Nonlinear narrative holds merit (4)
I believe the answer is:
earn
'merit' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'nonlinear narrative holds' is the wordplay.
'holds' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'EARN' can be found hidden inside 'nonlinear narrative'.
(Other definitions for earn that I've seen before include "Acquire through merit" , "Deserve, gain" , "and 3: Work for bed and board" , "Gain by work or merit" , "Deserve; get paid" .)