Prepare yourself for an exciting reading experience with these 15 suspenseful novels filled with twists and turns. From ‘First Lie Wins’ to ‘The Best Is Yet to Come,’ these heart-pounding stories will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive into intricate plots, well-rounded characters, and gripping atmospheres that will capture your imagination. Explore themes of betrayal, love, resilience, and more as you venture through these captivating narratives. If you’re ready to uncover the secrets within these mesmerizing tales and feel the adrenaline of suspenseful storytelling, this list is your ticket to a world of literary intrigue.
Key Takeaways
- Intriguing plot twists and unexpected turns to maintain suspense.
- Well-developed and engaging characters for relatability and depth.
- Fast-paced narrative with tension-building elements.
- Gripping writing style creating an immersive atmosphere.
- Reader reviews highlighting the suspenseful qualities of the novels.
First Lie Wins: A Novel
For readers seeking a heart-pounding thriller with a brilliant lead character and a web of secrets, 'First Lie Wins: A Novel' by Ashley Elston is a gripping choice. The novel follows Evie Porter, a smart and determined protagonist entangled in a fast-paced narrative filled with twists and turns.
Evie's involvement with the mysterious Mr. Smith adds depth to the story, revealing her past and present challenges. Despite some readers finding the shifts between timelines distracting, the overall development of the plot keeps readers engaged.
The book's intricate storyline, authentic characters, and suspenseful atmosphere make it a compelling read for fans of thrillers. With an addictive and unpredictable nature, 'First Lie Wins' offers a unique and immersive thriller experience that culminates in a satisfying conclusion.
Best For: Readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers with intricate plots and strong female lead characters.
Pros:
- Intriguing and original storyline with multiple twists and turns.
- Well-developed and authentic characters, particularly the protagonist Evie Porter.
- Addictive and unpredictable nature that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Cons:
- Some readers may find the frequent switches between timelines distracting.
- Challenging to keep track of the extensive cast of characters.
- The ending may be confusing for some readers.
Then She Was Gone: A Novel
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that explore the depths of human nature, 'Then She Was Gone' by Lisa Jewell is a riveting choice that will have you hooked from the very first page.
This novel has garnered positive feedback from readers, with many praising its enthralling storytelling, engaging plot, and emotional impact. The book delves into intriguing plot twists, character development, and maintains a sense of believability throughout the storyline.
Themes of grief, loss, and the complexity of human nature are skillfully portrayed, adding depth to the narrative. Readers have found themselves engrossed in the book, eagerly turning pages to uncover the next twist.
'Then She Was Gone' is recommended for its suspenseful and heartbreaking elements, with many praising its quality writing, compelling plot, and overall emotional depth.
Best For: Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with captivating storytelling, engaging plot twists, and emotional depth.
Pros:
- Engrossing storyline that keeps readers hooked.
- Skillful portrayal of themes like grief, loss, and human nature.
- Compelling character development and plot twists.
Cons:
- Some readers may find certain elements of the storyline predictable.
- Emotional impact may be overwhelming for some individuals.
- Not suitable for readers looking for a light, easy read.
Those Empty Eyes: A Chilling Novel of Suspense with a Shocking Twist
Amidst a web of suspense and unexpected turns, 'Those Empty Eyes' captivates readers who crave a thrilling narrative with a shocking twist. The novel by Charlie Donlea has garnered praise for its suspenseful plot, memorable characters, and surprising twists.
While some readers found the ending to be shocking and unpredictable, others managed to unravel the mystery early on. Criticisms of the book include repetitive details that may detract from the overall experience, but the positive feedback on pacing, twists, and character development outweighs these concerns.
Donlea's writing style and ability to craft intricate plot twists have left readers enthusiastic to explore more of his work. Despite some critiques on flow and length, 'Those Empty Eyes' successfully maintains tension and keeps readers engaged through its complex storyline and unexpected revelations.
Best For: Readers who enjoy suspenseful novels with intricate plot twists and memorable characters.
Pros:
- Engaging and suspenseful plot that keeps readers hooked.
- Memorable and well-developed characters that add depth to the story.
- Surprising twists and revelations that keep the narrative intriguing.
Cons:
- Repetitive details that may detract from the overall experience.
