plotting a crime novel

Well, start by brainstorming ideas for the crime. Consider motives, like revenge or money. Next, develop the characters' personalities and backstories. For example, if you have a criminal, think about what led them to commit the crime. And don't forget to plan the plot twists. These keep the readers interested.

The crime itself is key. Also, the characters, especially the detective and the criminal. And the setting where the crime takes place.

Start with an idea for the crime. It could be a theft, a murder, or something more unique like a corporate espionage case. Then, think about who the victim is. Their background and relationships will shape the story. After that, consider who might have a motive to commit the crime.

Well - developed characters are also important. The detective or the person trying to solve the crime needs to be interesting. They often have unique personalities, like Sherlock Holmes' eccentricity. And the suspects should also have their own motives and backstories that tie into the plot.

One of the key elements in plotting crime fiction is the red herring. This is something that misleads the reader and the detective in the story. It could be a false suspect or a piece of evidence that seems important but is actually a dead end. The plot also needs to build tension steadily. This can be achieved through the increasing danger to the characters involved. And the resolution of the crime has to be satisfying, tying up all the loose ends neatly.

One major difference is the length of the plot development. In a series, there is more room for extended plot arcs over multiple installments. For example, a TV series can have a season - long mystery that unfolds gradually. In a novel, the plot usually has to be more tightly contained within the length of the book. Also, in a series, characters can have more complex development across different episodes or books in the series. In a novel, character development is often more focused within the single narrative.

Both require a strong central idea. Whether it's a series like 'Breaking Bad' or a novel like 'To Kill a Mockingbird', there needs to be a core concept that drives the story forward. Also, character motivation is important in both. The characters need to have reasons for their actions, like the complex motives of the characters in the 'Sherlock' series and those in a detective novel.

To plot a mystery novel, you need to think about the mystery itself. Is it a theft, a disappearance, or something more sinister? Then, consider the characters involved. The hero should be relatable and determined. As for the plot, it should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. In the middle, keep the tension high by introducing new twists and turns. And don't forget to resolve the mystery in a satisfying way at the end.

Well, when plotting an urban fantasy novel, you need to think about the balance between the real and the fantastical. Start with a concept, like a curse that affects only those in a particular neighborhood. Then, build your characters around this concept. They should be relatable yet have some extraordinary abilities. Also, don't forget about the antagonist. It could be a powerful sorcerer who wants to take over the city.

Well, when plotting your first novel, you should do a lot of brainstorming. Jot down all the ideas that come to your mind, no matter how crazy they seem at first. Then, start organizing these ideas. You could use a mind map to connect different concepts. Another important aspect is to research your setting if it's a real - world location or a fictional world that needs some grounding in reality. This will add depth to your story.