plotting the mystery novel

Are you a fan of captivating mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page? If so, you've come to the right place! In this article, we will explore the art of plotting a mystery novel, providing you with the necessary tips and tricks to craft a compelling and suspenseful story.

One of the essential elements of a great mystery novel is the plot. A well-constructed plot will engage readers, keeping them guessing and craving for more. Let's delve into the key aspects of plotting a mystery novel:

1. Intriguing Crime: A successful mystery novel begins with a captivating crime that piques the reader's curiosity. It could be a murder, a theft, or any other mysterious event. The crime sets the stage for the rest of the story.

2. Complicated Characters: To create an engrossing mystery, develop a cast of complex and multi-dimensional characters. The protagonist, typically a detective or amateur sleuth, should be relatable and have a unique set of skills to solve the crime. The antagonist, on the other hand, must be clever and well-hidden, challenging the protagonist at every turn.

3. Clever Clues: Introduce clues throughout the story that, when pieced together, lead the protagonist (and the reader) closer to the truth. These clues may be subtle or overt, requiring the detective's keen observation skills or advanced deductive reasoning to decipher.

4. Red Herrings: To keep readers guessing and heighten suspense, sprinkle your plot with red herrings. These false leads divert attention away from the true culprit and create additional twists and turns in the story. They are essential in keeping readers engrossed and engaged in the mystery.

5. Unpredictable Twists: A well-crafted mystery novel should be full of unexpected twists and turns. These surprises not only captivate the reader but also challenge their assumptions and keep them eagerly flipping through the pages. Consider introducing moments where the story takes an unexpected direction or reveals a shocking revelation.

Now that you have a better understanding of the key elements in plotting a mystery novel, let's explore some recommended authors and websites where you can find gripping mysteries to satisfy your reading cravings:

1. Agatha Christie: Known as the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie has penned numerous classic mystery novels featuring iconic characters like Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. Her works, including "Murder on the Orient Express" and "And Then There Were None," are must-reads for any mystery enthusiast.

2. Gillian Flynn: If you enjoy dark and psychological thrillers, Gillian Flynn's novels are perfect for you. "Gone Girl" and "Sharp Objects" are gripping stories filled with complex characters and shocking twists.

3. Goodreads (www.goodreads.com): Goodreads is a popular online community of book lovers, where you can find recommendations, reviews, and discussions about mystery novels. Explore their "Best Mystery & Thriller" lists and join book clubs to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

4. CrimeReads (www.crimereads.com): CrimeReads is a website dedicated to crime and mystery literature. They provide curated articles, interviews, and book recommendations across various subgenres, ensuring you never run out of gripping mystery novels to read.

As you embark on your mystery novel reading journey, remember to enjoy the suspense, engage with the characters, and savor each plot twist. Happy reading and may your search for the perfect mystery novel lead you to thrilling adventures!
Quanzhen School of Immortality Fiction
Quanzhen School of Immortality

What I seek is to ride the wind to the heavens! What I desire is to roam the four seas with my ethereal qi! What I wish for is the grand path under the blue sky, for I am an immortal! ... A young man from the martial world, with a single act of kindness, stumbled upon a mysterious wooden piece. Since then, the martial world lost one of its young masters. The world of cultivation gained a white-robed, elegant and refined cultivator, embodying the spirit of the wind.

213.06 Million words | 2022-11-03 04:52Update

martial arts system novel global martial arts novel full attributes martial arts novel

Youth Martial God in the City. Fiction
Youth Martial God in the City.

What kind of legend would occur if the first of the top ten ancient divine beasts were sealed within a human body? Zhou Tian was just an ordinary boy from a poor county town, who accidentally saved a strange old man and received teachings of divine skills. To his surprise, he discovered two mysterious golden beads inside his body during his cultivation process. From this point on, Zhou Tian's life changed drastically. He built his own financial empire, led his family in battles against various organizations, and adeptly maneuvered through political struggles. Countless stunningly beautiful women were drawn to him, and he even became the youngest general in Chinese history commanding millions of troops. Zhou Tian's life became a legendary tale. Check out the new book "Youth Sword God", and please show your support. Come and discuss with us in our QQ group: [group number].

157.81 Million words | 2020-07-26 17:29Update

novel martial arts global martial arts novel complete martial arts attributes novel

My hidden strength has been exposed by the Heavenly Dao Rankings. Fiction
My hidden strength has been exposed by the Heavenly Dao Rankings.

