Do you ever find your self wondering what it is exactly that makes a good mystery? What is it that keeps the reader hooked?

There are many different types of mysteries out there. From the great detective hunt to the exciting police chase. These serve as puzzles leaving you guessing until the end.

Characters, settings, problems, clues, suspense and a solution are the guts of a good mystery.

When composing a good mystery there are many important parts to include. The author first will place the setting. The setting is when, where and at what time. This helps to create the atmosphere of the mystery.

Placing a time line is a necessity in a good mystery. Everything must fit properly into the time line. If the time line doesn’t fit, the interest of the reader can dwindle.

Most great mysteries reveal partial secrets along the time line. Unfolding unanswered questions or secrets will build suspense. This will not only have the reader turning the page, but can also leave the reader guessing until the end. Try to keep it fun for the audience.

Placing clues throughout the mystery is important for the reader. Readers also like to flip back through the book to see if the clues were all there.

Motive is another important part of a mystery. If the suspect doesn’t have a good motive, it can leave the mystery unbelievable.

At the end of every mystery there is a solution. The anticipated answers are brought to light. This is the part when the secrets, questions and answers are revealed.

Try to keep the mystery alive. Keep the reader guessing until the end. Ease the suspense and reveal the mystery. No one like to be left hanging.