Writing

by

Mastering Misdirection: Tips For Crafting Convincing Red Herrings

What is a red herring? Simply put, a red herring is a piece of information in a story that distracts readers from an important truth or leads them to mistakenly expect a particular outcome in any genre. And not just information but characters make excellent red herrings.

Why are red herrings important to the murder mystery, especially red herring characters? Because they build suspense and help writers construct dramatic plot twists. Let’s face it, they are the staple of mystery novels as they often provide surprise endings and serve to distract the reader from what is actually taking place.

Of the many considerations facing writers concerning red herring characters, I believe there are three that stand out as necessary for the successful murder mystery plot to ensure the effectiveness of these characters in keeping readers engaged and guessing. Here are what I believe are the top three considerations of murder mystery writers when placing characters who are red herrings into the plot, and I offer three classic murder mystery works that illustrate these principles.

1. Character Motivation: Red herring characters should have plausible motives for the crime. Their reasons for wanting to harm the victim or being involved in suspicious activities should be convincing. If their motives are weak or unclear, readers may become frustrated or disinterested.

In Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express,” multiple passengers on the train have potential motives for the murder, making it challenging for readers to identify the true culprit. For me, this is one of the very best examples of the classic use of red herrings.

2. Character Development: Red herring characters should be well-developed and multidimensional. They shouldn’t simply exist as one-dimensional stereotypes or caricatures solely meant to mislead. Giving them depth, backstory, and believable personalities makes them more compelling.

In Tana French’s “In the Woods,” there are several characters with complex histories and personalities, all of whom could potentially be involved in the central mystery.

3. Plot Integration: Red herring characters should be seamlessly woven into the narrative. Their presence and actions should be integrated into the story’s overall plot and themes. If they feel forced or tacked on, readers may see through the deception too easily.

In Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles,” Dr. John Stapleton is introduced as a possible suspect with a connection to the legend of the supernatural hound, effectively adding layers of mystery to the plot.

Keeping these three considerations in mind when writing your mystery should ensure your red herring characters contribute to the intrigue and suspense of the story while maintaining the integrity of the narrative. Successful implementation of these elements can make the eventual revelation of the true culprit more satisfying for readers.

Happy writing!

 

 

 

Don’t forget to shop my online store for Halloween gifts such as mugs and Halloween Trick-or-Treat Bags to store all your Halloween goodies.

by

Try, Try Again

Good advice for children and adults from T. H. Palmer.

From his “Teacher’s Manual” (1840), page 223. Thomas Haig Palmer was born on 27 December 1782 in Kelso, Scottish Borders, Scotland. In 1804, he immigrated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America, where he became a printer, a publisher, and an author of school textbooks and historical records. Thomas Haig Palmer passed on at 78 years of age on 20 July 1861 in Pittsford, Rutland County, Vermont, United States of America. Quick Biography of H. H. Palmer. 

 

A bit dated but, none-the-less, Here it is, verbatim:

Try, Try Again by T. H. Palmer

‘Tis a lesson you should head,

If at first you don’t succeed,

Try, try again;

Then your courage should appear,

For if you will persevere,

You will conquer, never fear

Try, try again;

Once or twice, though you should fail,

If you would at last prevail,

Try, try again;

If we strive ‘tis no disgrace

Though we do not win the race

What should you do in the case?

Try, try again

If you find your task is hard,

Time will bring you your reward,

Try, try again

All that other folks can do

Why, with patience, you not do?

Only keep this rule in view:

Try, try again.

by

Writing A Successful Classic Mystery

Attribution: J. R. Cotner

I recently spent time browsing through my rather dusty bookshelves, taking stock of the great reads I’ve collected over the years. Many are intricate, classic mysteries written by some of the most successful and admired authors of that genre and era. Why were they so popular? What made them such a success?

Writing a classic mystery novel is a complex process that requires careful thought and planning. Here are three of the most important considerations for authors in this genre:

Plot Structure and Clue Placement:

The classic mystery is intricately designed with a sequence of events occurring within a believable timeline. Clues—neither too obvious nor too obscure—and red herrings are essential plot elements planted at key points of the story to build tension and suspense. That structure allows a gradual revelation of details to guide the discerning reader through the story toward an eventual resolution that ties up all loose ends and leads to a logical and satisfying conclusion.

Character Development and Motivation:

Characters, especially the detective and the perpetrator, must be well-rounded and have clear motivations that drive their actions. This can add depth and make the story more engaging. Secondary characters also play a critical role, as they often contribute to the plot through their relationships with the main characters, their secrets, and their alibis.

Setting and Atmosphere:

The setting of a classic mystery often plays a critical role in the mood and the unfolding of the plot. It must be described in a way that adds to the tension and supports the story. Whether it’s a gloomy mansion, a small village, or a bustling city, the setting must be depicted in a way that complements the tone of the mystery and aids in the unfolding of clues.

Writing a mystery requires a delicate balance between these elements, and a failure in any of these areas can lead to a less-than-satisfying reading experience. Many successful mystery writers spend significant time planning and outlining their novels to ensure that these aspects are all carefully considered and integrated into the story.

