Anne here, and today I'm talking about prologues. (According to one definition a prologue is a piece of writing found at the beginning of a literary work, before the first chapter and separate from the main story.) 
There is a school of thought among some writers that prologues are to be avoided at all costs, that most prologues are about backstory (the past that takes place before the story started) and that backstory has no place showing up in the early part of a book. They argue that if the information in the prologue is important, it should be subtly woven into the story, later on.
Some writers argue that by starting with a prologue you lessen your chances of selling the story, that it labels you as an amateur or old fashioned. These opinions, remember, are from some writers: it's far from a universal opinion. In fact writers often debate the issue.
I've also heard some readers say they usually skip prologues, that they're boring and unnecessary, even annoying, and they just put off getting the story started.
I must confess when I first heard all this, I was dismayed. I am a user of prologues, not all the time, but when I think the story needs one.
My first prologue was in Tallie's Knight (my second book. It was a "convenient marriage" book — my first of many — and the prologue showed the moment when my cold, cynical, marriage-averse hero, known as "The Icicle" in society, is confronted by his friend's imperious and charming toddler and decides he wants a child of his own, which therefore would necessitate marriage.
The actual story begins later, when having informed his cousin that he was looking for a bride, he sets out to find a convenient female. For the first part of the book he comes across as cold and emotionless, but the prologue demonstrated (at least I hoped so) that a man who a toddler could wind around her little finger was redeemable.
I could have tried to explain that, but I thought it was more effective to show it, and have readers know it, rather than be told it. Here is part of the prologue of Tallie's Knight (and I'm linking to this amazon paperback just so you can see the hilarious, utterly ridiculous price listed.) 
'Huwwo man.' The voice came, slightly muffled, from a slight bulge in the curtains. As he looked, the curtains parted and a mischievous little face peeked out at him.
Magnus blinked. It was a child, a very small child—a female, he decided after a moment. He'd never actually met a child this size before and though he was wholly unacquainted with infant fashions, it seemed to him that the child looked more female than otherwise. It had dark curly hair and big brown pansy eyes. And it was certainly looking at him in that acquisitive way that so many females had.
He glanced toward the doorway, hoping someone would come and fetch the child back to where it belonged.
'Huwwo man,' the moppet repeated sternly.
Magnus raised an eyebrow. Clearly he was expected to answer. How the devil did one address children anyway?
'How do you do?' he said after a moment.
At that, she smiled and launched herself towards him in an unsteady rush. Horrified, Magnus froze. Contrary to all his expectations she crossed the room without coming to grief, landing at his knee. Grinning up at him, she clutched his immaculate buckskins in two damp, chubby fists. Magnus flinched. His valet would have a fit. The child's hands were certain to be grubby. And sticky. Magnus might know nothing at all about children, but he was somehow sure about that.
'Up, man.' The moppet held up her arms in clear expectation of being picked up.
Magnus frowned down at her, trusting that his hitherto unchallenged ability to rid himself of unwanted feminine attention would be just as effective on this diminutive specimen.
The moppet frowned back at him.
Magnus allowed his frown to deepen to a glare.
The moppet glared back. 'Up, man,’ she repeated, thumping a tiny fist on his knee.
Magnus cast a hunted glance towards the doorway, still quite appallingly empty.
The small sticky fist tugged his arm. 'Up!' she demanded again.
'No thank you,' said Magnus in his most freezingly polite voice. Lord, would no-one come and rescue him?
The big eyes widened and the small rosebud mouth drooped. The lower lip trembled, displaying to Magnus's jaundiced eye all the unmistakable signs of a female about to burst into noisy, blackmailing tears. They certainly started young. No wonder they were so good at it by the time they grew up.
The little face crumpled.
Oh Lord, thought Magnus despairingly. There was no help for it——he would have to pick her up. Gingerly he reached out, lifting her carefully by the waist until she was at eye-level with him. Her little feet dangled and she regarded him solemnly.
She reached out a pair of chubby, dimpled arms. 'Cudd'w!'
Again, her demand was unmistakable. Cautiously he brought her closer until suddenly she wrapped her arms around his neck in a strong little grip that surprised him. In seconds she had herself comfortably ensconced on his lap, leaning back against one of his arms, busily ruining his neck cloth. It had only taken him half an hour to achieve its perfection, Magnus told himself wryly.
Another time I used a prologue was in Marry In Scarlet, my most recent book. In that I showed my hero and heroine's first meeting, a dramatic chase and confrontation that takes place some five or six years before the real story takes place. When they do recognize each other, it adds to their understanding of each other, and to the undercurrents.
I could have written that scene later in the book as a flashback, but for me, flashbacks often slow the momentum of the front story. Or I could have had him remember it, but that would have lost the drama of the meeting. So I used a prologue.
*Addendum — Wench reader Vicki just pointed out to me in the comments that there is no prologue in Marry In Scarlet, and she's right. Sorry — I used an old document when I checked this. But in the many changes that come in the formation of a book, I must have pulled the prologue (and forgotten). The scene I'd originally written as a prologue is now a flashback/memory in Chapter 7. And thus I contradict myself. (g) I think my reasoning was that the scene where Aunt Agatha offers the duke her other niece was a better opening. A lot of chopping and changing and editing happens in the last few weeks of a book.
Here are links to a few of my other prologues. You can click on the "look inside feature" and read them.
Marry in Haste, in which we see a pivotal moment in the heroine's youth that explains why she is in the situation we find her much later in the story..
Marry In Scandal, in which we meet the heroine as a little girl, and learn of her "flaw" and her determination to be loved despite it.
The Perfect Waltz, which shows us why the hero makes a decision that he needs to marry. His little sisters have been lost to him for years. He's got them back now, but all is not well with them. So he decides to find a suitable, no-nonsense bride.
In To Catch a Bride, I used a prologue to raise a question about the hero, Rafe. It opens with an angry, reckless curricle race, and he's driving very dangerously, acting as if he doesn't care whether he lives or dies. Why is he so furious? It's not explained in the prologue — you don't find out until much later — but it sets up the mood for him to accept a wild and unlikely quest to find a lost girl in Egypt.
For me, a prologue needs to earn its place in the book. It needs to set up a scene that will provoke questions in the reader, questions that will become relevant later in the story. It should explain very little but show a lot. It can set a mood, or show an aspect of the character that he or she doesn't usually reveal.
Not all my stories have prologues, but when I think I need one, I'll write it. If writers want to throw (metaphorical) rocks at me, that's too bad. And if readers decide to skip my prologue, that's fine, but I think they'll miss out on something important.
So, what about you? Do you have a view about prologues? Do you tend to skip them? What would make you skip a prologue? Do you care? Or if you're a writer, what's your stance on prologues?
I’m ok with prologues. I think I would rather see a prologue than a flashback – although a good writer would do either one just fine.
More often I’ve found other readers who don’t care for epilogues. I like them myself – although I know they are not necessary.
BTW, I loved the prologue to TALLIES KNIGHT. I’m a sucker for kids and animals in stories. (smile)
I’m ok with prologues. I think I would rather see a prologue than a flashback – although a good writer would do either one just fine.
More often I’ve found other readers who don’t care for epilogues. I like them myself – although I know they are not necessary.
BTW, I loved the prologue to TALLIES KNIGHT. I’m a sucker for kids and animals in stories. (smile)
I’m ok with prologues. I think I would rather see a prologue than a flashback – although a good writer would do either one just fine.
More often I’ve found other readers who don’t care for epilogues. I like them myself – although I know they are not necessary.
BTW, I loved the prologue to TALLIES KNIGHT. I’m a sucker for kids and animals in stories. (smile)
I’m ok with prologues. I think I would rather see a prologue than a flashback – although a good writer would do either one just fine.
More often I’ve found other readers who don’t care for epilogues. I like them myself – although I know they are not necessary.
BTW, I loved the prologue to TALLIES KNIGHT. I’m a sucker for kids and animals in stories. (smile)
I’m ok with prologues. I think I would rather see a prologue than a flashback – although a good writer would do either one just fine.
More often I’ve found other readers who don’t care for epilogues. I like them myself – although I know they are not necessary.
BTW, I loved the prologue to TALLIES KNIGHT. I’m a sucker for kids and animals in stories. (smile)
Great post, Anne! I like prologues and often use them myself and I totally agree with what you said about them. They should be fairly short and intrigue the reader, exactly as you have done with Tallie’s Knight (I want to read that right now – love the interaction between Magnus and the child!). The timeslip author Barbara Erskine writes superb prologues – my favourite is the one for Midnight Is A Lonely Place – and if they are well done, I think they really add to the story.
Great post, Anne! I like prologues and often use them myself and I totally agree with what you said about them. They should be fairly short and intrigue the reader, exactly as you have done with Tallie’s Knight (I want to read that right now – love the interaction between Magnus and the child!). The timeslip author Barbara Erskine writes superb prologues – my favourite is the one for Midnight Is A Lonely Place – and if they are well done, I think they really add to the story.
