A killer plot is only half the story. No matter what kind of fiction you’re writing, knowing how to build and exploit suspense is crucial. Suspense quickens the pace of your narrative, adds thrilling elements of mystery and unpredictability, and makes the difference between a potboiler and a pulse-quickening page turner.
Tutor Claire McGowan, author of the acclaimed Paula Maguire crime series, is an expert in the finer points of suspense. In this intensive one-day course, you’ll learn how to use every part of your writing – from your characters to your narration – to keep your readers on the edge of their seats. You’ll also find out how to provide powerful conclusions to every build-up, which will leave your readers satisfied – if emotionally exhausted.
This course is for you if...
- You’re a fiction author who wants to inject excitement and drama into your writing
- You’ve completed a first draft of a novel which you feel lacks pace or drama
Course description
Taught by novelist Claire McGowan, this course teaches authors of any genre of fiction how to use different elements of writing to create dramatic tension, as well as ways in which to provide a satisfying conclusion to a suspenseful plotline. Topics covered on the day include:
- The two key questions your reader should pose
- Four types of suspense
- Techniques for adding suspense
- The importance of characterisation in adding tension
- Adding tension while editing
Tutor profile
Claire McGowan is the author of five acclaimed crime novels, including the Paula Maguire series which was optioned by the BBC. Claire is a senior lecturer on the crime thriller MA programme at City University London. Read more about Claire on her website.
Details
Date: Saturday 10 December 2016
Times: 10am-4pm
Location: The Guardian, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU
Price: £129 (includes lunch, refreshments, VAT, and booking fee)
Event capacity: 36
You may also be interested in...
- Writing authentic crime fiction: A Masterclass with forensic pathologists, criminal lawyers and frontline police
- How to structure your novel: A weekend workshop
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Information on Guardian Masterclasses
To contact us, click here. Terms and conditions can be found here.
Returns policy: Tickets may be refunded if you contact us at least 14 days before the course start date. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.
