There is a certain amount of talent that goes into writing. Then there is the rest which is experience. That’s not counting the ability to write successfully in the different genres. G. Miki Hayden know how it is to learn the trick to writing a well done mystery novel and brings it to those seeking that experience to combine with their talent in Writing the Mystery: A Start-to-Finish Guide for Both Novice and Professional.

Do you know what a mystery is? Do you know the steps to writing one? You might have a good idea or can do one pretty well, but Hayden helps to make you better at it. I loved how this book covered secrets, hints, unmasking the killer, starting the story, conflict, plot, characters, tricks of the mystery trade, and more. As an avid mystery reader, I readily agreed with them all but to apply them as a writer is a whole other matter. Knowing is one thing. Doing is another matter entirely.

If you are interested in writing mysteries, this is a book you have to read. Use it as a reference. Highlight in it. I highlighted and made notes all over the place and even dog-eared a few pages (don’t tell my teachers). There is so much valuable information in here that you’ll find yourself going back over it time and time again.

Want to write? Want to write mysteries? Want to improve on your talent? Then this is a book you have to have in your reference library.

Note: This book was purchased with my own funds. ( )