Steven’s answer to “How do you map out the suspense in your novels?” > Likes and Comments
2 likes · Like
That helps me a lot to understand the mechanism of how to display a mystery. Any other tips?
Yes. Never telegraph your punch. As you know, there is a giant twist in WOG at chapter 50. I've actually had readers call me and scream, "how could you do that?" If I had given any hint of what was about to happen, it would have been a highly unsuccessful exercise. One lady said she cried for two days before picking the book up again and continuing to the end. (Thank goodness she did, she said.) But as risky as it was, that point will make the book unforgettable for everyone who reads it. Just remember that after you throw the book against the wall, you need to pick the book up and start reading again, possibly with a nice mellow cup of Camamille tea.
back to top
date
newest »
newest »
message 1:
by
Sue
(new)
Jun 25, 2015 08:43AM
That helps me a lot to understand the mechanism of how to display a mystery. Any other tips?
reply
|
flag
Yes. Never telegraph your punch. As you know, there is a giant twist in WOG at chapter 50. I've actually had readers call me and scream, "how could you do that?" If I had given any hint of what was about to happen, it would have been a highly unsuccessful exercise. One lady said she cried for two days before picking the book up again and continuing to the end. (Thank goodness she did, she said.) But as risky as it was, that point will make the book unforgettable for everyone who reads it. Just remember that after you throw the book against the wall, you need to pick the book up and start reading again, possibly with a nice mellow cup of Camamille tea.
