Masterful Microtension by C. S. Lakin: A Book Review

Last month I read, C. S. Lakin’s latest in her Writer’s Toolbox Series: Masterful Microtension, The Essential Element of Powerful Fiction.

It’s the best book on writing craft I’ve read in a long time, partly because it appeals to my #1 Clifton strength: Learner. But mostly because it’s solid advice for improving your fiction. Not many teachers are writing about microtension, so I’m glad Lakin not only tackled the subject but gave us an entire book on it.

But what is microtension?

In the author’s words, “Tension, in general, is created by lack. Lack of understanding, lack of closure, lack of equilibrium or peace. When your readers have questions, that creates tension.”

Tension is good. It’s also big. Macro.

Microtension is “tension on a micro level, or in small, barely noticeable increments.” It’s the things a reader can’t quite put their finger on but that intrigue them and make them slow down and think in the best way. It’s the “sticky bits” like words, images, and phrases that surprise and delight. Lakin teaches how to craft those sticky bits and sprinkle them throughout to keep readers hooked.

I devoured this book and marked it all up.

If you’re looking for a quality resource to take your craft to the next level, give this one a try.