- Some readers may find the story confusing or hard to follow.
- Issues with flow and unnecessary length that could affect reader engagement.
The Summer House: The Classic Blockbuster from the Author of Lion & Lamb
Engage in heart-pounding suspense with 'The Summer House' by James Patterson, a gripping murder mystery intertwined with military intrigue and dynamic characters that will captivate thriller enthusiasts.
Readers have praised this top thriller for its fast-paced narrative, short chapters, and building suspense that keep them on the edge of their seats. The well-developed characters and unpredictable plot have been highlighted as some of the best aspects of the book, drawing readers into a world of intrigue and mystery.
With a storyline filled with action and a murder mystery entwined with military elements, 'The Summer House' has been described as a real page-turner. Despite some minor critiques such as unnecessary use of language and technical issues, overall, this novel is recommended for those who enjoy James Patterson's signature style of suspenseful storytelling.
Best For: Readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers with well-developed characters and a mix of mystery and military elements.
Pros:
- Gripping murder mystery intertwined with military intrigue
- Fast-paced narrative with short chapters and building suspense
- Dynamic and well-developed characters that keep readers engaged
Cons:
- Some readers may find the repeated use of God's name in vain unnecessary
- Technical issues reported with the Kindle format locking up the app
- A suggestion to shorten the book by 100 pages
Twenty Years Later
For readers seeking a gripping thriller with intricate plotlines and unexpected twists, 'Twenty Years Later' in the article 'Suspenseful Novels That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat' is an excellent choice. This book explores the story of Avery Mason and a murder mystery intertwined with the identification of 9/11 victims.
The themes of betrayal, secrets, and connections from the past add layers of complexity to the plot. While some readers found the writing style to be basic, many appreciated the well-developed characters of Avery and Walt.
The multiple plotlines, although confusing for some, contributed to the overall entertainment value of the book. With a great twist at the end and positive feedback on the engaging storyline, 'Twenty Years Later' by Charlie Donlea proves to be a thrilling read worth exploring.
Best For: Readers who enjoy thrilling mysteries with intricate plotlines and unexpected twists.
Pros:
- Engaging storyline with unexpected twists and turns.
- Well-developed characters like Avery and Walt.
- Themes of betrayal, secrets, and past connections add depth to the plot.
Cons:
- Some readers may find the writing style to be basic.
- Multiple plotlines can be confusing for some.
- Insertion of a fictional character into real events may not appeal to all readers.
We Were the Lucky Ones: A Novel
This gripping novel, 'We Were the Lucky Ones', is a compelling choice for readers seeking a deeply moving tale of resilience and survival amidst the horrors of WWII.
The story follows the Kurc family, based on the real-life experiences of a Jewish family in Poland during the war. Readers are captivated by the family's unyielding spirit and the challenges they face.
The author skillfully intertwines historical facts with personal accounts, creating a page-turner that's emotionally impactful. Through this narrative, readers gain insight into the strength and endurance of the characters, as well as the atrocities faced by the Jewish population during WWII.
'We Were the Lucky Ones' is highly recommended for those interested in historical fiction, offering a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and reflecting on past events.
Best For: Readers who seek a gripping historical fiction novel that delves into the resilience and survival of a Jewish family during WWII.
Pros:
- Captivating storytelling that keeps readers engaged.
- Emotional impact that resonates with the audience.
- Insightful portrayal of the strength and endurance of the characters.
Cons:
- May be emotionally challenging for some readers due to the heavy subject matter.
- Historical accuracy may be unsettling for those sensitive to WWII atrocities.
- Intense themes may require breaks for reflection while reading.
Flicker in the Dark
Immerse yourself in the gripping world of 'Flicker in the Dark', a novel filled with unexpected twists and a complex main character that will captivate thriller enthusiasts.
The book has received positive reviews for its thrilling plot, intricate character development, and surprising ending.
Chloe Davis, the main character, is portrayed as multi-layered and intriguing, drawing readers into her complex world.
While some plot elements were criticized for being predictable, the overall storytelling and web of the narrative were praised for keeping readers engaged.
The audiobook version was also well-received, with the narrator's performance adding to the immersive experience.
