1. Atmosphere: Moriarty establishes a mysterious and ominous atmosphere from the beginning of the story. The setting of a secluded beach house by the ocean, surrounded by dense forest, creates a sense of isolation. The weather is described as "gray and brooding," adding to the feeling of foreboding and tension.
2. Characters: The author's characterization also contributes to the mood. The main character, Cate, is struggling with a personal crisis and feelings of dissatisfaction with her life. Her emotional turmoil and vulnerability make readers feel uneasy and anxious about what might happen to her.
3. Foreshadowing: Hints and foreshadowing of potential danger or unexpected events create a sense of suspense and dread. Moriarty includes subtle clues about mysterious figures lurking in the background, strange noises, and unexplainable occurrences, which keep readers on edge, anticipating what might unfold.
4. Pacing: Moriarty controls the pacing of the story to heighten mood. She alternates between moments of tension and brief interludes of calm, building anticipation and a sense of unease. The mounting tension as Cate's three wishes start to have unexpected and unsettling consequences leaves readers feeling increasingly apprehensive about the outcome.
5. Imagery: Vivid imagery and descriptive language help paint a vivid picture of the setting and characters' emotions. The author uses imagery that evokes feelings of isolation, vulnerability, and uncertainty, all of which contribute to the overall mood of the story.
6. Language: The author's use of language, including word choice and sentence structure, reflects the mood of the story. Short, fragmented sentences create a disjointed and unsettling tone, while hints of humor provide moments of relief from the intense atmosphere.
By combining these elements, Liane Moriarty effectively establishes an unsettling and suspenseful mood in "Three Wishes," drawing readers into the world of the story and leaving them eager to discover the truth behind the mysterious events that unfold.