Setting in crime fiction novels is important. I learnt that the hard way. But, having been given that advice, I fully understand and appreciate it now, and I am embracing it completely.
My first novel, which is is to be the first in a series, is set in Nottingham. So with location and setting being so important, I have created a new page on the blog, which you will find on the tabs at the top of the blog or by clicking here. On this page are photographs taken by me, in and around the city of Nottingham.
At the minute there are only a few, but over time I hope to both add to the quantity and also improve on the quality of the photographs themselves.
I hope this gallery page gives you a little taste of the place the novel is to be set. I think it’s a nice addition to the blog. Let me know what you think. Is there something you’d specifically be interested in seeing?
What a great idea. Absolutely agree about setting. Love the addition of your photographs. You’ve got a good variety of shots. I also take lots of pics (good old camera phone!) to help me get detail into my writing, and so that images can grow in my mind. Am looking forward to reading your Book 1, set in Nottingham.
Thanks Vicky. I was really excited to be adding that section to the blog. Camera phones are great things nowadays aren’t they! I’m always pulling mine out to take photos. I do look slightly odd sometimes though…
Looks atmospheric. I would suggest adding main areas in the novel (if you haven’t already) and perhaps the police station (or the detective’s house).
The novel is going to be a series, so eventually most area’s are going to be covered. The police station should be in there, but it appears to be missing! I will add it again. It’s making an appearance in the V post though 🙂
Sounds good. Sometimes technology thwarts our ideas and pictures, I swear!
Great idea with the photos. I use photos to inspire my settings too… I love having them in front of me as I’m mulling over a scene.
You’ve just given me an idea – I could get them printed out and pinned to a board in front of my desk! brilliant. Thank you 🙂
You’re welcome!
Rebecca – Oh, you are so right about setting! And what a terrific idea you’ve had. I will definitely have to check that out. In my opinion, using your visual/spatial intelligence as well as your linguistic intelligence will make your setting that much more real.
Thanks Margot. It’s helpful for me, and I hope it’s helpful for future readers. Nottingham may not be a place they are very aware of and this way, they get a feel for it.
That is a very cool idea.
Thanks Patricia 🙂
I love to do this – I often take photos of the setting for my story – even if it’s a fictional setting I take photos to inspire me. I make a big collage and put it on the cupboard door where I work!
That’s something I think I’m going to do now – print them off and pin them to a cork board on the wall in front of my laptop!
Cool shots! You are very artistic.
Thanks Alex. A camera phone and camera phone editing tools! 🙂
Love the idea of getting photos for your setting. Now I just have to come up with a story somewhere I can actually get photos of or at least somewhere fictional that I could find photos to somewhat relate to. Hmm. This sounds like a great distraction from actual writing. 🙂
But a great distraction 🙂 One that can be really helpful actually. I found setting was an area I struggled with and this has helped a lot and now in sharing them, I hope it helps any future readers.
Great idea, Rebecca! 🙂 xx
Thanks Elle!
I think the addition is a good idea. Means that your readers can get a visual to go with the novel which is always beneficial, particularly in crime fiction where as you say, the setting is key. What a lovely idea. 🙂
Thanks Jade. I struggled with setting initially and it now seems to be workings its way out, especially with the help of taking photos.
What a great idea! I love this, Rebecca 😀
Thanks Dianne. 🙂
That’s a court house? But, it beautiful! It shouldn’t be beautiful, it should look PUNISHING! 🙂 Going to look at your gallery page now.
It’s quite beautiful isn’t it. Especially at night. It’s only the magistrates court. The crown court is more sedate than that. 🙂
Love this idea, Rebecca – great photos too. My novel is partly set in Leicester (always in the shadow of Nottingham!) and I may nick the idea of taking photos, just to help me get my head around some of the locations.
If it helps, it’s a great idea to do it!