There's a big difference between suspense and mystery, but what is it?
Today, let's talk about what suspense is:
In a basic description, Suspense means that the reader is aware of things unknown to the protagonist. The protagonist goes through an emotional process where there is an unknown situation, event, or a threat that produces fear and anxiety and must be resolved.
People confuse mysteries and suspense books, but if you know the difference, it is the beginning of writing a terrific suspense.
1. Create a lofty viewpoint. In other words, the reader will view the action, the story throughout the book. Most times, he will also know who the antagonist is.
2. Time Constraints. There is a feeling of rush, an urgency that something must be done NOW!
3. The stakes must be kept high. There is a (sad, scary, heavy) price that will be paid if results aren't successful.
4. When it seems the story is smoothing out, apply more pressure. Don't allow the tension to resolve too early. Keep it up!
5. Creating dilemmas will help build pressure.
6. Complicate matters by causing problems and situations that confuse or hinder results.
7. Don't allow the reader to get too comfortable. By bringing in unpredictable situations, persons, actions, etc., the reader will wonder if the villain will win after all.
8. And, finally, the author must create a really good villain. If he/she's not realistic, not relatable in a negative way, then interest will wane.
These are just a few ways to help create suspense in your book.
Happy writing!
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