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.
Mystery and horror stories create suspense in multiple ways. Firstly, the pacing is crucial. A slow build - up with small, mysterious events gradually leading to a big revelation or a terrifying climax can keep readers hooked. Secondly, the use of unreliable narrators can be very effective. In a mystery, if the narrator may be lying or misinterpreting things, it adds to the mystery. In horror, an unreliable narrator can make the reader doubt what is real and what is not, thus creating suspense. Also, the sense of the unknown, whether it's an unexplained phenomenon in a mystery or an otherworldly being in a horror story, is a powerful tool for creating suspense.
They often use the unknown. For example, in many horror mystery stories, there are shadowy figures or strange noises that the characters can't immediately explain. This makes the reader wonder what's going on and creates suspense. Another way is through unreliable narrators. If you can't trust the person telling the story, you're constantly on edge trying to figure out what's real and what's not.
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.
Slasher horror novels create suspense in multiple ways. One important aspect is the building of the killer's character. Even if the identity of the slasher is hidden, the hints about their motives and their modus operandi create suspense. For instance, if the killer seems to target a specific type of person, the readers will be on edge whenever a character fitting that description is in the scene. The limited point of view of the characters also helps. We only know as much as the characters do, so when they are in the dark about the danger, so are we. And the use of false alarms, where it seems like the killer is about to strike but doesn't, is another effective technique to keep the suspense high.
They often use mystery elements. For example, in many detective horror novels, there's an unknown threat or a series of strange events that the characters need to figure out. This keeps the reader in suspense as they wonder what will be revealed next.
Slasher horror novels create suspense through various means. For example, by introducing a menacing killer early on. The reader knows there is a threat out there, but not exactly when or where it will strike. Like in 'Friday the 13th' novels, the presence of Jason Voorhees lurking in the woods creates an immediate sense of unease.
They often use the unknown. For example, in many horror thriller novels, there are hidden forces or killers that the characters (and readers) don't fully understand at first. This makes the readers keep reading to find out what's really going on.
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.
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.