We all have our little quips about the poor writing and character development (and rightly so!), but, why not take a chance to tell about some of the developments we enjoy?
I really enjoy the way DS writers & TPTB took a patricidal maniac (re: David) and introduced a 200 yr old meanie (re: Barn).
David was in a word: snotty.
We don't really have a reason to like him; perhaps to pity him.
Barn, although could try to be helpful (Vicki), was/is self-serving (to say the least).
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But, when we get back to the future from 1897, I really do like the way Barnabas and David click. I enjoy their familiar relationship; unlike the relationship Quentin has w/Jamison, it doesn't seem to interfere with Roger (unlike with Edward, who is jealous).
So, this would be my example of a character development which for all practical purposes IS sloppy (it's really never explained why David stops hating/mistrusting Barn), but, yet, I thoroughly enjoy the outcome.
Patti