Use cliffhangers to keep readers turning pages from "summary" of Plotting and Writing Suspense Fiction by Patricia Highsmith
Cliffhangers are a crucial tool in the suspense writer's arsenal. By leaving the reader hanging at a critical moment, you create a powerful urge to keep turning the pages. The suspense genre relies heavily on the reader's need to know what happens next, and cliffhangers exploit this perfectly. Whether it's a sudden revelation, a shocking event, or a mysterious disappearance, cliffhangers keep the reader on the edge of their seat, eager to find out how the story will unfold. When using cliffhangers, it's important to strike the right balance. You don't want to overdo it and leave every chapter on a cliffhanger, as this can become predictable and lose its impact. Instead, aim for strategic placement of cliffhangers at key points in the story. These moments should be carefully chosen to maximize suspense and keep the reader hooked. One effective way to use cliffhangers is to end a chapter with a question or a dilemma that leaves the reader wondering what will happen next. By creating this sense of uncertainty, you create a sense of urgency that compels the reader to keep reading. Another approach is to end a chapter with a shocking twist or revelation that turns the story on its head. This can leave the reader breathless with anticipation, eager to see how the characters will react to this new development. Cliffhangers can also be used to build tension and suspense throughout the story. By gradually increasing the stakes and leaving the reader with unanswered questions, you create a sense of unease that keeps them engaged. Each cliffhanger should propel the story forward, driving the plot towards its climax and resolution.- Cliffhangers are a powerful tool for keeping readers engaged in a suspenseful story. By strategically placing them at key moments and using them to build tension and anticipation, you can create a sense of urgency that compels the reader to keep turning the pages. Mastering the art of the cliffhanger is essential for any suspense writer looking to keep their audience hooked until the very end.
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