Fiction books open doors to the world of imagination, with every genre offering new surprises. Each page builds a world and introduces new and exciting characters on journeys that may or may not surprise them. Once you open the book, you dive into a world of unlimited possibilities. You might find yourself dueling with knights, thrown into a crime scene to solve a murder mystery, or maybe even transported into the future, where civilization exists on a completely different planet.
While every fiction genre has its own fan base, one genre that everyone seems to enjoy is the thriller. There is something uniquely eerie about thrillers that draws readers in. Consider stories like Gone Girl, The Da Vinci Code, and Presumed Innocent. How did their suspense fiction authors craft these novels into prize-winning page-turners? To be more precise, how exactly are thriller books written, and what makes them special? We’re here to answer that. We’ll take a deep dive into thrillers and explore how they differ from other fictional genres. In addition, for those who like to take a stab at writing their own short thriller book, we’ll provide the basics to help you get started.
What is a Thriller Book?
First things first, let’s define thrillers in detail. Thrillers are a genre of fiction with numerous overlapping subgenres. What makes thrillers THRILLERS is the heightened sense of suspense, anxiety, and anticipation they evoke. Think of it as a high-speed chase from the start to the very end, filled with high stakes, heart-pounding moments, and fast-paced scenes. The excitement of suspenseful thriller books comes from the emotional response they elicit as the protagonist races to achieve their goal.
Are Mystery/Crime and Thrillers the Same Genre?
When discussing thrillers, it’s common to confuse them with crime/mystery genres. While there are similarities, make no mistake: crime/mystery and thrillers are entirely different.
Thrillers possess certain unique aspects that set them apart from the mystery/crime genre:
- Thrillers may not always involve a crime, but even when they do, the story centers around the tension rather than the mystery or crime itself.
- Suspenseful thriller books focus on keeping readers on edge, while mysteries focus on solving puzzles.
- Suspense fiction authors use plot twists in thrillers, whereas the mystery genre hooks readers with clues.
- Thrillers influence feelings, whereas mysteries influence the intellect.
The Six Tropes for Writing Engaging Short Thriller Books?
As a true fan of the genre, it’s only natural that you might want to write your own page-turner. Now that you have a better understanding of what a thriller book is, let’s discuss the basics of creating the first draft of a compelling short thriller book.
-
Clear Threat:
A clear and imposing threat is the backbone of any successful, suspenseful thriller book. This drives the narrative forward and creates tension. Whether it’s a serial killer, a ticking time bomb, or a sinister conspiracy, the threat should be immediate and credible. The nature of the threat often defines the subgenre of your thriller.
-
Twists:
Unpredictability is key in thrillers. Surprise your readers with unexpected twists that keep them guessing. Subvert expectations and introduce shocking revelations to maintain engagement. However, there’s a fine balance—twists can make or break your short thriller book.
-
High Stakes:
The stakes must be incredibly high to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The protagonist should face insurmountable challenges with dire consequences if they fail. Increasing the pressure and introducing time constraints creates a sense of urgency and danger.
-
Action:
Thrillers are synonymous with action. Maintain a fast pace with thrilling sequences that keep readers engaged. The action can be physical, psychological, or both. Ensure that the action propels the story forward and increases tension.
-
Memorable Locations:
The setting is a character in itself. Choose a location that enhances the atmosphere and contributes to the overall suspense. Whether it’s a remote island, a bustling city, or a haunted mansion, the setting should be vivid and immersive.
-
Dynamic Characters:
While the plot is crucial, well-developed characters are equally important. Create complex protagonists with compelling backstories and motivations. Even antagonists should be multifaceted to add depth to the narrative.
Final Note:
Crafting a thrilling masterpiece involves a delicate balance of elements. By understanding the core components of a thriller, you’re well on your way to writing a page-turner. Remember, the key to a successful thriller lies in creating a world where readers feel immersed and invested in the characters’ fate.
Hence, for some, a thriller book might be a story that takes them into unknown worlds, while for others, it could be about the demons lurking in our own. But the real question is, what’s your version of a thriller book? If you need inspiration, pick up a copy of Black Lily by Lilac J. Hassin. This suspenseful thriller showcases the mastery of these thriller tropes perfectly!
