While filling out an online query form at a literary agent's website, one of the questions caught me off guard. The question was asking about what qualifications and background I have for writing my story. My first impulse was to give the answer that the only qualifications I have are my over-active imagination and an ability to tell a great story. With some further thought, I decided what the agent really wanted to know was whether or not I had the ability to write a crime novel and be able to accurately portray the procedures used by police officers and detectives. With that in mind, I typed my response in the box provided.
 

     I did copy and paste my response to save it in the event anyone else asks me the same question. The problem is, after reading that short description a few times, I'm beginning to think my original idea would've been a lot better. Even if someone has worked in law enforcement for many years and know every procedure, that alone doesn't mean they'd be able to write a great novel. They may be able to write a story based on an actual case, but without a little imagination, all they can do is relay the facts. It takes more than facts to convey the thoughts and emotions of the characters. It takes imagination to bring the characters to life and add plot twists to create more tension and interest.
     Researching the crime solving process and police procedures only took me so far. I had to know how real law enforcement operates so any police officers or detectives who might read my books don't find any major discrepancies. I do want my novels to be as true to life as possible. Other than that, my over-active imagination takes control, helping me to create unique characters and situations. My imagination is what I believe is my best qualification for writing my novels.