It’s great to meet you, Alicia.
It seems like research is a part of your story development process. I can understand immersing yourself in a subject until you can feel and understand it at a deep level.

Although putting research into a story is a bit like using the iceberg principle (only small amounts), having done the research still affects the way you write everything and I believe that comes across in the story. I agree, it’s difficult to explain, but makes a huge difference to your writing.

Ha ha! No, it’s not always fun, but there is never a dull moment.

Sandy Vaile

Howdy from Australia, Lisa
Oh yes, the Tactical Anatomy site is a wealth of knowledge. What an interesting project to work on.

I like how you’ve picked up on the subtleties of handling a gun, like noises. Those sorts of things add layers to your story that really bring it to life. Nice.

Sandy Vaile

Trying on firefighting gear sounds fun, Angela. I’ll bet it was really heavy and hot in there!

I’d never thought of visiting places for your non-fiction thesauruses, but it makes sense. I guess that’s part of what ‘write what you know’ means; being able to draw on sensations, thought processes and experiences you’ve had.

Sandy Vaile

Hi again, Lynette
I haven’t heard of the ‘local civilian police academy’. Is it for adults? I know in Australia we have an academy for young people (cadets) who want to become police.

It’s wonderful to be able to walk where your characters do, so you can get use all of your senses to get a feel for a place. It really helps to be able to add small but authentic details to a scene.

I’m with you in loving adventures in the name of research. Any excuse to experience something new!

Sandy Vaile

Hi Terry

Wow, ride alongs sound like heaps of fun. You've done some really exciting research!
I'll have to investigate The Writers Police Academy is a fantastic resource. It sounds like a great resource.
Thanks for the tip.

Sandy Vaile

I love this line, Alicia! --> "I research something until the fiction feels real."

You are so right, Lisa! I grew up with a retired military parent so some of my earliest memories are the rifle range and the skeet shooting range. Nothing like the sound of the "Pull!" on the skeet range - every noise there is very distinct.

It totally paid off, Angela! And what did Mr. Ackerman have to say about all your sketchy locations?