The trees leaned closer, their twisted branches clawing at Jo’s coat like desperate hands. The wind howled through the forest, whispering secrets she was never meant to hear., Personification/simile -creates a threatening/alive setting., Jo’s hands trembled. Her breath came in short, sharp bursts and her heart pounded so loudly she was sure it would give her away. She took a step back, her foot slipping on the damp ground., Show not tell - shows emotions through actions and reactions, The shadow flickered between the trees, growing larger with every second. Jo’s breath caught in her throat. Who or what was it?, Rhetorical question - creates mystery -keeps the reader guessing., The air was bitterly cold against her skin, and the damp earth squelched beneath her boots. A sharp crack echoed through the trees, followed by the faintest whisper brushing past her ear., Sensory language. Appeals to senses (touch, sound). Helps the reader feel inside the moment., A twig snapped. Jo froze. It was getting closer., Short sentences -slow down time and build urgency and tension., Jo stared into the darkness. There was something there. She couldn’t quite see it, but she knew it was watching her. It moved—slowly, silently—just beyond the trees., Empty words -Makes the reader imagine what is happening..

Suspense techniques

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