Why I write mysteries…

Tip of the Day: Deena and I switched it up a bit this week and posted on opposite days...in case anyone wondered what's going on :)

I’d like to think there’s a big, great explanation for why I write YA and MG mysteries. Most TV cops always seem to have a compelling story as to why they entered law enforcement, usually because of the murder of a loved one. Luckily, that never happened to me as a child. Instead, my bookshelves were always filled with Nancy Drew and The Boxcar Children books.

My inquisitive nature probably started from reading many of those books.
Now, mysteries are pretty much the only story ideas that I get, which is why I write them (easy enough reason, right?). Primarily because for the life of me I wouldn’t know how to fill an entire book of just romance, even though I’m insanely jealous of authors that can make it work. And sometimes you just have to stick with what feels right as a writer.

For research, sometimes it’s hard for me to find YA mysteries that are light enough for me in tone, which is why I’m always looking for a good read. In the next few weeks, I’ll share some of my favorite teen mysteries and upcoming ones I’m looking forward to.

Up first is one of my favorite YA mysteries:
• Bad Kitty by Michele Jaffe- I know probably everyone has read this already, but I still had to mention it. I love this book. It made me laugh out loud and had a great light-hearted mystery.

But I loved it so much, I'm amazed I haven't already rushed to read Michele's latest YA Mystery, Rosebush. But it's on my to be read list and this blog post might have prompted me to move it up the list. I'll have to let you know how it is.

--Emily