How can one identify 'run of the mill fan fiction'?

Run of the mill fan fiction can be seen as the common, garden - variety type of fan - written work. It doesn't stand out as being extremely innovative or different. These are the fan fictions that are likely to use the well - known elements of the source material in a rather straightforward way. They might not introduce new and complex character developments or plot arcs. Instead, they rely on the familiarity of the original work to draw in readers who just want a simple, uncomplicated addition to the story world.

To identify the elements of fan fiction, first look for familiar characters. If you see characters from a well - known story, like Frodo from 'The Lord of the Rings', it's likely fan fiction. Next, check the setting. If it's Middle - earth, again, it could be fan - made. Also, look at the plot. If it seems to be a new story that builds on the lore of the original, for example, a new adventure in Middle - earth that wasn't in the books, it's probably fan fiction.

You can identify it by the way it treats the original characters. If they are turned into something unrecognizable just to fit a certain plot idea, it's probably overrated. Also, if the fan fiction seems to be more about self - indulgence of the writer rather than appealing to the general fan base. For example, if it's full of the writer's personal fantasies that don't align with the spirit of the original work. And if it doesn't add anything new or interesting to the existing lore, it's likely to be one of those overrated ones.

One way is to look at reader reviews. If many readers mention being hooked from the very first pages, it's a good sign. For example, on platforms like Goodreads, you can often find comments about how a novel grabbed someone's attention immediately. Another way is to sample the first few pages yourself. If you find that you are immediately drawn into the story, the characters, or the setting, then it likely has a good 'run' on the first pages.

Pay attention to the flow of information. If certain information is being distorted or hidden in a way that benefits a particular character, it's likely part of a manipulation co sequence. For example, if a character in an HP fan fic is hiding the true nature of a magical object from others to use it for their own gain.

One way to identify upmarket fiction is by looking at the writing style. It's usually more polished than pure commercial fiction. The language is rich but not overly difficult. Also, the plot often has both popular elements, like a mystery or a romance, and deeper themes. Another clue is the author's reputation. If an author is known for writing stories that are both engaging and thought - provoking, it could be upmarket fiction.

To identify cultured fiction, first, check the themes. If the story revolves around cultural identity, preservation of cultural heritage, or the clash of different cultures, it may be cultured fiction. Then, look at the author's background. An author from a particular culture is more likely to write cultured fiction that reflects their own cultural experiences. Also, notice how the story is narrated. If it has a unique narrative style that is influenced by a cultural storytelling tradition, such as the circular storytelling in some Native American cultures, then it's likely cultured fiction.

The climax often comes after a series of rising actions. So, you can trace the build - up of events in the story. When the conflict seems to be at its most extreme, that's likely the climax. In a horror story, it might be when the monster is finally revealed in full and attacks the main character. Also, pay attention to the resolution that follows. The climax is the peak before the story starts to wind down.

Look for made - up characters and settings. If the names and places are not real and seem to be created by the author, it's likely fiction.

One way to identify 'fake fiction' is to look for inconsistencies in the story. If the plot seems to jump around without proper transitions or if characters' actions don't match their described personalities, it could be a sign. For example, if a character is described as shy but suddenly becomes extremely bold without any good reason in the story.