The mystery novel is one of America 's most popular forms of fiction. The suspense, the intrigue, the mystery of it--so very compelling. But how is it done? I often read a mystery thriller and am astounded at the plot twists and character surprises, and I sometimes wonder how the author ever wrote it. On this webpage, I give you resources and advice on how to write a mystery.

Here are some tips on writing a mystery:

• Research. Do the necessary research on your mystery book. You need to include real and believable details and know what you're talking about; otherwise, people just won't listen to what you have to say.

• Outline the Content and Characters. You need to create a bulletproof and compelling plot to your mystery story. The structure of the story must iron-clad. Develop and understand your characters and the roles they play in your book. Make them memorable but real.

• Write with a Quota. This is critical. Writing a whole mystery book is too much to swallow at once. Give yourself a daily quota to fulfill, and then write that amount every day, no matter how long it takes. My suggestion is to write 3 pages a day.

• Revise. It has been said that true writing is re-writing. Nothing I ever write--even the simplest email--is the way I want it the first time around. Get good at editing your own work, revising it, re-writing it. Go over your writing content multiple times.

• Feedback. Getting quality feedback is extremely beneficial to improving your mystery, whether it is from a smart, trusted friend or loved one, or a professional writer or editor. Listen and be open-minded. They may see inaccuracies and unwanted twists where you do not.

I highly recommend a few excellent books and guides on mystery novels and how to write a great mystery:

Writing Mysteries: A Handbook by the Mystery Writers of America. In this book, a score of professional mystery writers teach the ins and outs of writing a successful mystery novel. They teach they finer points of constructing an unforgettable plot and compelling characters, choosing a point of view, infallible structure, dialogue that works, and rippling pacing.

You Can Write a Mystery. This guide defines the mystery genre, concentrating on core elements of the category, from developing ideas and building character profiles to researching crimes and selecting point of view. It teaches how to construct an outline filled with hooks, cliffhangers, intriguing characters and red herrings. It also offers expert advice for editing, revising and submitting a top-notch manuscript.

How to Write a Damn Good Mystery. This book is a step-by-step guide for anyone who's ever dreamed of writing a good mystery. In an entertaining, accessible style, it presents a concrete pattern for plotting the story while transforming the process into more than a formulaic exercise.

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