Great post, Anne! I like prologues and often use them myself and I totally agree with what you said about them. They should be fairly short and intrigue the reader, exactly as you have done with Tallie’s Knight (I want to read that right now – love the interaction between Magnus and the child!). The timeslip author Barbara Erskine writes superb prologues – my favourite is the one for Midnight Is A Lonely Place – and if they are well done, I think they really add to the story.
Great post, Anne! I like prologues and often use them myself and I totally agree with what you said about them. They should be fairly short and intrigue the reader, exactly as you have done with Tallie’s Knight (I want to read that right now – love the interaction between Magnus and the child!). The timeslip author Barbara Erskine writes superb prologues – my favourite is the one for Midnight Is A Lonely Place – and if they are well done, I think they really add to the story.
Great post, Anne! I like prologues and often use them myself and I totally agree with what you said about them. They should be fairly short and intrigue the reader, exactly as you have done with Tallie’s Knight (I want to read that right now – love the interaction between Magnus and the child!). The timeslip author Barbara Erskine writes superb prologues – my favourite is the one for Midnight Is A Lonely Place – and if they are well done, I think they really add to the story.
The “rules” are more like guidelines…as long as a writer is skilled and chooses the right scene for the prologue, it works fine for me.
When I was still writing (and trying to publish – never succeeded) historical romance, I did use prologues in a couple of my mss for just the reasons you state. I heard about it from some contest judges.
I don’t think there are ever any absolutes in writing – the ultimate judge is the editor on whose desk it lands.
The “rules” are more like guidelines…as long as a writer is skilled and chooses the right scene for the prologue, it works fine for me.
When I was still writing (and trying to publish – never succeeded) historical romance, I did use prologues in a couple of my mss for just the reasons you state. I heard about it from some contest judges.
I don’t think there are ever any absolutes in writing – the ultimate judge is the editor on whose desk it lands.
The “rules” are more like guidelines…as long as a writer is skilled and chooses the right scene for the prologue, it works fine for me.
When I was still writing (and trying to publish – never succeeded) historical romance, I did use prologues in a couple of my mss for just the reasons you state. I heard about it from some contest judges.
I don’t think there are ever any absolutes in writing – the ultimate judge is the editor on whose desk it lands.
The “rules” are more like guidelines…as long as a writer is skilled and chooses the right scene for the prologue, it works fine for me.
When I was still writing (and trying to publish – never succeeded) historical romance, I did use prologues in a couple of my mss for just the reasons you state. I heard about it from some contest judges.
I don’t think there are ever any absolutes in writing – the ultimate judge is the editor on whose desk it lands.
The “rules” are more like guidelines…as long as a writer is skilled and chooses the right scene for the prologue, it works fine for me.
When I was still writing (and trying to publish – never succeeded) historical romance, I did use prologues in a couple of my mss for just the reasons you state. I heard about it from some contest judges.
I don’t think there are ever any absolutes in writing – the ultimate judge is the editor on whose desk it lands.
I think that is one of those silly rules like “Don’t use adverbs” or “Avoid the passive voice.” Sometimes a prologue works beautifully, and sometimes it’s just a lazy and clunky way to put in some backstory. As far as I can see, the only question that needs to be asked about anything in writing is: “Does it work?”
And you can always avoid the problem by calling it Chapter One, and then starting Chapter Two with something like “Ten years later…”
I think that is one of those silly rules like “Don’t use adverbs” or “Avoid the passive voice.” Sometimes a prologue works beautifully, and sometimes it’s just a lazy and clunky way to put in some backstory. As far as I can see, the only question that needs to be asked about anything in writing is: “Does it work?”
And you can always avoid the problem by calling it Chapter One, and then starting Chapter Two with something like “Ten years later…”
I think that is one of those silly rules like “Don’t use adverbs” or “Avoid the passive voice.” Sometimes a prologue works beautifully, and sometimes it’s just a lazy and clunky way to put in some backstory. As far as I can see, the only question that needs to be asked about anything in writing is: “Does it work?”
And you can always avoid the problem by calling it Chapter One, and then starting Chapter Two with something like “Ten years later…”
I think that is one of those silly rules like “Don’t use adverbs” or “Avoid the passive voice.” Sometimes a prologue works beautifully, and sometimes it’s just a lazy and clunky way to put in some backstory. As far as I can see, the only question that needs to be asked about anything in writing is: “Does it work?”
And you can always avoid the problem by calling it Chapter One, and then starting Chapter Two with something like “Ten years later…”
I think that is one of those silly rules like “Don’t use adverbs” or “Avoid the passive voice.” Sometimes a prologue works beautifully, and sometimes it’s just a lazy and clunky way to put in some backstory. As far as I can see, the only question that needs to be asked about anything in writing is: “Does it work?”
And you can always avoid the problem by calling it Chapter One, and then starting Chapter Two with something like “Ten years later…”
I like prologues especially when it gives an insight into the hero or heroine before the main story starts. He may be a world-weary rake, but if the plight of a child stirs him into action, there is hope that he isn’t as jaded as he thinks he is. One prologue I read recently introduced the heroine as the brains behind a smuggling operation. The hero who had known the young lady was tasked to learn about the ring ang put an end to it, thus introducing the conflict the two would have to overcome.
I like prologues especially when it gives an insight into the hero or heroine before the main story starts. He may be a world-weary rake, but if the plight of a child stirs him into action, there is hope that he isn’t as jaded as he thinks he is. One prologue I read recently introduced the heroine as the brains behind a smuggling operation. The hero who had known the young lady was tasked to learn about the ring ang put an end to it, thus introducing the conflict the two would have to overcome.
I like prologues especially when it gives an insight into the hero or heroine before the main story starts. He may be a world-weary rake, but if the plight of a child stirs him into action, there is hope that he isn’t as jaded as he thinks he is. One prologue I read recently introduced the heroine as the brains behind a smuggling operation. The hero who had known the young lady was tasked to learn about the ring ang put an end to it, thus introducing the conflict the two would have to overcome.
I like prologues especially when it gives an insight into the hero or heroine before the main story starts. He may be a world-weary rake, but if the plight of a child stirs him into action, there is hope that he isn’t as jaded as he thinks he is. One prologue I read recently introduced the heroine as the brains behind a smuggling operation. The hero who had known the young lady was tasked to learn about the ring ang put an end to it, thus introducing the conflict the two would have to overcome.
I like prologues especially when it gives an insight into the hero or heroine before the main story starts. He may be a world-weary rake, but if the plight of a child stirs him into action, there is hope that he isn’t as jaded as he thinks he is. One prologue I read recently introduced the heroine as the brains behind a smuggling operation. The hero who had known the young lady was tasked to learn about the ring ang put an end to it, thus introducing the conflict the two would have to overcome.
As with all writing (and as you also said above) it depends. Your prologues have alswys be fitting and I enjoy them.
As with all writing (and as you also said above) it depends. Your prologues have alswys be fitting and I enjoy them.
As with all writing (and as you also said above) it depends. Your prologues have alswys be fitting and I enjoy them.
As with all writing (and as you also said above) it depends. Your prologues have alswys be fitting and I enjoy them.
As with all writing (and as you also said above) it depends. Your prologues have alswys be fitting and I enjoy them.
I like your way of thinking, Lil!
I like your way of thinking, Lil!
I like your way of thinking, Lil!
I like your way of thinking, Lil!
I like your way of thinking, Lil!
I am perfectly happy to read a prologue; I also read the dedication and any preface or foreword there might be. I tend to read the back matter, too!
I am generally happy to read flashbacks. Yesterday though, I read a story where the flashback did drag the forward momentum of the story to a crawl, so I can appreciate your point, Anne. I’m going to be looking at prologues with more attention going forward.
I am perfectly happy to read a prologue; I also read the dedication and any preface or foreword there might be. I tend to read the back matter, too!
I am generally happy to read flashbacks. Yesterday though, I read a story where the flashback did drag the forward momentum of the story to a crawl, so I can appreciate your point, Anne. I’m going to be looking at prologues with more attention going forward.
I am perfectly happy to read a prologue; I also read the dedication and any preface or foreword there might be. I tend to read the back matter, too!
I am generally happy to read flashbacks. Yesterday though, I read a story where the flashback did drag the forward momentum of the story to a crawl, so I can appreciate your point, Anne. I’m going to be looking at prologues with more attention going forward.
I am perfectly happy to read a prologue; I also read the dedication and any preface or foreword there might be. I tend to read the back matter, too!
I am generally happy to read flashbacks. Yesterday though, I read a story where the flashback did drag the forward momentum of the story to a crawl, so I can appreciate your point, Anne. I’m going to be looking at prologues with more attention going forward.
I am perfectly happy to read a prologue; I also read the dedication and any preface or foreword there might be. I tend to read the back matter, too!
