My next suspense fiction novel (number 7) is underway. Starting a new book is challenging on so many levels. For me, I try to piece together a loose idea of the storey. With all my books I have never had the complete structure in my head when I start. It tends to gather it's on momentum from chapter to chapter with surprises twists and turns even for me, the writer. It's a wonderful journey. How will it work for you?
I have never had much trouble in finding ideas for stories. I guess 35 years working in mental health helps. Writing about what I know well flows nicely - there is no end of unusual and robust characters that I have encountered over the years. Having said that, there are always areas where I need to update my knowledge - e.g. weapons, geography, vehicles, housing, dress and customs for particular time periods - and many more. Naturally the internet is most helpful, Google Earth has often be a close companion. Outside of the WWW though there are libraries full of old records (newspapers and magazines), there is personal travel to the place which you write about (if that's possible these days!!!), sitting at a shopping centre people watching is always fun - looking at faces, how people dress, how they carry themselves - even trying to imagine what their occupation might be or what their living condition may be like. It should go without saying that reading a lot will improve your writing craft. Maybe you can add to this list.
Sometimes having a casual or more formal chat with someone may help and be more useful than an internet search - e.g. local police, managers of businesses, nurses, doctors, lawyers etc.
Good luck with your next writing adventure and remember "don't get it right, jut get it written"
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