Part of me is uncomfortable with writing something so far outside my own experience, relying soley on research and the experiences of others. I mean, what if they're wrong? Then what? I guess that makes me a control freak, which my husband would never deny, and actually, neither would I. I mean, I am a writer who has omnipotence over what happens in my stories--except for publishing requirements, of course. ;) But let's face it, there is something a little scary about writing something you know so little about. Or did know so little about prior to many, many hours spent online.It's amazing what is at our fingertips via the internet. I can watch brain surgeries on Youtube or I can put out a call to interview an experienced mountain climber, and wa-lah! someone is there, responding to my questions.
How reliable is the information though? I suppose, like most things in life, it depends upon the source. Where are your favorite places to do research? Whether it's for a book, a vacation, a new skill you're wanting to learn, a dish you're wanting to cook?And back to my research issue--story setting--do you have a favorite story setting? Do you like books that shake things up and show you a world you know nothing about? Or do you prefer the tried and true?
I'll give away a copy of one of my backlist to one lucky commentor!











