My novels as a frothy mix of drama, mystery, suspense, and romance—with lots of emotion sprinkled on every page. If the reader doesn’t experience “all the feels” I haven’t done my job. Neither have you, until each page you write evokes an emotional response in the reader.

How to add this critical element to every scene? Put it on the body. Rage breaks across her so strong, she pushes him away. His stomach plummets with fear. Sudden, soaring enthusiasm grips her, and she blurts out the truth. Forget dialogue tags; at points during the scene, add a physical reaction for more interest.

In the buildup to a suspenseful scene, add humor to put your reader off-guard. Readers do love to experience laughter through tears, so blend poignant moments with a touch of comedy, especially if children figure into your novel.

Of course, too much of a good thing isn’t good. None of us can remain in a heightened emotional state for long periods. Follow those emotional bits with introspection, foreshadowing, or a descriptive setup for the next scene.

Here’s another trick: Finish your writing day in the middle of dialogue. You’ll find it oh, so much easier to jump back in the following day.

Beth Demel

Beth has been a writer her whole life and finally found time to write her first novel when she turned fifty and gave up sleeping. When not writing fiction, she works with an amazing editorial team dedicated to raising money for cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She lives in New York City with her husband, two sons, and the best dog in the world.

ONE OF US KNOWS by Alyssa Cole

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ARCHANGEL'S LINEAGE by Nalini Singh

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A HEART LIKE HOME by Christine Nolfi

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When Nova Doubeck is asked to foster two children, she can’t say no. With her own childhood wounds healed by adoptive parents, Nova understands the rewards of a caring guardian—even an impermanent one. But nine-year-old Henry and his seven-year-old sister, Bella, are more than Nova bargained for.

Combative Henry is at risk of becoming like his abusive father, Egan Croy. Timid Bella, clutching a tin box of treasures, cowers at the slightest noise. Yet Nova gradually earns their trust and affection as they bring unexpected love and joy to her guarded life. Now she can’t help but wonder: How will she stop her heart from breaking when the time comes to say goodbye?

A COWGIRL'S HOMECOMING by Julia Ruth

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There’s something missing in her life, and it’s shaped like home

It’s been three years since Jenn Spencer left Four Sisters Ranch after burying her husband, her heart and her relationship with her family. Now the farm’s in trouble—and she’s back to help. Reconnecting with her family is hard…yet her new landlord, Luke Bennett, and his adorable niece brighten her days. But when she discovers Luke’s secret, will it crush her healing heart again?

COLD CASE TRACKER by Maggie K. Black

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A missing sibling. A targeted witness.

A K-9 on the case.

K-9 officer Jackson Locke’s sister has vanished—and the key to finding her lies with Amy Scout…his sister’s best friend and his old crush. But when Amy comes under attack, two things become clear: Jackson’s sister has been investigating cold cases and someone wants Amy dead. Now he must untangle the mystery between the cold cases and his sister’s disappearance while guarding Amy from an enemy willing to kill to hide the truth…

COLTON MOUNTAIN SEARCH by Karen Whiddon

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Their search for a killer at large becomes too personal.

A mountain hike turns tragic as Della Winslow’s search and rescue dog discovers a serial killer's burial site. Enter FBI agent Max Colton, who comes back to town to solve the case and get rid of his playboy reputation. He's just what the dedicated dog trainer doesn’t need—or want. But when she discovers her cousin was one of the killer’s victims, Della must work with Max to solve the case…and try to resist the electric attraction between them.

K-9 MISSING PERSON by Cassie Miles

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A detective and his dog have survived it allm but his latest case puts them to the ultimate test.

Private investigator Shane Reilly and his trusty K-9 sidekick, Elvis, are legendary at solving crimes. But taking on Mallory Greenfield’s missing mother case is their toughest job yet. Between a faked death, a legendary diamond and a surprise sister, Mallory needs their protection. But when the bullets fly and the danger closes in, will Shane and Elvis save the woman who captured their hearts?