Hello Mr. Cornwell,

I had a question regarding research. How useful is it for writing a novel to first create a database of the world/era itself? Such as political timelines, dates of events, and even historical realities regarding economy, demographics, daily life tools and technology etc. Or as a writer I must write first and edit in historical realities in the process later on as I mentally memorize and indulge myself in the world completely (rely on my brain rather than an extensively detailed database).

I love how you paint a visceral image of the historical world and the action taking place, it’s quite amazing.

If you don’t have time to indulge, no worries, I understand you must get a ton of mail. I’m just very curious on how it’s done by a professional.

Thank you!

Sher