I am generally happy to read flashbacks. Yesterday though, I read a story where the flashback did drag the forward momentum of the story to a crawl, so I can appreciate your point, Anne. I’m going to be looking at prologues with more attention going forward.
I’ve always thought the objection to prologues rather weird, and never skip them. The same goes for epilogues, though I rarely see these except in romances. Your prologues certainly work for me, as that for “Tallie’s Knight” persuaded me to buy the Kindle version (though the rest of Amazon’s “look inside” helped as well).
Forewords in non fiction are another matter though, and are frequently less than compelling.
That price on Amazon.com was definitely over the top – maybe the seller is running some odd computer pricing algorithm or a money laundering scam. The odd thing is that on the UK site there are two USA based sellers asking only(!) £100 for the used hardback of “Tallie’s Knight”. I wonder why they’re apparently not selling in their own country.
In the UK the used paperback prices are a bit more reasonable with lots of sellers at £8.90, but this still suggests a pretty high demand, as it’s a lot higher than most similar used books and rather more than a new paperback copy of “Marry in Scarlet”.
I’ve always thought the objection to prologues rather weird, and never skip them. The same goes for epilogues, though I rarely see these except in romances. Your prologues certainly work for me, as that for “Tallie’s Knight” persuaded me to buy the Kindle version (though the rest of Amazon’s “look inside” helped as well).
Forewords in non fiction are another matter though, and are frequently less than compelling.
That price on Amazon.com was definitely over the top – maybe the seller is running some odd computer pricing algorithm or a money laundering scam. The odd thing is that on the UK site there are two USA based sellers asking only(!) £100 for the used hardback of “Tallie’s Knight”. I wonder why they’re apparently not selling in their own country.
In the UK the used paperback prices are a bit more reasonable with lots of sellers at £8.90, but this still suggests a pretty high demand, as it’s a lot higher than most similar used books and rather more than a new paperback copy of “Marry in Scarlet”.
I’ve always thought the objection to prologues rather weird, and never skip them. The same goes for epilogues, though I rarely see these except in romances. Your prologues certainly work for me, as that for “Tallie’s Knight” persuaded me to buy the Kindle version (though the rest of Amazon’s “look inside” helped as well).
Forewords in non fiction are another matter though, and are frequently less than compelling.
That price on Amazon.com was definitely over the top – maybe the seller is running some odd computer pricing algorithm or a money laundering scam. The odd thing is that on the UK site there are two USA based sellers asking only(!) £100 for the used hardback of “Tallie’s Knight”. I wonder why they’re apparently not selling in their own country.
In the UK the used paperback prices are a bit more reasonable with lots of sellers at £8.90, but this still suggests a pretty high demand, as it’s a lot higher than most similar used books and rather more than a new paperback copy of “Marry in Scarlet”.
I’ve always thought the objection to prologues rather weird, and never skip them. The same goes for epilogues, though I rarely see these except in romances. Your prologues certainly work for me, as that for “Tallie’s Knight” persuaded me to buy the Kindle version (though the rest of Amazon’s “look inside” helped as well).
Forewords in non fiction are another matter though, and are frequently less than compelling.
That price on Amazon.com was definitely over the top – maybe the seller is running some odd computer pricing algorithm or a money laundering scam. The odd thing is that on the UK site there are two USA based sellers asking only(!) £100 for the used hardback of “Tallie’s Knight”. I wonder why they’re apparently not selling in their own country.
In the UK the used paperback prices are a bit more reasonable with lots of sellers at £8.90, but this still suggests a pretty high demand, as it’s a lot higher than most similar used books and rather more than a new paperback copy of “Marry in Scarlet”.
I’ve always thought the objection to prologues rather weird, and never skip them. The same goes for epilogues, though I rarely see these except in romances. Your prologues certainly work for me, as that for “Tallie’s Knight” persuaded me to buy the Kindle version (though the rest of Amazon’s “look inside” helped as well).
Forewords in non fiction are another matter though, and are frequently less than compelling.
That price on Amazon.com was definitely over the top – maybe the seller is running some odd computer pricing algorithm or a money laundering scam. The odd thing is that on the UK site there are two USA based sellers asking only(!) £100 for the used hardback of “Tallie’s Knight”. I wonder why they’re apparently not selling in their own country.
In the UK the used paperback prices are a bit more reasonable with lots of sellers at £8.90, but this still suggests a pretty high demand, as it’s a lot higher than most similar used books and rather more than a new paperback copy of “Marry in Scarlet”.
I like prologues. I always read them. they are a good vehicle for giving a bit of background. I love epilogues though! I always want more of the happily ever after.
I like prologues. I always read them. they are a good vehicle for giving a bit of background. I love epilogues though! I always want more of the happily ever after.
I like prologues. I always read them. they are a good vehicle for giving a bit of background. I love epilogues though! I always want more of the happily ever after.
I like prologues. I always read them. they are a good vehicle for giving a bit of background. I love epilogues though! I always want more of the happily ever after.
I like prologues. I always read them. they are a good vehicle for giving a bit of background. I love epilogues though! I always want more of the happily ever after.
I’m all for prologues when they’re needed. I’d rather the little thrill of ‘oooh! where does this/why does this’ than to get to a slap bang moment and have everything come to a screeching halt why I’m filled in on something that happened long past. 🙂
I’m all for prologues when they’re needed. I’d rather the little thrill of ‘oooh! where does this/why does this’ than to get to a slap bang moment and have everything come to a screeching halt why I’m filled in on something that happened long past. 🙂
I’m all for prologues when they’re needed. I’d rather the little thrill of ‘oooh! where does this/why does this’ than to get to a slap bang moment and have everything come to a screeching halt why I’m filled in on something that happened long past. 🙂
I’m all for prologues when they’re needed. I’d rather the little thrill of ‘oooh! where does this/why does this’ than to get to a slap bang moment and have everything come to a screeching halt why I’m filled in on something that happened long past. 🙂
I’m all for prologues when they’re needed. I’d rather the little thrill of ‘oooh! where does this/why does this’ than to get to a slap bang moment and have everything come to a screeching halt why I’m filled in on something that happened long past. 🙂
Thanks, Mary, kids and animals in stories — especially kids for some reasons — are another hot button for readers. Some people love ’em others hate them. I know readers who simply won’t read a book with kids in them.
For me, both kids and animals only belong in stories if they have a real purpose in the story. I would happily include an animal in every one of my stories, except that they have a tendency to upstage the action, so I only include them when they’re necessary. The same goes for kids. You can’t just leave them while the hero and heroine goes off having adventures, can you? I’ve read books like that where I’m thinking “but who’s looking after the kid/dog?”
Thanks, Mary, kids and animals in stories — especially kids for some reasons — are another hot button for readers. Some people love ’em others hate them. I know readers who simply won’t read a book with kids in them.
For me, both kids and animals only belong in stories if they have a real purpose in the story. I would happily include an animal in every one of my stories, except that they have a tendency to upstage the action, so I only include them when they’re necessary. The same goes for kids. You can’t just leave them while the hero and heroine goes off having adventures, can you? I’ve read books like that where I’m thinking “but who’s looking after the kid/dog?”
Thanks, Mary, kids and animals in stories — especially kids for some reasons — are another hot button for readers. Some people love ’em others hate them. I know readers who simply won’t read a book with kids in them.
For me, both kids and animals only belong in stories if they have a real purpose in the story. I would happily include an animal in every one of my stories, except that they have a tendency to upstage the action, so I only include them when they’re necessary. The same goes for kids. You can’t just leave them while the hero and heroine goes off having adventures, can you? I’ve read books like that where I’m thinking “but who’s looking after the kid/dog?”
Thanks, Mary, kids and animals in stories — especially kids for some reasons — are another hot button for readers. Some people love ’em others hate them. I know readers who simply won’t read a book with kids in them.
For me, both kids and animals only belong in stories if they have a real purpose in the story. I would happily include an animal in every one of my stories, except that they have a tendency to upstage the action, so I only include them when they’re necessary. The same goes for kids. You can’t just leave them while the hero and heroine goes off having adventures, can you? I’ve read books like that where I’m thinking “but who’s looking after the kid/dog?”
Thanks, Mary, kids and animals in stories — especially kids for some reasons — are another hot button for readers. Some people love ’em others hate them. I know readers who simply won’t read a book with kids in them.
For me, both kids and animals only belong in stories if they have a real purpose in the story. I would happily include an animal in every one of my stories, except that they have a tendency to upstage the action, so I only include them when they’re necessary. The same goes for kids. You can’t just leave them while the hero and heroine goes off having adventures, can you? I’ve read books like that where I’m thinking “but who’s looking after the kid/dog?”
