Just the Facts, Ma'am: A Writer's Guide to Investigator's and Investigation Techniques

This book is an excellent resource for writers who want to imbue their stories with the authentic details of unnatural death but don't really have all the tools and training of a full-time medical examiner or police investigator. Maybe the life of a real cop isn't as exciting as portrayed on TV, but neither is it as shallow. In my case, as a crime author, the text was an invaluable reference, putting some highly technical material into easily digested context. Recommended for writers of all kinds who need a good reference work on the myriad ways to die.

Just the Facts Ma'am is filled with useful information. It goes through the qualities of an investigator, and the skills needed to become one. There is so much in this book, it is nearly impossible to describe it all to you...you'll just have to read it yourself!Some very interesting sections of this book include: crime scene investigation, 21 points to follow in a death scene investigation, common police mistakes, how to collect evidence, interviewing and interrogation, and my favorite section of the book is surveillance. Just the Facts Ma'am also covers such issues as the dangers of investigations, and specific case studies as examples of previous investigations. I'm really impressed with this book so I'll have to give it 4th place in my "Favorites in the Howdunit Series". It is absolutely a necessity to all crime writers. The whole Howdunit Series is definitely worth the bookshelf space!

I enjoyed the evening I spent reading this introduction to theart of investigation. ...[I]t was a good introduction that, like anyuseful introduction, sets the stage for further reading. Anybody who just wants to know more will enjoy it; any writer thinking about writing a murder mystery (as I was when I picked it up) will see its value. The author obviously knows his stuff, and presents it in a clear, precise fashion that ranges from the obvious to the insightful. Definitely worth reading. END

Whether you're just THINKING about writing detective fiction or have some writing and/or investigative experience under your belt, you stand to benefit from reading this book. An informative and often entertaining read, it proves a welcome departure from the condescending, pompous approach taken by some writing guides (and writers!). Its down-to-earth, comprehensive coverage makes it a reassuring presence on your bookshelf.