Amateur Detectives: A Writer's Guide to How Private Citizens Solve Criminal Cases

When I first started reading Amateur Detectives, I felt that it needed much more than it offered, however as I kept reading the book kept getting better and better. As the book starts off, it talks about the history of amateur detectives, which is specifically geared towards detective novelists. I found it fascinating to learn where some very established writers got their inspiration. The biggest (and best) section of this book talks about state and federal weapon regulations. It talks about concealed fire arms as well. It was very interesting to read the different laws per state, and especially interesting to read about my own state. I really have learned a lot about the gun regulations. This section really makes up for the slow beginning of the book.

I am a beginner mystery writer & was unsure as to how my amateur sleuth would solve crimes. I have searched local bookstores for a book like this & am so glad I found it! The authors have done a remarkable job with their research and I am very appreciative. This book is a wealth of information that I won't only use in writing, but also in my personal life. I plan on buying all of the Howdunit Series because this one has been so informative. I now have an "edge" on creating a believable sleuth with reliable detective abilities thanks to this book.