Mystery
Taking over a Series: How to Write As Someone Else
Do you know Jessica Fletcher? Most people do. But what happens when the original author of a beloved series dies? Learn about writing as someone else.
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Formula for Writing a Cozy Mystery, Part 6: The Supporting Cast
Our ongoing series on the formula for writing a cozy mystery continues with a discussion of how to create a dynamic cast of supporting characters.
Read More“I keep trying to write a romance but somebody always dies.”
Eleanor Cawood Jones
Formula for Writing a Cozy Mystery, Part 5: The Antagonist
A unique and compelling antagonist can set your cozy mystery apart from the pack. If you’re writing a cozy mystery, consider these insider tips for developing your antagonist.
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Formula for Writing a Cozy Mystery, Part 4: The Murder
Part 4 in the series about writing cozy mysteries, we’ve already discussed the hook, protagonist, and setting. Now, it’s time to dive into the murder itself.
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What A Mystery Agent Wants
New crime writers seem to make the same mistakes over and over. But you can avoid those pitfalls! Get these lessons under your belt, and you’ll have a better shot at attracting an agent’s attention.
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Brian Thiem: Crime Novels Have Two Stories
Every crime novel consists of two main stories: the crook’s and the detective’s. Develop both for a satisfying novel.
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Formula for Writing a Cozy Mystery, Part 3: Setting
One aspect of cozies that can set them apart from other mystery genres is the setting. As you begin to develop your cozy mystery series, consider the following tips for constructing an inviting setting that readers will want to revisit.
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Formula for Writing a Cozy Mystery, Part 2: Your Protagonist
Three things to think about when developing your main character that apply specifically to cozy mysteries.
Read MoreI have a continuing curiosity about my character's life.
Sara Paretsky
Plant Clues That Go Un-noticed
Part of a mystery author’s job is presenting a slate of suspects, any one of whom could be the killer. The mystery author’s challenge is to plant a sufficient number of clues to play fair with the reader, but not do so in a way that enables readers to pinpoint the killer before the third act.
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