End chapters on a suspenseful note from "summary" of Plotting and Writing Suspense Fiction by Patricia Highsmith
Each chapter in a suspense novel should leave the reader wanting more. To achieve this, it is crucial to end each chapter on a suspenseful note. This means creating a sense of anticipation or tension that compels the reader to keep turning the pages. One way to do this is to leave a question unanswered at the end of the chapter. This question could be about the protagonist's fate, a mysterious character, or a plot twist that has yet to be resolved. By leaving the reader hanging, you create a sense of urgency that drives them to continue reading. Another effective technique is to end a chapter with a cliffhanger. This is a moment of high drama or tension that leaves the protagonist in a perilous situation. By cutting off the action at this critical point, you leave the reader wondering what will happen next and eager to find out. It is important to vary the intensity of the suspense at the end of each chapter. Some chapters may end with a subtle hint of danger, while others may end with a shocking revelation or a life-or-death situation. By mixing up the level of suspense, you keep the reader engaged and guessing. In addition to ending chapters on a suspenseful note, it is also important to maintain a consistent pace throughout the novel. This means balancing moments of high tension with quieter, more introspective scenes. By carefully managing the ebb and flow of suspense, you can create a dynamic and compelling reading experience for your audience.
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