Idea Generation

Ripped from the Headlines

My current wip involves black market organs, and the greed and fear that drive that business. It's been in the news, so you know what it's all about.

There are two current, local news stories, that have held my attention. One is the case of Tim Masters, who spent years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, and finally gained his freedom when DNA evidence overturned his conviction. But it wouldn't have happened without someone pushing from the outside.

The other is JonBenet Ramsey, whose murder pretty much everyone in the world has heard about. Because of DNA advancements, her killer may yet be found. Again, not happening if there isn't someone passionate about justice (and yeah, maybe a little publicity) and can't just let it drop.

International stories would have to include the one about the father who said his daughter had run away but kept her hidden in the basement. With the children he had fathered. That one was a shocker.


What if . . . ?

What if, as the First Family's possessions are moved into the White House, someone is able to access an item and do something nefarious?

What if there was a cure for breast cancer, but the money generated by research was just too great to lose?

What if someone had a real-life evil twin and they didn't know it?


Science and Technology

Have you heard about the cell phones that are actually guns? No kidding. They hold four rounds.

What about the latest discovery that the African blue-tailed butterfly's saliva can negate psychotic behavior? (Okay, I'm making this one up, but all you need is one idea to get running.)


I store ideas in a file. It's by far the thickest one I have. There's little likelihood I'll ever need to take a peak, but it's there.

So many ideas, so little time.




CR: I'm still reading The Sudoku Puzzle Murders.

It's all better with friends.