Reading a mystery with two authors

[Glenda]

I am reading The Chase by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg, both excellent writers with a sense of humor. I often find myself asking who wrote what. Do you know how these combo mysteries work?

Glenda Carroll

[David]

I think it depends on the authors.

When a friend and I started to write a collaborative mystery, we alternated chapters, often ending our work on a cliffhanger or twist for the other to resolve. Sadly, life prevented us from finishing the book, but I hope some day we can get back to it.

I believe James Patterson gives his co-authors an outline of the story and they flesh it out.

[Skye]

I also know that JT Ellis and Catherine Coulter co-author an FBI series.

[Glenda]

Quillracer wrote: "I think it depends on the authors.

When a friend and I started to write a collaborative mystery, we alternated chapters, often ending our work on a cliffhanger or twist for the other to resolve. S..."

I can't figure out who wrote what. So seamless.

[Kimiko]

I've read several books with more than one author. What matters to me is how the story reads. If it flows seamlessly, I frankly do not care who-wrote-what section as long as the enjoyment of the book is the end goal. Don't you think?

[Glenda]

Agree. Just curious about who does what.

[Kimiko]

Glenda wrote: "Agree. Just curious about who does what."

You might want to read "MatchUp" edited by Lee Child. It's a collection of short stories where they pair up authors. He gives a forward explaining how the authors "wrote" together to complete their stories. Fascinating...and the stories are all great crime stories too.

[Glenda]

Sounds really good. Thanks so much. I appreciate it.

[Skye]

Kimiko, that sounds interesting.

[Prakash]

Glenda wrote: "I am reading The Chase by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg, both excellent writers with a sense of humor. I often find myself asking who wrote what. Do you know how these combo mysteries work?

Gle..."

An English language teacher had given an assignment on what she called a tandem story to Grade 12 students. Their efforts quickly degenerated but she gave them both high marks for the final result. The article is here.