If your brains cells are already thinking of a great mystery revolving around the picture I've provided, your half way there. But keep in mind there's more than an idea to consider. You need great characters with fears and desires and a plot.
When writing mystery fiction you need to constantly think about the characters, especially the protagonist. Where is he/she in the beginning of the story? What happens to them along the way? Has the case stumped them enough? If the character doesn't run into any bumps along the way, you probably need to rework your plot.
Something that I've found helpful in writing mysteries is to watch those presented on television. Take for example Inspector Morris on PBS. Many of the cases he's involved with present three or four suspects, creating a better plot.
Of course, the first person Morris interviews after a crime has been committed is the person everyone else has pointed the finger at. The first twist comes into play when the Number 1 suspect is murdered. What does Morris do now? Inspector Morris moves on to suspects two and three who Morris thinks are possibly in cahoots with each other. But after listening to their claims of innocence, the Inspector doesn't have any proof to indicate otherwise. The case is stalled, but not for long.
Will Morris ever solve the crimes? His boss puts pressure on him to find out who murdered X and Y. He suddenly gets cantankerous with people around him. The stress is getting to him. After much digging, he learns of suspect Number four and drills him. Big problem. Morris believes this suspect is not guilty. Ready to pull out his hair he wonders where to turn next. Luckily, something major happens in the nick of time. The actual suspect is someone who was around at the time of murders but so lost in themselves, no one gave them a thought. {Think fly on the wall. But remember they have to be introduced near the beginning of the story.}
Ending: Suspect tries to trap Morris and flees . Morris escapes from whatever, is thrown his way, gives chase, and captures the killer. He receives praise from his boss and celebrates with significant other or co-worker.
Besides studying excellent mysteries provided for our entertainment on TV, don't forget to read mystery stories too. Discover how other authors handle plot to keep their stories moving.
In the weeks to come, think about how your characters are going to move forward to keep the reader's interest. Remember plot and characters drive the story, the story doesn't drive them.
Until Next Time
This is Marlene Chabot
Mystery Writer of Short Stories and Novels
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