Writing During the Halloween Season with Mystery and Suspense author Krista Wagner
What was it that inspired you to write stories of the mystery and suspense genres?
I have always enjoyed watching and reading both mysteries & suspense. I love the growing intrigue and guesswork involved, and being able to move characters through a maze of uncertainty and the unexpected.
Do you tend to read a lot of books in these two genres or do you have another genre that is your favorite?
Suspense and mystery are my favorite.
When writing a suspense (or even a mystery) story, do you ever find yourself getting caught up in the events and feeling afraid despite not being in any real danger?
Actually, a little bit, yes. A lot of what I write occurs suddenly (as I am continuing a scene), so sometimes I surprise myself!
Are you the type of person who likes to be scared?
Only when watching a movie, not in real life.
Do you find that writing during this time of year (around the Halloween season) helps to inspire your craft?
Indeed. Spooky seasons, spooky story elements.
What type of things, in general, inspire you to write a story?
“Meeting” new characters and watching them go through some uncertain situations while knowing they will find victory over any darkness.
Is there any specific part of Halloween that helps you in the creative process of writing?
The scary stuff can have such a profound effect on us emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
Is there any advice you would give authors writing during this time of year?
To let themselves get personal with their characters–really get to know them. That way, when they face whatever they have to deal with, you will know how they will respond to it, what they are capable and incapable of doing.
Krista Wagner
Krista Wagner has been creating stories since she was seven and is best known for her mystery and suspense novels. Krista reaches into those chasms of darkness, dealing with themes of betrayal and deception and hope, with intriguing characters and intense story lines. All her books are for young adult and up.
