Character Assassination by Plot Device: The Art of Sudden, Unexplained Disappearance

A Guide for the Perpetually Confused

Avoid the cliché. Don't be a hackneyed trope. We're here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the 5 most common ways to off an unsuspecting character:

1. The Conveniently Timed Death Trap

Make sure the victim stumbles into a precarious situation. Add some ominous music. And for the love of all that is good, make sure the trap is well-lit.

Side effects may include: character death, reader eye-rolling, and a healthy dose of skepticism.

2. The Unreliable Narrator

Make the reader question everything. Use multiple timelines, unreliable narrators, and a healthy dose of schizophrenia. This will keep them on their toes.

Side effects may include: reader-induced anxiety, frequent re-reading, and a good chance of character death.

3. The Mysterious Illness

Give your character a mysterious disease. Make it sound exotic. And for the love of all that is good, make sure it's contagious.

Side effects may include: overused tropes, reader frustration, and a good chance of character death.

4. The Conveniently Placed Obstacle

Make sure the obstacle is always just out of reach. Add some drama. And for the love of all that is good, make sure it's not too convenient.

Side effects may include: reader exasperation, frequent face-palming, and a good chance of character death.

5. The Well-Placed Betrayal

Make your character's trust issues come back to haunt them. Add some drama. And for the love of all that is good, make sure it's not too obvious.

Side effects may include: reader's emotional investment, character death, and a healthy dose of angst.