Chapter One

Even experienced writers admit that those first blank pages are the hardest part about starting a novel. In works of popular fiction it is usual to ensure that location, characters, description, time frame, intrigue and motivation are quickly set up in chapter one. After numerous frustrated attempts too many would-be authors give up on this difficult task and disappointedly shelve their dreams of writing a novel. The purpose of this book is to help beginning writers overcome those difficulties by offering them a variety of opening chapters in which the hard work of exposition has already been done. Each chapter is closely analyzed to indicate why it works as an effective opening and, as well, suggestions are made as to how the beginning might be developed into a full-length novel. Further material is provided by the author's close examination of the beginnings of her own six novels. "Chapter One" is a guide by an experienced and successful fiction writer. In a lively and forthright style, Jennifer Bacia offers a unique means of overcoming those fears and doubts that have been the stumbling block to fulfilling many writers' dreams