Q&A with Barbara Wilhelm

Barbara Wilhelm

1. How does your career as an MD play a part in your writing?

In my medical career, I have held a variety of positions in emergency, occupational and family medicine, and this wide range of experiences has given me much to draw from. Having a scientific background (I was a chemistry major in college) helps with the technical aspects of writing about scientific subjects, and having to explain complex concepts to non-science people helps me to write in a way that a more general audience can understand.

2. Considering the medical thrillers you have read, how realistic do you think the majority are?

Generally, very. The best thrillers are those that understand that crossing the line from science fact to science fiction puts them into another genre. The plots must be possible, no matter how improbable. In medicine, when one makes a list of possible causes for an ailment—a so-called differential diagnosis—the most common causes are designated so for a reason: They are the most likely. In a book, or on CSI, the culprit will be the least likely, though often far more interesting, cause.

3. Can someone who is not an MD write a medical thriller?

Certainly, though being an allied health professional (nurse, paramedic, or physician’s assistant, for example) or a medical technician with laboratory or radiology training is helpful. Other writers need to invest a great deal of time in background research or have ready access to experts who can provide technical assistance with the science in their novel. However, being a great storyteller is more vital than having any specific training.

4. Who or what is your greatest inspiration for writing?

Reading books and seeing interesting stories on television or film. When I find a particularly intriguing character or situation, thinking about it starts the creative process and I will go off in any number of directions. I get my best ideas at the end of the day when I lie down and try to settle the zillion thoughts in my head and have to focus on one of them. It’s better than counting sheep.

5. What is your favorite book?

Trick question! This is like asking a chocoholic to pick one piece out of a five-pound box of their favorite kind. (Anyone for Godiva Dark?) Though I read mostly popular series mystery fiction, I also have some favorite areas of nonfiction, especially archaeology. No surprise then, that I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Peter’s Amelia Peabody series.

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