Mastering Suspense: How Crime Writers Keep Readers Hooked

Dive into the world of thrillers and uncover the elements that make crime novels so addictive, from setting to character development.

As the summer heat intensifies, so does the allure of a gripping thriller. Crime novels dominate the reading lists of travelers and beachgoers alike, but what exactly makes a thriller truly captivating? This year’s Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate brought together crime writers and enthusiasts to explore this very question.

Two renowned authors, Mark Billingham and Elly Griffiths, shared their insights on crafting suspenseful narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Mark Billingham: The Power of Setting and Pacing

Mark Billingham, known for his Detective Inspector Tom Thorne series, emphasizes the importance of setting in creating a compelling thriller.

He notes that while Scandi noir with its bleak, cold landscapes was once trendy, new fashions are emerging. Holiday settings where a group of people are trapped in a seemingly idyllic location, are becoming increasingly popular. These settings allow the landscape to play a crucial role in the plot, adding layers of tension.

Pacing is another critical element, according to Billingham. While a fast-paced narrative is essential, it doesn’t have to be relentless. Short chapters are a trick that many thriller writers use to keep readers engaged. A single chapter might be just two pages, but it can lead readers to devour 60 chapters in one sitting. However, Billingham cautions against overusing twists and turns, as they can diminish the

Character development is key to building tension. Readers must care about the characters to feel suspense. Billingham highlights the importance of creating three-dimensional characters, even the villains. He also notes that psychological thrillers have gained popularity in recent years, with authors like Patricia Highsmith and Ruth Rendell paving the way. These thrillers often feature a group of people rather than a clear protagonist and antagonist, making the narrative more complex and engaging.

When it comes to violence, Billingham advocates for subtlety. He believes that a reader’s imagination can conjure up more horrific images than any writer can describe. Showing the aftermath of violence and its impact on characters can be more powerful than graphic descriptions. He also points out that male and female authors often approach crime novels differently, with women focusing more on the emotional impact of violence.

Elly Griffiths: The Role of Humor and Justice

Elly Griffiths, another best-selling crime author, emphasizes the importance of character relatability in creating tension and suspense. If readers can relate to the characters, they are more likely to forgive plot points that might otherwise seem far-fetched. Settings also play a significant role, with novels like Beulah Height by Reginald Hill and The Drowning Place by Sarah Hilary leaving a lasting impression due to their evocative landscapes.

Humor is another essential element in Griffiths’ writing. She notes that jokes can be used to hide plot points, encouraging readers to revisit certain passages. This technique, used by authors like Agatha Christie, adds an extra layer of engagement. Griffiths also stresses the importance of acknowledging the violence inherent in murder, even if graphic descriptions are avoided.

Griffiths enjoys cosy crime novels which provide a sense of comfort while still addressing the seriousness of murder. She believes that women authors bring a unique perspective to crime novels, drawing from their experiences of fear and the desire for justice. This is evident in the enduring popularity of Agatha Christie’s books, where justice is served in unconventional ways.

As the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival continues to bring together crime writers and enthusiasts, the insights shared by Mark Billingham and Elly Griffiths offer a glimpse into the art of crafting a thrilling narrative. From the power of setting and pacing to the role of humor and justice, these elements combine to create the suspenseful stories that keep readers hooked.