u/AcquireMyDesire

What makes a good thriller propulsive?

I'm writing a domestic/psychological thriller and am just over a third through my first draft. I'm already taking lots of notes for my revision passes because I'm realizing earlier sections could be more propulsive.

For people who read/write thrillers, what creates that compulsive "just one more chapter" feeling? Not just cliffhangers and twists, but the subtler elements.

Also. How do you avoid or catch yourself from being too explicit or repetitive with your themes/thesis? I struggle to trust my subtext.

Feel free to give any examples of thrillers that do these things well!

I'm writing a domestic/psychological thriller and am just over a third through my first draft. I'm already taking lots of notes for my revision passes because I'm realizing earlier sections could be more propulsive.

For people who read/write thrillers, what creates that compulsive "just one more chapter" feeling? Not just cliffhangers and twists, but the subtler elements.

Also. How do you avoid or catch yourself from being too explicit or repetitive with your themes/thesis? I struggle to trust my subtext.

Feel free to give any examples of thrillers that do these things well!