Writing the Modern Mystery

Writing the Modern Mystery provides instruction and guidance for aspiring mystery writers based on interviews with successful authors in the genre. The book combines practical writing advice with insights into publishing industry expectations and conventions. The text covers essential elements like plot structure, character development, pacing, and maintaining suspense through specific examples from published works. Each chapter addresses a different aspect of mystery writing, from initial story conception through the final editing process. Author Barbara Norville includes direct quotes and experiences from notable mystery writers who share their methods and perspectives on the craft. The book examines different mystery subgenres - cozy, hardboiled, police procedural - and explains the key requirements for each. The book's approach suggests that successful mystery writing requires both technical skill and an understanding of genre traditions. Through this lens, it presents mystery writing as a craft that can be learned through study and practice rather than relying solely on inspiration.

Readers found Norville's book provides basic guidance for beginning mystery authors but lacks depth compared to other writing guides. Liked: - Clear explanation of mystery story structure - Focus on genre conventions and reader expectations - Practical advice on plotting and pacing - Useful examples from published mysteries Disliked: - Content too basic for experienced writers - Dated references and examples (published 1986) - Limited coverage of subgenres - No discussion of modern publishing/marketing One reader noted "it helps you understand the bones of a mystery but doesn't flesh them out." Another called it "a good primer but I needed more specifics on clues and red herrings." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (14 ratings, 2 reviews) Amazon: 4.2/5 (5 ratings) Used copies sell for $5-20 online. Book is out of print.

How to Write a Mystery by Larry Beinhart A guide for writing crime fiction that breaks down plot structure, character development, and investigative techniques used by professional crime writers.

Writing Mysteries by Sue Grafton A compilation of essays from published mystery authors sharing craft insights on creating suspense, developing clues, and building detective characters.

Writing and Selling Your Mystery Novel by Hallie Ephron A step-by-step examination of mystery writing elements including crime scene construction, point of view, and the integration of red herrings.

Don't Murder Your Mystery by Chris Roerden A technical guide focusing on common manuscript mistakes made by mystery writers and methods to strengthen story structure.

How to Write Killer Fiction by Carolyn Wheat A breakdown of the differences between mystery and suspense, with instruction on plotting techniques for both genres.

🔍 Barbara Norville worked as an editor at major publishing houses including Doubleday and Simon & Schuster before writing this guide to mystery writing. 📚 The book was published in 1986 and became one of the first comprehensive guides specifically focused on writing modern detective fiction and mysteries. ✍️ The guide includes interviews with successful mystery authors like Tony Hillerman and Sara Paretsky, offering direct insights into their writing processes. 🗝️ Norville examines the evolution of mystery fiction from traditional "cozy" mysteries to hard-boiled detective stories and police procedurals. 📖 Unlike many writing guides of its era, this book addresses both the creative and business aspects of mystery writing, including how to pitch to publishers and work with editors.