Thanks, Christina, I’m off to investigate that Barbara Erskine book now. I love the “look inside” feature on amazon. Not sure you can buy Tallie’s Knight any more except for used copies. And that ludicrously priced piece of nonsense I linked to. It’s hard to tell — amazon only shows me what it thinks Australians want to see. 🙁
Thanks, Christina, I’m off to investigate that Barbara Erskine book now. I love the “look inside” feature on amazon. Not sure you can buy Tallie’s Knight any more except for used copies. And that ludicrously priced piece of nonsense I linked to. It’s hard to tell — amazon only shows me what it thinks Australians want to see. 🙁
Thanks, Christina, I’m off to investigate that Barbara Erskine book now. I love the “look inside” feature on amazon. Not sure you can buy Tallie’s Knight any more except for used copies. And that ludicrously priced piece of nonsense I linked to. It’s hard to tell — amazon only shows me what it thinks Australians want to see. 🙁
Thanks, Christina, I’m off to investigate that Barbara Erskine book now. I love the “look inside” feature on amazon. Not sure you can buy Tallie’s Knight any more except for used copies. And that ludicrously priced piece of nonsense I linked to. It’s hard to tell — amazon only shows me what it thinks Australians want to see. 🙁
Thanks, Christina, I’m off to investigate that Barbara Erskine book now. I love the “look inside” feature on amazon. Not sure you can buy Tallie’s Knight any more except for used copies. And that ludicrously priced piece of nonsense I linked to. It’s hard to tell — amazon only shows me what it thinks Australians want to see. 🙁
Teresa, oh yes, I’m with you on some contest judges and their “rules.” I remember entering one contest years ago and getting my entry back with every single “was” in the piece circled, the judge telling me that “was” was “Passive and should never be used.” Wrong.
So many “rules” are pieces of writing advice, imperfectly understood, but passed on with confidence.
Have you thought of self publishing your stories? Often manuscripts are rejected not because they’re no good, but because the editor or publisher concerned isn’t looking for that style of thing at the time. Doesn’t mean the stories aren’t good.
Teresa, oh yes, I’m with you on some contest judges and their “rules.” I remember entering one contest years ago and getting my entry back with every single “was” in the piece circled, the judge telling me that “was” was “Passive and should never be used.” Wrong.
So many “rules” are pieces of writing advice, imperfectly understood, but passed on with confidence.
Have you thought of self publishing your stories? Often manuscripts are rejected not because they’re no good, but because the editor or publisher concerned isn’t looking for that style of thing at the time. Doesn’t mean the stories aren’t good.
Teresa, oh yes, I’m with you on some contest judges and their “rules.” I remember entering one contest years ago and getting my entry back with every single “was” in the piece circled, the judge telling me that “was” was “Passive and should never be used.” Wrong.
So many “rules” are pieces of writing advice, imperfectly understood, but passed on with confidence.
Have you thought of self publishing your stories? Often manuscripts are rejected not because they’re no good, but because the editor or publisher concerned isn’t looking for that style of thing at the time. Doesn’t mean the stories aren’t good.
Teresa, oh yes, I’m with you on some contest judges and their “rules.” I remember entering one contest years ago and getting my entry back with every single “was” in the piece circled, the judge telling me that “was” was “Passive and should never be used.” Wrong.
So many “rules” are pieces of writing advice, imperfectly understood, but passed on with confidence.
Have you thought of self publishing your stories? Often manuscripts are rejected not because they’re no good, but because the editor or publisher concerned isn’t looking for that style of thing at the time. Doesn’t mean the stories aren’t good.
Teresa, oh yes, I’m with you on some contest judges and their “rules.” I remember entering one contest years ago and getting my entry back with every single “was” in the piece circled, the judge telling me that “was” was “Passive and should never be used.” Wrong.
So many “rules” are pieces of writing advice, imperfectly understood, but passed on with confidence.
Have you thought of self publishing your stories? Often manuscripts are rejected not because they’re no good, but because the editor or publisher concerned isn’t looking for that style of thing at the time. Doesn’t mean the stories aren’t good.
Thanks, Lil, I completely agree. Some of the so-called “rules” that get passed around drive me bonkers — see my response to Teresa, above.
And yes, “Does it work?” is the main question.
Thanks, Lil, I completely agree. Some of the so-called “rules” that get passed around drive me bonkers — see my response to Teresa, above.
And yes, “Does it work?” is the main question.
Thanks, Lil, I completely agree. Some of the so-called “rules” that get passed around drive me bonkers — see my response to Teresa, above.
And yes, “Does it work?” is the main question.
Thanks, Lil, I completely agree. Some of the so-called “rules” that get passed around drive me bonkers — see my response to Teresa, above.
And yes, “Does it work?” is the main question.
Thanks, Lil, I completely agree. Some of the so-called “rules” that get passed around drive me bonkers — see my response to Teresa, above.
And yes, “Does it work?” is the main question.
Pamela, that sounds like the kind of prologue that does work — it intrigues the reader, and it also plants a surprise in store for the hero that the reader can anticipate with pleasure. Thanks.
Pamela, that sounds like the kind of prologue that does work — it intrigues the reader, and it also plants a surprise in store for the hero that the reader can anticipate with pleasure. Thanks.
Pamela, that sounds like the kind of prologue that does work — it intrigues the reader, and it also plants a surprise in store for the hero that the reader can anticipate with pleasure. Thanks.
Pamela, that sounds like the kind of prologue that does work — it intrigues the reader, and it also plants a surprise in store for the hero that the reader can anticipate with pleasure. Thanks.
Pamela, that sounds like the kind of prologue that does work — it intrigues the reader, and it also plants a surprise in store for the hero that the reader can anticipate with pleasure. Thanks.
Thanks, Sue, lovely of you to say so.
Thanks, Sue, lovely of you to say so.
Thanks, Sue, lovely of you to say so.
Thanks, Sue, lovely of you to say so.
Thanks, Sue, lovely of you to say so.
As said above…a good prolog sets the scene perfectly.
Interestingly enough, my copy of Marry in Scarlet does NOT have a prolog in it. I bought it through Amazon in June and today (Sept 23rd) I used the Amazon link to look inside the book it shows no prolog either. Very interesting…
I’m pretty sure I know what scene you are referring to. I’ll have to go back and read it to see if it would have made a difference.
But I too read prolog, epilogues, foreword, thanks and appreciation, historical information. I find it all interesting.
As said above…a good prolog sets the scene perfectly.
Interestingly enough, my copy of Marry in Scarlet does NOT have a prolog in it. I bought it through Amazon in June and today (Sept 23rd) I used the Amazon link to look inside the book it shows no prolog either. Very interesting…
I’m pretty sure I know what scene you are referring to. I’ll have to go back and read it to see if it would have made a difference.
But I too read prolog, epilogues, foreword, thanks and appreciation, historical information. I find it all interesting.
As said above…a good prolog sets the scene perfectly.
Interestingly enough, my copy of Marry in Scarlet does NOT have a prolog in it. I bought it through Amazon in June and today (Sept 23rd) I used the Amazon link to look inside the book it shows no prolog either. Very interesting…
I’m pretty sure I know what scene you are referring to. I’ll have to go back and read it to see if it would have made a difference.
But I too read prolog, epilogues, foreword, thanks and appreciation, historical information. I find it all interesting.
As said above…a good prolog sets the scene perfectly.
Interestingly enough, my copy of Marry in Scarlet does NOT have a prolog in it. I bought it through Amazon in June and today (Sept 23rd) I used the Amazon link to look inside the book it shows no prolog either. Very interesting…
I’m pretty sure I know what scene you are referring to. I’ll have to go back and read it to see if it would have made a difference.
But I too read prolog, epilogues, foreword, thanks and appreciation, historical information. I find it all interesting.
As said above…a good prolog sets the scene perfectly.
Interestingly enough, my copy of Marry in Scarlet does NOT have a prolog in it. I bought it through Amazon in June and today (Sept 23rd) I used the Amazon link to look inside the book it shows no prolog either. Very interesting…
I’m pretty sure I know what scene you are referring to. I’ll have to go back and read it to see if it would have made a difference.
But I too read prolog, epilogues, foreword, thanks and appreciation, historical information. I find it all interesting.
Kareni, I think we have already established through your WWR lists that you are not simply a reader, but a Reader. *g* I also read dedications — not always forewords unless the writer has a real connection with the author. Sometimes it’s just a rote thing for publicity.
And a well written flashback can work, but often it does bring the forward momentum to a halt. And it’s hard to get that back.
Kareni, I think we have already established through your WWR lists that you are not simply a reader, but a Reader. *g* I also read dedications — not always forewords unless the writer has a real connection with the author. Sometimes it’s just a rote thing for publicity.
And a well written flashback can work, but often it does bring the forward momentum to a halt. And it’s hard to get that back.
Kareni, I think we have already established through your WWR lists that you are not simply a reader, but a Reader. *g* I also read dedications — not always forewords unless the writer has a real connection with the author. Sometimes it’s just a rote thing for publicity.