'Flicker in the Dark' is recommended for those seeking a suspenseful read packed with twists and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Best For: Readers who enjoy thrilling narratives with unexpected twists and complex character development.
Pros:
- Intriguing plot twists that keep readers engaged.
- Multi-layered and complex main character that draws readers into the story.
- Immersive audiobook experience with commendable narrator performance.
Cons:
- Some plot elements may be predictable.
- Challenges in voicing multiple characters in the audiobook.
- Certain aspects of the storyline may feel forced or obvious.
The Love of My Life: A GMA Book Club Pick (A Novel)
Ideal for those craving a compelling blend of intriguing family dynamics and unexpected plot twists, 'The Love of My Life' by Rosie Walsh is a must-read for fans of suspenseful novels.
The audiobook, narrated by Imogen Church and Theo Solomon, runs for approximately 11 hours and 28 minutes, making it a gripping listening experience.
The story follows Emma, a marine biologist, married to Leo, an obituary writer, who unravels secrets from Emma's past. Themes of love, trust, and second chances in marriage are central, keeping listeners hooked with its engaging plot full of twists and turns.
While some readers found the ending rushed and frustrating, the well-developed characters and emotional depth of the story make it a recommended choice for those who enjoy intricate family dramas with unexpected outcomes.
Best For: Readers seeking a captivating family drama with unexpected twists and emotional depth.
Pros:
- Well-developed and relatable characters.
- Engaging plot with unpredictable twists and turns.
- Themes of love, trust, and second chances explored effectively.
Cons:
- Some readers may find the ending rushed and frustrating.
- Certain details in the story might be considered unnecessary or distracting.
- References to specific locations could be off-putting for some readers.
The Silent Patient
For readers who crave a psychological thriller with unexpected twists and compelling characters, 'The Silent Patient' is a must-read choice. Written by Alex Michaelides, this gripping novel centers around Alicia, a silent artist accused of murdering her husband, and Theo, a psychotherapist determined to unravel the mystery behind her silence.
The book has garnered widespread acclaim for its intricate plot, propulsive narrative, and a climactic twist that leaves readers shocked and impressed. Readers have praised 'The Silent Patient' for its character development, easy-to-follow storyline, and the element of surprise woven into its plot.
Despite tackling heavy themes, the unexpected twist towards the end has been highlighted as one of the standout features of the book. If you're looking for an engaging and entertaining read with a truly surprising twist, 'The Silent Patient' comes highly recommended.
Best For: Readers looking for a psychological thriller with unexpected twists and well-developed characters.
Pros:
- Gripping plot that keeps readers engaged.
- Compelling character development.
- Unpredictable and mind-blowing plot twist.
Cons:
- May contain heavy themes.
- Pricing variations across different retailers.
- Some readers may find the ending divisive.
The Girl Who Survived: A Riveting Novel of Suspense with a Shocking Twist
If you're into thrilling reads with unexpected twists, 'The Girl Who Survived' is an enthralling choice that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Lisa Jackson's storytelling prowess shines in this standalone thriller as she takes readers on a gripping journey with Kara, the protagonist seeking answers to her family's tragic past.
The novel's plot intricately weaves mystery, deceit, and hidden secrets, keeping readers hooked until the shocking twist at the end. While some find the sexual content distracting, the majority praise the book for its suspenseful nature and engaging narrative style.
Lisa Jackson's ability to create suspense through clever chapter structures and character relationships adds depth to the storyline. If you're looking for a riveting novel of suspense that will leave you guessing until the final pages, 'The Girl Who Survived' is a must-read.
Best For: Readers who enjoy suspenseful novels with unexpected twists and engaging storytelling.
Pros:
- Gripping storyline with twists and turns that keep readers hooked.
- Clever chapter structures and character relationships add depth to the plot.
- Compelling narrative style that captivates and maintains reader engagement.
Cons:
- Some readers may find the sexual content distracting.
- Characters may feel underdeveloped or the plot far-fetched for some.
- The psychological aspects and motives of characters may not always be plausible.
