1. The Mystery:
* What's the central puzzle? A missing person? A stolen treasure? A secret society?
* Who is involved? A lone detective? A group of friends? A family with secrets?
* What's the setting? A bustling city? A remote island? A haunted mansion?
2. The Starting Point:
* The hook: What catches the protagonist's attention and draws them into the mystery? A strange letter? A mysterious symbol? An unexpected disappearance?
* The first clue: A piece of evidence, a cryptic message, or a suspicious observation that sets the protagonist on the path of investigation.
Example:
Mystery: A renowned archaeologist vanishes during an expedition in the Amazon rainforest, leaving behind a cryptic message and a strange artifact.
Starting Point:
* Hook: A journalist receives a mysterious package containing the artifact and the archaeologist's cryptic message, demanding her help in finding him.
* First clue: The artifact is a small, intricately carved stone with an inscription in an unknown language.
To Start Your Mystery:
1. Brainstorm ideas. Think about your favorite mysteries, genres you enjoy, and what kind of story you want to tell.
2. Choose a central puzzle. What question will drive the plot forward?
3. Develop your characters. Who are the key players in your mystery? What are their motivations?
4. Decide on a setting. Where will your mystery unfold?
5. Create a compelling hook. How will your protagonist be drawn into the mystery?
6. Plant your first clue. What piece of information will set your protagonist on the right path?
Remember: The most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity flow! Start with the foundation of your mystery and build from there.
What kind of mystery are you envisioning? What are some ideas you have for your hook and your first clue? I'm excited to see where your imagination takes you!