Mary Stewart's Wildfire at Midnight
In this episode of Tart Words, we’re discussing Mary Stewart’s book Wildfire at Midnight and how she uses setting, genre, and plot in this story about mountain worship taken to the extreme.
It was first published in 1956 by Hodder & Stoughton and is now available in ebook editions.
Description from Amazon:
The tense, twisty murder mystery which will have you on the edge of your seat, from the author of Madam, Will You Talk?
Following a heart-breaking divorce, Gianetta retreats to the Isle of Skye hoping to find tranquility in the island's savage beauty.
But shortly before her arrival a girl's body is found on the craggy slopes of the looming Blue Mountain, and with the murderer still on the loose, there's nothing to stop him from setting his sights on Gianetta next . . .
Takeaway for writers:
Wildfire at Midnight is set in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. Gianetta Brook escapes the frenzy of London during Coronation Week and her busy life as a model in favor of the peace and quiet at a hotel on the remote Isle of Skye. Using the bustle of London to contrast with the remote quiet of Skye, Mary Stewart infuses menace in every aspect of the unfamiliar setting for Gianetta.
The Gothic aspect of romantic suspense is used to good effect to ratchet up the tension. Nicholas and Gianetta’s past relationship adds to the suspense as she wonders if he could be the killer, and if she’s safe if he is – or in more danger.
The plot moves from country inn to the mountains to the river and the boggy ground nearby, all within walking distance of the hotel. The hotel provides a false sense of security against the danger inherent in the mountains, where one death has already occurred and more will follow.
Exercises for writers:
Setting – How does the setting enhance your story? Do you have more than one setting, and if so, how do the different settings compare to each other? Do you use one as a counterpoint to the other?
Genre – How do you use reader expectations of your genre to surprise and delight your readers? After you’ve gotten the first draft complete, can you edit for maximum suspense?
Plot – How have you established your plot to keep the reader from guessing who the killer is? Do you have red herrings and clues that lead your reader in one direction, while you keep the killer in front of them?