Crossword Genius

Absorbing even trite fiction (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

retentive

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'absorbing' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?

'even trite fiction' is the wordplay.
'even trite' can be anagrammed to 'RETENTIVE'.
Though, I am not sure how the anagram is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for retentive that I've seen before include "Able to store memories etc" , "(Of memory) seldom forgetting" , "(Of memory) effective in holding information" , "Not forgetful" , "must be able not to leak it maybe!" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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