Tension invariably grabs the audience’s attention, and it is simple to manipulate to gain the maximum effect. Introduce a problem and let it build. Allow the tension to grow until it becomes unbearable. Your goal is to induce discomfort. At some point you must release the tension and allow your reader a chance to catch their breath, but only once the tension has been allowed to grow to a satisfactory level. This rule can be extended from single scenes right across entire series—see it as one of the most powerful tools in your storytelling arsenal.