Classic literature can be a great source. Names from detective novels like 'Hercule' from Agatha Christie's works. Mythology is also good. For example, 'Athena' could be a strong, intelligent female character's name. And historical figures. Names like 'Caesar' can add a sense of grandeur and mystery.
Movies and TV shows can be a source of inspiration. For example, the name 'Mulder' from 'The X - Files' has a certain mystery to it. Travel brochures or books about different places can also give you ideas. If you read about a place like Transylvania, you might get names like 'Vlad' or 'Irina'. Also, consider using the names of constellations like 'Orion' or 'Cassiopeia' for your characters. They have a celestial and somewhat mysterious quality that can enhance your mystery story characters.
One good source is different languages. French names like 'Léonie' or 'René' can give a sophisticated and mysterious feel. Another source is nature. Names like 'Thorn' or 'Misty' can be used to create an air of mystery around a character. You can also look at old family names in your own family tree. They might have an interesting backstory and can add depth to your character. And don't overlook street names. Sometimes, a street name can be transformed into a unique character name.
Mythology is a really popular source. Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies are full of great names like Zeus, Athena, Thor, and Loki. Another source is literature. Classic books often have interesting names that can be adapted. For example, 'Scarlett' from 'Gone with the Wind' could inspire a fantasy character name. And of course, nature. As I said before, names from nature like 'Willow' or 'Fox' are always good for a fantasy character.
One great source is historical records. You can find names from different eras in history books or online archives. Old census records, for example, can provide a wealth of unique names that were popular in the past. These names can add authenticity to a story set in a particular historical period.
Some good names could be 'The Enigmatic Shadow', 'Mystery at Midnight', 'The Vanishing Clue'.
Some names like 'The Hidden Truth', 'The Mysterious Disappearance', and 'The Puzzle of the Old House' are great for mystery stories. They give a sense of intrigue and secrecy, which are key elements in mystery stories. For example, 'The Hidden Truth' makes readers wonder what that truth is and what events are leading to its discovery.
How about 'The Riddle of the Silent Forest' or 'The Mystery of the Vanishing Island'? These names create an atmosphere of mystery and make the reader curious to know what's going on.
Literature is a great source. You can borrow names from classic novels, like 'Scarlett' from 'Gone with the Wind'. Movies can also be a source, for example, 'Neo' from 'The Matrix'.
Art can provide some interesting name ideas. Think about the names of famous paintings or sculptures. For example, the name 'Mona' from the 'Mona Lisa' could be a starting point. Also, consider the names of musicians or bands. If your character is a bit of a rebel, a name inspired by a punk rock band might work well. You can also look at different alphabets and scripts. Translating a simple word into another alphabet and using that as a name can be really unique.
Myths and legends are great sources. Names from Greek mythology like 'Apollo' or 'Athena' are well - known and can add a sense of grandeur. Another source is nature. Names like 'River' or 'Sky' can give a character a connection to the natural world.
Mythology is a common source. Names from Greek, Norse, or Egyptian mythology like 'Athena', 'Thor', or 'Isis' can be used directly or adapted. Another source is literature. Classic works often have unique names that can be borrowed. For example, 'Gandalf' from 'The Lord of the Rings'. Also, different cultures around the world provide a wealth of name options. Asian cultures, for instance, have many beautiful and meaningful names.
You could use names like 'Detective Blackwood'. It gives an air of mystery and professionalism. Another option is 'Victim Vale'. The alliteration makes it catchy and it clearly indicates a key element of the story. Or 'Murderer Malone', which is a bit more straightforward and can create an immediate sense of intrigue.