Forensics for Mystery Writers
Finding the Answers to HIgh-Tech Questions
Writers a few decades ago had it easy, for all they had to deal with in the crime investigation scene of their novels were a few fingerprints. Contemporary mystery writers must now deal with high-tech crime scene labs and improved methods of detection.
New strides in forensics include the identification of victims on the basis of dental charts, DNA, and other methods. This makes the job of being a good mystery writer more difficult. Tales of impostors and mistaken identity may no longer plausible because DNA testing can quickly identify a phony heir. Because DNA can now also be extracted from bone, plots about skeletons buried in the wrong grave are also difficult to make plausible.
How Does a Mystery Writer Cope?
So how does a modern mystery writer deal with the problem of scientific advancement? Well, you could set your novel in the past. But if you want to write a contemporary novel about crime, sticking your head in the sand and ignoring the problem will make your book seem dated and unprofessional.
Instead, a writer must find a way to incorporate some of the new scientific technology into the course of the mystery and make it a natural part of the solving of the crime. New developments in investigative technique should be acknowledged and utilized in every crime novel. Surprisingly, this can often be accomplished by using the same plot and can enhance rather than spoil the mystery.
Finding Out More Information
You don’t have be a forensic pathologist to get things right in your novel.
First, pinpoint exactly what you need to know and then go after the answer. Are you dealing with skeletal remains in your story, a corpse that has recently washed ashore, or a recent murder in which paternity plays a strong factor? There are many ways to find the answers to your specific questions. You don’t need to know more than you need to know to cover the points in your particular story.
Making Your Plot Work Within (or Outside) the System
New developments abound, but in reality only high-profile cases get the red carpet treatment. So one way to make your “unworkable” plot work is to “lose” evidence by means of investigative errors. Human error accounts for many strong cases being lost. DNA evidence is often lost or contaminated. Ideally, it should be lost by the bumbling deputy, and not the hero of your story.
Keep your information as up to date as possible. However, keep in mind that in time every book will become dated.
Places to Find Forensic Information/Answers to DNA and Forensic Questions
Author DP Lyle has written several forensic books specifically designed for writers. He also maintains a website with interesting articles and links.
Some of D. P. Lyle’s titles include:
Forensics and Fiction: Clever, Intriguing, and Downright Odd Questions from Crime Writers, Forensics for Dummies, and Howdunit Forensics.Forensic books specifically designed for writers can also be purchased on Amazon and in local bookstores, or ordered from Writer’s Digest Books.
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