The element of surprise. In very short suspense stories, there's often a sudden twist at the end. For example, in a story where a person is waiting for a friend at a deserted place. All of a sudden, the friend appears from a completely unexpected direction. It catches the reader off - guard.
The use of language is crucial too. A very short story might use vivid and concise language to create a mood. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the description of the wallpaper is both creepy and symbolic, making the story engaging as it slowly reveals the narrator's psychological state.
Stephen King has a talent for quickly establishing a mood. In a very short story, he can make the setting seem menacing. His descriptions, though concise, are vivid. He might describe a shadow in a way that makes it seem alive and threatening. Also, his short stories often have a sense of mystery that makes you want to keep reading to find out what's really going on, like the scratches on the door in that motel story. It makes you curious about what could have caused them.
The unexpected twists often make original short stories engaging.
The mystery in them. We don't know what's going to happen next, like in a story where a character is being followed but can't see who it is. It keeps us guessing.
The open - world nature of GTA 5. It provides a vast and detailed setting for short stories. There are so many different locations, characters, and situations that can be used. For example, the city of Los Santos has its own unique culture and areas that can add depth to any short story.
The element of mystery. When readers don't know what's going to happen next, they are more likely to keep reading. For example, in 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', the mystery of Jekyll's transformation into Hyde keeps the readers hooked.
The suspense. Mystery thriller short stories keep you on the edge of your seat. You're constantly wondering what will happen next. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the reader is left in suspense as the narrator's guilt starts to consume him. Also, the unexpected twists. In 'The Lottery', no one expects the ending which makes it so engaging.
The short length. It can quickly get to the scariest parts without a lot of build - up. For example, it can start with a spooky situation right away.
The suspense. You're left hanging, wondering what will happen next. It's like a tease that keeps your mind racing.
The element of surprise. In a good mystery short story, you don't expect the ending. For example, in 'The Most Dangerous Game' by Richard Connell, the twist at the end where the hunter becomes the hunted is really engaging.