Dead End Girl (Violet Darger FBI Mystery Thriller Book 1)
Engaging readers with its fast-paced FBI thriller and unexpected plot twists, 'Dead End Girl (Violet Darger FBI Mystery Thriller Book 1)' is a compelling choice for those seeking a suspenseful read that keeps you guessing until the very end. Readers have praised the author for creating engaging characters and a gripping storyline that holds their attention throughout.
The protagonist, Violet Darger, is described as a strong and determined character who adds depth to the narrative. While some readers found parts of the book to be too intense or unrealistic, many appreciated the well-written narrative with its unexpected turns and moments. Mixed reviews indicate varying opinions on pacing and character development, but overall, there's anticipation among readers for more installments in the series, showcasing the book's lasting impact on its audience.
Best For: Readers who enjoy gripping FBI thrillers with engaging characters and unexpected plot twists.
Pros:
- Engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked until the last page.
- Strong and determined protagonist in Violet Darger.
- Well-written narrative with unexpected turns and moments.
Cons:
- Some parts may be too intense or unrealistic for certain readers.
- Mixed opinions on pacing and character development.
- Criticisms of unrealistic time factors and lack of basic investigative skills by law enforcement.
The Family Across the Street
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of 'The Family Across the Street', a psychological thriller by Nicole Trope that will keep you enthusiastically turning pages. This 249-page novel explores the lives of two dysfunctional families in modern-day Australia, centered around a suspenseful situation unfolding within Katherine's home.
Readers have been engrossed by the compelling plot filled with unexpected twists and well-developed characters. Nicole Trope's skill in crafting thrilling narratives shines through, with readers praising the book's fast-paced story and the intense emotions it evokes.
The themes of danger, suspense, and family dynamics resonate strongly, drawing readers into the narrative. Despite some cultural differences in language and expressions, readers appreciate the authenticity it adds to the story, making 'The Family Across the Street' a must-read for fans of the thriller genre.
Best For: Readers who enjoy gripping psychological thrillers with well-developed characters and unexpected twists.
Pros:
- Engrossing plot with unexpected twists and turns.
- Well-developed characters that keep readers engaged.
- Fast-paced storytelling that makes it hard to put the book down.
Cons:
- Some cultural differences in language and expressions may be challenging for some readers.
- The intense emotions and suspense may be overwhelming for sensitive readers.
- Limited geographical setting may not appeal to those looking for diverse backdrops.
The Searcher: A Novel
For fans of intricate mysteries set in alluring landscapes, 'The Searcher: A Novel' offers a thrilling and immersive reading experience. The plot follows Cal, a retired cop from Chicago who relocates to Ireland and becomes entangled in the disappearance of a teenager named Brendan.
Approached by Brendan's younger brother, Trey, Cal reluctantly starts on a journey to find the missing boy, unearthing more questions than answers along the way. The novel explores complex relationships, including Cal's personal struggles and evolving bond with Trey, set against the backdrop of a small Irish town.
Through vivid descriptions, readers are transported to the lush Irish countryside, enhancing the narrative with rich imagery and a sense of place. With a slow-burn approach to suspense and well-crafted character development, 'The Searcher: A Novel' is a fascinating stand-alone thriller that showcases the author's storytelling prowess.
Best For: Readers who enjoy intricately woven mysteries with rich character development and a captivating setting.
Pros:
- Engaging and suspenseful plot that keeps readers hooked.
- Well-developed and complex characters that add depth to the story.
- Immersive descriptions of the Irish countryside that enhance the reading experience.
Cons:
- Pacing may feel slow in certain parts of the novel.
- Some readers may find the ending lacking in conclusiveness.
- Requires patience to appreciate the slow-burn approach to suspense.
Before We Were Yours: A Novel
Lisa Wingate's novel, Before We Were Yours, is a gripping tale that will captivate anyone seeking a suspenseful read that explores historical events with compelling characters.
The book investigates the Tennessee Children's Home Society scandal of 1939, shedding light on the dark realities of child trafficking and the resilience of individuals like Rill Foss and Avery Stafford.
Wingate's writing style is praised for its emotional depth and ability to evoke strong feelings in readers. The dual storylines, spanning different time periods, add complexity and depth to the narrative, keeping readers engaged till the end.
Before We Were Yours examines themes of love, resilience, and the impact of past events on present lives, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read for fans of historical fiction with a suspenseful twist.
