To prologue or not to prologue
In the build up to Nanowrimo, we had a discussion on the South African romance writers' Yahoo loop about opening scenes and the use of prologues. At least one member admitted to skipping prologues completely. I tend to read them, but then I read everything, even the fine print on cereal boxes. Which is probably why I wear glasses. The discussion reminded me of the one prologue that was not only well worth reading, but a must read. Two friends independently recommended the book to me, and both also commented on the prologue, so of course, I had to read it. The book is Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase. It's the only time a prologue moved me to tears. It gives the back story in a way that hooks you in so completely you cannot put the book down. Don't believe me? Download the sample chapter from Amazon and see for yourself. While I do like a good prologue, don't get me started on epilogues. If the book ends with hero and heroine a year later cooing down at t...