Most Valuable Resources for Mystery Writers

Writing a mystery novel isn't easy. In order to write an effective mystery, one must know how to create compelling characters and interesting settings, write convincing dialogue, and effectively use clues and red herrings to build intrigue and suspense. Fortunately, there are many valuable resources out there to aid a mystery writer in accomplishing all this. Here are the most valuable resources for mystery writers.

The first resource any aspiring mystery writer should get their hands on is Writing Mysteries. Edited by Sue Grafton, Writing Mysteries is a valuable handbook produced by the Mystery Writers of America. The book contains priceless information by such talents as Michael Connelly, Lawrence Block, Jonathan Kellerman, Faye Kellerman, Tess Gerritsen, Sara Paretsky and true crime writer Anne Rule. Together, these authors cover every aspect of mystery writing, from preparation, through the process, right down to specialties, such as writing legal or medical thrillers, historical mysteries, short stories, and true crime. You will learn the "rules" of writing mysteries and how to bend them; when to outline; what type of research is needed; how to create three-dimensional characters for stand alone novels or series; how to pace your novel, depict violence, and plant red herrings and clues; how to find an agent and publisher; and much more. The book runs for about $17, and is well worth every cent.

Another valuable resource for mystery writers is Writing and Selling Your Mystery Novel by Hallie Ephron. This book contains interactive exercises, which will prove quite helpful when you finally sit down to pen your tale. The narrative is comprehensive, and it will guide you in planning the plot, developing twists, and constructing a surprise ending. You will learn how to develop a compelling hero and capable villain, as well as useful tactics involving red herrings and clues. This book will also guide you through the difficult revision process.

There are some aspects that are unique to crime and mystery writing, such as developing a compelling yet believable crime, and entering into the criminal mind. Fortunately, there are two valuable resources to guide you in these processes too. The first, titled Howdunit, is edited by John Boertlin and it details how crimes are committed and solved. You can use these technical aspects to show both how the villain committed the crime, and how the sleuth solved the mystery. The second, titled The Criminal Mind by Katherine Ramsland, PhD, is a writer's guide to forensic psychology. What motivates your villain is every bit as important as what motivates your hero, and The Criminal Mind can help you explore your antagonist's warped and deluded mind and make him more believable.

Enjoy these valuable resources for mystery writers.