Best For: Readers who enjoy historical fiction with emotional depth and engaging storytelling.
Pros:
- Realistic depiction of historical events
- Compelling characters with strong emotional bonds
- Thought-provoking exploration of themes like love and resilience
Cons:
- May be emotionally intense for some readers
- Dual storylines could be challenging to follow for some
- Historical context may be distressing for sensitive readers
The Best Is Yet to Come: A Novel
Delving into the gripping tale of 'The Best Is Yet to Come: A Novel' offers readers seeking heartwarming narratives intertwined with elements of mystery and hope a compelling choice. The story revolves around Hope Goodwin coping with the loss of her twin and Cade Lincoln Junior battling PTSD. A sub-plot involving high schoolers adds layers of mystery and drama to the narrative.
Readers have praised the believable storyline and enjoyable characters, particularly appreciating the character of Shadow, a haunted stray. Despite some criticism about the focus on high school sagas, the book has received positive feedback for its inspirational and uplifting themes. Fans of Debbie Macomber will appreciate this feel-good story with a heartwarming conclusion, making it a recommended read for those who enjoy stories about love, kindness, and faith.
Best For: Readers who enjoy heartwarming stories with elements of mystery, hope, and themes of love, kindness, and faith.
Pros:
- Believable storyline with enjoyable characters.
- Inspirational and uplifting themes.
- Feel-good ending loved by readers.
Cons:
- Focus on high school sagas may not appeal to all readers.
- Some characters described as immature or obnoxious.
- Redundant comments about the book's greatness.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Suspenseful Novel
When choosing a suspenseful novel, it's important to contemplate key elements that make the story engaging. Analyzing plot twists, evaluating character dynamics, and appraising reader engagement factors can help determine the level of suspense a novel offers.
Additionally, exploring impactful story themes can add depth and intrigue to the overall reading experience.
Key Elements for Selection
When selecting a suspenseful novel, it's vital to take into account key elements such as plot structure, character development, narrative pacing, writing style, reader reviews, and overall atmosphere.
The plot structure should include twists and turns that keep you engaged and guessing. Character development plays an important role in creating relatable and intriguing protagonists who drive the story forward. Look for a well-paced narrative that maintains suspense and tension throughout, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Assess the writing style for its ability to create a gripping atmosphere that immerses you in the story. Reading reader reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the novel's suspenseful qualities and help you make an informed decision.
A quick and engaging pace, complex characters with intriguing backgrounds, unexpected plot twists, and a well-described atmospheric setting all contribute to a suspenseful and engaging reading experience.
Plot Twists Analysis
Exploring the intricacies of plot twists is vital when selecting a suspenseful novel that captivates readers with unexpected developments. Plot twists serve as essential elements that keep readers engaged by introducing unexpected turns in the storyline.
Well-executed plot twists not only surprise readers but also add depth to the narrative, challenging their assumptions and keeping them guessing. Foreshadowing plays a substantial role in enhancing the impact of plot twists, making them more satisfying and believable.
A successful plot twist should be unexpected yet plausible, creating memorable moments and heightening the overall suspense in the novel.
To make sure a plot twist is effective, it should be strategically placed within the narrative to maximize its impact. Skillful foreshadowing throughout the story subtly hints at the twist without giving it away entirely, allowing readers to piece together the clues.
Character Dynamics Evaluation
Analyzing character dynamics in a suspenseful novel is essential for understanding how relationships, conflicts, and motivations drive the narrative tension. When delving into a suspenseful story, evaluating the relationships between characters can offer insights into their dynamics and how they influence the overall plot.
By examining conflicts, alliances, and power dynamics among characters, readers can gauge the significance of tension and suspense present in the narrative. Character motivations play a vital role in creating intrigue and suspense, as understanding why characters act a certain way can keep readers guessing and engaged.
Moreover, observing the development of characters throughout the novel provides a window into how their relationships evolve and contribute to the suspense. Secrets, pasts, and hidden agendas of characters can add layers of tension to the story, keeping readers on edge as they uncover the mysteries within the narrative.
