Rabbit Hole of Research

Years ago, a friend said to me, “You’re a planner. You have to stop all this researching and make a plan to write that book.” She was right. Some authors call it “going down the rabbit hole of research.” Historical fiction novelists can be history nerds–and I’m one who LOVES doing the research.

My novel that’s due out in October 2022 is ambitious with two timelines, two main characters, and two distinct settings. I began my reserach by doing a broad sweep for months before I started writing. One key subject was the 1920s. Then I honed in on everything from hat styles to speakeasies. Research continues throughout my drafting of the book and story development.

I’ve read more than 90 books for this work in progress as well as magazines of the period, letters, online sources, documentaries, etc. Traveling to important locations is usually a big step. But the pandemic has put the brakes on that! Maybe in late spring? Fingers crossed. My husband loves traveling for my research, too!

The three books here give just a glimpse of the varied resources I draw on for my novel. I hope you’re intrigued! I’m certainly having fun.

Lost Girls: The Invention of the Flapper by Linda Simon

Ford: The Men and the Machine by Robert Lacey

Barrel Strength Bourbon: The Explosive Growth of America’s Whiskey by Carla Harris Carlton

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