He traveled to the Northern Song Dynasty. However, in this Northern Song, there were powerful warriors who could split mountains and stop rivers, capable of facing thousands with just one. Peng Feng came from a lesser-known martial arts sect called the Five Tiger Gate - the Peng family, known for their powerful swordsmanship. He understood the art of survival and knew it was too dangerous outside, so he decided to wait until he reached the level of a terrestrial immortal before revealing his true prowess to the world. Little did he know, in his seventeenth year, something unexpected happened. Suddenly, the Dragon Ranking of Heavenly Dao emerged, where anyone who stayed on the list for a year would receive a reward from the heavens, surprising everyone. But what shocked the world even more was that Peng Feng, from the Five Tiger Gate, ranked first on the Dragon Ranking - a sect considered inferior among the martial arts world! Overnight, Peng Feng's name spread far and wide. Even within the Five Tiger Gate, no one could have anticipated that the seemingly ordinary Peng Feng would possess such extraordinary power.

92.79 Million words | 2022-08-08 23:26Update

xianxia light novel novel updates xianxia light novel xianxia

Disciples of the Clarifying Teachings in Journey to the West Fiction
Disciples of the Clarifying Teachings in Journey to the West

As a modern person, Zhang Xing, who has traveled back in time to before the beginning of Journey to the West, how can he live an exciting life? Becoming a disciple of the third generation of Chanjiao, how can he seek benefits for himself in the Journey to the West? With his knowledge of Journey to the West's history, how can he reach the pinnacle in this new world? All this can be found in "Disciple of Chanjiao in Journey to the West". A new novel by a new author, hoping for your support! Thank you in advance, everyone!

58.03 Million words | 2023-01-06 14:42Update

martial arts novel novel martial arts martial arts master novel

Duo E Xiaoyao Xian Fiction
Duo E Xiaoyao Xian

Duo Erzhenren, a scattered immortal from the Western Kunlun Mountains, resides in the Eight Treasure Cloud Light Cave of the Nine Peak Iron Monastery. Lingji Bodhisattva, one of the Eight Bodhisattvas of the Western Buddhist Sect, possesses great magical powers and resides on Mount Little Sumeru. Xiao Yao Immortal, uh, have you never heard of him? Oh, well! Li Xiaofeng, what? You still haven't heard of him? Of course, you haven't heard of them, I just wrote about them. But actually! They are all the main characters of this story, all the same person. Why do I say that? You will understand after reading this book. Travel through the prehistoric age and become a carefree immortal! Blizzard Book Club ID:

578.45 Million words | 2022-02-03 11:58Update

martial arts system novel martial arts fiction martial arts novel

Wuxia World Free Travel. Fiction
Wuxia World Free Travel.

With a portal to the known world of martial arts, Yang Yi embarks on a journey of adventure and explores the realms, riding gallantly on a spirited horse, wielding his sword. Let's revisit the novels we once fervently pursued together...

149.44 Million words | 2022-09-21 03:12Update

war of worlds novel war of the worlds novel the infinity war graphic novel

The Legend of Wulin Cultivation Fiction
The Legend of Wulin Cultivation

"Doomed to be criticized, martial arts novelist Zhang Yunsu transmigrated into a world of grand martial arts, equipped with a system that not only grants him access to various martial arts secrets and treasures from novels, but also allows him to summon martial artists! As Zhang Yunsu delves into this world, he discovers that the power of martial arts depicted in the novels are actually magnified here — the ultimate stage of the Dragon Subduing Palm is summoning a divine dragon! The true meaning of the Star-Shifting Technique is actually teleportation! The Universe Shifting Technique is an invincible group defense move! And the most powerful sword technique of Du Gu Qiu Bai turns out to be sword flying! ··· System: In a world that honors martial arts, how can there be no heroes? You should cultivate a martial arts sanctuary. Zhang Yunsu: Can I do it? System: If you still want to be a man, then don't say you can't! The development of sects, the training of martial artists, all in this book, filled with light-hearted and exciting moments!"

0.31 Million words | 2023-04-11 11:17Update

martial arts novel novel martial arts fictional martial arts

The Concealing Heaven Immortal King Fiction
The Concealing Heaven Immortal King

There are mysterious and unfathomable hidden divine tribes, as well as the barbaric and dominating wild clans. There are influential sects and prominent families that lead the world, as well as malevolent demonic forces that bring chaos to the people. There are countless and magical martial arts techniques and secret arts, as well as prodigious individuals who excel in cultivation and possess extraordinary talent. In this world, mythical beasts, celestial maidens, rare treasures, and extraordinary treasures are intertwined. It is a world that is filled with passion and deep contemplation. Wang Tian transmigrated to the Qinglong Continent. His purpose is to have the world at his disposal with a sword in hand. Witness how Wang Tian cultivates divine skills, tramples on geniuses, recruits followers, and searches for his beloved.

