How to Make the Character's Present Mysterious

Karl Iglesias in his book, WRITING EMOTIONAL IMPACT, describes how to create reader curiosity in the present. He suggests showing the character’s unusual behavior and reactions, such as overreacting or avoiding a subject. The aim is to have the reader wonder why and to wonder what he/she is hiding.

Another idea is to have other characters react mysteriously to the main character. Make the reader think they know something that the reader doesn’t. Both techniques help to keep those pages turning.

In HADA’S FOG, fifteen-year-old Lilli is a master at acting mysteriously around Hada and Lev. By her facial expressions, dialogue implications, and body language, it’s obvious she has secrets. The reader can guess it involves Samuel, but she doesn’t reveal any specifics.

The mysterious future will be next.

1 Comment

Filed under Characters, Writing Tips

One Response to How to Make the Character's Present Mysterious

  1. So, all books benefit from the element of mystery, not just those pigeonholed into the mystery genre? Thanks for reminding us of that.

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