A thriller is a dynamic novel full of conflict, suspense, suspense, suspense, unexpected twists and turns, and high stakes. Every scene and every element of a thriller is designed to advance the action, test the characters, and take readers on a roller coaster ride that will leave them on the edge of their seats.
What’s the difference between thrillers, detective stories, and suspense? How to write a thriller?
Readers often confuse thrillers with detectives or detective novels, which is understandable – bookstores often put them on the shelves in the same section. But what is the difference between these other genres (if any)?
When it comes to the difference between thrillers and suspense novels, editor Allister Thompson suggests that there isn’t much of a difference. He says that “the element of surprise, the release of tension, may be more important in suspense (the tension has to be released at some point), whereas you could say that a thriller needs more intuitive action.” In a thriller, the danger, twists, and surprises that await the protagonist are important to keep the novel moving and keep the reader on their toes.
In thrillers and detectives, the action is driven by different forces. According to editor Anne Brewer: “In a conspiracy, the plot is driven by the protagonist, the detective investigating a murder… In a thriller, the action is more generally driven forward by elements beyond the protagonist’s control.” In both cases, the protagonists may be working to solve a case, but the events that surround them and how they get there are completely different. Another difference is that in detective novels, the protagonist is usually confronted with a crime that he or she needs to solve. In thrillers, on the other hand, the protagonist may need to prevent a crime in the first place.
Perhaps most importantly, the whole point of the mystery is to figure out the culprit. In thrillers, however, you may find the “Big Bad” on the first page – which means they pose a threat to the protagonist from the very beginning.
Thriller subgenres. How to write a thriller?
Thrillers are just one term for a large category of fiction that includes various subgenres. While it may seem trivial, choosing a subgenre will actually help guide your letter as you’ll know where it fits in the market. These might include:
- Supernatural;
- Politics;
- Espionage;
- Psychological;
- Action adventure movie;
- Crime;
- Historical;
- Legal;
- Military;
- Domestic.
Subgenres often overlap, so don’t be surprised if you find a book in two or even three different categories. Whichever subgenre you choose, we recommend reading books that fit into that category to get an idea of the common elements that are often present.