115.32 Million words | 2020-10-22 23:21Update

urban martial arts system novel martial arts master novel complete martial arts attributes novel

Super Immortal Martial Arts Era Fiction
Super Immortal Martial Arts Era

"One character, one mountain, in the world of immortals. If one wants to become an immortal, the mountain must be a mountain of corpses." When leaving the era of the crumbling Heavenly Dao and entering the world of immortals and martial heroes, Qi Tian said, "I do not seek eternal life, nor do I yearn for the mortal world. I just want to see what lies at the peak of cultivation." In a vast world of immortals and martial heroes, a rising era of cultivation begins. *************************** Many protagonists are born to their biological fathers, making their journeys smooth and effortless. As for this humble lady, at most, I can only say I'm one's biological mother, facing adversity at every turn. Familial bonds, friendships, love, righteousness, grievances, be it mountains of corpses or warm embraces of spring, in short, this is a story of indulgence, lawlessness, and unrestrained freedom.

174.77 Million words | 2022-06-23 07:23Update

martial arts system novel novel martial arts martial arts master novel

Dust and Transient Strangers Fiction
Dust and Transient Strangers

In the mundane world of red dust, a wanderer of the extraordinary. The path of immortality elusive, slaying demons and suppressing evil. He is a stranger walking among mortals, drifting in the wind and rain, until one day he found his own destiny. Since then, he has taken on the responsibility of vanquishing demons and upholding justice, while possessing a tender heart of a hero... The protagonist experienced three reincarn

336.48 Million words | 2022-08-02 03:00Update

novel martial arts martial arts master novel global martial arts novel

Qingcheng Daoist Fiction
Qingcheng Daoist

Pedestrian avenue, known as Taoist priest, the chief of the Taoist priest is called Tao Chang. Subduing demons, exterminating evil, purifying, securing homes, divination, and healing are all necessary tasks for the Taoist priest in the mortal realm. However, before all this, one must first fill their own stomach. "Take a look, see for yourself, the Qingcheng Sect is promoting various new services again. Divination: five guan, house calls: three guan, house protection: ten guan, funerals: prices depend on the status of the deceased, starting at two taels." "There is also breaking news, the Heavenly Court, Netherworld, Western Pure Land, and other official organizations are offering group buying services, all starting at a discount of 20%, with complimentary discount cards and paper talisman gift packs. Taoist disciples enjoy an internal discount, with a minimum discount of 40%." "Miss, considering our pleasant collaboration last time, this time I can give you a 5% discount. Of course, if you apply for our couple package now, you can enjoy our Bedroom Arts service and receive complimentary beauty pills." Note: This is actually a story about a person who travels back in time and becomes a Taoist priest, having to support their family and become wealthy.

597.05 Million words | 2022-06-26 03:27Update

martial arts system novel martial arts fiction complete martial arts attributes novel

Blood Stained Azure Skies Fiction
Blood Stained Azure Skies

In the late Northern Song Dynasty, the Song and Jin armies attacked the Liao Dynasty. Six major sects dominated the world, while five top experts roamed the martial arts world. Amidst the Song-Jin war, storms were stirred, secretly manipulated by individuals; amidst the blue sky and red blood, they galloped across the nation, unraveling layers of mysteries. A passionate young man stepped forward to defend his home and

348.83 Million words | 2022-03-06 08:06Update

urban martial arts system novel martial arts master novel complete martial arts attributes novel

Immortal Extermination Fiction
Immortal Extermination

Given another chance by fate, then... cultivate the strongest cultivation technique! Use the best divine talismans! Seize the greatest treasures! Win the most exquisite beauty! Crush all righteous geniuses underfoot, or else how can I demonstrate the splendor of my previous life as a demonic overlord? As for demonic geni

252.33 Million words | 2020-11-26 21:47Update

xianxia novel fantasy and science fiction fantasy and fiction

Super Pet Cheat Fiction
Super Pet Cheat

In the chaotic world of immortal cultivation, numerous schools vie for dominance, each practicing their own profound techniques. There are the practitioners of the law, the body cultivators, the demon cultivators, the artifact cultivators, the ghost cultivators, the beast cultivators, the gu cultivators, and the magic cultivators. They are known as the Hundred Schools of Contention, on the path of the Great Dao, encompassing three thousand ways. Technological geek Wanxing, carrying his self-made super pet hack, reincarnates into this world and becomes a disciple of the Beast Taming Sect. "My pets can level up, rapidly boosting their strength." "My pets can undergo bloodline evolution. Even a mudskipper can evolve into a divine dragon."

