Reading is like dating…

You know how it is those first few dates, when you’re trying to decide if you like someone–whether you could even love them? You think maybe it’s possible, you’re falling under that spell, until he or she does something unforgivable, right at the very beginning? Do I even want to see this person ever again?

For me, starting to read a new book is much the same. The first couple of chapters I’m trying to get to know the characters, figure out if I can love them or not. I’m easing myself into their world but I’m not there quite yet, and everything they do is of utmost importance.

I just begun reading a new book–not an erotic romance–a murder mystery, which makes the process even more important. Do I love my detective? I certainly want to. Do I trust that he can solve the case and do I want to be there for process? Well, here’s how our last date went….

The detective goes to the victim’s apartment. She’s an old flame and he really shouldn’t be on this case, but he hasn’t told anyone. He’s remembering their passionate moments around the place and I’m getting immersed in his feelings for her which make him determined to find out who killed her. Until he tells me they found her on her bed, then goes on to describe the sheets. WTF? The sheets are still on the bed in a crime scene? Stop! Now this story doesn’t take place in Vegas, Miami or NY, but I know they have a forensics team, right? Why didn’t they take the sheets? I’m no mystery writer, but even I know the sheets can be the key to the identity of the killer.

What do I do now? This man and his book have already betrayed me and it’s only Chapter Two! I really thought I could love him until the thing with the sheets. Can I trust him that the rest of story will be credible, even if not strictly accurate regarding police/forensics details? Will the ultimate revelation of the murderer be one I can believe or will I be let down? Maybe I should just get out now before I lose my heart. Except for this, I’m already wanting to fall in love with this story. Give me some advice!

And what about you? Can you remember a book that just about had you sucked in and then WHOA all of a sudden something happened that just dragged you out of this new reality and you just couldn’t get back in? Or have you read a book that even though it was riddled with inaccuracies or incredible events, you still had to keep reading because you barely noticed?

Talk to me!