Make Mine Mystery

July 5, 2019

Research for 'Death on the Vine' not a bad 

place to delve into your writing.

by L Lee Kane

Research

If you’re writing what you know or pursuing a different passion, research is a critical tool for developing the world of your novel. What you learn during your in-depth study allows you to engage your reader in your setting. It will help you in developing your characters, the novel’s moral gray area, and even the fundamental conflict of your story.

For those with new topics, the preliminary stage of research is generally exploratory and involves reading anything that interests you. As you delve deeper, you will find your research becoming more focused. You will begin asking questions about particular locations, histories, or scenarios that involve your subject matter.

At some point in your research will be necessary to reach out to others. Discuss information with an expert their expertise about their interests which can offer perspectives that you will not find in books. Their enthusiasm and authenticity about the subject will come through in your writing. It could also give you an idea for characters in your novel. Please do not expect that a specialist will train you about their work. Make sure you have done research first and prepared thoughtful questions for your interview subject. It shows respect for their time and allows you to go deeper with them. You might meet some fascinating people.

If possible, visit locations that interest you. I wrote a book about the Central Valley in California. I drove up to Oakhurst and without any recording devices, pen, or paper I allowed myself to absorb the space and to feel what it’s like being there. Take mental notes of the things that strike you the most. The next day I went back for a second visit with my notebook and camera to collect as much information as possible so I could refer back to it.