How to write a mystery novel?

Today's world is obsessed with crime.

Whether it's the latest crime everyone's talking about or a crime novel that has become a bestseller, there's no denying its immense popularity. I myself, despite being an omnivorous reader and spectator, do not hide my great passion for mysteries, crime and noir.

In this guide, I'll share with you everything you need to know about the genre so you can learn how to write a crime novel yourself.

But let's not get lost in small talk, let's get straight to the point.

What are the elements of detective fiction?

To master the art of crime fiction, you must first understand its DNA, the crucial elements that bring the genre to life.

Let's unmask these components and explore how they can shape your book.

The epicenter of detective fiction is – you guessed it – crime.

It's the sequential event that disrupts the status quo and sets your story in motion.

It's not always murder. Theft, kidnapping, blackmail - these are all the options available. In Taken, the extraordinary film with Liam Neeson, directed by Olivier Megaton and written by Luc Besson, the kidnapping of the protagonist's daughter gives rise to a draining hunt to save her from her captors.

The only rule?

It must arouse the reader's curiosity. This crime, this central puzzle, is the magnetic force that must draw your reader across the pages of the book. Nail them with this and you have them caught.

The next item, the detective.

It is your reader's guide, his ally to solve the puzzle.

Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, Nancy Drew, Miss Marple, Charlie Chan, Brother Cadmael or Sister Fidelma - what do they all have in common? A unique personality and an innate talent for deduction.

But remember, you don't have to be a traditional detective. It could be a reporter, like Annika Bengtzon, a concerned friend, or even a nosy aunt! The key is to create a compelling character, someone your readers will root for, someone they will follow through the twists and turns of your book.

And let's not forget the suspects.

They are the smoke and mirrors of your narrative, the red herrings that obscure the truth.

Each suspect must be believable, with motivations and opportunities that make the reader think, "Could he have done this?" By creating a host of plausible suspects, you keep readers on their toes, enticing them to flip through the pages, formulating their own theories, totally engrossed in your book.

Finally, the setting.

It's not just a wallpaper; she is herself a living, breathing character.

Whether it's the misty streets of Victorian London or a sunny beach in Miami, the setting can enhance atmosphere, add complexity and heighten tension. Choose it wisely, describe it vividly, make it a place your reader can't wait to return to, every time they open your book.

To create a masterpiece, you need to understand these core elements of crime fiction.

But remember, while it's crucial to stick to these conventions, it's also important to give it a unique twist.

How to create a detective novel

Get ready to explore the essence of your story.

Mastering the art of story creation, a vital skill in holding the reader's attention and making your book impossible to put down. Now let's explore how you can build a suspenseful maze that will keep your readers glued to the pages of your book.

First things first: the crime .

As mentioned in the previous section, this is no ordinary event; it is the catalyst, the spark that ignites the flame of your story. It has to be compelling, it has to be intriguing, and most of all, it has to demand answers. The nature of this crime, how it was committed, the tantalizing clues left behind - all this is what will draw your readers into the world of your book, making them long for a solution.

To follow: the investigations .

This is where your detective shines, putting the pieces of the puzzle together. But remember, a straight path is a boring journey. Your investigation needs twists, unexpected revelations, red herrings and shocking discoveries.

Then we have the suspects.

They are the keys to your plot, each opening a different path in your investigation. Remember, every suspect has to be more than just a name; it needs depth, it needs motivation, it needs alibis that barely hold water. By weaving a web of suspects, each with their own secrets, you motivate your reader to take a guess, making your book a compelling mystery.

Finally, the climax .

It's the big reveal, the moment your reader has been waiting for. But a climax isn't just about uncovering the criminal; talk about the journey your detective made to unmask him. It's about all the pieces falling into place, your reader having that "Aha!" moment. The climax, this resolution, is the reward for all the time your reader has invested. Get it right and your book will leave a lasting impression.

Plot is the backbone of your narrative.

It's the roadmap that drives your reader, making them thrilled, apprehensive, surprised, and satisfied.

By mastering the art of crafting a compelling story, you're not just writing a book; you are creating an experience. And isn't that how you want to feel after you finish a whodunit?

Crime Types: Four Classic Genres

Ready to explore the main types of detective fiction? Understanding these categories will help you find the perfect home for your book. So, let's go on this journey and discover the various types of detective fiction.

First of all, hard-boiled detective fiction.

Imagine a world-weary detective, a corrupt society, and a storyline that isn't afraid to show the dark underbelly of life. It's gritty, it's gritty, and it doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of crime. Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammett – were the pioneers of this genre, giving us stories steeped in cynicism and moral ambiguity. Is this the canvas you see for your book? Then welcome to the realm of hard-boiled crime fiction.

Now, let's turn the dial to mysteries.

