Keeping it Authentic: Social media and Research

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Murder School Podcast. Later on, in the craft section, I’m chatting about the importance of research for your novels, and how to incorporate that research in your writing – without info dumping!

But first, marketing. Last week, I talked about creating an author brand. Like it or not, social media is part of that.

In today's digital age, social media is unavoidable. Although it has its dark side, social media has become an essential tool for authors looking to promote their books and connect with readers. As a crime fiction writer, you know that building a strong online presence can be the key to attracting new fans, engaging with your existing audience, and ultimately driving sales of your novels. But with so many platforms and strategies to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. So, today, I’ll explore some starter tips for authors looking to use social media to promote their crime novels, with a focus on building authentic connections and creating content that resonates with your target audience.

It's important to choose the right social media platforms for your brand and your goals. Not every platform will be equally effective for every author, so it's important to focus your efforts on the channels where your target readers are most likely to engage. For crime fiction authors, some of the most popular platforms include Facebook, Tiktok, and Instagram, each of which offers unique opportunities for promotion and connection.

Facebook, for example, is a great platform for building a dedicated fan page and sharing longer-form content like blog posts, book excerpts, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your writing process. You can use Facebook's targeting tools to reach readers who have expressed an interest in crime fiction or related genres, and you can engage with your fans through comments, polls, and live video sessions.

TikTok, on the other hand, is a rapidly growing platform that's particularly popular with younger audiences. As a crime fiction author, you can use TikTok to create short, engaging videos that showcase your personality and give readers a glimpse into your writing life. You might share quick writing tips, act out dramatic scenes from your novels, or participate in popular TikTok challenges with a crime fiction twist.

One effective way to use TikTok as an author is to create a series of videos that tease your upcoming book release. You could share short snippets of your book's opening pages, create a dramatic trailer-style video that hints at the twists and turns to come, or even act out a suspenseful scene in costume. By building anticipation and curiosity around your book on TikTok, you can generate buzz and attract new readers who might not have discovered your work otherwise.

Instagram is all about visuals, making it an ideal platform for authors who want to showcase the aesthetic side of their brand. You can share eye-catching images that evoke the mood and atmosphere of your crime novels, like shadowy alleyways, mysterious clues, or brooding characters. You can also use Instagram Stories to give readers a behind-the-scenes look at your writing life, or to share short video teasers for your upcoming releases.

No matter which platforms you choose, the key to success on social media is consistency and engagement. Aim to post regularly, whether that means once a day or a few times a week, and make sure your content is always on-brand and relevant to your target audience. Respond to comments and messages promptly, and don't be afraid to show your personality and engage in genuine conversations with your followers.

Here's an example of how you might use social media to promote your latest crime novel:

In the weeks leading up to your book launch, you start sharing teaser images and excerpts on your Instagram feed, using moody, atmospheric visuals that hint at the dark and twisty story to come. You also post behind-the-scenes photos of your writing space, your research materials, and your own hand-scribbled notes and outlines, giving readers a sense of the hard work and creativity that goes into crafting your novel.

On Facebook, you share longer excerpts from the book, along with a link to pre-order the novel on Amazon or your favorite indie bookstore. You also host a series of Facebook Live sessions where you answer reader questions, share your writing process, and give a sneak peek at the characters and settings that will feature in your book.

On TikTok, you create a series of short, suspenseful videos that tease the central mystery of your novel. You might share a quick scene of yourself typing furiously at your computer, with a voiceover hinting at the dark secrets your protagonist is uncovering. Or you might create an atmospheric video showcasing the eerie, foggy setting of your novel, with a caption that asks viewers to guess what kind of crime might happen there.

By consistently sharing engaging, on-brand content across multiple platforms, you can build buzz and anticipation for your book launch, while also fostering a sense of community and connection with your readers.

Another key aspect of using social media to promote your crime novels is to focus on building authentic, meaningful connections with your audience. Rather than simply promoting your own work all the time, make an effort to engage with other authors, book bloggers, and readers in your genre. Share their content, comment on their posts, and show genuine interest in their thoughts and opinions.