40.17 Million words | 2020-07-14 17:50Update

martial arts system novel martial arts novel fictional martial arts

Task: Wuxia Fiction
Task: Wuxia

Traveling through various worlds, meeting different people, and experiencing a series of unique events.

120.66 Million words | 2022-03-16 19:58Update

martial arts novel complete martial arts attributes novel full attributes martial arts novel

Rebirth of the Legendary World Fiction
Rebirth of the Legendary World

A loyal legendary player, a chance encounter, led to his fatal lightning strike. When he woke up, he found himself in a border village of the Kingdom of Biqi. After his rebirth, his talent was astonishing, stepping into the realm of the innate, entering the realm of the imaginary, becoming an immortal existence in the world. He sought not to dominate, only to protect. But can he truly protect? As disaster looms and fate is irreversible, how should he safeguard? "If heaven is unkind, I shall defy it; if fate toys with us, I shall sever fate. For the sake

515.78 Million words | 2022-02-18 12:44Update

martial arts fiction martial arts master novel global martial arts novel

Thousand reincarnations for eternal life. Fiction
Thousand reincarnations for eternal life.

A boy named Li, as ordinary as it gets, persevered through countless hardships, never wavering from his original aspiration. With unwavering determination, he finally attained immortality and became the supreme deity, revered throughout the world... (New book, seeking clicks, recommendations, and collections... Hehe... Updated three times a day, continuously for a year. Thank you.)

260.86 Million words | 2022-08-07 19:53Update

novel martial arts urban martial arts system novel global martial arts novel

The Book of Supreme Mystery in White Hair Fiction
The Book of Supreme Mystery in White Hair

As a modern person, Zhao Xuan thought that his life was pretty good. Although he wasn't extremely wealthy, he had enough money to spare. But unexpectedly, he accidentally traversed through time. What's even more embarrassing was that after the time travel, he had to disguise himself as a fool... Fortunately, luck was on his side, as he gained the ability to travel through countless worlds. Starting from "Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils," he experienced various worlds such as "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" and "The Legend of the Condor Heroes," transitioning from martial arts to the path of cultivation, tempering his heart along the way. However, in the end, he couldn't escape the consequences brought about by his current body... There is a poem: Once wandering through three thousand tribulations beyond the heavens, Now residing in the mortal realm for five hundred years. A purple lightning sword dangles by his waist, Crimson flames rise in the alchemical furnace. Riding a white tiger across the boundless sea, Mounting a green dragon to enter the heavenly cave. Trivial skills playfully entertain us, While no one knows that I am a true immortal. PS: Book club ( ).

252.74 Million words | 2020-08-09 07:43Update

martial arts fiction martial arts novel novel martial arts

Three-Rank Royal Knight Fiction
Three-Rank Royal Knight

I am not handsome, yet I hold a beautiful woman in my arms; I am not a famous hero, yet I am praised by the brave; I am not a noble duke, yet I enter the royal palace without hindrance; I am not a high-ranking official, yet I never falter in my duties. I am Fang Wenfang, the son of the Ghost House scholar Fang Shuan, and Xu Liang, the wielder of the White Brow Holy Sword, is my respected godfather. I am the great hero Fang Wenfang. Oh, and there's me, the son of the renowned scholar Feng Yuan, known as Feng Siyuan. Ouyang Chun, the Northern Purple Light Holy Law Buddha, is my master. I am the well-known Feng Siyuan. Ha, you two are just a joke.

268.99 Million words | 2021-07-30 22:17Update

martial arts fiction martial arts master novel global martial arts novel

Warrior in the Primordial World Fiction
Warrior in the Primordial World

Gold, wood, water, fire, and earth are the most important existences between heaven and earth. The five elements nourish each other - gold nourishes water, water nourishes wood, wood nourishes fire, fire nourishes earth, and earth nourishes gold. The power of the five elements cycles endlessly. Yin and yang represent light and darkness between heaven and earth, mutually nourishing and restraining each other. Therefore, just like the five elements, yin and yang also cycle endlessly. The five elements are substance, while yin and yang are void. A cultivator of the human race

242.41 Million words | 2021-07-28 13:21Update

martial arts fiction novel martial arts full attributes martial arts novel