Changing the pace of the story is also a great technique. Have some fast - paced action scenes where things are happening quickly, and then slow down to explore the characters' emotions or backstories. This variation keeps the readers on their toes, as they are constantly adjusting to the different rhythms of the story. And all the while, they are still in the dark about the final outcome.
One way is to introduce new and unexpected elements throughout the story. For example, just when the reader thinks the protagonist is about to solve a problem, a new and more difficult obstacle pops up. Another way is to leave some details ambiguous. Don't be too specific about a character's motives or a situation's background. This makes the reader keep guessing. Also, use cliffhangers at the end of chapters or sections. For instance, end a chapter with the main character in a dangerous situation without revealing how they will get out of it.
Long series novels often keep readers engaged through continuous character development. As the series progresses, the characters grow, change, and face new challenges, which makes readers care about what happens to them. For example, in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', the characters are constantly evolving in the complex political and dangerous environment. Another way is by having an overarching plot with many sub - plots. This keeps the story rich and full of surprises like in 'The Lord of the Rings' series.
Cliffhanger ending novels keep readers engaged by creating suspense. When a book ends suddenly without resolving all the plot points, readers are left with a sense of curiosity. They want to know what will happen next to the characters they've grown to care about.
Sure, I think I can. It depends on how important and personal the secret is.
Involve the audience by asking rhetorical questions. For instance, in a long story about a mystery, you can say 'What would you have done if you were in his shoes?' This makes them feel more connected to the story and keeps them engaged. Also, make sure to have a clear plotline so they can follow along easily. A long story without a clear direction can quickly lose the audience's attention. You need to build up the tension and resolve it in a satisfying way.
A writer can engage readers in the middle of a horror story by developing the characters' emotions more deeply. Let the readers feel the fear, confusion, and desperation of the characters. When the main character is trembling with fear as they hear strange sounds in the attic, the readers will be more engaged. Also, using vivid descriptions of the spooky settings helps. If you describe the old, creaking floorboards and the cold drafts that seem to have a life of their own, it draws the reader in.
One way is by having unexpected twists. If the end game story throws in a curveball that players didn't see coming, it'll keep them hooked. For example, in 'BioShock Infinite', the revelation about the true nature of the city of Columbia and Booker's role was a huge twist that made the end game story very engaging.
Mystery in novels keeps readers engaged through the use of unexpected twists. Just when the reader thinks they've figured it out, a new piece of information turns the whole story around. Also, the development of complex characters with their own motives and secrets makes the readers want to dig deeper. They want to understand why the characters act the way they do and what they are hiding. And the slow revelation of clues also hooks the readers. They feel like they are part of the detective work, trying to solve the mystery along with the characters in the story.
By constantly introducing new elements. Maybe new characters show up or new problems arise.
By constantly teasing the secret. Drop little hints throughout the story that make the reader curious. For instance, if the secret is about a hidden treasure, mention strange maps or old legends related to it.