In reply to Big Ger:
> Surely one of the things we look to from authors is imagination and different perspectives?
I look for good writing, fleshed-out descriptions and a lack of lazy cliche.
I see this case as not being much different from any author doing their research and hiring helpers. I imagine Tom Clancy has quite a retinue of military advisers, so that he doesn't come across as some kid making it all up as he goes along.
So, yes, we do "need" this. I don't know why it's a news story, unless it is an advertorial for the book.