They often use mystery. For example, in 'The Silence of the Lambs', the identity of the serial killer 'Buffalo Bill' is slowly revealed through the investigations of Clarice Starling. Also, the use of a race against time, like in 'Kiss the Girls' where the victims are in danger while the detective tries to figure out the killer's pattern. Another way is through the mind of the killer. In 'American Psycho', we get inside Patrick Bateman's deranged mind which is very suspenseful.
They often keep the identity of the serial killer hidden for a long time. For example, in many novels, the author drops small clues here and there that seem insignificant at first but later turn out to be crucial.
They often use the unknown identity of the killer. The detective is always one step behind at the beginning, and the reader is left guessing who the serial killer is. For example, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', the mystery surrounding the killer keeps the reader on edge.
The pacing is crucial in building suspense. The plot moves in a way that alternates between revelations and new mysteries. For example, just when the detective seems to be getting close to the truth, a new piece of evidence emerges that throws everything into question again, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat throughout the entire novel.
Another way is by introducing multiple suspects. Each suspect has their own motives and secrets, like in 'Murder on the Orient Express'. The reader is constantly trying to figure out who the real killer is among all these possible characters, which builds great suspense.
Fictional murder mystery stories build suspense in several ways. One is through the setting. A spooky old mansion or a desolate island, like in many Agatha Christie stories, can add an air of mystery. The use of red herrings is also important. These are false clues that mislead the reader and the detective in the story. In 'Sherlock Holmes' stories, Holmes has to sift through these red herrings to find the real solution. Moreover, the slow revelation of the victim's past can create suspense. If the victim had a dark secret, as is often the case, the discovery of that secret bit by bit keeps the reader on edge.
Undercover detective novels build suspense by hiding the true identity of the detective or the villain. For example, in many novels, the undercover detective has to blend in with the bad guys without being detected. This creates a constant sense of danger. Also, the slow revelation of clues and the unexpected twists keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The reader is always wondering if the detective will be found out or if they will be able to solve the case before it's too late.
One way to build suspense is by creating a sense of mystery. Keep the readers guessing about what's going to happen next. Drop hints and clues along the way but don't reveal everything at once.
They use a slow - paced narrative. By gradually revealing details about the mystery or the threat, they keep the readers on edge.
The setting often contributes to the suspense as well. A dark, isolated place like an old mansion or a desolate town where the killings take place. It gives a sense of danger and unease. And when the characters start to disappear one by one, it really amps up the suspense. You're constantly on edge, waiting for the next bad thing to happen and hoping to figure out who the serial killer is before it's too late.
Most often, they end with the main couple getting together happily. For example, in many such novels, after going through all the comical misunderstandings and suspenseful situations, like in 'The Hating Game', the two characters who were at odds finally realize their love for each other and have a happy ending.