What Authors Need to Know About What Really Happens in Prison

If you’re writing crime fiction, chances are you're going to include a criminal in your story. Knowing where they came from and what really happens in prison gives you a jump start on developing character and helps lend some authenticity to your work. Prisons exist in a shadowy world cut off from society, so take a look at the inner workings of prison, and the people who live and work there. And this presentation will get you the information you need without getting that pesky felony conviction on your record.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR

James L’Etoile uses his twenty-nine years behind bars as an influence in his award-winning novels, short stories, and screenplays. He is a former associate warden in a maximum-security prison, a hostage negotiator, and director of California’s state parole system. His novels have been shortlisted or awarded the Lefty, Anthony, Silver Falchion, Macavity, and the Public Safety Writers Award. River of Lies and Sins of the Father are his most recent novels. Look for Illusion of Truth coming in 2026. James also serves as the Executive Vice President of Mystery Writers of America.