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. She will teach 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.

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.

Course Content

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

This course is for…

Fiction authors who wants to inject excitement and drama into their writing.
People that have completed a first draft of a novel which they feel lacks pace or drama.

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.

Course Details

Date: Saturday 25 September 2021
Time: 10am-4pm (BST)

10am BST | 11am CEST | 2am PDT | 5am EDT

This masterclass is available globally. If you are joining us from outside the United Kingdom, please use this time zone converter to check your local live streaming time.

You will be sent a link to the webinar two hrs before the start time. Please email masterclasses@theguardian.com if you have not received the access link within one hour of the scheduled start time.

All Guardian Masterclasses are fully accessible but please contact us at masterclasses@theguardian.com if you have any queries or concerns.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website

How to write a page turner: A masterclass in creating suspense in fiction