Research is one of my favourite things about being a writer. I hate the idea that my books might be inaccurate, and whilst I don’t believe facts should necessarily get in the way of a good story, I do think it’s important to make an informed decision about whether artistic licence should be employed.
I didn’t need to do a huge amount of research for I Let You Go, but book two is an entirely different kettle of fish. Do No Harm centres around a woman accused of harming her baby. Although the police are involved, the book isn’t narrated from their viewpoint, and so my own area of expertise was of limited use. Instead I needed to get into the head of a social worker, understand the processes of the mental health service, and make sure all the medical-related elements of the plot were water-tight.
It never ceases to amaze me how generous people are with their time and expertise, and finding about about these areas of work has been fascinating and hugely enjoyable. I wouldn’t normally share the first draft of a book with anyone but my agent, but because of the technical nature of Do No Harm, I felt I needed to get it right from the start. Somewhat nervously I sent the draft to Jo and to Ali (doctor and social worker respectively) and waited for their verdict…
Happily, whilst some tweaks are needed, I had obviously taken on board enough of their advice at the beginning for my plot not to completely unravel, so I can now move forward with confidence that the facts are right, and my characters authentic.
As I move into the rewriting phase of book two, I shuffle too into the research phase of book three, which has a working title of GIRL 191. I can’t tell you anything about it yet, but my research will involve analysing copies of the Metro newspaper; travelling the Tube; speaking to computer crime experts; and walking around London late at night. I can’t wait!
If you’re a reader, how important is it for you that the author has researched their subject thoroughly? If you’re a writer, is research something you love to do; a necessary chore; or something you avoid at all cost?