Daughter of Time clearly displays the obvious similarities between historical method and detective work, which is seen by the relationship formed between Grant, a detective, and Carradine, a young research worker. For example, reliable testimony is central to developing an accurate timeline of events, in both detective and historical investigations. In the case of Richard III, the most commonplace and treasured narrative was written by a so-called contemporary historian. However, he was only five yeas old during the reign of Richard III, and wrote his account from heresy, gossip, and the tales of others. Upon checking the author’s age, it was obvious that the source was unreliable. Much like a witness who cannot produce evidence of their whereabouts, More’s account cannot be used as reliable information. Additionally, the cross-examination of evidence is a key component of both detective work and historical methodology. When Grant and Carradine read alternative, contemporary sources, they found no evidence to support the evil legacy that had followed Richard III. Furthermore, both detectives and historians are expected to find patterns to help create a logical timeline of events. For example, common knowledge places the murder of the two princes prior to Richard’s death. Upon examining alternative sources, however, the princes were very much alive during the reign of Richard III.
While the historical method does require many of the same aspects as detective work, there are pointed differences. For one, history is constructed, and contains author bias, whether or not it is intended. Detective work, on the other hand, leaves no room for interpretation. The role of a detective is to uncover exactly what happened, and how. Historians, however, must uncover and attempt to recreate the past using limited primary sources, accounts, and secondary sources. Detective work also focuses on the central goal of uncovering a motive. In this novel, the historical work came from a singular motive, which was to gain control of the English crown. However, few historians find a singular motive or catalyst for historical events, and usually discover that a multitude of factors drive significant changes. History is filled with differing interpretations of the past, while detective work seeks to find a single narrative. The methodology of examining testimonies, witnesses, and evidence show the similarities between history and detective work. However, they have significant differences that cannot be overlooked.