If you look at a novel you will see lots of little bits that you would probably never think of putting into a story. You will find people flicking their hair, rubbing their noses, scratching their legs, and smoothing their hair. You will find them blinking and yawning and smiling and looking skywards. All those things have absolutely nothing to do with the plot of the story but they really make a difference. Give it a try and make your hero squint at the sun, shield his eyes from the glare, or pick at the scabs on his arms.
Next time you read a book, have a notebook by your side and jot down any interesting phrases that you come across. To get you started, here are some from my list which you are welcome to use.
he brushed some imaginary fluff from his sleeve she wriggled her eyebrows playfully turned his head to fling a stray strand of hair off his face he looked grim-faced her smile died his bushy eyebrows wriggled like two caterpillars her lips tightly closed jaw sagged eyes flashed eyes went dark her voice wavered and she fought to keep it steady her voice broke he began to sob uncontrollably she dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief she ignored his angry outburst she fought the urge to slap him his face wore a worried frown his eyes flashed like fire she punched the air eyes brimming with tears as he blinked, tears spilled out and trickled down his face looked heavenwards looked skywards eyes wide with alarm