Pre-orders are up for Deep as the Dead. Have you reserved your copy yet? What are you waiting for? The ninth Mindhunters novel is a stand alone read, like the rest in the series. But for those of you familiar with the books, Adam Raiker makes a brief appearance. Because, c’mon, we have to hear from Raiker!Make sure to watch my contest page. I’ll be giving away a free copy of DEEP AS THE DEAD for the next three months.
This story takes place in Canada. Nova Scotia, to be precise. I’ve set scenes in another country before, but setting an entire book there was a bit more of a stretch than I was prepared for. I’m fairly familiar with American law enforcement process and procedures. And when I have a question, I have tons of contacts I can reach out to and bother. But this time around I had to find all new experts. Luckily for me I have a few buddies residing to the north, and Canadians are just as friendly and helpful as you’re heard. For example…
My villain wanted to leave a victim by a lake near where the heroine grew up. I did a little research and discovered there’s a small lake just outside of that town. So of course I need to know all about the area, access, how populated it is… So I reached out to the owners of some chalets on the lake to ask my questions. Sort of like: “…I understand this is an odd request, but…” Gee, ya think?! And they were such good sports. They were thrilled to discover their small piece of paradise was going to be the site of my murder. And so very helpful at describing the area for me so I could *see* it for the mayhem I was creating. That’s some sweet assistance!
It was everybody I reached out to, really. The contact people for the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia weather camera sites were more than helpful. And the Halifax policeman who gave me in depth answers to everything from obtaining warrants to local procedure. The RCMP media relations person was equally thorough. They made my job so much easier, and I wince a little knowing there are mistakes in the story only because I didn’t think to ask a question.
And it all began with my entomology contact. It’s not too often you can ‘meet’ someone on their website and have a follow-up phone conversation about–ahem– unusual insect behavior! You’ll have to read the book to see where that ties in. Suffice it to say, I have plenty of new trivia that will stop dinner conversation in its tracks.
Researching bits for a book is one of my favorite parts of writing. What’s the most unusual piece of trivia you’ve picked up in a fiction novel?
Ooh – love to hear about the ‘behind the scenes’ action! It’s always interesting!
Can’t wait for the new Mindhunters book – and Raiker! ?
It was fun revisiting Raiker 🙂
I’m excited for the new book. And the new website looks great!
Thanks, Mary! I was sort of a bum in 2016, but I’m making up for lost time, LOL. Glad you like the site 🙂