And a well written flashback can work, but often it does bring the forward momentum to a halt. And it’s hard to get that back.
Kareni, I think we have already established through your WWR lists that you are not simply a reader, but a Reader. *g* I also read dedications — not always forewords unless the writer has a real connection with the author. Sometimes it’s just a rote thing for publicity.
And a well written flashback can work, but often it does bring the forward momentum to a halt. And it’s hard to get that back.
Kareni, I think we have already established through your WWR lists that you are not simply a reader, but a Reader. *g* I also read dedications — not always forewords unless the writer has a real connection with the author. Sometimes it’s just a rote thing for publicity.
And a well written flashback can work, but often it does bring the forward momentum to a halt. And it’s hard to get that back.
Thanks, Mike. I’m planning to write about epilogues in another post. I didn’t realize that Tallie’s Knight was still available on kindle — Amazon doesn’t show it to me – some kind of geographical restriction thing. The price I linked to is just plain silly and I put it in for a laugh. £100 is also ridiculous — even £8.90 is still pretty steep for a little old secondhand paperback.
And yes, I often skip a foreword — or rather I usually start them, but don’t always finish reading. They’re much more hit and miss for me.
Thanks, Mike. I’m planning to write about epilogues in another post. I didn’t realize that Tallie’s Knight was still available on kindle — Amazon doesn’t show it to me – some kind of geographical restriction thing. The price I linked to is just plain silly and I put it in for a laugh. £100 is also ridiculous — even £8.90 is still pretty steep for a little old secondhand paperback.
And yes, I often skip a foreword — or rather I usually start them, but don’t always finish reading. They’re much more hit and miss for me.
Thanks, Mike. I’m planning to write about epilogues in another post. I didn’t realize that Tallie’s Knight was still available on kindle — Amazon doesn’t show it to me – some kind of geographical restriction thing. The price I linked to is just plain silly and I put it in for a laugh. £100 is also ridiculous — even £8.90 is still pretty steep for a little old secondhand paperback.
And yes, I often skip a foreword — or rather I usually start them, but don’t always finish reading. They’re much more hit and miss for me.
Thanks, Mike. I’m planning to write about epilogues in another post. I didn’t realize that Tallie’s Knight was still available on kindle — Amazon doesn’t show it to me – some kind of geographical restriction thing. The price I linked to is just plain silly and I put it in for a laugh. £100 is also ridiculous — even £8.90 is still pretty steep for a little old secondhand paperback.
And yes, I often skip a foreword — or rather I usually start them, but don’t always finish reading. They’re much more hit and miss for me.
Thanks, Mike. I’m planning to write about epilogues in another post. I didn’t realize that Tallie’s Knight was still available on kindle — Amazon doesn’t show it to me – some kind of geographical restriction thing. The price I linked to is just plain silly and I put it in for a laugh. £100 is also ridiculous — even £8.90 is still pretty steep for a little old secondhand paperback.
And yes, I often skip a foreword — or rather I usually start them, but don’t always finish reading. They’re much more hit and miss for me.
Thanks, Maree, I’ll be writing about epilogues in another post. I’m writing the epilogue for my new book today, in fact.
Thanks, Maree, I’ll be writing about epilogues in another post. I’m writing the epilogue for my new book today, in fact.
Thanks, Maree, I’ll be writing about epilogues in another post. I’m writing the epilogue for my new book today, in fact.
Thanks, Maree, I’ll be writing about epilogues in another post. I’m writing the epilogue for my new book today, in fact.
Thanks, Maree, I’ll be writing about epilogues in another post. I’m writing the epilogue for my new book today, in fact.
A perfect explanation for what I’m hoping to achieve, Theo — thanks. It’s a bit like having an intriguing puzzle piece that you’re waiting to fit in.
A perfect explanation for what I’m hoping to achieve, Theo — thanks. It’s a bit like having an intriguing puzzle piece that you’re waiting to fit in.
A perfect explanation for what I’m hoping to achieve, Theo — thanks. It’s a bit like having an intriguing puzzle piece that you’re waiting to fit in.
A perfect explanation for what I’m hoping to achieve, Theo — thanks. It’s a bit like having an intriguing puzzle piece that you’re waiting to fit in.
A perfect explanation for what I’m hoping to achieve, Theo — thanks. It’s a bit like having an intriguing puzzle piece that you’re waiting to fit in.
Oh dear — I checked my own document for that, Vicki — and maybe I changed it in the revisions, and made it Chapter 1 instead. Or maybe I deleted it and wove it in to his memory or made it a flashback. Eek. I can’t remember — so many things get changed in the last part of the publishing process. It’s a scene where a young Hart (the hero) is on a hunt that’s disrupted by a wild young George, who he doesn’t realize is female at first . . . I’m off to check.
Whoops, yes, no prologue — I must have decided that the opening with Aunt Agatha was a better way to start the book, and I wove that scene into his memory as a kind of flashback. Sorry.
Oh dear — I checked my own document for that, Vicki — and maybe I changed it in the revisions, and made it Chapter 1 instead. Or maybe I deleted it and wove it in to his memory or made it a flashback. Eek. I can’t remember — so many things get changed in the last part of the publishing process. It’s a scene where a young Hart (the hero) is on a hunt that’s disrupted by a wild young George, who he doesn’t realize is female at first . . . I’m off to check.
Whoops, yes, no prologue — I must have decided that the opening with Aunt Agatha was a better way to start the book, and I wove that scene into his memory as a kind of flashback. Sorry.
Oh dear — I checked my own document for that, Vicki — and maybe I changed it in the revisions, and made it Chapter 1 instead. Or maybe I deleted it and wove it in to his memory or made it a flashback. Eek. I can’t remember — so many things get changed in the last part of the publishing process. It’s a scene where a young Hart (the hero) is on a hunt that’s disrupted by a wild young George, who he doesn’t realize is female at first . . . I’m off to check.
Whoops, yes, no prologue — I must have decided that the opening with Aunt Agatha was a better way to start the book, and I wove that scene into his memory as a kind of flashback. Sorry.
Oh dear — I checked my own document for that, Vicki — and maybe I changed it in the revisions, and made it Chapter 1 instead. Or maybe I deleted it and wove it in to his memory or made it a flashback. Eek. I can’t remember — so many things get changed in the last part of the publishing process. It’s a scene where a young Hart (the hero) is on a hunt that’s disrupted by a wild young George, who he doesn’t realize is female at first . . . I’m off to check.
Whoops, yes, no prologue — I must have decided that the opening with Aunt Agatha was a better way to start the book, and I wove that scene into his memory as a kind of flashback. Sorry.
Oh dear — I checked my own document for that, Vicki — and maybe I changed it in the revisions, and made it Chapter 1 instead. Or maybe I deleted it and wove it in to his memory or made it a flashback. Eek. I can’t remember — so many things get changed in the last part of the publishing process. It’s a scene where a young Hart (the hero) is on a hunt that’s disrupted by a wild young George, who he doesn’t realize is female at first . . . I’m off to check.
Whoops, yes, no prologue — I must have decided that the opening with Aunt Agatha was a better way to start the book, and I wove that scene into his memory as a kind of flashback. Sorry.
I have nothing against PROLOGUES. In my opinion it sore of sets up the story and shows where the two main characters in the book maybe in their lives.
I have nothing against PROLOGUES. In my opinion it sore of sets up the story and shows where the two main characters in the book maybe in their lives.
I have nothing against PROLOGUES. In my opinion it sore of sets up the story and shows where the two main characters in the book maybe in their lives.
I have nothing against PROLOGUES. In my opinion it sore of sets up the story and shows where the two main characters in the book maybe in their lives.
I have nothing against PROLOGUES. In my opinion it sore of sets up the story and shows where the two main characters in the book maybe in their lives.
As you well know, I adore everything about your books and anyone who skips that first scene in Tallie is all about in their heads.
Terminology doesn’t count as much as the talent of the writer. Call that Prologue the first chapter, put dates on it and the second chapter, and there ya go, all fixed.
But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.
As you well know, I adore everything about your books and anyone who skips that first scene in Tallie is all about in their heads.
Terminology doesn’t count as much as the talent of the writer. Call that Prologue the first chapter, put dates on it and the second chapter, and there ya go, all fixed.
But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.
As you well know, I adore everything about your books and anyone who skips that first scene in Tallie is all about in their heads.
Terminology doesn’t count as much as the talent of the writer. Call that Prologue the first chapter, put dates on it and the second chapter, and there ya go, all fixed.
But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.
As you well know, I adore everything about your books and anyone who skips that first scene in Tallie is all about in their heads.
Terminology doesn’t count as much as the talent of the writer. Call that Prologue the first chapter, put dates on it and the second chapter, and there ya go, all fixed.
But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.
As you well know, I adore everything about your books and anyone who skips that first scene in Tallie is all about in their heads.
