Mystery writer John Gilstrap takes you through the process of developing a spine-tingling page-turner from concept to completion using writing exercises and discussion. By seminar’s end, you’ll be on your way to writing fiction with a criminally clever twist.

Please bring pencil and paper.

10 to to 11:15 a.m. Putting Pen to Paper

How to create a believable plot and keep suspense high throughout the narrative.

11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Creating Compelling Characters

Mystery fans are tough. They may forgive a faulty plot device but never one without a character to love—and maybe one to hate.

12:45 to 2 p.m. Lunch

Participants provide their own lunch.

2 to 3:15 p.m. Draft No. 2 of 30

The practical side of structural decision-making; using an outline; gathering facts; knowing when to stop polishing details.

3:30 to 4:30 p.m. After It Is Finally Done

Finding the right agent; pros and cons of self-publishing.