Matthew
asked
Emma Fraser:
Hi Emma! When you write your books, do you already know the endings when you begin, or do you let it unfold as you write? I'm trying to write mysteries and am not sure if I should have it all thought out first, or should start with a broad idea and go with the writing.... any advice is appreciated!
Emma Fraser
Hi Matthew
To be honest, the answer is no. I start with an idea, setting and characters and have some idea what is going to happen but the end usually remains a mystery to me. For example in the book I am writing now I have no idea how it is going to end. I want the characters to come to me so strongly that by the time I come to the end, what happens is as much of a surprise to me as to the reader. I think with mystery novels all you as the author has to do is ensure that the mystery must be solved and the reader should be thinking at the end - of course- why didn't I see that coming. If I were you I would start with the mystery (as you seem to be doing) and see how it unfolds. You may surprise yourself - in which case you will definitely surprise the reader. I hope this helps. Other authors may well know the ending of their book and have it minutely plotted before they even start to write. That wouldn't work for me.
To be honest, the answer is no. I start with an idea, setting and characters and have some idea what is going to happen but the end usually remains a mystery to me. For example in the book I am writing now I have no idea how it is going to end. I want the characters to come to me so strongly that by the time I come to the end, what happens is as much of a surprise to me as to the reader. I think with mystery novels all you as the author has to do is ensure that the mystery must be solved and the reader should be thinking at the end - of course- why didn't I see that coming. If I were you I would start with the mystery (as you seem to be doing) and see how it unfolds. You may surprise yourself - in which case you will definitely surprise the reader. I hope this helps. Other authors may well know the ending of their book and have it minutely plotted before they even start to write. That wouldn't work for me.
More Answered Questions
Orna O'Reilly
asked
Emma Fraser:
As the island of Skye is so dramatically featured in your book, did you spend much time there doing research? Or was it a favourite place to visit? You describe it wonderfully; makes me want to visit! Also, the two women characters really spring to life as strong and ambitious, yet very feminine. Are they based on women you know, or have known, personally?
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