Terminology doesn’t count as much as the talent of the writer. Call that Prologue the first chapter, put dates on it and the second chapter, and there ya go, all fixed.
But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.
Whew…..I’m glad to know I don’t have a “defective” copy. I did think that scene worked well as a flashback….
Whew…..I’m glad to know I don’t have a “defective” copy. I did think that scene worked well as a flashback….
Whew…..I’m glad to know I don’t have a “defective” copy. I did think that scene worked well as a flashback….
Whew…..I’m glad to know I don’t have a “defective” copy. I did think that scene worked well as a flashback….
Whew…..I’m glad to know I don’t have a “defective” copy. I did think that scene worked well as a flashback….
Thanks, Vicki. This is what happens when I pull a manuscript apart and put it back together, hopefully better. But the brain doesn’t always remember. (g) Last night when I was writing the blog, I searched on my laptop for “prologue” and it came up, so I went for it. LOL. But now I’ve fixed the blog — confessed my mistake — and included a few more books with prologues, and the links to them, so people can read them if they want.
Thanks, Vicki. This is what happens when I pull a manuscript apart and put it back together, hopefully better. But the brain doesn’t always remember. (g) Last night when I was writing the blog, I searched on my laptop for “prologue” and it came up, so I went for it. LOL. But now I’ve fixed the blog — confessed my mistake — and included a few more books with prologues, and the links to them, so people can read them if they want.
Thanks, Vicki. This is what happens when I pull a manuscript apart and put it back together, hopefully better. But the brain doesn’t always remember. (g) Last night when I was writing the blog, I searched on my laptop for “prologue” and it came up, so I went for it. LOL. But now I’ve fixed the blog — confessed my mistake — and included a few more books with prologues, and the links to them, so people can read them if they want.
Thanks, Vicki. This is what happens when I pull a manuscript apart and put it back together, hopefully better. But the brain doesn’t always remember. (g) Last night when I was writing the blog, I searched on my laptop for “prologue” and it came up, so I went for it. LOL. But now I’ve fixed the blog — confessed my mistake — and included a few more books with prologues, and the links to them, so people can read them if they want.
Thanks, Vicki. This is what happens when I pull a manuscript apart and put it back together, hopefully better. But the brain doesn’t always remember. (g) Last night when I was writing the blog, I searched on my laptop for “prologue” and it came up, so I went for it. LOL. But now I’ve fixed the blog — confessed my mistake — and included a few more books with prologues, and the links to them, so people can read them if they want.
Thanks, Mara, yes, that’s often the intention — a significant event in their past that has an effect on the “current” part of the story.
Thanks, Mara, yes, that’s often the intention — a significant event in their past that has an effect on the “current” part of the story.
Thanks, Mara, yes, that’s often the intention — a significant event in their past that has an effect on the “current” part of the story.
Thanks, Mara, yes, that’s often the intention — a significant event in their past that has an effect on the “current” part of the story.
Thanks, Mara, yes, that’s often the intention — a significant event in their past that has an effect on the “current” part of the story.
Aw, thanks, Pat, you’re a sweetheart.
Yes, you’re right — a good opening is a good opening, whether you call in Chapter 1 or Prologue. For me, there needs to be a significant time difference for a prologue, or a defining scene that is separate from the main action.
“But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.”
Yep. Or more like will ditch the book unread. I like the “look inside” feature of amazon. It gives me a real sense of the writer’s voice and the story.
Aw, thanks, Pat, you’re a sweetheart.
Yes, you’re right — a good opening is a good opening, whether you call in Chapter 1 or Prologue. For me, there needs to be a significant time difference for a prologue, or a defining scene that is separate from the main action.
“But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.”
Yep. Or more like will ditch the book unread. I like the “look inside” feature of amazon. It gives me a real sense of the writer’s voice and the story.
Aw, thanks, Pat, you’re a sweetheart.
Yes, you’re right — a good opening is a good opening, whether you call in Chapter 1 or Prologue. For me, there needs to be a significant time difference for a prologue, or a defining scene that is separate from the main action.
“But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.”
Yep. Or more like will ditch the book unread. I like the “look inside” feature of amazon. It gives me a real sense of the writer’s voice and the story.
Aw, thanks, Pat, you’re a sweetheart.
Yes, you’re right — a good opening is a good opening, whether you call in Chapter 1 or Prologue. For me, there needs to be a significant time difference for a prologue, or a defining scene that is separate from the main action.
“But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.”
Yep. Or more like will ditch the book unread. I like the “look inside” feature of amazon. It gives me a real sense of the writer’s voice and the story.
Aw, thanks, Pat, you’re a sweetheart.
Yes, you’re right — a good opening is a good opening, whether you call in Chapter 1 or Prologue. For me, there needs to be a significant time difference for a prologue, or a defining scene that is separate from the main action.
“But put in a first chapter that sucketh, and readers will skip it.”
Yep. Or more like will ditch the book unread. I like the “look inside” feature of amazon. It gives me a real sense of the writer’s voice and the story.
Yes, you did the weave in later thing, Anne, and it worked fine. I agree that Aunt Agatha was a strong opener. *G*
Yes, you did the weave in later thing, Anne, and it worked fine. I agree that Aunt Agatha was a strong opener. *G*
Yes, you did the weave in later thing, Anne, and it worked fine. I agree that Aunt Agatha was a strong opener. *G*
Yes, you did the weave in later thing, Anne, and it worked fine. I agree that Aunt Agatha was a strong opener. *G*
Yes, you did the weave in later thing, Anne, and it worked fine. I agree that Aunt Agatha was a strong opener. *G*
Anne, I’m a fan of prologues also–when they improve the story. In my books, they usually show a traumatic, life changing moment in a character’s past so it’s easier to understand them in the story’s present.
I don’t always do epilogues, but if the main characters met and mated in some wild, dangerous situation–as they so often do–I like to show them getting along well when life is quiet and normal.
Anne, I’m a fan of prologues also–when they improve the story. In my books, they usually show a traumatic, life changing moment in a character’s past so it’s easier to understand them in the story’s present.
I don’t always do epilogues, but if the main characters met and mated in some wild, dangerous situation–as they so often do–I like to show them getting along well when life is quiet and normal.
Anne, I’m a fan of prologues also–when they improve the story. In my books, they usually show a traumatic, life changing moment in a character’s past so it’s easier to understand them in the story’s present.
I don’t always do epilogues, but if the main characters met and mated in some wild, dangerous situation–as they so often do–I like to show them getting along well when life is quiet and normal.
Anne, I’m a fan of prologues also–when they improve the story. In my books, they usually show a traumatic, life changing moment in a character’s past so it’s easier to understand them in the story’s present.
I don’t always do epilogues, but if the main characters met and mated in some wild, dangerous situation–as they so often do–I like to show them getting along well when life is quiet and normal.
Anne, I’m a fan of prologues also–when they improve the story. In my books, they usually show a traumatic, life changing moment in a character’s past so it’s easier to understand them in the story’s present.
I don’t always do epilogues, but if the main characters met and mated in some wild, dangerous situation–as they so often do–I like to show them getting along well when life is quiet and normal.
Thanks, Mary Jo — and that’s the key, isn’t it? Whether they improve the story or not.
I do like an epilogue — most of my books have them, but I also have Opinions about epilogues (g) and will be blogging about them as well.
Thanks, Mary Jo — and that’s the key, isn’t it? Whether they improve the story or not.
I do like an epilogue — most of my books have them, but I also have Opinions about epilogues (g) and will be blogging about them as well.
Thanks, Mary Jo — and that’s the key, isn’t it? Whether they improve the story or not.
I do like an epilogue — most of my books have them, but I also have Opinions about epilogues (g) and will be blogging about them as well.
Thanks, Mary Jo — and that’s the key, isn’t it? Whether they improve the story or not.
I do like an epilogue — most of my books have them, but I also have Opinions about epilogues (g) and will be blogging about them as well.
Thanks, Mary Jo — and that’s the key, isn’t it? Whether they improve the story or not.
I do like an epilogue — most of my books have them, but I also have Opinions about epilogues (g) and will be blogging about them as well.
That prologue with Magnus was hilarious. I just read A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore. It begins with a prologue of how the two main characters met as children. Done well, the prologue sets the tone for everything that happens later.
That prologue with Magnus was hilarious. I just read A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore. It begins with a prologue of how the two main characters met as children. Done well, the prologue sets the tone for everything that happens later.
That prologue with Magnus was hilarious. I just read A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore. It begins with a prologue of how the two main characters met as children. Done well, the prologue sets the tone for everything that happens later.
That prologue with Magnus was hilarious. I just read A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore. It begins with a prologue of how the two main characters met as children. Done well, the prologue sets the tone for everything that happens later.
That prologue with Magnus was hilarious. I just read A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore. It begins with a prologue of how the two main characters met as children. Done well, the prologue sets the tone for everything that happens later.
