1. And Then There Were None What is a mystery??

2. The “Smoking Gun” Beginning  Usually starts with a scenario that grabs readers’ attention and interest—and holds their attention and interest throughout the story.

3. Who did it?  Each character has a motive for the terrible thing that took place (such as a murder), and the means to carry out the crime.

4. The Candlestick in the Billiard Room  Clues—they build anticipation and expectations  “Red Herrings”—are clues about a character that turn out to be erroneous; false clues which lead the reader down the wrong path

5. A “Cozy” Mystery  This genre of mystery novels is Agatha Christie’s specialty.  A “cozy” mystery is one in which the setting takes place at a secluded location (a small, cozy setting).  The location is far enough, or secluded enough, from civilization to make the characters isolated from the rest of the world.  a secluded island  a river boat  a train  a cabin deep in the Rocky Mountains