Writing Tips: Things I've Learned Along the Way

Use Auralism to Deepen Emotional Connections

Sound and sensory details are key. Include subtle auditory elements, like the crackle of a fire, the rustle of fabric, or the hitch in a character's breath. These small cues can enhance the intimacy and immersion of your scripts or stories. Show the reader, let them use their imagination. Don't tell them the sky is blue! Tell them that "the sunlight danced across her face, catching the flecks of silver in her eyes, which shimmered like the surface of a sapphire lake."

 

Build Tension Through Trope Mastery

 

  • Include witty banter or sharp exchanges before characters realise their feelings.
  • In "touch her and die" scenarios, let the protective instincts simmer before erupting into an emotional or physical climax.
  • Let small actions—like noticing a touch lingers too long or feeling jealousy unexpectedly—chip away at a character's resistance.
  • Create contrasts between what a character tells themselves and what they actually feel, which keeps readers hooked.

Write Immersive Romantic Chemistry

 

  • Focus on micro-expressions—a flick of the eyes, a lingering touch, or the catch of breath when their hands brush.
  • Use internal conflict to make these moments even more impactful, especially if one character is resisting their feelings (like Finn in your story).

 

Elevate Dialogue with Authentic Dialect

 

  • Don't be afraid to elevate Dialogue with Authentic Scottish Dialect (other other accents)
  • Use sparingly, but it can enhance the character’s personality and setting rather than overpowering readability.

Incorporate Playful Moments

Romantic tension isn’t all serious—moments of lightheartedness can break up intense scenes and make characters relatable. Add playful, flirtatious exchanges to give the audience a breather while reinforcing relationships.

 

Leverage Secondary Characters

 

They:

  • Offer perspective on the main romance.
  • Add subplots that mirror or contrast the main love story.
  • Build relationships readers root for with hidden crushes (and maybe even hints at a future book in a series). 

 

Root Romance in Strong Themes

 

  • Tie the characters' romantic journey to their personal growth or a larger conflict, like Triona discovering her destiny and navigating societal expectations.
  • Allow romance to act as both a refuge and a challenge, forcing characters to confront their deepest fears and desires.

 

Stop and ask your "why?"

 

  • Does it advance the plot?
  • Does it reveal something new about the characters?
  • Does it build tension, deepen relationships, or set up future events?
    Ex: If the scene doesn’t serve a clear purpose, consider reworking it or cutting it entirely. 
  • Does their behavior align with their goals, fears, or personality?
  • Are their reactions authentic and believable in this context? Tip: If their actions feel forced, revisit their backstory or current stakes.
  • Does the language reflect the scene’s emotional intensity?
  • Are you using sensory details to draw readers in? Tip: Avoid overexplaining or relying on clichés; instead, craft vivid, original descriptions.
  • Are the stakes clear and compelling? By asking "why," you ensure every word, scene, and decision serves a greater purpose, creating a tighter, more impactful narrative.

Don't try to make something fit just because. If you don't have all the answers down to the very center, throw it out, or save it for later. Nothing is more frustrating to a reader than a lose end.