Additionally, exploring the dynamics between protagonists and antagonists sheds light on how these characters drive the plot forward and create suspenseful moments. Paying attention to character interactions, dialogues, and growth can reveal clues, foreshadowing, and twists that heighten suspense and maintain reader engagement.
Reader Engagement Factors
To choose a vital novel that will keep me engaged, I consider factors such as the gripping plot and development of complex characters. A compelling storyline that keeps me on the edge of my seat is essential. The plot should be filled with well-timed twists and unexpected revelations to captivate my interest.
Additionally, the characters need to be multi-dimensional and relatable, drawing me into their world and making me invested in their journey.
Pacing is another essential element that impacts reader engagement in a suspenseful novel. A good balance between action-packed sequences and slower, character-driven moments keeps the story dynamic and engaging. Skillful use of suspense-building techniques like foreshadowing and cliffhangers heightens the tension and keeps me eagerly turning the pages.
Furthermore, incorporating multiple viewpoints or timelines can provide different perspectives on the unfolding events, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Setting and atmosphere also play a significant role in creating a sense of unease or tension, immersing me in the suspenseful world of the novel.
Impactful Story Themes
Themes like betrayal, secrets, and past connections enrich the suspenseful narrative, drawing readers deeper into the intricate web of the story.
Exploring themes of grief, loss, and human nature enhances the emotional impact of the narrative, creating a more profound connection with the characters and their struggles.
Intriguing story themes can keep readers engaged and guessing throughout the novel, adding layers of complexity and depth to the plot.
Themes like justice, survival, and resilience contribute to the suspenseful and gripping nature of the book, driving the tension and keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
The exploration of dark themes like manipulation, deception, and hidden truths intensifies the suspense in the story, creating a sense of unease and mystery that compels readers to uncover the truth.
When choosing a suspenseful novel, look for impactful themes like betrayal, revenge, or psychological manipulation to keep you engaged and immersed in the story's twists and turns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Any of These Novels Part of a Series or Standalone?
Some novels in the list are part of series, while others are standalone. Series books offer more detailed character development and interconnected plots, allowing readers to explore further into the story world.
Do Any of the Novels Contain Graphic Content or Trigger Warnings?
Yes, some novels contain graphic content or trigger warnings. I suggest checking reviews or summaries beforehand. It's important to take into account your comfort level before delving into these books to guarantee an enjoyable reading experience.
Are the Endings of These Novels Open or Neatly Resolved?
Endings vary; some neatly wrap up, while others leave room for interpretation. I prefer when conclusions feel satisfying yet allow for contemplation. It adds depth and makes the story linger in my mind.
Do Any of the Novels Contain Unreliable Narrators or Multiple Perspectives?
In these tales, some narrators dance on the edge of truth, their words a maze of mirrors. Multiple perspectives weave a web of intrigue, casting shadows that blur the line between reality and illusion.
Are There Any Film or TV Adaptations of These Novels in the Works?
Yes, there are film adaptations of some of these novels in development. I've heard that a few filmmakers are working on bringing these thrilling stories to the screen, and I can't wait to see them!
Conclusion
To sum up, these 15 suspenseful novels will have you gripping the edge of your seat, heart racing, and eyes glued to the page. With twists, turns, and shocking revelations, each book will keep you guessing until the very end. If you’re a fan of thrilling, heart-pounding reads, then these 15 suspenseful novels are a must-read. From psychological thrillers to gripping mysteries, these books are perfect for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in the best crime fiction books. With captivating storylines and complex characters, you won’t be able to put these novels down until you reach the final, jaw-dropping conclusion. These best thriller suspense books are not only entertaining, but they also offer a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the depths of the human psyche. Whether you’re looking for a chilling tale to keep you up at night or a fast-paced read to devour on your next vacation, these novels deliver all the thrills and excitement you crave. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the heart-pounding intensity of these top-notch suspense novels. If you’re searching for the perfect gift for a friend or family member who loves gripping suspenseful fiction books, look no further than these 15 thrilling novels. With their compelling narratives and nerve-wracking plots, these books are sure to captivate anyone who enjoys a heart-stopping read. So don’t wait any longer – dive into the gripping suspense of these top-notch novels and prepare to be on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
So, grab one of these thrilling reads and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of suspense and excitement like never before!