SSJwrestler

when i first came on to tilted forum, i posted about wanting to start a book. well i now have everything planned out, and im ready to start. my question is whether i should make the story flow in chronological order, start in the middle and flash back? any suggestions?

Jadey

Well, it depends on what type of story it is and the style you plan to write in. However, regardless of whether you write it chronologically or not, you want to start it off strong. It should start with either a flashback, or a story that grabs the reader's attention from the first page, then present the premise of the book and introduce the character(s).

taliendo

i think that your very first line is very important. I started my first novel about 8 months ago, but before I started I took a month and just thought about the exact sentence that I would like to begin my story with. If you don't grab your reader right off, they may simply stop reading.

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carebear

I agree that it largely depends on what type of story you're writing.
Only do it if it really strengthens the plot and/or theme of the book.

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lordjeebus

I believe that you should use a timeflow that is easy to follow.

Unless deviating from chronological order performs a specific function or improves readability, I would advise against it.

SSJwrestler

Thanks for all your suggestions guys. I decided im going to start with the begining of the hero's story, and then flashback throughout the book to reveal his past. thanks again