Research is a necessary part of writing, even in fiction. I confess, I almost called it a necessary evil! LOL! The truth is, I usually enjoy digging into the setting of a story, but with my recent story, I had a special bit of research that I needed to complete.
My newest book, Grime Wave, was partly inspired by some new technology in the realm of forensic science. I saw a clip about this new scanning process that has proved invaluable with portraying crime scenes with complete accuracy.
In my story, some important evidence is uncovered because this scanner gives such an excellent 3D image.
The way I understand things, the investigator sets up an initial set of scans from multiple places in proximity to the crime. Then using a specialized software, the investigators can create a digital model with unbelievable resolution. So good are the images from this tool that accurate measurements can be taking through the program, cutting down on the on-scene time and corruption of evidence from too many investigators on the scene.
I loved learning about this new bit of technology. Special thanks to 3rdTech for allowing me to use their photos. Their website has even more information!
In Grime Wave, crime scene cleaner happens upon a murder victim. That would freak out anyone, including someone with Dani’s background. Whether due to her childhood training under the everyday conversations with her detective father, or simply from her meticulous need for neatness, she sees a few inconsistencies that wind up putting a target on her. And as she’s getting closer to Jay, her danger and secrets become his problem as well.
Your Turn: I’m going to bet, that even if you’re not a writer you do research from time to time. Check reviews before you purchase something? Investigate a new car? Examine a possible vacation place? What type of research have you recently done?
Marji Laine 