Here are examples of classic mystery novels that particularly exemplify each of the three considerations I’ve listed. First up is Plot Structure and Clue Placement and I’ve listed a work by Agatha Christie.

“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” by Christie (published in 1926) is, I believe, an excellent example of a meticulously crafted plot structure and clue placement in a classic work. Christie employs a series of twists and turns, carefully planting clues that lead to a shocking and unexpected conclusion. The use of an unreliable narrator and the placement of red herrings are particularly masterful.

As an excellent example of Character Development and Motivation in a classic mystery, I think “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett (published in 1930) fits the bill as it showcases character development and motivation as key elements. Sam Spade, the protagonist, is a fully realized character with complex motives, and the villains have clear motivations that drive the plot forward. Relationships between characters are intricate, and the interactions are essential in unraveling the mystery.

As for Setting and Atmosphere, I will recommend “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier (published in 1938). The classic setting of the Manderley estate as a critical component of the story is very effective. The eerie and atmospheric mansion almost becomes its own character, and the descriptive language paints a vivid picture that adds to the mystery and suspense. The setting creates a gothic tone that deeply impacts the unfolding of the plot. The opening line of the story is unforgettable: “Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again.” Classic.

I held these three rules close and emulated them when writing my own work, “Mystery Of The Death Hearth”. For anyone wishing to write an effective, compelling, and engaging mystery in the classic style, I suggest dusting off a copy of each of those works to read again. Their influence can still be seen in contemporary mystery writing.

 

 

 

 

by

Surviving The Writing Experience

I have encountered many aspiring writers who face challenges while working on their manuscripts and I am one of them. Writing a book is a significant undertaking that requires discipline, patience, and perseverance. However, many writers struggle with various pitfalls that hinder their progress.

One of the most common challenges writers face is writer’s block. This occurs when the writer cannot think of new ideas or struggles to put their thoughts into words. Writer’s block can be frustrating and demotivating, leading to procrastination and loss of momentum.

I’m looking in the mirror here, so to speak, but some writers are their own worst enemy. I’m talking about that annoying condition called self-doubt. Doubting yourself and your writing abilities is, unfortunately, a hurdle writers face. It can lead to anxiety, a lack of confidence, and even writer’s block. As writers, we can struggle to believe in ourselves and our work. This can cause us to second-guess our ideas or even abandon of our projects altogether.

Making time to write can be a perpetual problem. Let’s face it, balancing writing with other responsibilities such as work, family, and social life can also be a challenge. It can be hard to find time to write consistently, and the pressure to manage multiple responsibilities can affect the quality of writing.

Looking for a solution? Fortunately, there are a few solutions to these writer’s struggles. One of the most effective ways to combat writer’s block is to take a break from writing and engage in other creative activities. This can stimulate new ideas and provide fresh perspectives. Time management is helpful–in fact, crucial. Set realistic deadlines, prioritize writing time, learn to say no to distractions. Make writing a priority. Setting a routine and writing every day can help build discipline and improve your writing skills.

Overcoming self-doubt can be tricky but victory can be achieved by focusing on your writing strengths. Don’t be so hard on yourself, we all go through it; give yourself the right to stray from the writer’s path so practice self-compassion. Try setting achievable goals and allow yourself to celebrate small victories along the way. Joining a writing group or seeking feedback from other writers can help boost confidence and provide constructive criticism.

I think with these solutions in mind, we writers and aspiring writers can overcome these hurdles and complete our manuscripts and other writing projects with confidence.

by

Popular, Basic Mystery Story Plots

In April 2022, I had a heart attack and spent ten days in the intensive care unit. I had wonderful surgeons, doctors, nurses, and staff that were professional, proficient. To them, I will always be grateful. They saved my life. While lying in recovery following surgery, I had lots of time to think. Of course, my mind went to writing and the several works in progress that languish on my computer and the notepad on my writing desk. Yes, I still use a lined notepad and pencil to jot down notes and ideas. Why? Because I do not and will not ever completely trust computers. Sorry, computer people, but if I can’t hold it in my hand, it doesn’t exist as far as I’m concerned. Anyway, while contemplating my next series of murder mystery short stories (because it seemed easier than working out the perennial writer’s-block I’m experiencing for my second murder mystery novel), I began contemplating some of the better-known murder mystery plots published through the years.

I have a short list of ten recurring plot lines and have listed examples of one or more published murder mystery stories that follow said plot. Read along. I’m sure you can think of other examples to illustrate the plot lines.

Our first murder mystery plot involves a murder that occurs in a small town or village and the local detective must solve the crime. My choice of an example is “The Moving Finger” by Agatha Christie. A small village is tormented by apparent suicides and vicious, anonymous hate letters. Miss Marple to the rescue.

Second plot:  A detective or amateur sleuth must solve a series of murders that are connected by a common thread.  “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson featuring a Swedish publisher turned amateur sleuth who solves a series of murders connected by a common thread and is a perfect fit for our example plot.

