Is email marketing dead? Not if you want to be a successful mystery author. This week's episode dives into the essentials of creating an email list and then engaging regularly with your readers. Then, in the craft section, the technical aspects of writing police procedurals - maintaining authenticity without drowning your readers in boring info-dumps.

Today, I'm addressing something rarely discussed but vitally important: self-care for writers who regularly immerse themselves in the darker aspects of human experience.

In this episode I am tackling two essential topics for crime authors: creating a killer website and mastering the art of the locked room mystery.

In the first part of the episode, I'll explore why having a strong online presence is crucial for authors in today's digital age. I'll share tips on what elements to include on your website, how to optimize it for discoverability, and whether you should consider outsourcing the design process.

Then, I'll shift gears and delve into the fascinating world of locked room mysteries. As a first-time author tackling this complex sub-genre, you'll learn valuable tips for crafting an impossible crime, establishing fair play with your readers, planting clues, and developing a satisfying solution.

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Beyond the predictable gun or knife lies a world of creative murder weapons that can set your mystery apart. Today, let's explore how to create truly memorable murder weapons that enhance your story rather than just serve its mechanical needs.

As a self-published author, getting your book into brick-and-mortar stores can feel like a daunting task. After all, you don't have a big publishing house behind you, with sales reps and distribution channels at the ready. But with a little bit of research, preparation, and professionalism, you can absolutely get your book onto those coveted bookstore shelves.

In the craft section, I'll give my best tips to help revitalize that "saggy middle" of your mystery novel.

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We've all been there—inspiration strikes while you're in the shower, driving, or just about to fall asleep. A brilliant murder scenario unfolds in your mind, but by the time you can properly write it down, the magic has faded. Today, I'm sharing my 5-minute plotting technique to capture those fleeting moments of murderous inspiration.

Today’s theme is all about the long game for your writing career. In this world of instant gratification and living in the present, making long term plans for anything sounds dull, I know. And marketing can feel like the bane of a writer's existence. We'd much rather be crafting twisty plots and compelling characters than hawking our wares on social media. But the truth is, if you want to build a sustainable career as a crime fiction author, you can't afford to ignore the business side of things.

In the craft segment, I’m talking about a decision that will directly affect your marketing efforts is this: will you write standalone crime novels or a series of novels featuring the same characters?

Welcome to Midweek Murder Motivation, a bite-sized burst of inspiration for crime fiction writers. In just five minutes, we'll explore one aspect of crafting compelling murder mysteries that will keep your readers turning pages. So grab your notebook, silence your inner critic, and let's talk about the delightful art of literary homicide. This week, embracing your dark side.