Wide-open spaces can be just as dangerous as dark alleys. In this panel, authors discuss why they set their mysteries in the great outdoors, drawing inspiration from their hometowns, landscapes, and natural environments. They explore how wilderness settings heighten suspense, shape character choices, and turn nature itself into an active force in the story.
Putting Your Protagonist Through Hell
Great stories often begin when a protagonist’s world falls apart. In this session, authors discuss how placing characters in difficult and dangerous situations drives plot, reveals character, and creates the emotional tension that keeps readers invested.
