The Secrets of Great Mystery and Suspense Fiction

Delve into the controversial viewpoints on what the first true mystery novel was, study important components of early mysteries and writers, including Poe, Doyle, and Christie - and why their work continues to influence modern day stories. Then, examine the different types of stories that fall under the mystery and suspense label.

Usually flawed, quite often brilliant, and sometimes not even aware of their role, the dectective is a staple of the genre. Scrutinize the many ways the detective has been portrayed across stories and series over time and reveal similarities between a variety of characters that make even the most unique detectives oddly familiar.

On the other end of the spectrum from the detective, we find the criminal. Equally important to the success of the story, explore a fascinating cast of notorious characters who have survived through the annals of time. Look at the cat-and-mouse games that law enforcement and criminals play as you learn just how vital getting this balance right is to the success of the story.

Where would a Sherlock be without a Watson? The story of the sidekick isn’t required in a successful mystery but they remain pivotal and entertaining characters who deserve their own deep dive. Follow the diverse cast that fulfilled the many roles sidekicks play, from the straight man in what could be a very long joke to the secret brilliant mind behind every solved case.

The clue is so imperative to the successful mystery story that there are few elements more subject to rules and regulations. Yet for all the requirements around how, when, and why to present clues, this narrative element is highly subjective. Learn how clues are used to help, hinder, mislead, and solve mysteries, for both the characters and the audience.

Once you have perfected the components already reviewed - a detective, a criminal, clues, and potentially a sidekick - all that remains is solving the mystery. But as you’ll see, it’s never that simple. Learn what makes for the perfect “big reveal” and why you don’t necessarily need one. See how open-ended mysteries walk the line between frustrating and compelling.