Tips on How to Create a Truly Terrifying Suspense Novel

 

Suspense novels are some of the most widely read books in popular culture and every year a new book comes out of the wood work to terrify readers. One example of a great suspense writer is Stephen King. For many years Stephen King has made his mark in both the suspense and horror genre. He has used his very own formula to create books that will totally immerse the reader in a world of his own making. And if you yourself are thinking of writing a book you will need to fill it with as much suspense as possible. But in order to write a suspense novel you will have to be able to create your own style of writing and trademark it as your very own. Here are some great tips on how to create a truly terrifying suspense novel.

Create multifaceted characters
It is a good idea if you create multifaceted characters. This is because readers will respond better to multifaceted characters better. When you create your characters try to add as much depth and backstory into your characters. Don’t just make mindless automatons that your readers will eventually get tired of. Try to make them as unique as possible. Your leading character should be both likeable and relatable. This is because most readers see themselves in the main characters. Thus they are subconsciously afraid for the main character and the harm that may befall him or her. It is also a good idea to surround your main character with a colorful and likable supporting cast. This will allow you to put the focus on your characters but give you the option to take the limelight off him or her during some parts of  the story. Just remember when you are writing a book that your characters are the main focal point of your story. Thus they can determine the success of your book.

Create a unique and interesting backstory
When you create a backstory try to make it as unique and interesting as possible. Remember that most readers especially those interested in the suspense genre have already read their fair share of books. This will make them quite good at seeing overused tropes that will inevitably bore your audience. You should steer away from clichés and instead try to forge your own trail. Read the works or great authors that have transcended from their previous genre. Such examples being Neil Gaiman. The famous author of such great works such as Stardust and the Sandman series has made his name as a great author of fantasy, but he has been able to add a sinister tinge to his books that not only makes his work a treat to read but also sometimes quite chilling. When you write a novel try to transcend to other genres so that your book will not be considered one dimensional.

Create a dangerous aura around your villain
The same as your protagonist needs to be likable, your villain also needs to be feared. Creating an aura of fear surrounding him would make him a truly worthy for. This can be done in various ways. One way is to give him a reputation. In the Hannibal series of books, readers are given tidbits of the many cannibalistic depravities that the main villain Hannibal Lecter has committed in his long career. One other method would be to have his or her work speak for him. One example is that he kills in a very specific way that would show his sociopathic or psychopathic tendencies. This would give your readers a glimpse into his psyche and the way he does things. All in all your main intent is to create a feeling of dread before your villain is even revealed.

Be detailed in your settings
One of the worst things you can do when you are writing a story is to be lackadaisical in writing your settings. This is because settings are what gives your stories the added feel of dread. This is the way that you can create a situation where your reader will feel suspense and fear. If you write sparingly about the details of your setting your readers will surely feel annoyed and stop reading your book. Word of advice though do not overdo it on the details either because this might end up boring your readers.

Try to add cultural nuances and concepts into your book
When you are writing a novel it can also be quite boring if your story was centered in just the norm. Which is why it is advisable that you use other cultures in your book. You can make your hero Hispanic or African American. Remember that a multicultural setting gives your book an added zest.
All in all when you set out to put a little suspense into your book always remember to use your own unique writing style, so that your readers will recognize your work, remember that a unique and personalized style goes a very long way in the writing world.