The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ANTIHERO
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
N
T
I
H
E
R
O
More clues leading to the result ANTIHERO
- Unconventional star upset before hit national shows
- I'll appear in another novel, perhaps
- Negative figure in drama, ultimately, or in the novel
- Flawed character broadcasting on the air
- One kidnapped by another monstrous villain
- Role model he ain’t, or otherwise
- One held by another wrestling champion that’s booed?
- Hamlet, for example, is another one in torment
- Leander certainly wasn’t this central character
- Another novel about one such as Shylock?
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "I'll appear in another novel, perhaps" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case i'll appear in another novel, perhaps = antihero.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ANTIHERO mean?
ANTIHERO noun- A protagonist who proceeds in an unheroic manner, such as by criminal means, via cowardly actions, or for mercenary goals.