My theme for this week's episode is clues – clues for your readers. Not only within your novel – and that’s the topic of this week’s writing craft segment, but also clues to help your readers find your book in the first place.

In today's digital age, getting your crime novel noticed online can feel like trying to solve a case with no leads. With millions of books vying for readers' attention, it's crucial to make sure your novel stands out from the crowd. And one of the most effective ways to do that is by choosing the right keywords and categories.

By understanding and incorporating the motives and minds of the perpetrators, authors can elevate their crime fiction to new heights, creating stories that not only entertain but also provide profound insights into human nature.

I also chat about the importance of book covers and share a personal update about my own books. Show notes available on my website

Who loves writing a blurb? No, me neither. But it's essential to have a great blurb to attract readers of your fabulous story. How else will they know how great it is? So today, I'll run through a few tips to help your create something compelling to resonate with readers - and get them to buy!

And in the craft section - who is telling your story? Depends on the perspective, or POV you choose. There are pros and cons for each choice, so have a listen and think carefully!

As ever, notes on the website, and if you prefer to watch, please like and subscribe on my youtube channel.

In this week's episode, in the writing craft section, we'll do a deep dive into how we can leverage the location and setting in our novels to create atmosphere and suspense. Plus, how networking and attending author conferences can help us sell more books and build a support network. After all, writing can be a lonely occupation!

In Part 1 of this two part look at plot twists, we covered some classic techniques that are sure to keep your readers on the edge of their seats. But why stop there? In this instalment, we're going to delve into some more advanced strategies for crafting truly unforgettable twists and turns.

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Plot twists should leave your readers gasping in surprise.

“I never saw that coming” is the reaction you should be looking for.

Essentially, a plot twist is an unexpected turn of events that catches the reader off guard and changes their perception of the story. Think of it like a magician's sleight of hand – you think you know what's happening, but then BAM! The rug is pulled out from under you, and you're left reeling.

Now, there are countless ways to incorporate plot twists into your crime fiction, but let's focus on a few tried-and-true techniques and next week we’ll continue.

Conflict is the beating heart of any unforgettable crime novel, the spark that ignites the imagination and keeps readers enthralled until the final page. In this deep dive into the craft of writing, we explore the psychology behind why conflict is so essential and the techniques that master crime writers use to create stories that pulse with tension and suspense.

From the inner turmoil of flawed and relatable characters to the heart-pounding stakes of a deadly cat-and-mouse game, conflict takes many forms in crime fiction. We delve into the nuances of crafting internal and external conflict, and how the interplay between the two can elevate a story from merely entertaining to truly unforgettable.

When it comes to crafting a compelling crime fiction story, a lot of attention is often given to the protagonist – the detective, the investigator, or the everyday hero who cracks the case. But let's not forget about the other key player in this genre: the villain. A well-written, authentic villain can take your story from good to great, adding depth, tension, and a worthy adversary for your main character to face off against.