Mystery Writing-The John Keegan Mystery Series

  Wrapping Up Third and Long : Editing, Continuity, and Crafting the Keegan We Know Today Let me tell you something about editing: it’s a game of chicken between you and your manuscript. You sit there, coffee in hand (or whiskey, let’s not pretend we’re all virtuous here), daring the words to blink first. With Third and Long , I stared into the abyss of Detective John Keegan’s third retro outing and, let’s just say, the abyss gave me plenty to work with. This book, more than any before it, is about becoming . It’s the story of a younger Keegan navigating the messy road to becoming the detective we know today. But here’s the catch: when you’re writing someone’s "origin story," you’re walking a tightrope. How do you make the rookie version of a beloved character feel fresh, while still leaving breadcrumbs for the readers who know his future? Oh, and let’s not forget the continuity errors. Those little gremlins lurk in every draft, waiting for the sharp-eyed reader to pounce. Ch...

Crafting Mysteries: Writing Intrigue and Building Relationships in the Keegan Series When it comes to creating a compelling mystery series, it’s not just about the cases—it’s about the people solving them. The relationships between Detective John Keegan, his wife Pauline, their trusted allies, and the adversaries they face add depth and resonance to the series. These connections, professional and personal, form the backbone of each story, weaving together a narrative that’s as much about the people involved as it is about the crimes they unravel. The Intricacies of Relationships in the Keegan Universe Detective John Keegan is the quintessential flawed hero. He’s introspective, sarcastic, and deeply committed to his work. However, his relationships—especially with Pauline, Karl Lavin, Jacob, Captain Geiger, and Amy—are what make the series stand out. Pauline, an undercover officer and John’s wife, shares a partnership that blends humor, tension, and unwavering support. They’re not the p...