Here, blood and violence fade into the background and the focus shifts to the puzzle. Your detective may be a skilled amateur, your setting in a picturesque village, and your crime a mystery that disrupts the harmony of its inhabitants. The stories of Miss Marple by Agatha Christie are the manifesto of this subgenre. So, if you're aiming for a more cerebral and less violent storytelling for your book, mystery or light yellow might be your thing.

Next stop, the procedural.

This subgenre shines a spotlight on meticulous and detailed investigations conducted by law enforcement agencies. Think Ed McBain's 87th Precinct series or the works of JD Robb . Your readers are looking not only for a guilty party but also for a homicide squad. They want the crux of police work, the thrill of the chase. If you find all of this interesting, then your book might find its perfect place on the procedurals shelf.

Finally, we have the legal and courtroom drama.

This is where crime is solved not on the street, but inside the courtrooms. Your main character could be a brilliant lawyer or a relentless prosecutor. The goal here is not only to find the culprit, but also to ensure that justice is served, often with gripping courtroom scenes. If you are passionate about the works of John Grisham, then this might be the best choice for your book.

There are numerous other sub-genres within crime fiction, each with its own unique flavor. For example, I'm getting passionate in this period to historical detective stories, such as those written by Ellis Peters and Robert Van Gulik.

Understanding these categories can provide structure for your narrative.

But remember, it's your book, so don't feel limited.

You are free to blend elements, challenge conventions and create something completely new. After all, innovation is at the heart of every great storytelling.

Character development in detective fiction

Crime fiction isn't just about crime; but also and above all the story of who is involved, who is interested and who solves it. Now let's see how you can create characters that jump off the page and leave a lasting impression on your readers.

The detective is the centerpiece of your story, leading the investigation and serving as your reader's trusted guide.

But it has to be more than just a crime-solving machine. Give him depth, create quirks or details, a backstory that adds layers to his personality. Sherlock Holmes has his violin, Hercule Poirot his meticulousness. And your detective? Remember, the more relatable and intriguing they are, the more engaged your reader will be with your book.

The villain, often the perpetrator, is just as crucial.

They must be intelligent, cunning and able to come up with a plot that baffles the reader. But a cartoon villain is no good. They need a motive, a reason for their actions that is compelling, if not justifiable. By painting your villain in shades of gray, you create a character that is not only feared, but understood. This added complexity will make your book even more compelling.

The supporting characters – the suspects, the aide, the victims – are the lifeblood of your storytelling.

Each character needs to be developed, adding to the mystery, adding suspense. From secrets, hidden depths for the reader to guess. Remember, everyone is a suspect until proven otherwise. The more believable your supporting cast, the richer and more intriguing the world of your book.

Finally, the relationships between your characters.

The banter between Holmes and Watson, the tension between Poirot and his suspects - these dynamics add depth and intrigue. How does your detective interact with the villain? And the other characters? These interactions can build tension, add humor, and provide a welcome respite from the intensity of the investigation. It's these intricate dynamics that will get your book talking among readers.

Characters are the heart and soul of your fiction.

They are the ones who bring the plot to life, who make the reader interested in the result.

By creating compelling characters and their relationships, you're not just writing a book; you're creating a world that your reader can't wait to revisit.

How to develop the plot of your criminal history

Let's look at the mechanics of plot development in detective fiction. This is where the magic happens, where your ideas are transformed into a compelling narrative. Ready to weave a story that will make your readers bite their nails? Let's begin.

Your opening scene is the hook.

It's the moment that draws your readers into the mystery. The question is: how to make it irresistible? The answer lies in creating intrigue right from the start. A cryptic letter, a sinister crime scene, a disturbing prophecy - these may be the spark that lights the flame of your plot. The more enticing the mystery, the deeper your reader will dive into your book.

Next, the setup.

Here you present your detective, the crime and the suspects. But remember, first impressions count. Make your characters memorable, your crimes puzzling, and your suspects intriguing. Every detail you reveal, every secret you hint at, is a thread that weaves the intricate tapestry of your storyline. It is this setup that forms the basis of your book.

Now comes the investigation.

This is where the plot thickens, where false leads, alibis and clues come into play. Remember, a straight line may be the shortest distance between two points, but it's almost never the most interesting. Add twists, unexpected revelations, even a fake resolution or two. You keep your reader intrigued, doubtful, and you'll keep them turning the pages of your book.

Finally, the climax and resolution.

The 'ah!' moment that your reader has been waiting for. This should not only solve the crime, but also tie up any loose ends, solving subplots and character arcs. But make sure it's not too predictable. Surprising but logical, not obvious - this is the weak point in solving a detective novel. Stare at it and your reader will close your book with a sense of satisfaction and the excitement of reading more of your novels.

Tried-and-tested tips for crime writers

Let's take a look at a series of specific and detailed tips to help you write better mysteries.

