Now let’s add another compelling ingredient to our technique: The character’s secret and how this is going to be affected by a sudden pivotal event that compels a looming deadline. Here’s your exercise: Choose a genre, and then select a main character who holds a significant secret. Now, envision a rapidly approaching event that threatens to expose this secret, sending ripples through their life. Consider how the impending revelation transforms your character’s choices, relationships, and behaviors. Infuse the narrative with the tension of impending discovery.
As you work through the exercise, take a moment to reflect on the tension generated by the impending revelation. How did the looming deadline intensify the suspense? Did it unveil hidden aspects of your character’s personality or create unforeseen plot twists? Remember, a well-executed deadline not only propels the story forward but also keeps your readers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mystery.
