Includes index.

"Suspense is one of the most powerful tools a writer has for captivating readers--but it isn't just for thrillers. From mainstream fiction to memoir, suspense creates the emotional tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Mastering Suspense, Structure, & Plot is your hands-on guide to weaving suspense into your narrative. Award-winning author Jane K. Cleland teaches you how to navigate genre conventions, write for your audience, and build gripping tension to craft an irresistible page-turner."--Back cover.

Foreword -- Introduction -- Part one. Thinking. Chapter one: Know your readers ; Chapter two. Structure is king ; Chapter three. Jane's plotting road map ; Chapter four. Set the stage ; Chapter five. Layer in two subplots ; Chapter six. Isolate your protagonist--and everyone else ; Chapter seven. The devil made me do it -- Part two. Writing. Chapter eight. Add surprise--sparingly ; Chapter nine. Get into your reader's heads ; Chapter ten. Whisper, don't shout ; Chapter eleven. Illuminate fear and dread ; Chapter twelve. Reveal answers slowly ; Chapter thirteen. Write sentences that work ; Chapter fourteen. Conclusion. Afterword.