Many people who read mysteries often express their desire to write them. After warning them that writing can be a hazardous pursuit (LOL! but seriously, folks . . .), I try to think of tips and resources I can share.
One such resource you might want to check out is Rob Walker’s Web site: Dirty Deeds – Mystery/Suspense Author’s Advice. About his blog, Rob says, “Get down and dirty advice from a professional on how writing gets done and sold from an author who has sold over 50 novels and short stories. The blog is going to walk you through my writing of my next novel – PlagueShip Titanic – warts, bumps, mistakes, successes and all.” (Holy sh*t, 50 novels and stories?? That’s an amazing number.)
And while I’m in an advisory mode, I’d recommend reading as many mysteries (in the subgenre of your choice, natch) as you can and taking a class at your local community college and/or reading a book like Carolyn Wheat’s HOW TO WRITE KILLER FICTION. (Great book! I’ve read it and refer to it frequently.)
Plus, it always helps to get to know other authors who write mysteries at a more personal level. So, if you can find a group or organization that’ll help you form those sort of contacts, I’d join them, too.
This would include organizations like Sisters in Crime (which accepts brother members, as well) and the Mystery Writers of America. Both these groups have local chapters all over the country.
And don’t just stop with mystery organizations, because there are plenty of groups for writers out there, including American Independent Writers, The Authors Guild and the National Writers Union.
Well, look at me. I started off talking about Rob Walker and this turned into quite the rambling post.
Because when you come down to it, there are so many Web sites and resources for writers, I couldn’t begin to list them all. But keep an eye on my blogroll, because I’ll do my best to keep it updated with interesting entries like Rob’s blog. Because if authors should do anything, it’s share information. So, I am.
One last bit of advice. Start writing. Just do it. And keep doing it . . .