Get Writing Podcast

Episode 125: Map Your Mystery: 6 Narrative Structures That Keep Readers Turning Pages

14 Aug 2025

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One of my rescue pups is reactive. On walks I have to plan the route—wide sidewalks, clear sight lines, a couple of escape options—so we keep moving even when surprises pop up. The dayI realized my best walks work like that because I’ve mapped them, it clicked: my best drafts work the same way.When I map the story—Midpoint, All Is Lost, Final Reveal—I don’t get yanked around by every shiny idea. That’s the energy behind this episode.I’m breaking down six narrative roadmaps I use with mystery writers: Save the Cat Writes a Novel, the Hero’s Journey, the Heroine’s Journey, Dan Harmon’s Story Circle, the Snowflake Method, and Story Genius. I share when each one shines, how I mix them, and exactly where to plant clues so tension climbs instead of puddling in the middle.Grab the companion:I made a free, fillable PDF—Map Your Mystery—so you can try the frameworks on your WIP today.👉 Download here.What you’ll learn• A one-question fit test for each framework so you can pick what matches your brain• How I place the Midpoint and All Is Lost in mysteries (and what actually goes there)• A simple hybrid I love: Save the Cat (external beats) + Story Genius (internal engine)• Quick fixes when the middle sags, the stakes feel low, or the finale won’t landLinks & resources• 🎁 Free PDF: Five Key Decisions Cheat Sheet – snag it here.• 📚 Pre-order Cat Café #9, Claws Out, out August 28!• ✨ Ready to go deeper? Join the waitlist for my Mindful Mystery Writer’s Masterclass and get on the path to a sustainable writing life. Doors open soon—don’t miss it! Get on the waitlist here.• Instagram (tag me with your beat sheet): @lizmugaveroNote: Framework names are used for educational purposes. “Save the Cat!”® is a registered trademark of Blake Snyder Enterprises, LLC.Spread the WordIf today’s episode resonated, leave a quick rating or share it with your writing group—every star helps another writer find the show.

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3ª PARTE | 17 DIC 2025 | EL PARTIDAZO DE COPE

01 Jan 1970

El Partidazo de COPE

13:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

12:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

10:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

13:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

12:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

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Get Writing Podcast

Episode 125: Map Your Mystery: 6 Narrative Structures That Keep Readers Turning Pages

This episode hasn't been transcribed yet

Other recent transcribed episodes

3ª PARTE | 17 DIC 2025 | EL PARTIDAZO DE COPE

13:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

12:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

10:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

13:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

12:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

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