What makes a well written mystery novel?

Well - developed characters are crucial. Just like in a good mystery novel, characters should have their own motives, secrets, and backstories. In 'Sherlock Holmes' stories, Holmes' brilliant mind and Watson's loyalty add depth to the narrative. Their interactions also help in unraveling the mystery.

A well - written crime novel often has a strong plot. It should be full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the end. For example, in 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie, the plot is masterfully crafted.

A well - written horror novel often has a great sense of atmosphere. For example, in 'The Shining', Stephen King creates a feeling of isolation and dread in the Overlook Hotel. The setting is like a character itself. Another factor is the characters. They need to be believable so that the reader can care about what happens to them. In 'Dracula', the characters' reactions to the vampire are what make the story so engaging. Also, the pacing is important. A good horror novel builds suspense slowly and then has moments of intense horror, like in 'The Exorcist' where the possession scenes are gradually more and more terrifying.

A good plot and interesting characters are key. The story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end that keeps you engaged.

The setting can also play a crucial role. If it's described vividly, it can enhance the mood of the romance. In 'Red, White & Royal Blue', the political settings add an interesting layer to the love story between the two main characters.

The plot also matters. It should be more than just a simple love story. In 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks, the plot is not only about the love between Noah and Allie, but also about memory, family and the passage of time. This adds layers to the romance.

Character development is key. In a well - written vampire romance, the characters, both human and vampire, should be multi - dimensional. For example, in 'Twilight', Bella is not just a damsel in distress. She has her own desires and thoughts. And Edward, the vampire, has his internal struggles with his nature.

Well, in a well - written ghost story, the pacing is crucial. It should build up the suspense slowly. Start with a little unease, then gradually increase the tension until it reaches a climax. And the mystery element is important too. The ghost or the supernatural element should not be fully explained, leaving some room for the reader's imagination. For example, in 'The Turn of the Screw', the ambiguity about whether the ghosts are real or just in the governess's mind makes it so fascinating. Additionally, the use of foreshadowing can enhance the story. Little hints here and there that something spooky is about to happen can keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

A well - written OC fanfiction often has a well - developed original character. The character should have a clear personality, goals, and backstory. Also, it should fit well within the existing universe of the original work. For example, if it's a Harry Potter OC fanfiction, the character's magic abilities and Hogwarts house should make sense in the context of the wizarding world.

A compelling plot. Instead of just rehashing the same events as the original books, it should offer something new. Maybe it's a different villain or a new way for the characters to meet their challenges. Like a fanfiction where the Volturi are facing an internal power struggle and the Cullens get involved in a different way than in the original story.