Secrets, Twists, and Reveals
Learn techniques for understanding and mastering these powerful tools for ensnaring readers, maximizing suspense, and creating irresistible story hooks, plus more from Writer’s Digest!
Secrets, surprises, and twists are powerful narrative tools. They can conjure questions and mystery in readers’ minds that raise suspense, stakes, and reader investment—and knowing how to use them effectively can create some of the most memorable moments of your story.
Stories with dangling questions and startling reveals keep readers hooked throughout, not knowing what comes next, eagerly turning pages to find out.
But pulling off a successful reveal is a tricky tightrope act between giving readers enough information to feel invested and holding back enough to keep them hooked. It's the striptease of literature: show too much and you lose all the excitement and buildup. Too little and nobody cares.
Balancing these considerations often relies on three key elements: knowing what and how much to keep as a reveal, when to reveal it, and how to unspool the hidden information for maximum suspense and impact.
In this detailed 90-minute live webinar, career book editor and educator Tiffany Yates Martin will show you techniques for understanding and mastering these powerful tools for ensnaring readers, maximizing suspense, and creating irresistible story hooks.
Listen to the Newest Episode of "Writer's Digest Presents" Now!
In this episode of "Writer's Digest Presents," editor Michael Woodson sits down with Robert to discuss his new book American Scare: Florida's Hidden Cold War on Black and Queer Lives, how he infuses literary sensibilities to his historical nonfiction, and more.
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Writer's Digest Annual Conference offers everything you need to advance your writing career creatively and professionally. Gain invaluable tips to improve your craft, explore publishing options and learn how to establish a sustainable career—all while being inspired by successful authors and your fellow attendees. It’s all brought to you by Writer’s Digest, the experts at nurturing and developing writers at every stage of their career for over 100 years.
There's Still Time to Join Us In London!
Writer's Digest is heading across the pond to England with literary agent, Amy Collins this September! This unique trip is part literary tour and part retreat with an experienced literary agent and Writer's Digest editor. Get inspired in the land of literary giants like Shakespeare and Dickens, Austen and the Brontës, Smith and Ishiguro. Pack your bags and favorite writing notebook for a trip of a lifetime. Space is limited.
