I don't usually read it either. I loved me some DMC, and has almost no issue with the characterizations, beyond a few "Huh, Jack's being kind of an ass. Ah well, Pirate!" moments. With the very noticeable exception of Elizabeth, I found her story arc and characterization to be so jarring, weird and almost random, its like a desperate bid for understanding.

I KNOW there is well written, intelligent J/E fiction out there, but after the dreck I've read... its like getting really drunk on cheap booze, you just don't have the stomach to try it again.