Setting within a Setting

As mystery writers, we are trained to place our sleuths within a distinctive milieu that becomes a character in itself. Whether it’s a small town, a neighborhood in a big city, or a regional locale, this setting imbues our stories with a unique flavor. Then we assign an occupation to our sleuth that further extends this world.

Recently, I realized that for each story, we add another circle. Think of concentric circles each enclosing the other with the sleuth in the center.

In watching traditional mysteries on TV, I’ve noticed how each show focuses on a narrow group of people, same as we do in a cozy mystery novel. It’s easy when we pick a setting with built-in suspects. Here are some ideas in no particular order:

Bookstore

Craft Emporium, Gift Shop

County Fair, Crafts Fair

Classes—Cooking, Crafts, Dance, Yoga, Acting, Quilting

Charity Organization, Fundraisers

Competition—Art Show, Bake-Off, Sports Tournament

Health Care—Clinic, Doctor’s office, Dentist, Hospital

Food—Catering, Cookie Store, Coffee Shop, Restaurant, Chefs, Winery, Farm

Library

Museum or Historical Site

Theatrical Performance, Circus, Carnival, Concert, Live Stage Show

Holiday Event, Parade, Christmas Sale, Fourth of July Committee

Trade Show

School or College

Sports Team

Party, Wedding, Celebration

Bank, Financial Center, Insurance Agency

Transportation—Car Dealership, Bus Trip, Train, Road Trip

Tour Group

Cruise Ship, Private Charter Yacht

Hotel or Resort

Beauty Care—Salon, Day Spa, Wellness Clinic

Book Club, Knitting Club, Gourmet Club, Bridge Club

Conference or Convention

Anyway, you get the gist. Tell us where you’ve set your latest novel or where you might like to see one take place.

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