Review: Learn to keep a reader (and your characters) on edge
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 18, 2012
I devoured this book only a couple of hours after receiving my review copy. It starts off with different types, or "flavours," of fear, including the signs, symptoms and how each type of fear can work in fiction. Simply reading through them brought to mind some of my favorite scary scenes as well as scenes from my works that could use a little punching up. Rayne has a knack for breaking down scenes, emotions, and even language in a way that will get readers thinking.For example, Chapter 3: What lurks behind that door? reminded me of 'Resident Evil' - the first one, back on the PS1. If you've ever played the game, you'll remember the doors (and the stairs)--everything else fades to black while a squeaky door slowly opens. Sure, in this case it gets old, very old since you're going through the same slow scene every time you leave or enter a room, but admit it--your palms get a little sweaty and your heart throws in a couple of extra beats while you anticipate what will be awaiting you when the game resumes. But, have I ever used this tactic in a story? No, but now that I'm thinking about it, I have some good ideas.The book is concise, yet it brings a tool shed of tips and tricks to your fingertips. From using body cues, and understanding how vocabulary choices will resonate with the reader, to pacing and using the senses, I couldn't finish a chapter without thinking of something to use in one of my scenes.Plus, it will resonate with a variety of genres. If you need to build suspense, anxiety, or just scare the begabbers out of your readers (while also making sure your MC is not a WIMP) this book will show you how to do it.Favorite Quote: "Heroes may be frightened, but they may not be wusses. Often, the difference lies not in the hero's actions, but in the words you've used."Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for an honest review.)