If one must explain a magic trick, one should do so after the show is over.
The Gods do not protect fools. Fools are protected by more capable fools.
The reader has certain rights. He bought your story. Think of this as an implicit contract. He's entitled to be entertained, instructed, amused; maybe all three. If he quits in the middle, or puts the book down feeling his time has been wasted, you're in violation.
I do not believe they've run out of surprises.
Half of wisdom is learning what to unlearn.
Anything beats an expensive stack of paper.