It is truly a Mystery to me. I cannot find the words to describe the thoughts and actions that represent what contains an average vs. an excellent Mystery. But like any writer, you strive for information to expand your knowledge. Being a Mystery Editor on the site for a year and half certainly had me doing a lot of research. Monthly I discovered the world of Mystery, and presented it newsletter format. Since resigning my editorial, I decided to create this journal as a reference for the site.

"Exactly how do you write a Mystery?"

Well I cannot guarantee that this journal contains all,
but it certainly will get you started.

What Do You Know About Mystery?
How often have you said to yourself, “I could never write a mystery. I don’t know anything about it.” Well, I for one am guilty as charged, however, what I am finding is that, I know a lot more about mystery, then I have given myself credit for. This makes me believe, that you could possibly be suffering from the same curse. And yes, I did say curse, after all what else could possibly be stopping you from sitting down, and hammering out page after page of good mystery.

Knowledge! That’s right lack of knowledge is a curse, for you never really know how much you have until you test yourself. What better way to test yourself than to give mystery writing a try. Now we all know, that to sit down and write a great novel takes time, patience, and motivation. Not to mention a good story plot, some bonus characters, and a fabulous setting. Then again, no one said you had to start at the top! Take your time and start with something simple, and work your way up to bigger and better stories. Anything is possible, and you might even surprise yourself.

Quick List for Mystery Writing
1) Every Story begins with an idea.
2) Your main character is the most important part of your story.
3) Choose minor characters that will be in your story.
4) The plot of any story is this: The main character has a problem, and must solve it by him or herself.
5) Make a list of clues that you can use in your story.
6) Think about “red herrings.”
7) Suspense is an important ingredient in a mystery story.
8) The setting should fit the mood of the story.
9) Look for the best place in which to begin your story.
10) Know how your story will end before you begin to write it.