Do you dream of writing a mystery, thriller, or suspense novel but don't know where to start?
Have you started a crime novel but aren't sure how to finish?
Have you written one or more novels that feel flat or lacking in depth but would like to learn how to create a deeper, richer book next time?
If any of this sounds like you, this course can help.
Based on the assumption that you are the expert on your novel, the How to Write
a Crime Novel course will lead you through a series of open-ended, non-prescriptive questions and exercises that take you all the way from the seed of an idea to a finished book, or move you through a “stuck” spot in your story.
You'll learn:
- how to create a strong foundation for your novel
- create memorable characters and a compelling plot
- keep yourself motivated
- defeat your inner critic
- . . . and much more
Although a few of the lessons are exclusive to crime writing, most are applicable to any novel. So whatever your genre, whether you’re a pantser or a plotter, this nuts & bolts workshop will give you practical, step-by-step strategies to take you from the initial idea to a completed first draft.
The course consists of six modules, which you can work through at your convenience. In addition to the course videos and exercises, you'll receive a "How to Write a Novel Toolkit," complete with tips for reaching the finish line, character creation questionnaires, timeline charts, and a downloadable 30-day planner.
But that's not all.
To keep you motivated and help you reach your goal, you'll also receive a series of 30 daily motivational messages. And if you get stuck, have a question, or just need a dose of encouragement, you can always email me at jaden@jadenterrell.com, and I'll answer as soon as I can.
If you'd like to join the course, you have two payment options. You can pay $147 in full in advance or you can pay in 4 monthly installments of $49. Just scroll down to enroll. As soon as you register, you'll have lifetime access to the course materials. Should I become unable to continue the course for any reason, you'll be given an opportunity to download all course materials for your personal use.
Still not sure? Here’s what previous participants have to say:
“I’m at Starbucks with no writer’s block, thanks to you! I have a plan now! Sorry about all the exclamation points but I had been stuck for months and it’s so nice to be UNstuck!” Jan L.
“Yesterday’s workshop was so good. Every section was helpful….I attended [a well-known writing workshop] a few years ago, and they were perfectly fine, but compared to yours, they’re quite sketchy. My point is not to criticize them but to point out that you offer what fiction writers really need.” – Lynette I.
Course Curriculum
Module 1
Welcome and Overview
Foundation Steps - What's Your Sub-Genre. and What Do you Know?
Crystalizing Your Idea
Module 2
Your Protagonist/Main Character
Desires, Drives, Obstacles, and Conflicts
Module 3
Your Antagonist
Anatomy of the Crime
Suspects, Sleight of Hand, and Red Herrings
Module 4
Supporting Cast
Settings
Module 5
Storyboarding Your Novel
Scene Structure
Module 6
Ready to Write
Tips and Tricks for Writing a Novel in 30 Days without Losing Your Mind
How to Write a Crime Novel Toolkit:
- Guidebook
- Planner
- Reward Chart
- Motivational Printable Poster

Jaden Terrell
Instructor
About the instructor
Jaden Terrell is a Shamus Award finalist and the author of the internationally published, Nashville-based Jared McKean private detective mysteries. She's a contributor to the International Thriller Writers' Big Thrill online magazine and to Now Write! Mysteries, a collection of writing exercises published by Tarcher/Penguin for writers of crime fiction.
Terrell is a recipient of several awards for service to the crime writing community, including the 2017 Killer Nashville Builder Award and two awards for service to the Southeast Chapter of Mystery Writers of America (SEMWA): the 2009 Magnolia Award and the 2017 Silver Quill Award.
A former special education teacher with thirty years of experience as a teacher and trainer, Terrell is a writing coach and consultant who also teaches workshops on the craft and business of writing fiction. Contact her at: http://www.jadenterrell.com.