Tag Archives: writing exercises

The Challenge of Writing Psychological Thrillers – A Writer’s Perspective

Writing a psychological thriller isn’t just storytelling—it’s a delicate balancing act. Discover the perspectives, pacing, and mental gymnastics required to craft a suspenseful, gripping story.

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.

Not Your Stereotypical Character: Avoiding Common Stereotypes in Character Development

Dive into the art of character development without relying on clichés or stereotypes. Using examples from CSI, Criminal Record, and Criminal Minds, this guide explores how to create nuanced, compelling characters. Includes hands-on exercises and a worksheet to help you apply these techniques to your own writing.

Intimacy Without ClichĂ©: How to Write Emotional Connection in Romance

Discover how to create believable emotional intimacy in romance stories using examples from popular films and practical writing exercises.

How Setting Shapes Mood, Tension, and Psychological Pressure in Film and Writing

Part of the series “How to write a book from start to finish” By J.E. Nickerson | Wise Thinkers Help Desk  Setting isn’t just the backdrop for action—it’s an invisible character that shapes mood, tension, and the psychology of everyone in the story. A bright sunlit street can feel freeing, while a narrow alley under flickeringContinue reading “How Setting Shapes Mood, Tension, and Psychological Pressure in Film and Writing”

Writing Characters Who Grieve: How Loss Changes Them

Learn how to write characters forever changed by grief. Explore examples from John Wick, Edge of Darkness, and Rabbit Hole to craft emotionally rich and authentic arcs.