David Mamet, the renowned American playwright, has been blunt in advising other authors. He believed in the classic KISS principle -- Keep it Simple, Stupid. "So, what is the one thing your readers want to know?" It's, um, simple -- "What happens next?"
That tenet plays nice with the Lee Child philosophy, "It's the character, stupid." No one remembers plot lines -- but a strong central character, like Jack Reacher, resonates long after the reader has turned the last page.
So, do two 'Stupids' equal a roadmap for would-be writers? Probably, but only talented ones. Keeping the reader curious about a compelling character ain't easy.
You're welcome,
Paige