How stories work.
Follow a whole novel or look closely at a single scene. See what the characters do, why it changes the story, and what you can try in your own writing.
Scene examples use marked reveals. Complete novel studies include the ending and are labelled before you read.
A complete novel study
Pride and Prejudice: Plot, Relationships & Writing Lessons
Pride and Prejudice · Jane Austen
Explore the designAn invitation that challenges his expertise
Mention the rival, and he insists on following
The Cask of Amontillado · Edgar Allan Poe
Explore the designTwo private plans meet on Christmas Eve
She sells her hair to buy his watch chain
The Gift of the Magi · O. Henry
Design study + writing exerciseExplore the designAn exact wish with an unknown route
They ask for two hundred pounds. How will the money arrive?
The Monkey’s Paw · W. W. Jacobs
Design study + writing exerciseExplore the designA question avoided becomes years of work
They replace the necklace before asking what it was worth
The Necklace · Guy de Maupassant
Design study + writing exerciseExplore the designThree room details that work together
Why does this bedroom have a vent into the next room?
The Adventure of the Speckled Band · Arthur Conan Doyle
Explore the designONE WORK, CONNECTED DESIGNS
Lord of Mysteries
Thirteen studies across eight creative questions. Follow the connections from a power rule to a character choice and its consequences.