Hello writers & readers,
The concept of likeable vs. unlikeable characters is a hot-button issue in the small pond we all splash around in.
Some readers can't enjoy a book if they don't like the characters, especially the protag. Others (far fewer in number, it seems) don't mind it, especially if they can at least relate to or identify with the characters.
As a fiction writer, is this something you keep in mind? Do you aim to write likeable characters so as not to alienate readers?
As a reader, do you need to like the characters in order to enjoy the book?
I know where I land. I love a flawed character, one I wouldn't like if he or she were a real person in my life. I'm not reading to make friends with fictional characters.
As a writer, I feel the same... sort of. I don't particularly care if a reader doesn't like my characters, so long as they find them interesting.
But I need to like my characters. Partly because of their flaws.
