Mystery at sea novels create suspense by introducing elements of the unknown. In many such novels, like 'The Sea - Wolf' by Jack London, the characters themselves are often strangers to each other. There could be a hidden criminal or a secret mission on board. The sea just adds to the isolation and danger, making every situation more tense. Also, the weather at sea can change suddenly, which can be used to heighten the drama and suspense.
They often use the vastness and unpredictability of the sea. For example, in 'The Terror' by Dan Simmons, the sea is a harsh and unforgiving environment. The characters are isolated, and there are unknown threats lurking, like the mysterious creature in the ice. This creates a lot of suspense.
One way is through the use of setting. A spooky old house or a fog - covered forest can immediately create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense. Also, withholding information from the reader. For example, not revealing the true identity of a monster or the cause of strange events right away.
You can build a desolate setting. Maybe a remote town or an abandoned place. Also, limit the character's interaction with others. Make them feel truly alone in the world you create.
Adventure horror novels often use setting to create suspense. For example, in a spooky old mansion or a dark forest, the unknown elements of these places keep readers on edge. The characters' lack of knowledge about what lurks in these settings adds to the suspense. Also, the threat of an unseen or barely - seen antagonist, like a shadowy figure in the corner of the eye, builds tension.
Gothic adventure suspense novels create suspense by building an atmosphere of unease. They use settings like desolate moors or crumbling castles. The sense of isolation and the unknown in these places makes the reader feel on edge. Also, the use of foreshadowing is common. A small, seemingly insignificant event at the start may be a hint of a much larger and more dangerous event to come, which keeps the reader in suspense.
They often use cliffhangers at the end of chapters or scenes. For example, in 'Danganronpa', each class trial ends with a major revelation or a new mystery, leaving you eager to find out more.
Scary chase stories create suspense mainly through the element of the unknown. For example, if someone is being chased by an unseen entity, we don't know what it is or what it's capable of. This makes us wonder if the chased person will escape. Also, the constant threat of being caught builds suspense. As the chaser gets closer, the tension rises.
By using the portrait as an enigma. If the portrait has a strange expression or a mark that no one can explain, it creates mystery. Also, if the backstory of the portrait is only partially revealed.
A mystery short story can create tension through its characters' emotions. If the detective is frustrated or the victim is terrified, that feeling spreads to the reader. Also, withholding information from the reader until the right moment can build up a lot of tension.
Well, when there are dark settings in a story, it's like a veil is drawn over the normal world. The lack of light hides things. Say, in a dark alley in a story. We don't know who or what is there until something reveals itself. This anticipation builds mystery. The characters are also more on edge in such settings, which adds to the overall sense of mystery.
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.