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The Elements of Mystery Fiction

Abstract

Using examples of from his own impressive work as well as that of other celebrated mystery writers, William G. Tapply discusses the planning and writing of successful mysteries: how to come up with a good workable idea; create a compelling main character; and invent intriguing "sidekicks, suspects, lovers, and friends" who will make your plot come to life.

Chapters covering the all-important components of setting, viewpoint, and dialogue--the "lifeblood" of mystery fiction--come next, followed by advice on using conflict and tension to pace your plot, making it suspenseful andplausible.

The final chapter covers rewriting and revising--a process that is necessary for any manuscript, and one that could make the difference between a publisher's acceptance or rejection.

Inspiring, realistic, and well-ordered in its approach, The Elements of Mystery Fictioninvestigates every aspect of writing the modern whodunit and will put the goal of publication within your reach.