Renowned author Alex Finlay recently enchanted young minds at the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2023 during an engaging session titled “Unlocking Mysteries.” Best known for his captivating mysteries, Finlay generously shared his secrets to creating spellbinding tales, especially for budding young writers.

In his interactive session, Finlay, the creative force behind the popular book 'What Have We Done,' not only imparted invaluable techniques but also signed copies of his latest work, adding a personal touch to the literary event.

Drawing from his vast experience, Finlay advised aspiring authors to avoid overwhelming their stories with excessive details, emphasizing the importance of keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

"Think of writing a mystery like leaving a trail of breadcrumbs," Finlay enthused, citing insights from his interviews with over 70 successful authors. He encouraged young writers to gradually unveil information about characters, sparking curiosity and maintaining a brisk pace throughout their stories.

Crucially, Finlay cautioned against the dreaded "information dump," urging newcomers to resist the temptation of inundating readers with unnecessary details or research. "This is a thriller," he emphasized, stressing the need to keep readers hooked through mystery and enigma rather than drowning them in information.

Emphasizing the discipline required in the writing process, Finlay shared a valuable tip for young authors: "Pen one page a day, no matter what." He assured them that this consistent effort, even on days when creativity feels elusive, would lead to a completed book by year-end. By breaking down the writing process into manageable tasks, Finlay aimed to alleviate the pressure for young writers, encouraging them to enjoy the journey of storytelling.

In conclusion, Alex Finlay's guidance serves as a beacon for budding wordsmiths, offering a roadmap to crafting compelling mysteries that captivate readers' imaginations.