“Samantha Leary faces a chilling threat in the rain while uncovering a hidden clue in a wife’s mysterious disappearance.”
Tag Archives: suspense
Silent Night of Horrors: A Samantha Leary short story
The morning after Christmas, a body is found. Samantha Leary analyzes the scene, piecing together clues while shadows watch. Who killed her? A chilling teaser from the Samantha Leary series.
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.
