How Suspense Really Works: Making Readers Hold Their Breath

What makes a reader hold their breath and refuse to stop turning pages? Charlie Donlea, Dianne McCartney, J.L. Delozier, Kaira Rouda, Lynette Eason, and Rick Treon dig into the true mechanics of suspense. They explore how character choices, pacing, and plot construction work together to create relentless tension. This session shows how to hook readers early and keep them locked in until the final twist.

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Self-Publishing: Is It Right for You?

Self-Publishing: Is It Right for You?

Self-publishing offers freedom, but it also demands responsibility. August McLaughlin, Jennie Bentley, Rae Ann Parker, and Vinnie Hansen share candid insights into what it really takes to succeed as an independent author. This session explores creative control,...

The Crime Books Every Writer Should Read

The Crime Books Every Writer Should Read

Otto Penzler joins Eileen Rendahl, Harriet Logan, Jim Kling, and Larry Light to talk about the crime and mystery books every writer should know. They discuss the titles that define the genre, why these stories endure, and how reading the best work can shape and...

Keeping Crime Fiction Believable

Keeping Crime Fiction Believable

Dan Barden engages with different crime authors to explore the similarities among the characters in their novels, aDan Barden, Catherine Astolfo, Julian Lindsey, Maggie Sefton, and Will Lavender focus on what keeps a mystery story grounded. They discuss how to create...