Friday Plot Swap

March 4, 2011 Dawn Alexander

Friday Plot Swap

Dawn's Plot Swap

Have a plot? Leave one

Need a plot ? Take one

As a mystery/suspense writer, I find news stories to be an endless source of inspiration. I have a dear friend who sends me interesting and strange news stories in the name of "research". Most of these involve events like a man robbing a McDonald's dressed as a chicken.

It would be easy to fall back on "Wow, there are crazy people in the world." and I am sure that is true in some cases. But, I always wonder. What led up that moment? Why a chicken suit? Why that particular McDonald's? What was the inciting incident?

That leads me to my new blog feature:

Friday Plot Swap

Have you seen a news story that got your wheels turning? Do you have a plot in your head that would make a great story, just not one you intend to write? Leave it here on Fridays or pick up a plot for your weekend writing time.

Here is what I have for you this Friday:

A small town teacher is recovering after drinking some tainted tea. Law enforcement officials said she was poisoned by one of her students.

A Florida woman was charged with manslaughter Friday after her boyfriend dared her to pull the trigger on an antique gun during an argument, and she did -- shooting him dead.

A resident at a retirement community was caught burglarizing the clubhouse in the buff.

So, read any good plots lately?