In a new blog post, mystery writer Zara Altair says that while your mystery sleuth may not have a traditional character arc – need + plot = change – you can still create a satisfying story path if you know what makes your hero tick.
“You can deepen the character and make events in the story feel emotionally challenging by matching character traits and obstacles opposite to the trait to elicit an understanding of your character for your reader,” Altair explains. “As you put together your protagonist’s strengths and weaknesses, you are also setting up ways to challenge your sleuth by playing off those strengths and weaknesses.”
Altair shares some suggestions, such as creating characters who have opposing traits or turning your sleuth’s strengths into weaknesses. When you craft various physical or emotional weaknesses, make sure your plot gives you an opportunity to punch your sleuth where it hurts.
