Plot Twists that Work: How to Surprise Without Losing the Story

This one is for the writers—yes, scriptwriters, too. Why? Because you play a critical role in adapting our stories for film or television. Personally, I wouldn’t want my books turned into screenplays with plot twists that fall flat or don’t quite land as intended.

A twist should work, no matter the medium.

The plot is my second favorite element after character creation. Think of me as your big sister, guiding you along the journey. When you hear plot, where does your mind take you? Do you prefer a slow build, or do you like to dive right in?

Whichever you prefer, choose wisely.

PLAYING WITH FIRE..?

Do you know those Quentin Tarantino movies that keep you on the edge of your seat? Or those books that hook you so hard, you don’t even realize you’ve hit the last page until it’s over? And now you’re frustrated— because the book was just that good?

Now, you’re just sitting there thinking… “What is your secret?”

Well, it’s one word—and it starts with a letter P. Can you guess it?

If you said pacing, you’re absolutely right.

CAN YOU MUSCLE IT?

Pacing—some people love it, and some people dread it. Me? I love it.

The same principles apply for novelists as it does for scriptwriters—there are beats, you count them.

The structuring of a script is different, sure, but I dabble in both spec scripts and book drafts. My critique partners? They praised my ability to hit those beats in both.

Whatever path you choose— book or script—just make sure you’re passionate about it. Writing is a long journey, and passion is the fuel.

Here’s a golden rule of pacing: keep things moving forward.

Give the audience information that matters to your story.

And the secondary plot? It must connect to the main plot.

NEEDLE TO THREAD

On my journey I wrote a preview for my debut— yes— debut. And the reviews for that preview? Glowing. I hooked readers from start to finish.

Before you ask, “Isn’t the hook all about pacing?”

Yes—but pacing isn’t the only thing.

HOOK LINE AND SINKER

Plot matters just as much. As a matter of fact, the plot in itself.

When I say plot in itself, I mean stick to one main theme. You don’t want your book reading like l four books crammed into one.

Can you weave in multiple elements? Of course. Just make sure they serve the story and push the plot forward.

You want your readers gasping, laughing, crying, or screaming— page after page. But not every page needs to be intense. Give them space to breathe. Let your characters reflect —maybe while watching a movie, gardening, or strolling through the park. Those moments matter too.

Now with scriptwriting, don’t do this.

Internal thoughts? Big no-no. It’s all about action.

In novels, you can explore thoughts. In screenplays, the rule is: show, don’t tell.

SHOW THEM HOW IT’S DONE

I’ve given you the secret to hooking your readers. Now it’s your turn. Try it—and let me know if it’s a game changer.

I’ve spent a year and a half in college mastering it. And now that I’ve got it down, that I did, I’m sharing it with you—as a gift, from me to you.

So I’ll ask you again:

When you hear plot, what first comes to mind?

Do you prefer a slow build, or do you like to dive right in?

Whichever you prefer, darlings—choose wisely.