The character your mystery novels need
If you’re new to writing mysteries, Zara Altair wants to introduce you to an important character with whom you might not be familiar: the obstacle maker.
Don’t confuse him or her with the villain. The obstacle maker is someone who causes trouble for the detective, whether out of malice or ignorance, but who didn't commit the crime.
Altair has some suggestions for how the obstacle maker can hinder the investigation and also help further develop your detective’s character here.