Four questions to make every scene of your novel un-put-down-able.

Some of your scenes are really exciting. They’re the big ones, the reasons why your readers picked up your book: the first kiss, the epic battle, the discovery of the body.

And some of your scenes . . . well, they’re the stuff that happens in between the exciting scenes.

In those scenes, the story slows down. Sometimes it slows down a lot. To glacial pace. To “eh, maybe I’ll finish reading this later” pace.

How do you keep your readers hooked? How do you keep them turning pages even during the scenes that are action-light and exposition-heavy?

In this episode, I’ll walk you through four questions to make sure even your “slow” scenes are un-put-down-able.

You’ll learn:

• How to evaluate whether a “slow” scene is even necessary—or if you can cut it entirely
• The 4-step process to edit your “slow” scenes to keep your readers hooked
• 2 things every “slow” scene needs
• And more!

Your story is worth reading from cover to cover. Here’s how to make sure you don’t lose your readers during a dull moment midway through.

Links mentioned in the episode:

• Get the Scene Analysis Worksheet: alicesudlow.com/sceneworksheet
• See whether I’m the right editor for you: alicesudlow.com/contact
• Ep. 27: Value Shifts: How to Craft Compelling Change in Every Story
• Ep. 11: How to Edit a Scene of a Novel, Part 1
• Ep. 42: The 6 Essential Elements of Every Novel, Act, and Scene

Send me a Text Message!

Want my support in your revision?

In Story Clarity, we’ll work one-on-one to sharpen your story’s structure and craft a revision plan that works. If you’re ready for thoughtful, personalized feedback from an editor who gets what you’re trying to do, I’d love to hear what you’re working on.

Get started by telling me about your story here.

Support the show

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »