Deanna Raybourn | Writer’s Passion

As a writer of historical fiction, I am frequently asked about research.
Specifically, readers—and aspiring writers—want to know if it is necessary for
me to visit the sites I write about. On this point I always give a firm and
unequivocal yes. And no. Contradictory, I know, but hear me out. Developing a
historical novel means creating a dual setting; it means creating a specific
time and place for your reader to inhabit. They are a tourist in your world,
and you must give them a guidebook of essential details to help them get
around. In order to do that, you have to know the neighborhood at least as well
as they do—and preferably better!