Serious Wednesdays: Did You Know...

...There are five types of suspense?

• Narrative, which is a long-term suspense. Any literary suspense might be described as "narrative" and refers to tension that builds throughout the entire story.
• Short-term suspense:  a moment or brief scene that provokes a powerful reaction from the reader.
• Mysterious suspense:  In a suspense, the reader knows what's going to happen, but adding a little mystery to a suspense means that in brief scenes the reader may not know completely what's going to happen. They will eventually, but by adding this bit of mystery, it adds to suspense, deepening it and creating an intense emotion.
• Horrific suspense:  by adding a touch of horror into a suspense, readers know something terrible is going to happen but do not know the exact nature of it. (Like waiting for a jump scare in a movie). This is used most commonly in horror and at times, in thriller novels.
• Romantic/Comedic suspense:  Simply: romance, explosions, and mayhem with humor mixed in.

Many times when I'm writing suspense, I use this last one. Romance, comedy, explosions, mayhem, humor and sometimes a little whimsey. It's my favorite, but I also enjoy adding a touch of mystery at times and even a bit (tiny) of horror. Or at least, strong suspense. 

If you were writing a suspense, which would you be most inclined to use?

Happy writing!