If you’ve ever worried your story feels flat or stalled, this one’s for you. 

Today, we’re digging into one of the trickiest but most essential tools in your writer’s toolbox: narrative drive. This is the force that makes your reader lean in, turn the page, and stay invested in your character’s journey.

I’ll break down what narrative drive actually is, why it matters so much, and how to wield it on the page. We’ll talk about the three C’s—concern, curiosity, and control of information— and how to use them to keep the reader invested. Plus, I’ll share some practical strategies you can use right now to keep your story moving!

Episode Timestamps:
 00:00 What narrative drive really means
 01:24 Why narrative drive matters for your story
 02:46 How character and conflict fuel narrative drive
 06:12 The 3 C’s: concern, curiosity, and control of information
 10:23 Practical tips to build story momentum
 13:26 Final thoughts + your next steps

Links Mentioned:

Episode 27: How to Write Suspense and Tension in Your Novel

The Fiction Lounge Podcast

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