Every story has a setting, whether it be an exotic locale in Europe or simply the protagonist’s living room. Early in my writing journey, I experimented with creating my own fictitious towns, as many authors masterfully craft, but I couldn’t “feel” the story when I did so. Thus, I began setting my characters in places I’ve personally visited.
In some cases, an ordinary vacation inspires me to base a story there, such as what happened after a 2011 trip to Orlando, Florida. Though I hadn’t begun writing the series, I knew it would be the perfect home for Minka and Wes. Other times, my research leads me to the right venue, and to ensure accuracy—and have a good reason to travel!—, I endeavor to go there. For instance, my studies into witness protection for Husband in Hiding revealed Arizona to be among the places WITSEC takes those whom are in their care. A trip there to celebrate my parents’ anniversary coincided well with my writing and allowed me to investigate Glendale, where Wes is taken for refuge.
3 thoughts on “Setting the Scene”