Handling Quiet Scenes in the Novel

Handling Quiet Scenes in the Novel

We’re told to keep things moving, but quiet scenes can be useful if they’re handled properly.

As part of my process, I print out each scene or chapter as I finish it, and do a read-through at night in bed. Often, before I get to this point, I’ll give the printout to the Hubster. We have similar, but not identical tastes in reading. I’ve learned he likes scenes with lots of action, especially if there’s gunfire or an explosion. When he drops those scenes back...