By being an active, engaged member of the online crime fiction community, you can build a network of supporters and advocates who will help spread the word about your work. You never know when a casual conversation on TikTok might lead to a new blurb or review opportunity, or when a Facebook comment might spark a great idea for your next novel.

Here's an example of how building authentic connections on social media can pay off for authors:

You notice that a popular BookTok creator has been raving about a particular crime novel that you also adore. You duet their video on TikTok, sharing your own thoughts on the book and asking for their recommendations for similar reads. The creator is thrilled to connect with a fellow fan, and you strike up a lively conversation in the comments about your favorite crime fiction tropes and authors.

A few weeks later, when you're gearing up to launch your own crime novel, you reach out to the BookTok creator again, offering them an advance review copy of your book. They're excited to read it, and end up posting a glowing review on their TikTok and other social media channels, introducing your work to a whole new audience of potential readers.

By building that authentic connection and showing a genuine interest in the creator's perspective, you've earned a valuable advocate for your work – and potentially a lifelong fan as well.

Of course, using social media to promote your crime novels isn't just about making connections – it's also about creating content that resonates with your target audience and showcases your unique voice and perspective as an author. Whether you're sharing book excerpts, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or thought-provoking essays on the craft of crime fiction, make sure your content always aligns with your brand and provides value to your readers.

One effective way to create engaging social media content is to think about the questions and topics that your target readers are most interested in. What are the burning debates and discussions happening in the crime fiction world right now? What are the tropes and trends that readers can't get enough of? By tapping into these hot-button issues and creating content that offers your own unique take, you can position yourself as a thought leader and expert in your genre.

For example, let's say there's a big debate happening in the crime fiction community about the use of unreliable narrators in psychological thrillers. You could write a blog post sharing your own thoughts on the topic, analyzing some of the most effective examples of unreliable narration in recent crime novels, and offering tips for writers looking to experiment with this technique in their own work. By sharing this post on your social media channels and engaging in the broader conversation, you can showcase your expertise and connect with readers who are passionate about the same topics and ideas.

Another way to create compelling social media content is to give readers a behind-the-scenes look at your writing process and creative journey. Share photos of your writing space, your research materials, and your own hand-written notes and outlines. Talk about the challenges and triumphs you've faced as a writer, and offer advice and encouragement to aspiring authors who are just starting out on their own paths.

By pulling back the curtain and showing readers the human side of your author brand, you can build a deeper, more authentic connection with your audience. Readers love feeling like they have a personal relationship with their favorite authors, and by sharing your own struggles and successes, you can create a sense of intimacy and trust that will keep them coming back for more.

Ultimately, using social media to promote your crime novels is all about experimentation, creativity, and persistence. There's no one-size-fits-all approach that will work for every author, so it's important to try out different strategies and see what resonates with your unique audience.

But by focusing on building authentic connections, creating value-driven content, and consistently showing up and engaging with your readers, you can slowly but surely build a strong, loyal fanbase that will support you throughout your writing career.

I hope that will be helpful, and I’d love to connect with you on social media, so please look for The Murder School on facebook, Tiktok and Youtube.

Now, let’s move on to the craft segment.

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Crafting a compelling and believable story requires more than just a vivid imagination. To truly immerse your readers in the world you've created, it's essential to infuse your narrative with a sense of realism. This is where research comes into play. By dedicating time and effort to researching various aspects of your story, you can add authenticity to your characters, settings, and plotlines, making your crime fiction more engaging and credible.

One of the primary areas where research is crucial is in understanding the intricacies of law enforcement and the criminal justice system. If your protagonist is a detective or a police officer, it's important to have a grasp of proper police procedures, hierarchies, and terminology. Familiarize yourself with the different roles within a police department, from beat cops to detectives to forensic experts. Understanding the chain of command and the protocols they follow will help you write convincing scenes and dialogue.

For example, if your detective arrives at a crime scene, you'll want to accurately depict the steps they take to secure the area, collect evidence, and interview witnesses. Proper research will ensure that you don't make glaring mistakes that could pull knowledgeable readers out of the story.

Consider this scene:

Detective Larson ducked under the yellow crime scene tape, her eyes scanning the room. She donned a pair of gloves before carefully approaching the body, mindful not to disturb any potential evidence. "Has the medical examiner been called?" she asked the officer on duty.

