Research

I am spoiled. Self-admittedly so. I don't write Historicals, though I love to read them, because it requires oodles of research. I'm one of those people that would slip present day idioms, speech, or whatnot in there and ruin the whole thing. So I stay away from writing them.
Everything else is free reign. I've found myself researching more for my FBS than any other book I've written. This both excites and scares the hell out of me. I'm picking Lindy's brain. (See link at left-Lindy Hudis)
She is great! I give her questions, and she e-mails me the answers. I wish I could find a person like this with EVERY book. Two of the four books for my set will need more research than the others.
I'm also leery of asking the people I need to ask to pick their brain. People I don't know, but whose profession I'm using in a manuscript. I feel like I have to prove myself before I approach these people and ask for their time. Lindy is a writing friend, so that all worked out. Oh yes, and we're both with Whiskey Creek Press. hehehe
Do you feel the same? If you need firsthand perspective, do you just go up to someone and say, "Hey! I write books. You fix cars. Let's say we get together and make literary magic." *snickering* I wish!
Do the authors who HAVE their name out there find it easier to do this? Is it just me? (Like THAT would be the first time) What do you think? I'm curious.
And, if someone approached you and told you they were writing a book, what would you need from them to assure yourself they're not a headcase?
This inquiring mind needs to know!
Grins*