I love prologues. It’s part of the story, and acknowledges past history/incidents. Having that part in the middle of the book, seems like an interruption. Definitely prologues and epilogues.
I love prologues. It’s part of the story, and acknowledges past history/incidents. Having that part in the middle of the book, seems like an interruption. Definitely prologues and epilogues.
I love prologues. It’s part of the story, and acknowledges past history/incidents. Having that part in the middle of the book, seems like an interruption. Definitely prologues and epilogues.
I love prologues. It’s part of the story, and acknowledges past history/incidents. Having that part in the middle of the book, seems like an interruption. Definitely prologues and epilogues.
I love prologues. It’s part of the story, and acknowledges past history/incidents. Having that part in the middle of the book, seems like an interruption. Definitely prologues and epilogues.
I read prologues. I read epilogues. If I am reading an author I like, I read everything, what is on the outside cover, what someone said about the book, in short, I will read everything.
To be honest, I believe that for an author to write a book I love, whether they use prologues or not is not a big deal. What is a big deal is that someone worked hard to create a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.
And it is one way to make this reader realize that the characters who I will be spending time with, did not spring up from the first page. They were out there, living lives before I got there.
Well written books, are lovely. No matter what they have attached to them.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
I read prologues. I read epilogues. If I am reading an author I like, I read everything, what is on the outside cover, what someone said about the book, in short, I will read everything.
To be honest, I believe that for an author to write a book I love, whether they use prologues or not is not a big deal. What is a big deal is that someone worked hard to create a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.
And it is one way to make this reader realize that the characters who I will be spending time with, did not spring up from the first page. They were out there, living lives before I got there.
Well written books, are lovely. No matter what they have attached to them.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
I read prologues. I read epilogues. If I am reading an author I like, I read everything, what is on the outside cover, what someone said about the book, in short, I will read everything.
To be honest, I believe that for an author to write a book I love, whether they use prologues or not is not a big deal. What is a big deal is that someone worked hard to create a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.
And it is one way to make this reader realize that the characters who I will be spending time with, did not spring up from the first page. They were out there, living lives before I got there.
Well written books, are lovely. No matter what they have attached to them.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
I read prologues. I read epilogues. If I am reading an author I like, I read everything, what is on the outside cover, what someone said about the book, in short, I will read everything.
To be honest, I believe that for an author to write a book I love, whether they use prologues or not is not a big deal. What is a big deal is that someone worked hard to create a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.
And it is one way to make this reader realize that the characters who I will be spending time with, did not spring up from the first page. They were out there, living lives before I got there.
Well written books, are lovely. No matter what they have attached to them.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
I read prologues. I read epilogues. If I am reading an author I like, I read everything, what is on the outside cover, what someone said about the book, in short, I will read everything.
To be honest, I believe that for an author to write a book I love, whether they use prologues or not is not a big deal. What is a big deal is that someone worked hard to create a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.
And it is one way to make this reader realize that the characters who I will be spending time with, did not spring up from the first page. They were out there, living lives before I got there.
Well written books, are lovely. No matter what they have attached to them.
I hope everyone is taking care and staying well.
Yes, I do read and enjoy prologues! They set the scene or sometimes the tone for the story to follow. Are they necessary? I think it depends on the plot and the author’s intentions. Either way, I always read them. I also like epilogues. Seeing the main characters in a later time adds the final “sigh” of happy ever after.
Yes, I do read and enjoy prologues! They set the scene or sometimes the tone for the story to follow. Are they necessary? I think it depends on the plot and the author’s intentions. Either way, I always read them. I also like epilogues. Seeing the main characters in a later time adds the final “sigh” of happy ever after.
Yes, I do read and enjoy prologues! They set the scene or sometimes the tone for the story to follow. Are they necessary? I think it depends on the plot and the author’s intentions. Either way, I always read them. I also like epilogues. Seeing the main characters in a later time adds the final “sigh” of happy ever after.
Yes, I do read and enjoy prologues! They set the scene or sometimes the tone for the story to follow. Are they necessary? I think it depends on the plot and the author’s intentions. Either way, I always read them. I also like epilogues. Seeing the main characters in a later time adds the final “sigh” of happy ever after.
Yes, I do read and enjoy prologues! They set the scene or sometimes the tone for the story to follow. Are they necessary? I think it depends on the plot and the author’s intentions. Either way, I always read them. I also like epilogues. Seeing the main characters in a later time adds the final “sigh” of happy ever after.
I’m not sure whether it’s amazon.com or amazon.co.uk, or both, that are hiding the Kindle versions from Australians. Visibility of Kindle versions on “other” Amazon websites can be a bit hit or miss. From the UK I can see many Kindle books on amazon.com, but quite a few don’t appear. For me, “Tallie’s Knight” is one of the invisible ones, though when I switch to the Opera browser to use its inbuilt VPN (and pretend I’m in the USA) it appears (at $2.49) and is a bit cheaper than the £2.99 I paid for the UK version.
I’m not sure whether it’s amazon.com or amazon.co.uk, or both, that are hiding the Kindle versions from Australians. Visibility of Kindle versions on “other” Amazon websites can be a bit hit or miss. From the UK I can see many Kindle books on amazon.com, but quite a few don’t appear. For me, “Tallie’s Knight” is one of the invisible ones, though when I switch to the Opera browser to use its inbuilt VPN (and pretend I’m in the USA) it appears (at $2.49) and is a bit cheaper than the £2.99 I paid for the UK version.
I’m not sure whether it’s amazon.com or amazon.co.uk, or both, that are hiding the Kindle versions from Australians. Visibility of Kindle versions on “other” Amazon websites can be a bit hit or miss. From the UK I can see many Kindle books on amazon.com, but quite a few don’t appear. For me, “Tallie’s Knight” is one of the invisible ones, though when I switch to the Opera browser to use its inbuilt VPN (and pretend I’m in the USA) it appears (at $2.49) and is a bit cheaper than the £2.99 I paid for the UK version.
I’m not sure whether it’s amazon.com or amazon.co.uk, or both, that are hiding the Kindle versions from Australians. Visibility of Kindle versions on “other” Amazon websites can be a bit hit or miss. From the UK I can see many Kindle books on amazon.com, but quite a few don’t appear. For me, “Tallie’s Knight” is one of the invisible ones, though when I switch to the Opera browser to use its inbuilt VPN (and pretend I’m in the USA) it appears (at $2.49) and is a bit cheaper than the £2.99 I paid for the UK version.
I’m not sure whether it’s amazon.com or amazon.co.uk, or both, that are hiding the Kindle versions from Australians. Visibility of Kindle versions on “other” Amazon websites can be a bit hit or miss. From the UK I can see many Kindle books on amazon.com, but quite a few don’t appear. For me, “Tallie’s Knight” is one of the invisible ones, though when I switch to the Opera browser to use its inbuilt VPN (and pretend I’m in the USA) it appears (at $2.49) and is a bit cheaper than the £2.99 I paid for the UK version.
I’ve seen some authors take a gripping scene from later in the novel, and use that as the prologue, which kind of annoys me because it’s not actually a prologue, and it seems a bit like cheating in a way.
I’ve seen some authors take a gripping scene from later in the novel, and use that as the prologue, which kind of annoys me because it’s not actually a prologue, and it seems a bit like cheating in a way.
I’ve seen some authors take a gripping scene from later in the novel, and use that as the prologue, which kind of annoys me because it’s not actually a prologue, and it seems a bit like cheating in a way.
I’ve seen some authors take a gripping scene from later in the novel, and use that as the prologue, which kind of annoys me because it’s not actually a prologue, and it seems a bit like cheating in a way.
I’ve seen some authors take a gripping scene from later in the novel, and use that as the prologue, which kind of annoys me because it’s not actually a prologue, and it seems a bit like cheating in a way.
Thanks, Mike. I checked the UK link and Lo! Tallie’s Knight shows up for me, and it looks like I might even be able to buy it. (Often amazon UK won’t let me buy)
Mary Jo sent me a link to the Amazon US version, but when I clicked on it, it took me to the manga. It’s the same link she was able to buy the e-book with, so I don’t know what game Amazon is playing, but it drives me bonkers! I don’t understand why they just don’t make it available in all regions!
These annoying geographical restrictions are driving us all to get VPNs I suspect — until they find a way to stop that. Anyway, I hope after all the trouble you went to to get it, you enjoy it. It’s 20 years since I wrote it. Thanks.
Thanks, Mike. I checked the UK link and Lo! Tallie’s Knight shows up for me, and it looks like I might even be able to buy it. (Often amazon UK won’t let me buy)
Mary Jo sent me a link to the Amazon US version, but when I clicked on it, it took me to the manga. It’s the same link she was able to buy the e-book with, so I don’t know what game Amazon is playing, but it drives me bonkers! I don’t understand why they just don’t make it available in all regions!
