(Originally published Jan. 16, 2008).
I do research on a ‘need to know’ basis — only as much as required to make the story plausible and avoid factual mistakes. This time, my ‘need to know’ extends far beyond my comfort zone.
My second book, FUR BALL FEVER, requires research into transgender issues and fetish clubs. Happily, I think I have found a starting point. This weekend, Ottawa has a fetish trade show called Sexapalooza.
I already have my ticket.
Several of us from the Ottawa Romance Writers of America are meeting for dinner before heading into the show, where I will accept a fellow-writer’s kind invitation to join her at her erotica table, to sell THE JAGUAR LEGACY (it’s not erotica, but I will promote it as being similar to a Raiders of the Lost Arc with hot sex).
I’m not sure what to expect from a fetish trade show, but I understand there are seminars on Swinging for Couples, BDSM for Beginners, Dirty Talk (The Five Rules), G-Spot Orgasm, and Libidos (Keeping it Hot). In addition, there is a “Screaming O Contest (How Well Can You Fake an Orgasm?), male and female exotic dancers, a drag performance, an alley of fantasy, and much, much more. In short, a researcher’s paradise.
I confess I’m a little nervous about my upcoming adventure. Okay, a LOT nervous.
I must run to dust off my ‘fet-wear’ (wish I owned some leather). Next week, I’ll tell you about my experiences.