The First Crack: A Samantha Leary short story

“Samantha Leary faces a chilling threat in the rain while uncovering a hidden clue in a wife’s mysterious disappearance.”

The Reader’s Contract: Suspense, Trust, and Reward

Every story begins with an unspoken promise to the reader. Learn how to create suspense, plant fair clues, and reward your audience with satisfying reveals—featuring lessons from Insomnia, The Thomas Crown Affair, The Bone Collector, Se7en, and When Time Ran Out.

Creating Tension by Putting Your Character Where They Don’t Belong

One of the most effective ways to create tension in fiction isn’t with physical danger—it’s by putting your character in a situation where they don’t fully belong. This guide explains why displacement generates suspense, provides examples across professions and social situations, and offers practical exercises to help writers craft scenes that keep readers on edge.