One of the biggest challenges writers face is how to show emotions in a scene without simply telling the reader what’s happening or revealing too much too soon. In Chapter 3 of Storms of Love, Ellie Rae McNeal experiences a heavy moment that shifts the story’s tone — but it’s never spelled out directly to the reader.

So how do you create that kind of emotional depth and tension while keeping readers curious and invested? Here are three tips inspired by that chapter:

1. Use Subtle Physical Reactions
   Instead of explaining what the character is feeling, show it through small but powerful physical cues. Ellie’s quickened heartbeat, the way she holds Zoe close, or how she rubs Nina’s back are examples of this. These details pull readers into the emotional experience without spelling it all out.
2. Let Dialogue Hint at the Bigger Picture
   Carefully crafted dialogue can reveal tension and stakes without revealing the full story. In Chapter 3, the conversations Ellie has with law enforcement and Nina suggest something serious is happening, but the full details unfold gradually. This keeps readers engaged and wanting to know more.
3. Balance Action with Stillness
   Sometimes, the moments between the big reveals are just as important. Ellie’s calm but purposeful movements, her decision to offer her personal space, and her internal reflections create a rhythm that draws readers deeper into the moment without rushing the drama.

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Why This Matters for Your Writing

Showing emotional depth this way creates scenes that resonate. It lets readers feel the weight of what’s happening through your characters’ experiences — making your story more immersive and real.

Want to master techniques like these and write scenes that captivate and move readers?
Join my Writing Bootcamp where we dive deep into crafting authentic characters and emotionally rich stories grounded in faith and truth. Only a few seats left!
Christian Book Writing Bootcamp

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Ya Girl,

Mya Kay