What's In A Story, Really?

Hello, Everyone!
It's been while, eh? I have been swamped hopping from one manuscript to another that I've let everything else fend for itself, including my blog and newsletter. So far, 2026 has been really good to me, and I hope it has been to you, too.
I want to put a few thoughts out there about the writing process and about the stories I write. If you have any thoughts on them, or questions, please feel free to chime in! My question to you is what's in a story? The best answer I can give is a ton of research. Yep, that's it, at least from my perspective. 
I am always researching tidbits for each of my stories because if the scene, or details in the storyline don't match the time period, then it throws the story off. Both of my crime series Penny Pearl Mysteries and The Traveling Tootsies are based in the eighties, so the music, even a specific song, must be either written before or during that time period, or I can't use it. Yep, facts, even in fiction! Does it drive you mad even though it's fiction? Me too, but that's how I write, and that's what's in a story--good research!
If you're wondering what to write, or where to start, get your storyline down, use a timeline, and the details will come to you. When they do, research the heck out of them, and you might find more that you want to include in your story while checking the facts.
The reason I chose to write about the eighties is because it takes me back to my childhood. Uh-oh, she's a Gen X and the story is about to get real! The truth is, it was a great time period and I want to share those funny and special moments with you all. I really think you're going to like it. There are a lot of things I remember from that era, a lot of great things, but if I'm going to take you back there, I have to make sure what I share is during that time period only and nothing after it. After all, some of the best sitcoms, music, and stories are from that era!   
Until Next Time!
​Pepper Anne