I think this, exactly this, is what makes some writing deeper emotionally than some other writing.
This is not to say any writing that lacks emotional depth is not good. Some can be very good.
For me, the deeper I feel connected to a character, the more I tend to like what I’m reading.
As a writer, there are moments when a character goes off plot, does the unexpected. The best you can do is follow along. Then there are the moments when an unexpected and unforeseen character enters the scene. Where did this character come from?
I believe, because it has happened in all three of the books I’ve written, that this is the moment I have reached deep into my emotions, my soul, and created a character that has something to say that is important to the story.
Then, I must go along with them, wherever they lead.
It is what I like best about writing.