a false lead that throws the investigator off track

a person who investigates mysteries and gathers information

something that proves who committed the crime

a warning or indication of a future event

someone who saw the crime being committed and can provide information in solving the case

an excuse that a suspect uses to show that he or she was somewhere else when the crime was being committed

a person who is believed to have possibly committed the crime

the anticipation of the outcome in the plot or solution of a story; uncertainty, puzzle, or mystery

something that is secret or unknown

another name for dective

someone who is harmed or suffers some loss because of the crime

when the reader knows more than the character; can create suspense in a story

when the opposite of what is meant is said; can create humor or suspense in a story

when the opposite of what is expected to happen, happens; can create humor or suspense in a story

plot device where a part of the story ends unresolved in a shocking or suspenseful way