By showing the detective following proper procedure, such as wearing gloves and being cautious around the crime scene, you add a layer of realism to the story.

Another area where research is invaluable is in understanding forensic science and technology. With advancements in DNA analysis, ballistics, and digital forensics, it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques used by investigators. Familiarize yourself with the capabilities and limitations of forensic tests, as well as the time frames involved in processing evidence. This knowledge will help you create plausible scenarios and avoid common misconceptions perpetuated by television and movies.

For instance, if your detective is waiting for DNA results, you'll want to accurately reflect the time it takes for the lab to process the sample and provide a report. Instant results may work in a TV show, but in reality, it often takes days or even weeks.

Here's an example:

"What about the DNA evidence from the crime scene?" Detective Larson asked.The lab technician shook her head. "We're still processing the samples. It'll take at least 72 hours to get the results back."Larson sighed, knowing she'd have to find another lead in the meantime.

By acknowledging the realistic timeline for DNA analysis, you create a sense of authenticity and avoid the common trope of instantaneous results.

In addition to police procedures and forensics, researching the setting of your crime novel is equally important. Whether your story takes place in a bustling city or a small rural town, capturing the unique characteristics and atmosphere of the location can greatly enhance your narrative. Take the time to study the geography, landmarks, and local culture of your chosen setting. If possible, visit the location in person or consult with people who have firsthand experience living or working there.

Pay attention to the little details that can bring your setting to life – the sights, sounds, and smells that are unique to that particular place. Is there a local diner where the police officers grab their morning coffee? What are the street names and neighborhoods that your characters would frequent? Incorporating these specific details will create a rich, immersive backdrop for your story.

For example:

As Detective Larson drove through the narrow streets of the historic district, she couldn't help but admire the ornate Victorian houses that lined the road. She parked her car in front of the old courthouse, a grand edifice of limestone and marble that had been a fixture of the town for over a century.

By describing the architectural features and historical significance of the setting, you transport your readers into the world you've created, making it feel tangible and real.

Another aspect of research that can add depth to your crime fiction is exploring the psychology and motivations of your characters. Delve into the minds of both your protagonists and antagonists to understand what drives their actions. Study real-life cases and consult with experts in criminal psychology to gain insight into the various factors that can lead individuals to commit crimes.

Consider the backstories and past traumas that may have shaped your characters' personalities and behavior. What events in their lives have led them to this point? How do their experiences influence their decision-making and reactions to situations?

Here's an example:

As Detective Larson interviewed the suspect, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. She studied his body language, noting the way he fidgeted and avoided eye contact. "Tell me about your childhood," she said softly, hoping to uncover a clue to his motivations.

By exploring the psychological aspects of your characters, you create multi-dimensional individuals that feel authentic and relatable to your readers.

While research is essential, it's important to remember that you're still writing fiction. Don't feel obligated to include every detail you've learned in your story. Instead, use your research to inform your writing and add subtle touches of realism. Be selective in what you choose to incorporate, ensuring that each detail serves a purpose and enhances the overall narrative.

It's also crucial to strike a balance between accuracy and pacing. While you want your story to be grounded in reality, you don't want to bog down your readers with excessive technical jargon or lengthy explanations. Use your research to create a solid foundation, but allow yourself the creative freedom to shape the story in a way that engages and entertains your audience.

This balance is crucial when writing historical mysteries. My own novels are set in post war London, and I researched the time period extensively, including the global events of the time, police procedures of the days and even the language used, the slang and idioms of the day. I really enjoyed the research and had to avoid the temptation of dumping it all into the novel.

Remember, research is a tool to enhance your writing, not a rigid set of rules. Use your findings to inform your creative choices, but don't be afraid to take artistic liberties when necessary. The goal is to strike a balance between accuracy and storytelling, crafting a narrative that is both grounded in reality and captivating to your readers.

So, embrace the research process as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the world you're creating. Dive into the details, explore the nuances, and let your discoveries inspire your writing. With a solid foundation of research and a commitment to authenticity, you'll be well on your way to crafting crime fiction that resonates with readers and keeps them enthralled from start to finish.