1. Don't introduce a magical new power/person just when the MC needs one. If your MC is in over their head with whatever, and if they can't figure a way to get out of trouble with what they have on them, or just by running away...well, they suffer consequences. Which leads me to
2. Consequences. Everything should have consequences. Like, in a world where Anita isn't the Author's Sue, she wouldn't get away with showing up to work with the police in six inch high heels, and seven guys in tow. They would totally stop hiring her to consult (or whatever she does now) if she refused to stop bringing random dudes with her to crime scenes and dressing so unprofessional/impractical.
no subject
2. Consequences. Everything should have consequences. Like, in a world where Anita isn't the Author's Sue, she wouldn't get away with showing up to work with the police in six inch high heels, and seven guys in tow. They would totally stop hiring her to consult (or whatever she does now) if she refused to stop bringing random dudes with her to crime scenes and dressing so unprofessional/impractical.