Direct dialogue (characters speaking to each other) is a minor form of communication. In real life body language communicates far more information about both the speaker and the listener than mere words. Research states that between 60 to 90% of communication is through body language not words. Body language consists of posture, movements or positioning of various parts of the body (head, arms, hands, torso, legs), gestures, mannerisms, facial expressions, eye movements, and eye contact or lack of eye contact. Through physical behavior humans communicate emotions, beliefs, opinions, hopes and intentions.
Mystery writers need to write story characters who behave in the same way. Showing character communication through body language is far more effective than telling about a character. Authors should review research about body language and incorporate the findings into their novels. Checkout this web site: Using Body Language.
Global Mysteries 
Excellent point ~
We need to have our characters look at their watch, bite their lower lip, brush their hair out of the eyes, slap each other on the back, look down at their notes, pick up their pens, etc. . . .
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By: nrhatch on May 16, 2010
at 12:54 pm
Agreed, Nancy (and Nancy). Doing so, however, without looking forced is the trick. It takes some practice and careful observation of the physical habits of real people. It is also very useful to pay attention to how published writers do it.
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By: Richard W Scott on May 16, 2010
at 12:56 pm
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at 2:45 pm