Third on the list:  A person is falsely accused of a crime and must clear their name. “Presumed Innocent” by Scott Turow features a person falsely accused and who must clear their name and so, clearly fits the bill of our number three plot.

Plot Four:  A treasure or valuable item is stolen, and the thief must be caught. Since this is part of the main plot of my Celtic murder mystery, “Mystery of the Death Hearth” I will defer instead to the classic “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle—a collection of short stories featuring the famous detective solving various mysteries; in one of them, a treasure or valuable item is stolen, and the thief must be caught. Another contender with the same plot line is, Agatha Christie’s “Theft of the Royal Ruby” with her intrepid detective, Hercule Poirot.

At number five:  A missing person case is solved by a private investigator. Let’s go for another of the classics here and select “The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler featuring a private investigator, Philip Marlowe. He’s hired to find a missing person, but the case soon becomes a complicated web of murder, blackmail, and corruption.

My sixth selection:  A serial killer is on the loose and must be caught before they strike again. “Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris featuring a serial killer who is on the loose and must be caught before they strike again. The story follows FBI agent Clarice Starling as she hunts down the infamous serial killer known as “Buffalo Bill.” I wouldn’t recommend reading this before going to bed for the night.

Number seven on the list:  A crime boss or organized crime ring is taken down by law enforcement. “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo featuring a crime boss and organized crime ring busted by law enforcement. The story is about the Corleone crime family, the patriarch Vito Corleone, his sons Michael, Fredo, and Sonny, and their criminal empire.

Our eighth plot:     A murder takes place in a closed community, such as a boarding school or monastery. Not a book, but “Murder in the Cathedral” by T.S. Eliot is a play. It’s a verse drama about the assassination of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1170. The play is set in the Cathedral, and the characters are the monks, the priests and the people who were present at the time of the murder. But if you’re not into plays, check out the book “Name of the Rose” by Italian author, Umberto Eco. That historical murder mystery is set in an Italian monastery in the year 1327. One of my personal favorites.

At number nine we have:   A detective or amateur sleuth must solve a crime that has been unsolved for years or decades. “In the Woods” by Tana French is the first book in the Dublin Murder Squad series. Here, a detective must solve a crime that has been unsolved for years. The story follows detective Rob Ryan who returns to his hometown (where he was a victim of a traumatic event as a child) to investigate a murder case that has eerie similarities with the one from his past.

Number ten:  A crime is committed on a luxury train or ship, and the suspects are all passengers or crew members. Well, of course, I’m going with the classic “Death on the Nile” by Agatha Christie. A crime is committed on a luxury ship, the S.S. Karnak, and the suspects are all passengers or crew members. The story revolves around detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates the murder of a wealthy heiress on board the ship. Another of Christie’s novels with this plot and her famous detective Poirot is “Murder on the Orient Express” which takes place on a train.

What good mystery have you read lately?

by

D-Day, June 6th, 1944

This is a picture of my dad (bottom row, center) and his B-26 Marauder crew and plane, The Deefeater, taken in England just prior to the Allied invasion of Normandy, France on June 6th, 1944. He and his crew were ten minutes out ahead of the invasion fleet bombing Nazi coastal positions and his plane-with the distinctive white invasion stripes-can be seen in war film footage of the invasion. Salute to them all! I wrote about them and this day in my book, “Storytellin’: True & Fictional Short Stories of Arkansas.”

Crew of the B-26 “The Deefeater” in England prior to June 6th, 1944, my dad is bottom row, center

by

Bradbury’s Writing Inspiration

No doubt we are living through despairing times. Many writers, myself included, find it difficult to concentrate on writing with our minds focused sharply on current events.

One of my favorite authors, Ray Bradbury, used writing as an escape. This quote by him is inspirational, even motivational.

Bradbury quote

 

 

by

Elmore Had It Right.

Slogging along on a manuscript or other piece of writing? Taking longer to finish than you expected? Exhausted trying to complete that description, paragraph, sentence, scene, dialogue, or other story element? Mr. Leonard just might have been on to something when it comes to writing.

Elmore And Writing

Elmore Leonard (October 11th, 1925 – August 20th, 2013)  was a novelist, short-story writer, and screenwriter. His earliest novels were westerns but he didn’t limit his work to that genre. Among his best-known works are “Get Shorty,” “Out of Sight,” “Hombre,” “Mr. Majestyk,” “Rum Punch” (adapted as the film “Jackie Brown”), and short stories that became the films “3:10 to Yuma” and “The Tall T,” as well as the FX television series, “Justified.” 

by

California’s New Law Affects Writers

Certified Legal Document Translation Services If you need a certified legal translation of a contract or patent, translation of litigation...

I don’t live in California but I do write and this post from Victoria Strauss at Writer Beware Blog with reference to an article from Authors Guild makes for interesting reading especially if you are an independent, free-lance writer.

This state law now requires companies to provide both protections and benefits for free-lance workers, including writers. As a result, many free-lance writers’ contracts have been terminated.

If you live in New York or New Jersey, be aware these two states are considering similar laws.

In some cases, this law also applies to book writers.

Take a moment and visit Victoria’s post to learn more.