you have to write to a particular target audience. It’s all you can do. That’s your line.

Second point: Use beta readers that fall into that target audience and an editor who understands who your target audience is.