Jerold, that sounds perfect! You're very right -- don't dump a load of backstory-type information on the reader at the beginning, allow them to "meet" your characters through their actions and thoughts and body language and dialog, THEN tell the WHY later. We humans don't tell our whole life to a stranger when we first meet -- it may take years to finally get to know someone well enough for their WHY to come out.

Great post! Thank you!

In my first book, my main character's internal motivations are just revealed mostly through her actions, but I use one dream sequence to underscore certain aspects of her behavior.

In my second book, the (same) main character's actions are fairly understood, but I still have a 'touchstone' scene reintroducing that aspect for new readers. On the other hand, in book two, I have a mystery antagonist (villain) only known as "Mr. B" until just before the climax.

I offer readers a few candidates for this role, but had to establish this character's motivations without actually identifying them or tipping my hand too soon. I came up with two flashback chapters which readers could easily have thought belonged in an entirely different story, but which provided clues I hoped could be forgotten until time for the reveals. Based upon my beta readers' remarks, this seems to have (thank goodness) worked.

Lisa, it works for me. Good, deep motivation. But, more importantly, does it work for both you and your character?

I like it a lot!

Thank you, Sally!

Best wishes. 🙂

Good for you, Christine!

Sounds like a great story!