One thing I have learned when researching for my novel is that place and setting do matter. Especially when you are picking a real place. You don’t want the setting of your novel be in Florida, then start talking about snow (unless it was some weird climate change book, then it might be understandable). For me, I wanted it to be as close to the original place as possible.
All the greats did it. Rowling in London (I am sure she tweaked some things to fit with the lore); EL James in her Fifty Shades trilogy; Dan Brown in his books where Robert Langdon was the main character. Research is a big part, and I need to do my due diligence so that I can make it seem as real as possible.
Place and Setting for the Morozov Matchmakers
For my place and setting, I have chosen lovely San Diego, California. One reason is that I have actually been there before. The other because it was such a cool place to visit. There are so many things to do and see. And Old Town, my absolute favorite (besides Coronado Island, but we will get to that).
But how was I supposed to make this as real as possible? I have been to San Diego and the above-mentioned locations, but that was 12 years ago. I don’t remember every little detail. This is where Pinterest comes in. Another horrible addiction of mine, but it has been super helpful! Just being able to create a board then pin pictures on there while I am waiting at the doctors office? Yes please!
Not to give away my age or anything, but I do remember the time when you used to have to go to the library if you wanted to do research. Now you can do it from the convenience of your phone. Crazy how times have changed.
Since my novel is only at the beginning stages, I haven’t incorporated a lot of scenery into it yet. But some places I will most likely mention is Coronado Island, Old Town, Balboa Park botanical Garden, just to name a few. And that isn’t including the date ideas that will be coming up as well.
What do you think? Anyone got any good ideas for unique or unusual places to visit in and around San Diego I should know about? Leave a comment below!