Finding a Short Mystery Fiction Writing Community

by Paula Gail Benson

Any writing endeavor is enhanced by a supportive community. Short crime or mystery fiction has its own path to navigate. While some general writing information translates, the shorter format has its own traditions and gateways. Having someone who can help direct you is a major advantage.

Crime or mystery writing conferences often have panels that discuss short fiction. Annually, the Malice Domestic schedule always showcases the authors whose shorts were nominated for an Agatha. This year at Killer Nashville, there were presentations about writing the novella as well as the short story.

Michael Bracken has established ShortCon, a one day, in-person, limited attendance conference that meets in June in Alexandria, Virginia. The program is held at Elaine’s Restaurant and offers presentations by significant authors, editors, and publishers who provide insight for craft, submissions, and business as well as the opportunity to network closely with professionals in the short mystery fiction community.

Perhaps the best and most economical way to be informed about writing short mystery fiction is to join the Short Mystery Fiction Society (SMFS), an organization that is free of charge and online. It provides information about markets for submissions as well as guidance and help concerning both craft and business. Recently, it had two exciting announcements.

John Connor started the SMFS Mystery Magazine, which will feature members’ stories and interviews. The first issue will be available at the end of September. Check it out. Some terrific authors’ stories will be in it.

On Friday, September 19, Joseph S. Walker, current President of the Short Mystery Fiction Society and author of a story collection Crime Scenes, announced that he and Josh Pachter had signed with Shawn Simmons of Level Best Books to coedit six SMFS anthologies, with one being published each year, beginning in 2027. (This year, Josh edited Hot Shots: Celebrating Thirty Years of the Short Mystery Fiction Society, that containing one Derringer-winning story for every year from 1998, when the award was first presented, through 2025. Note: the Derringer is awarded by the SMFS for best (1) flash, (2) short short stories, (3) long short stories, (4) novelettes, and (5) anthologies. In addition, the annual Golden Derringer recognizes a career of excellence.) The plan is for anthologies published in odd-numbered years to collect the most recent two years of Derringer winners plus contributions from the two Golden Derringer winners. The anthologies published in even-numbered years will contain original stories by SMFS members, based on themes to be determined.

Check back here next Monday for more news about a free half day online program on writing the short mystery story. It’s an exciting time to be writing short fiction!