Forensics: A Guide for Writers by  D.P. Lyle, M.D.

This reference guide is a necessary tool for any writer needing to know the basics of forensics. It discusses DNA, autopsies, fingerprinting, and much more. I really enjoyed reading about the real-life case files and the history of the forensic system.

I learned more than what I wanted to, however, and I say this regarding the autopsies. After reading this section I avoided food for a while. I did, on the other hand, ingest new information that has become essential to my writing.

This is one of the main reasons I constantly harp on the need for us to do research. For example, if you are writing a scene that includes a character in ICU, you will need to know what machines are used and the rules associated with that floor. The reader will have a better sense of being there.

So take that extra time to read up on the subject you are writing about and take lots of notes!

You can find this book at Writer’s Digest Shop and Amazon.