Jigme Datse
asked
Jennifer Ellis:
I've not asked a question of an author before. I can't really say that I know how to word this as a "question". I have noticed in the Derivatives of Displacement series (not sure if it is quite the same in the first as the second) that the two main characters *seem* to share a lot in common. My recent review shares my view of this. ?
Jennifer Ellis
That is a very good point. Abbey and Mark do have a lot in common. They are definitely both introverted and data-driven. They both have obsessions, although I would say Mark more so than Abbey, and they both sometimes have trouble relating to others. But they both have good hearts. One could certainly argue that Abbey is on the spectrum, but she is less so than Mark to the point where she probably would not be diagnosed (and in fact I believe many Aspies aren't). She is also more inclined to conform to group norms and does not have as much difficulty reading social cues. And while she likes to spend time in the science lab, she is also is somewhat socially driven. While Mark likes to have people around to connect with to some extent, he prefers to connect with those with whom he is very familiar. Abbey also doesn't have the same level of concern with germs or love of order as Mark. So yes, Abbey and Mark have a lot in common, but they are different too. I suppose it comes from my bias of wanting characters who think and feel deeply, but have some fears and hang ups, and are awkward sometimes to be the "heroes".
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