Writing a Young Adult (YA) mystery novel is an exciting endeavor. It demands the perfect balance of intrigue, suspense, and relatable characters. Here are some of my dos and don’ts.
Dos
Do Think It All the Way Through
Before I even start writing, I ask myself the critical questions:
- Who did it? I identify my culprit early on. Knowing who committed the crime helps weave clues seamlessly throughout the story.
- When and where did it happen? Establish a clear timeline and setting for the crime. This helps in creating a structured plot that readers can follow.
- How was it done? The method of committing the crime should be believable yet intriguing. Avoid overly complex scenarios that might confuse your readers.
- Why did they do it? The motive is crucial. It adds depth to my characters and makes the resolution satisfying for the reader.
By having a well-thought-out plot, I can drop subtle hints and red herrings that keep readers guessing until the end.
Don’ts
Don’t Make the Suspect Too Obvious
One of the biggest pitfalls in writing a mystery is making the culprit too easy to identify. Readers are looking for a challenge, not a straightforward answer. Here’s how to avoid this common mistake:
- Diversify the suspects: I create multiple characters with plausible motives. This adds layers to the story and keeps readers guessing.
- Use red herrings: Introduce misleading clues that point to innocent characters. This technique adds complexity and suspense to your narrative.
- Develop well-rounded characters: Ensure that even the least likely suspect has a backstory and potential motives. This makes the final reveal more surprising and satisfying.
Ready for a gripping YA mystery?