You Can Write a Mystery

As an aspiring writer, I frequently read technical writing books to improve my style. I am currently enrolled in a correspondence writing course and for my last assignment, I chose to really (yes, this time it's the one!) start a novel.

Oh, I had stumbled with a few "false starts" in the last two years, since I began my courageous adventure. However, they were all lacking in many elements that is so desparately needed for a novel to succeed.

I stumbled on this assignment -- to write the first "official" chapter of a novel, reviewed and critiqued by a professional in the field.

I read a number of chapters in this book, in an effort to hone in on the techniques of mystery writing and WOW! (I couldn't sit and read it from cover to cover due to time constraints on my deadline.) I completed my chapter and sealed the envelope in sheer writer's ecstasy!

I have since completed the book in my "down time" and feel that the information included between the covers is just what everyone needs. It fits into that "comfortable zone" in the endeavors to complete a novel.

LATE BREAKING NEWS! I received my critique yesterday from my instructor and because of the knowledge provided in this book, she was very pleased with my work. I'll quote her, so you can get an idea how a professional in the writing field responded to such useful information:

"Now, I liked this a lot. Great emotion, intriguing suspense, characters that feel real and interest me. This definitely has a lot going for it. Of course, how you play out the remaining chapters will determine how strong the overall book will be and what sort of marketing potential it has, but you've made an excellent start."

Wow! I did it! And I owe it all to this book. It's definitely a must read!

This little gem not only gives aspiring novelists a wealth of information but also provides book reviewers with a guide from which books can be critiqued. I was immediately attracted to this book by the title and was not disappointed as I scanned the contents. It explains many important issues that must be addressed if a story is to be successful but are mostly not considered on a conscious level by the reader. The point of view,or the vantage point from which the reader sees the story; building the plot and using false leads; transition and the order of scenes etc. You get the idea.

Anyway, I think this book will help me when I'm reviewing a book and will add to my enjoyment while reading. Mysteries will be read from a broader and deeper perspective and the admiration for writers and their skill has increased.

Thanks in advance for a vote if this review was helpful.

YOU CAN WRITE A MYSTERY is, at the core, a fiction-writing basics book that applies to any subject. Author Gillian Roberts includes tips that apply specifically to mystery writing, but that would enrich any story.

This book is excellent for those who wish to begin writing and need a place to start. The book includes enough information to get you well on your way to writing a mystery (or any fiction you want to supercharge with a little suspense). The tone is clear and concise, and the author conveys her experience in both writing and reading mysteries, giving formulas and "sleight of hand" tricks for muddling your readers.

As a former English teacher, I began Roberts' guide with some reservation thinking I'd heard it all before. Surprise! Roberts mission is to share her well-honed knowledge of structure with her expertise as a published writer. I particularly liked the fresh way she explains fundamentals with her final chapter: Finding your voice:the microedit. I went right out and bought the hardcopy of Timeline just to see how a current best seller follows her advice. Her work is inspirational.

A wonderfully clear and concise guide for writers. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to write popular fiction.