The suspense. In the best short murder mysteries, like 'The Red - Headed League' by Conan Doyle, the author builds up suspense quickly. You're constantly wondering what will happen next.
The character development. Take 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue' by Poe. The detective character is so interesting, and as you read, you get to know his thinking process. Also, the plot twists. In 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie, the multiple plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. You think you know who the killer is, but then it changes completely.
The suspense. In best mysteries short stories, the suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the narrator's increasing paranoia creates great suspense. You keep wondering what he'll do next. Another factor is the unexpected twists. Like in 'Lamb to the Slaughter', the wife's actions are completely unexpected. It makes the story exciting.
The thrill. Short scary murder stories are appealing because they give a quick jolt of fear. In just a few lines, they can make your heart race.
Well, his ability to create interesting characters. Whether it's a mischievous child or a self - important adult, the characters are well - drawn and complex. For example, in 'Tobermory', the cat is not just a simple talking animal but has its own personality and motives. Also, his stories often have unexpected twists and turns, like in 'The Open Window'. This keeps the readers on their toes and makes them eager to read more.
Best short love stories can be very relatable. Many people have had brief encounters or short - lived romances. These stories capture those experiences. Like the story of a summer fling. We can all identify with the intense feelings that come and go quickly in such relationships, and that's why they are so appealing.
First, the vivid descriptions of action scenes. In 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge', the detailed account of the man's supposed escape makes it exciting. Second, the conflict. Whether it's man vs. nature like in 'To Build a Fire' or man vs. man as in 'The Cask of Amontillado', the conflict drives the action. And finally, the unexpected twists. Stories like 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' keep you guessing until the very end which is highly appealing.
The mystery element. Each short story has a well - crafted mystery. For example, in 'The Submarine Plans', there are multiple suspects and red herrings. The plot keeps you guessing until Poirot reveals the truth. Also, the settings in which the mysteries occur, whether it's a posh hotel or a small village, add to the charm. The contrast between Poirot's foreign nature and the often very English settings creates an interesting dynamic.
The surprise factor. In a good humorous short story, like 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry, there are often unexpected turns. A couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other, but it turns out those possessions are related in a funny way. It catches the reader off - guard and makes them laugh.
The suspense. In the best spooky short stories, like 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the suspense builds as the narrator gets closer and closer to his act of madness. You keep wondering what will happen next. Also, the unknown. In 'The Monkey's Paw', not knowing exactly what the paw will do when a wish is made keeps you on edge.
One reason is the creativity in the concepts. Think about stories that involve telepathic aliens or a universe where the laws of physics are different. These out - of - the - box ideas are fascinating. Another aspect is the way they make us see humanity from a different perspective. When compared to an alien race, we can better understand our own strengths and weaknesses. And the action and adventure elements, like battles in space or races against time to save a planet, keep readers on the edge of their seats.
They often reflect real - life situations in a distorted yet relatable way. For instance, in 'The Necklace', the woman's pursuit of appearance and status is something many can relate to, but the extreme irony of her fate makes it stand out. The stories make us think about how things we think are important might not be, and how life can be full of surprises that turn our assumptions upside down. Also, the short length allows for a concentrated dose of irony that can leave a strong impact without being too drawn - out.