In your mystery story, depict your character’s reactions to moments. It’s not enough to state what transpired; building a connection with the reader involves showcasing how your character reacts to the unfolding events.

Don’t assume that the audience automatically understands your character’s feelings. While it may seem like everyone would react in a way under circumstances, that’s not always the case. As a writer, part of your job is to introduce elements that challenge reader expectations. Even if most people would respond in one manner, your character might have a different perspective. Your task is to illustrate the journey.

Transitioning from screenwriting to narrative fiction presented me with hurdles. In scripts, writers outline. Leave the nuances for actors and directors to interpret. However, in narrative fiction, you play both roles. Writer and director.

It falls on you to convey how your character emotionally navigates through each scenario.