# ------------------------------------------------------------ # 19. Thriller Pacing & Stakes Checklist # ------------------------------------------------------------ --- checklist: id: thriller-pacing-stakes-checklist name: Thriller Pacing & Stakes Checklist description: Keep readers on edge with tight pacing and escalating stakes. items: - "[ ] Inciting incident by 10% mark" - "[ ] Ticking clock or deadline present" - "[ ] Complications escalate danger every 3–4 chapters" - "[ ] Protagonist setbacks increase tension" - "[ ] Twist/reversal at midpoint" - "[ ] Final confrontation resolves central threat" ...