Plotting and Writing Suspense Fiction (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780312286668)

Patricia Highsmith, author of Strangers On a Train, The Talented Mr.Ripley, Found In The Street, and many other books, is known as one of the finest suspense novelists. In this book, she analyzes the key elements of suspense fiction, drawing upon her own experience in four decades as a working writer. She talks about, among other topics; how to develop a complete story from an idea; what makes a plot gripping; the use (and abuse) of coincidence; characterization and the "likeable criminal"; going from first draft to final draft; and writing the suspense short story.
Throughout the book, Highsmith illustrates her points with plentiful examples from her own work, and by discussing her own inspirations, false starts, dead ends, successes, and failures, she presents a lively and highly readable picture of the novelist at work.

Anyone who wishes to write crime and suspense fiction, or who enjoys reading it, will find this book an insightful guide to the craft and art of a modern master.

Author: Patricia Highsmith
ISBN-10: 031228666X
ISBN-13: 9780312286668
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Language: English
Published: 09/08/2001
Pages: 160
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.35lbs
Size: 8.10h x 5.50w x 0.50d

Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 09/15/2001 pg. 90
Publishers Weekly 08/06/2001