Writing a series

Writers may use several methods for tracking their characters and plot lines for a series. Some prefer Scrivener or spreadsheets to track their story. Others, myself included, are Luddites and stick to notebooks chock full of notes and research.

When I write a novel, I create what I affectionately call my “murder book.” I have the printed pages of the novel that need editing in the front followed by a tab for each character. With each character, I list their role, relationships with others in the novel, motive for murder (if a suspect) and other supporting details. I have a tab for the victim and how each person relates to him/her. I have a tab for the crime itself and all clues that need to be revealed throughout the novel in order for the detective (and the reader!) to solve the crime.

Chapter One of Murder at the Bijou Theater

I create a sketch of the town, or if it is a real location, I include a map of the area. For example, I’m currently working on a 1920s mystery set in Richmond. I printed out a map of the city from that time period. I also found a home in Zillow that is similar to where my main character, Evie, would have lived in as a middle class woman in 1922. I printed pictures of the interior and use that as a guide for writing scenes.

Next, I have a tab for slang, clothing, cars of the 1920s, and other relevant research so that I can easily reference the information.

Newspaper article for research
Article from 1922 Richmond Times-Dispatch

My murder takes place in a theater that is now the home of the Library of Virginia. I had a difficult time locating interior shots of the theater before it was torn down. I contacted the state archives, and an archivist found blueprints from a theater that was nearby and sent me photographs of the prints so I could understand what the interior layout might have been. Those photos are now printed and in the murder book.

My final tab is for plain college-ruled notebook paper. This is where I can scribble ideas and keep track of them for later inclusion in the novel.

I’m always fascinated by authors’ various methods of writing and compiling information and notes. I hope this gives you a small glimpse into the world of a mystery writer.

Loading

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.