First of all, read extensively and voraciously.

It is the best education a writer can receive. Not just thrillers, but all genres. Every book you read, every author you explore, can teach you something new about storytelling. The more you read, the more tools you'll have in your writer's toolbox as you create your book.

Prioritize character development.

Readers are passionate not only about the crime, but also about who is doing it or solving it. Make your characters complex, relatable, and memorable. Remember, they are the heart and soul of your book. A compelling mystery is essential, but it's the characters that keep readers interested in that mystery.

Thirdly, take care of the texture.

A well-crafted storyline is the backbone of your crime novel. Pay close attention to the pacing, suspense and placement of clues. The more intricate and well-planned your plot, the more satisfying your book will be for the reader.

On a related note, master the art of misdirection.

False leads, false suspicions, misleading clues: these are your best allies. they give your reader the feeling that they have guessed right, adding suspense and thrill. But remember, despite the wrong direction one should be able to get to the right one. The clues to the real culprit should be there, subtly hidden in plain sight in your book.

Finally, don't run away from feedback.

Whether it comes from beta readers, writing teams, or professional editors, constructive criticism can help you spot weak points in your plot and refine your narrative. Don't shy away from it, but consider it a stepping stone to improving your book.

Writing crime novels can be challenging, but with passion, persistence, and these tips in your arsenal, you're more than equipped to conquer this genre.

Should a work of detective fiction incorporate realism?

Get ready to cross the line between fiction and reality. When it comes to crime fiction, realism can make all the difference that allows your book to resonate more with readers.

So how do you make your narrative believable while keeping it engaging? Let's find out together.

Starting from the crime itself, the essence of your story.

It's crucial to make it plausible, something that could happen in the real world. Whether it's a daring robbery, a chilling murder or a cunning fraud, the crime must be believable. Research is your friend here. Dig into real-life cases, understand the modus operandi, study patterns. The more realistic your crime, the more immersed your reader will be in your book.

Next, the investigations.

It is often tempting to take shortcuts, to make the detective's journey smoother. But real investigations are rarely simple. They're intricate, they're time-consuming, they're often frustrating. They involve procedures, forensics, and a lot of footwork. By reflecting these elements in your story, you lend an air of authenticity that can make your book even more compelling.

Your characters also need a touch of realism.

A detective with an uncanny ability to solve every puzzle? A villain who leaves useful clues? They might sound exciting, but they're far from realistic. Give your characters flaws, doubts, moments of frustration and failure. Make them human. This not only makes them recognizable but also adds depth to your book.

Finally the legal aspects.

This is where many mystery narratives falter. Laws, regulations, judicial procedures – they might not be the most exciting elements, but they are crucial for realism. A courtroom scene that mirrors actual legal proceedings, a revelation that abides by the law of the land—these details can add a layer of authenticity to your book.

Realism in crime fiction does not involve sacrificing creativity; improves it.

It's about grounding your thrilling tale in a world that feels tangible.

When your readers see that you've done your homework, they'll be even more engaged with your book.

So, let realism be your guiding beacon as you navigate the thrilling landscape of crime fiction.

Modern trends in detective fiction

Buckle up for a trip to the future. Crime fiction is constantly evolving and reflects changes in society, technology, and readers' tastes. By understanding these modern trends, you can ensure that your book resonates with contemporary readers.

First, let's talk about diversity.

Modern detective fiction is moving away from the stereotype of the white male detective to embrace a wide range of protagonists. Detectives from marginalized communities, protagonists with unique life experiences, narratives set in different places: these are the stories that are making headlines today. By adding diversity to your book, you can broaden its appeal and reflect the world as it is.

Subsequently, the fusion of genres.

Pure detective fiction is giving way to hybrid narratives. Crime mixed with romance, sci-fi, fantasy, even comedy – the possibilities are endless. This cross-genre approach can lend freshness to your fiction, capturing the attention of readers. So don't hesitate to push the boundaries of crime fiction with your book.

Thirdly, technology plays a significant role in modern detective fiction.

Cybercrime, AI detective, digital forensics - these are not just plot devices, but integral aspects of contemporary life. Incorporating technology into your book can make it more recognizable to the digital-native reader and add an exciting layer to your mystery.

Finally, social issues have found their way into detective fiction.

Racism, gender inequality, mental health - these themes are woven into the narrative, creating a richer and more profound reading experience. By addressing those issues in your book, you can connect with readers on a deeper level, providing not just entertainment, but food for thought.

These trends are not rules set in stone, but indications that indicate the evolving tastes of readers. By keeping up with these trends, you can ensure that your book not only reflects the present, but also resonates with the future.

Remember, as a writer, you are not only a storyteller, but also a trendsetter.

So go ahead, embrace the new, and let your book be a shining example for other independent authors to follow.