Building tension is a crucial element of crafting a compelling thriller, and it’s a skill that can elevate a good story to an unforgettable one. New author William S. Grant masterfully demonstrates this in his debut novel, Remember, Remember. With its gripping narrative and edge-of-your-seat suspense, Grant’s book offers valuable lessons on how to effectively build tension in your writing. Here’s how he does it and what you can learn from his approach.
1. Create High Stakes
One of the fundamental ways to build tension is by establishing high stakes for your characters. In Remember, Remember, Grant does this by presenting Deanne Wallace with a life-altering challenge: seeking justice after a brutal assault. The high stakes of her quest create a sense of urgency and keep readers invested in her journey. When characters face significant risks, the tension naturally escalates, making every decision and action critical to the story’s outcome.
2. Develop Compelling Conflicts
Conflicts drive the plot and keep readers engaged. Grant’s novel excels in presenting a series of escalating conflicts that keep Deanne—and the readers—on edge. The internal conflict within Deanne as she grapples with her trauma and the external conflicts she faces in her quest for justice are intricately woven into the narrative. By presenting multiple layers of conflict, Grant ensures that the tension remains high throughout the novel.
3. Utilize Unpredictable Twists
Surprises and plot twists are essential for maintaining suspense. In Remember, Remember, Grant skillfully introduces unexpected twists that challenge the reader’s assumptions and keep them guessing. By subverting expectations and introducing new revelations at strategic points, Grant keeps the tension alive and makes the story’s progression unpredictable and engaging.
4. Build Suspense Through Pacing
Pacing plays a critical role in creating and maintaining tension. Grant expertly controls the rhythm of the narrative in Remember, Remember, alternating between intense, high-stakes scenes and quieter moments that build anticipation. This balance helps to sustain suspense and keeps readers eagerly turning pages, wondering what will happen next. Effective pacing ensures that moments of high tension are followed by just enough respite to heighten the overall impact.
5. Create Relatable Characters with Deep Motivations
Characters with clear, relatable motivations make the stakes feel real and personal. Deanne Wallace’s motivations in Remember, Remember are deeply rooted in her desire for justice and personal redemption. Grant’s detailed portrayal of Deanne’s emotional journey adds depth to the story, making the tension more impactful. When readers can empathize with a character’s struggles and motivations, the tension they experience is amplified.
6. Implement Cliffhangers and Foreshadowing
Ending chapters with cliffhangers or foreshadowing future events can significantly heighten tension. Grant’s use of cliffhangers in Remember, Remember leaves readers eager to find out what happens next, creating a continuous sense of suspense. Foreshadowing subtle hints about upcoming events also keeps readers on edge, as they anticipate how the story will unfold.
Conclusion
William S. Grant’s Remember, Remember is a masterclass in building tension and suspense. By employing techniques such as high stakes, compelling conflicts, unpredictable twists, and strategic pacing, Grant creates a thriller that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
If you’re looking to experience a novel that perfectly exemplifies these techniques, look no further than Remember, Remember. Available on all major platforms, this edge-of-your-seat thriller is a must-read for anyone interested in how to build tension in storytelling. Order your copy today and immerse yourself in a masterful example of suspenseful writing!