Quick Answer: Your thriller could be too short if it lacks sufficient character development, plot depth, or pacing. Aim for a word count that balances these elements effectively, typically in the range of 70,000 to 90,000 words.
Understanding the Ideal Length for Thrillers
When it comes to writing a gripping thriller, one essential question looms: how short is too short? Whether you’re an aspiring author or a published writer looking for insights, understanding the optimal word count for your thriller can make a significant difference in its reception.
What is the Average Word Count for Thrillers?
The average length of a thriller generally falls between 70,000 and 90,000 words, although many successful titles hover near the 80,000-word mark. This range allows authors enough space to develop intricate plots, create compelling characters, and sustain tension without overwhelming readers.
- Novellas: 20,000 to 40,000 words
- Short novels: 40,000 to 60,000 words
- Full-length thrillers: 70,000 to 90,000 words
What Happens if Your Thriller is Too Short?
A thriller that is too short can leave readers feeling unsatisfied or even confused. Picture this: you’re in the final moments of a story that’s been building suspense only to reach a conclusion that feels rushed or incomplete.
Key Elements That Suffer
When a story falls short, several elements can be compromised:
- Character Development: Readers become invested in characters. If there’s insufficient time to explore their motivations and relationships, emotional engagement wanes.
- Plot Depth: Thrillers thrive on complexity. A shorter story may result in a straightforward plot, lacking the twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
- Pacing: Rushed stories can feel frantic. Proper pacing allows for suspense to build, a critical factor in the thriller genre.
Real World Examples of Successful Thriller Word Counts
Looking at popular thrillers can provide perspectives on word count.
- Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn: Approximately 72,000 words. This expertly crafted novel showcases character depth and intricate plotting.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson: Roughly 120,000 words. While a bit longer, its intricate narrative justifies the word count.
- Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson: About 85,000 words. The pacing keeps readers engaged, with each word contributing to the overall suspense.
How to Determine if Your Thriller is Too Short
If you suspect your manuscript might not meet the ideal word count, consider these methods to enhance your thriller:
Self-Assessment Questions
Ask yourself:
- Are characters fully developed with backstories and motivations?
- Is the plot rich with twists and engaging conflicts?
- Does the pacing allow for moments of tension, relief, and surprise?
Feedback from Beta Readers
Share your manuscript with beta readers and ask for their honest assessments. Do they feel something is missing? This feedback can offer valuable insights.
Professional Editing Services
Consider hiring a professional editor who specializes in thrillers. They can provide a perspective on whether your word count aligns with genre expectations.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Here are some pitfalls to watch out for as you work on your thriller:
- Rushing the Climax: If the climax feels sudden, consider expanding the build-up leading to it.
- Underdeveloped Characters: Ensure that your characters are complex enough to engage readers from beginning to end.
- Unresolved subplots: Tying up all subplots adds depth and resolution to your story.
Creating a Compelling Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist to ensure your thriller meets the word count without sacrificing quality:
- Have I developed my main character’s backstory sufficiently?
- Is the plot interwoven with subplots that enhance the main narrative?
- Does my suspense build steadily, with multiple climaxes?
- Have I included satisfying resolutions for all plot points?
- Did I provide enough sensory details to place readers in my story?
Downloadable Checklist
- Develop character backstories
- Include multiple plot twists
- Ensure proper pacing throughout
- End with a strong resolution
- Get feedback from beta readers
How This Article Was Created
This article comes from a combination of industry standards, real-world examples, and insights gathered from established works in the thriller genre. Feedback from readers and editors in the industry has also shaped this narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal word count for a debut thriller?
The ideal word count for a debut thriller is typically between 70,000 and 90,000 words, providing enough space for plot development and character arcs.
Can I publish a thriller that is less than 60,000 words?
Yes, but shorter thrillers may be classified as novellas. They can work if the plot is tight and well-constructed.
How can I expand a short thriller without filler content?
Focus on character depth, subplots, and enriching the main plot. Each addition should enhance, not dilute suspense.
Conclusion
Finding the right length for your thriller can feel daunting, but balancing character development, intricate plotting, and pacing is crucial. Aim for a word count that supports these elements, generally between 70,000 to 90,000 words.
With your draft in hand, remember to seek feedback, revise thoughtfully, and aim for a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
✅ Updated: December 2025.
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With over 11 years of experience in the publishing industry, Priya Srivastava has become a trusted guide for hundreds of authors navigating the challenging path from manuscript to marketplace. As Editor-in-Chief of Deified Publications, she combines the precision of a publishing professional with the empathy of a mentor who truly understands the fears, hopes, and dreams of both first-time and seasoned writers.