I generally try to run three plots simultaneously: one main and two subplots to hook the reader who might lose interest in following only one plot. For example, in my first book, High Rise, the main plot is a good old fashion "whodunit" with the Austin Police Department versus the killer(s) of Charlotte Johnson. Mix with this a subplot of the Texas Land Scam and Managed Care Revenge by a crazed doctor hellbent to cripple the Managed Care Industry and you have three stories wrapped into one with rapid sequencing and scene shifts. All of my novels utilize this particular plot design to keep the reader guessing until the mystery is solved, typically at least 3/4 through the storyline. Another feature of my writing is to keep the novels short (no more than 80k words) and under 300 pages. My intent is to offer the reader a short read, perhaps while waiting in the airport or on the plane. My books typically can be read at one sitting in 4-5 hours. I must keep copious notes on each plot to make sure that I don't overstep plot plausibility and hopefully bring all three plots to a successful conclusion by the end of the book. I also like to keep endings open for possible sequels.