A good suspense novel keeps the reader guessing and makes for a good and thrilling story. In creating suspense in a fictional novel, readers want unorthodox scenarios that gear them towards feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, perplexity and eagerness. This keeps the reader interested and excited to see what happens next. Below are six top tips for creating suspense in a fiction novel.

  1. Develop a likeable and relatable protagonist and an adversary. Give readers insight into the characters' minds and scenarios involving the characters. This helps to build suspense in the novel and adds a dramatic twist to the story. For example, In the Outsourced Consequences, by Marc Rasmussen, the story involves a potentially more devastating plot than 9/11. The book is a techno-thriller emphasizing aviation, modern weapons development and political intrigue. The plot is based on current events. He destroys the nuclear aspirations of two of the nation's foes and closes the border to drug traffic by outsourcing the most sensitive assignments to Chance King of King Security Group. An odd alliance forms and a scheme for vengeance on a scale unprecedented in modern history is conceived. Mark Groves, a marine pilot, experiences unimaginable tragedy and an unexpected introduction into the world of a millionaire armaments manufacturer. Their alliance, along with President Rossi, results in a thrilling journey to counter the terroristic threat.

  2. Suspense involves traits such as deceit, lust, greed and charm. Develop your characters with an open mind and do not be afraid to go to extremes to convey your meaning.

  3. Create drama for the protagonist. A suspense story without problems or crises is rather boring and predictable. The writer should create scenes of mischief and uncertainty for the main character, leaving readers in a bind. For example, the main character has a sibling who is revealed to be a hired assassin. This leads readers to ask questions such as what will happen next. This excites the reader, leaving them eager to read more.

  4. Think outside the box. Be creative, be imaginative and try to avoid being cliché. The writer should aim to create settings that may be new to the readers' minds, influencing them to think of solutions and causing them to ponder how the story will end. Stories with a familiar setting that is merely described without detail can be more easily visualized, making it easier to understand the characters.

  5. Keep readers intrigued by including cliffhangers. Cliffhangers create all types of emotions for the reader, from frustration to eagerness to excitement. Leave readers anticipating a twist at the end of each chapter. This immerses them in the plot and encourages them to move on to the next chapter.

  6. Use teasers to build suspense. Never unfold the full story, but always have a climax that unravels the plot for the reader.

By applying these tips, you are likely to have a strong suspense novel. If you want to read a page-turning techno-thriller, get your hand on "Outsourced Consequences" by Marc Rasmussen. This book is for you if you are looking for a suspense novel without any fluff.