4 pages, Vermont Ink, Winter 1999.
Mystery novels remain one of the most popular categories of fiction. The
spectrum of crime fiction published today is broad, spanning titles from the
coziest whodunits, where the lady who runs the crafts store solves all the
town's murders, to the most graphic thrillers, where the lives of millions are at
stake. Each subgenre has different conventions, but there are characteristics
that apply to all: a strong and appealing protagonist, a compelling story with red
herrings and interesting twists, and a satisfying conclusion. Here are ten tips to
help you write a polished, dynamic page-turner, no matter what the subgenre.
