Why Detective Writing Needs Structure
Most people think detective stories are about clever twists. That's part of it, but the real craft lives in how you lay out information. Too much at once and readers feel patronized. Too little and they lose interest.
We've spent years studying what works – from golden age mysteries to modern procedurals. The patterns are consistent. Good crime fiction respects the reader's intelligence while guiding them through a puzzle that feels fair.
Learn to balance clues with red herrings so your solution surprises but never cheats
Develop detective characters who feel authentic rather than quirky for the sake of it
Understand pacing – when to reveal information and when to hold back
