If you’re looking to write a thrilling page-turner, you’ll need to master a few key elements. So buckle up and get ready to learn some tips and tricks for crafting a gripping, thrilling, and suspenseful thriller novel!

Start with a Bang 🔥

One of the most important elements of a successful thriller is the opening chapter. You need to grab your reader’s attention right from the get-go and keep them hooked throughout the entire book. Start with a bang: an explosive opening scene or a shocking discovery that sets the tone for the rest of the book.

A black and white image of an explosion with a cityscape in the background

Create Complex Characters 🤔

Thriller novels often hinge on the actions of complex and flawed characters. Spend time developing your characters so that readers can relate to their motivations and understand their actions, both good and bad. Give them a backstory, personality, and inner turmoil that readers can empathize with. Characters should grow and change over the course of the book, too.

A portrait of a character with a complicated expression, hinting at their inner turmoil

Keep the Clock Ticking ⏰

One of the keys to writing a thrilling novel is to keep the tension high throughout the story. Every chapter should move the plot forward and increase the stakes, giving readers a sense of urgency to keep reading. Use deadlines, countdowns, and time-sensitive plot points to keep the story moving forward.

An image of a ticking clock with the hands pointing to 11:59 PM

Use Red Herrings 🐟

A good thriller novel should keep readers guessing until the very end. To keep readers hooked, introduce red herrings: false clues that lead the protagonist and reader in the wrong direction. Introducing multiple suspects or motives can add tension to the story and make the ending more satisfying.

An image of a detective pointing at a board with multiple suspects and clues

Rollercoaster Ride of Emotions 🎢

Thriller novels should take readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. From fear and anxiety to excitement and anticipation, a good thriller will play on a wide range of emotions to create a powerful reading experience. Use sensory details to immerse readers in the story and create a vivid mental image of the scenes.

An image of a rollercoaster with a range of emotions culminating in excitement at the end

The Twisty Ending 🌀

The ending of a thriller novel is often what separates a good book from a great one. A twisting, surprising, and unexpected ending can make all the difference. However, be careful not to create an ending that feels too far-fetched or disconnected from the rest of your story. Give readers a satisfying resolution that ties up all loose ends.

An image of a book with a twisty and winding road on the cover

By incorporating these tips and tricks into your writing, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a gripping and thrilling novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

An image of a pile of books with a magnifying glass laying on top

So, start writing your thriller today, and remember, the key is to keep your readers engaged from beginning to end.

An image of a writer at a desk, surrounded by books and writing tools, deep in thought