These annoying geographical restrictions are driving us all to get VPNs I suspect — until they find a way to stop that. Anyway, I hope after all the trouble you went to to get it, you enjoy it. It’s 20 years since I wrote it. Thanks.
Thanks, Mike. I checked the UK link and Lo! Tallie’s Knight shows up for me, and it looks like I might even be able to buy it. (Often amazon UK won’t let me buy)
Mary Jo sent me a link to the Amazon US version, but when I clicked on it, it took me to the manga. It’s the same link she was able to buy the e-book with, so I don’t know what game Amazon is playing, but it drives me bonkers! I don’t understand why they just don’t make it available in all regions!
These annoying geographical restrictions are driving us all to get VPNs I suspect — until they find a way to stop that. Anyway, I hope after all the trouble you went to to get it, you enjoy it. It’s 20 years since I wrote it. Thanks.
Thanks, Mike. I checked the UK link and Lo! Tallie’s Knight shows up for me, and it looks like I might even be able to buy it. (Often amazon UK won’t let me buy)
Mary Jo sent me a link to the Amazon US version, but when I clicked on it, it took me to the manga. It’s the same link she was able to buy the e-book with, so I don’t know what game Amazon is playing, but it drives me bonkers! I don’t understand why they just don’t make it available in all regions!
These annoying geographical restrictions are driving us all to get VPNs I suspect — until they find a way to stop that. Anyway, I hope after all the trouble you went to to get it, you enjoy it. It’s 20 years since I wrote it. Thanks.
Thanks, Mike. I checked the UK link and Lo! Tallie’s Knight shows up for me, and it looks like I might even be able to buy it. (Often amazon UK won’t let me buy)
Mary Jo sent me a link to the Amazon US version, but when I clicked on it, it took me to the manga. It’s the same link she was able to buy the e-book with, so I don’t know what game Amazon is playing, but it drives me bonkers! I don’t understand why they just don’t make it available in all regions!
These annoying geographical restrictions are driving us all to get VPNs I suspect — until they find a way to stop that. Anyway, I hope after all the trouble you went to to get it, you enjoy it. It’s 20 years since I wrote it. Thanks.
Thanks, Mary Jo.
“Shakespeare,” I said, “congratulating Minou Drouet on a neat phrase?”
Recognize the source? (g)
Thanks, Mary Jo.
“Shakespeare,” I said, “congratulating Minou Drouet on a neat phrase?”
Recognize the source? (g)
Thanks, Mary Jo.
“Shakespeare,” I said, “congratulating Minou Drouet on a neat phrase?”
Recognize the source? (g)
Thanks, Mary Jo.
“Shakespeare,” I said, “congratulating Minou Drouet on a neat phrase?”
Recognize the source? (g)
Thanks, Mary Jo.
“Shakespeare,” I said, “congratulating Minou Drouet on a neat phrase?”
Recognize the source? (g)
Thanks, Pat — glad you enjoyed it. I haven’t read that book by Evie Dunmore yet, but it’s getting nice buzz.
Thanks, Pat — glad you enjoyed it. I haven’t read that book by Evie Dunmore yet, but it’s getting nice buzz.
Thanks, Pat — glad you enjoyed it. I haven’t read that book by Evie Dunmore yet, but it’s getting nice buzz.
Thanks, Pat — glad you enjoyed it. I haven’t read that book by Evie Dunmore yet, but it’s getting nice buzz.
Thanks, Pat — glad you enjoyed it. I haven’t read that book by Evie Dunmore yet, but it’s getting nice buzz.
Thanks, Kantu — I’m planning to write about epilogues in a future post.
Thanks, Kantu — I’m planning to write about epilogues in a future post.
Thanks, Kantu — I’m planning to write about epilogues in a future post.
Thanks, Kantu — I’m planning to write about epilogues in a future post.
Thanks, Kantu — I’m planning to write about epilogues in a future post.
Thanks, Annette, I also tend to read everything — as long as it keeps me engaged. But what you said here: “a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.” That’s it in a nutshell. When I first started writing a novel (trying to) the only writing advice I knew was “Make them laugh, make them cry, make them wait” which I thought was Dickens, but I’ve since read that it was Wilkie Collins, or possibly someone else. Whoever said it first, they were spot on.
And thanks for your good wishes about staying well. The numbers are dropping here in Melbourne and we’re hopeful that the very severe lockdown restrictions we’ve had for the last few months will ease soon. Take care of you, too.
Thanks, Annette, I also tend to read everything — as long as it keeps me engaged. But what you said here: “a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.” That’s it in a nutshell. When I first started writing a novel (trying to) the only writing advice I knew was “Make them laugh, make them cry, make them wait” which I thought was Dickens, but I’ve since read that it was Wilkie Collins, or possibly someone else. Whoever said it first, they were spot on.
And thanks for your good wishes about staying well. The numbers are dropping here in Melbourne and we’re hopeful that the very severe lockdown restrictions we’ve had for the last few months will ease soon. Take care of you, too.
Thanks, Annette, I also tend to read everything — as long as it keeps me engaged. But what you said here: “a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.” That’s it in a nutshell. When I first started writing a novel (trying to) the only writing advice I knew was “Make them laugh, make them cry, make them wait” which I thought was Dickens, but I’ve since read that it was Wilkie Collins, or possibly someone else. Whoever said it first, they were spot on.
And thanks for your good wishes about staying well. The numbers are dropping here in Melbourne and we’re hopeful that the very severe lockdown restrictions we’ve had for the last few months will ease soon. Take care of you, too.
Thanks, Annette, I also tend to read everything — as long as it keeps me engaged. But what you said here: “a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.” That’s it in a nutshell. When I first started writing a novel (trying to) the only writing advice I knew was “Make them laugh, make them cry, make them wait” which I thought was Dickens, but I’ve since read that it was Wilkie Collins, or possibly someone else. Whoever said it first, they were spot on.
And thanks for your good wishes about staying well. The numbers are dropping here in Melbourne and we’re hopeful that the very severe lockdown restrictions we’ve had for the last few months will ease soon. Take care of you, too.
Thanks, Annette, I also tend to read everything — as long as it keeps me engaged. But what you said here: “a story that gives me joy, makes me think, makes me laugh, or makes me cry. Or all of the above.” That’s it in a nutshell. When I first started writing a novel (trying to) the only writing advice I knew was “Make them laugh, make them cry, make them wait” which I thought was Dickens, but I’ve since read that it was Wilkie Collins, or possibly someone else. Whoever said it first, they were spot on.
And thanks for your good wishes about staying well. The numbers are dropping here in Melbourne and we’re hopeful that the very severe lockdown restrictions we’ve had for the last few months will ease soon. Take care of you, too.
Thanks, Dolores, yes, I think an epilogue is almost required in a romance, though of course not everyone agrees. But in other genres, wow — some fantasies I’ve read, usually part of a series, end a book on a real cliff-hanger. I have been known to shriek in frustration when that happens! (g)
Thanks, Dolores, yes, I think an epilogue is almost required in a romance, though of course not everyone agrees. But in other genres, wow — some fantasies I’ve read, usually part of a series, end a book on a real cliff-hanger. I have been known to shriek in frustration when that happens! (g)
Thanks, Dolores, yes, I think an epilogue is almost required in a romance, though of course not everyone agrees. But in other genres, wow — some fantasies I’ve read, usually part of a series, end a book on a real cliff-hanger. I have been known to shriek in frustration when that happens! (g)
Thanks, Dolores, yes, I think an epilogue is almost required in a romance, though of course not everyone agrees. But in other genres, wow — some fantasies I’ve read, usually part of a series, end a book on a real cliff-hanger. I have been known to shriek in frustration when that happens! (g)
Thanks, Dolores, yes, I think an epilogue is almost required in a romance, though of course not everyone agrees. But in other genres, wow — some fantasies I’ve read, usually part of a series, end a book on a real cliff-hanger. I have been known to shriek in frustration when that happens! (g)
Oh, gosh, Diana, I haven’t seen that before. It seems a bit of a strange thing to do. I agree with you — if I reached the middle of the book and saw the prologue being repeated, I’d be wondering what on earth????
Oh, gosh, Diana, I haven’t seen that before. It seems a bit of a strange thing to do. I agree with you — if I reached the middle of the book and saw the prologue being repeated, I’d be wondering what on earth????
Oh, gosh, Diana, I haven’t seen that before. It seems a bit of a strange thing to do. I agree with you — if I reached the middle of the book and saw the prologue being repeated, I’d be wondering what on earth????
Oh, gosh, Diana, I haven’t seen that before. It seems a bit of a strange thing to do. I agree with you — if I reached the middle of the book and saw the prologue being repeated, I’d be wondering what on earth????
Oh, gosh, Diana, I haven’t seen that before. It seems a bit of a strange thing to do. I agree with you — if I reached the middle of the book and saw the prologue being repeated, I’d be wondering what on earth????