Through unexpected plot twists. For example, just when you think you've figured out who the murderer is, new evidence pops up that completely changes the situation.
They often use red herrings. For example, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', there are many characters who seem suspicious at first but turn out to be innocent. This misleads the reader and creates suspense. Also, withholding key information until the right moment. Like in 'Gone Girl', the truth about the main characters' relationship is gradually revealed, keeping the reader in suspense.
The characters are often complex and not fully trustworthy. In 'Watchmen', every character has their own secrets and motives. You're constantly questioning who could be behind the murder because each character seems to have a reason to be involved. Also, the slow revelation of clues over the course of the story builds suspense. It's like peeling an onion, layer by layer, and you never know when a big revelation is going to come.
They often use secrets. For example, the characters might be hiding things about their past that are related to the mystery. This makes the reader wonder what will be revealed and how it will affect the romance.
The presence of multiple suspects creates suspense. Since each suspect could be the killer, the reader is constantly guessing. For example, in 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie, there are ten suspects on an island, and the reader has to figure out which one is the murderer.
Murder mystery stories also build suspense by gradually revealing clues. The author might drop small hints here and there throughout the story, making the reader try to piece them together before the detective in the story does. A good example is when a small object is mentioned early on that turns out to be a crucial piece of evidence later. This keeps the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat, wondering what will be revealed next.
Often, murder novels create suspense through withholding key information. For example, they might not reveal the identity of the killer right away.
Scary murder mystery stories create suspense by withholding key information. For example, the identity of the murderer is often kept secret until the end. Also, by using a sense of danger. The threat of another murder can keep readers on edge. And the setting can play a big role. A spooky old house or a desolate forest makes the story more suspenseful.
Slasher mystery novels often create suspense through the unknown identity of the killer. For example, in 'The Silence of the Lambs', the reader is constantly trying to figure out who 'Buffalo Bill' is. They also use settings that are isolated or spooky, like the old mansion in many slasher mysteries. This makes the reader feel that danger could be lurking anywhere.
They often use the unknown. For example, not clearly showing the ghost at first. Just giving hints like strange noises or cold spots. This makes the reader wonder what's really there.
Horror mystery novels create suspense in several ways. One way is through the use of the unknown. For example, in 'The Shining', we don't know exactly what the forces in the Overlook Hotel are capable of. Another way is by slowly revealing information. In 'Dracula', Stoker drip - feeds details about Dracula's abilities and weaknesses. Also, the setting can add to the suspense. In 'The Haunting of Hill House', the old, creaky house with its hidden rooms and strange noises keeps the readers in suspense.