Genre

Mystery

Close-up of a person with a shocked expression.
Genre

The Plot Thickens: Writing Twists in Mystery Stories

Plot twists are a thrill for the reader, but they can be pretty overwhelming for the writer. How do you craft a shocking reversal that totally makes sense but still catches your audience by surprise? We've got the answers right here.

Two detectives look into a cardboard box.
Genre

What Makes a Good Clue in a Mystery? Here’s the Big Reveal.

The puzzle makes the mystery. Everyone knows that. But how do you come up with clues that move the story forward without giving away the ending? Here's everything you need to know.

Two detectives stand together facing different directions.
Genre

Does Your Detective Need a Sidekick? Let’s Confer.

What makes for a more compelling mystery novel: a crime-solving duo with an interesting dynamic or a lone wolf detective who has no choice but to go it alone? This guide will help you think through the larger role of the sidekick.

A detective stands outside his car at night.
Genre

How to Write an Amazing Detective in a Mystery

Here's everything you need to know to write a spectacular sleuth that mystery readers will immediately love and never forget.

Overhead view of an open book on a blanket over a person's lap.
Genre

How to Write a Cozy Mystery Novel They’ll Devour in One Day

What does it take to write a cozy mystery novel that readers can't put down? Here's your full guide to all things cozy, from delightful protagonists to dizzying plot twists.

A detective stares at an investigation board.
Genre

Should Your Mystery Include Red Herrings? Let’s Solve This.

Are red herrings essential ingredients for an unputdownable mystery novel? Or blatant manipulations guaranteed to irritate your reader? Learn when and why you need this mystery device and how to use it without making your audience feel duped.

A writer with teal hair types on a laptop in a dark room.
Genre

How to Write Mystery With Dabble (Guide + Template!)

Need an easier way to keep track of all of your mystery novel's plot lines, red herrings, and shady suspects? Dabble is on the case. Here are our best tips for writing mystery with Dabble... plus a template you can use to start planning your story today!

A blue-tinged photo of an eerie, empty parking area lined with trees.
Genre

How to Create a Setting for Mystery—Let’s Crack This Case

A captivating setting draws your reader into the world of your mystery novel. It sets the tone, reveals clues, and even interferes with the investigation. There's no doubt setting has a lot of work to do. Here's everything you need to know to make yours gets the job done.

A detective sits at a desk.
Genre

Creating Mystery Characters: Putting the Who in Whodunit

Puzzling over how to create your mystery characters? This guide reveals all the clues you need, from crafting an unforgettable sleuth to designing convincing red herrings.

A shadowy figure stands among tall, thin trees backlit by a bright yellow light.
Genre

How to Write a Mystery That Tingles the Spine

Learn how to write a mystery that chills, thrills, and gets your readers begging for a series.