Crime stories seems to be a favorite to readers- what are the key elements to writing a great crime novel? Hmm…very interesting Watson…

Crime novels seem to be the rising favorite among readers these days…this would make one think (especially an author) should I try to write one? And if so, how? I googled and found a great blog that tells us just what a novel of that would consist of, the key elements…

http://fictionwriters.wordpress.com/2008/08/17/how-to-write-a-detective-story/

There are certain rules you must follow to meet your readers' expectations- this blogger says and lists this:

1.  Introduce the crime early on, preferably within the first three chapters. It is the crime and subsequent clues that hook your reader.  The crime should be significant enough that your reader feels invested in the outcome.  Most detective stories involve a murder or kidnapping.

2. Introduce the detective and culprit early on.  You're not playing fair if you don't included the antagonist in the line up of suspects.

3.  Provide clues along the way so it is possible, though highly unlikely, that your reader could solve the case themselves.

4.  Don't provide enough clues along the way so your reader solves the case before your detective.  A detective story is a race between your protagonist and your reader.  If the reader wins, the victory will be bitter sweet.  Your readers want to be challenged, but in the end, they want to be outsmarted.

5.  Wrap up all the loose ends.  Readers will remember every red herring you threw in their direction.  If a clue wasn't relevant, make sure you provide a reason why it was included.    Each plot point must be plausible, and  the action even paced, without getting bogged down in back stories or subplots.

6.  Your detective must solve the case using logic or scientific means.  CK Chesterton wrote the following oath for all writers of detective stories: "Do you promise that your detectives shall well and truly detect the crimes presented to them using those wits which it may please you to bestow on them and not placing reliance on nor making use of Divine Revelation, Feminine Intuition, Mumbo Jumbo, Jiggery-Pokery, Coincidence, or Act of God?"

Of course reading a crime novel would help as well, pay attention to how they release their clues and the layout of their story. Want to give sleuthing a try? Go for it and good luck! Will I give it a try? Hmm…very interesting…