Today we have Carrie Butler from So, You're a Writer over to discuss the importance of first chapters. Carrie and I met a few months back via an ad I posted for critique partners. I definitely hit the jackpot with her. Not only has she turned out to be a super critter—she’s an incredibly talented writer and a great friend, too. (I wasn’t kidding when I said she frequently causes me to spray coffee all over my screen. = P) Unlike me, Carrie’s many writing strengths include beginnings. ; ) Here's Carrie... ~~~~~ “What is the first chapter , Mr. Trebek?” That is correct. *Applause* …Okay, so I’m not Alex Trebek. I’m not a game show host. I never even knew Merv Griffin. But I do know this: If you don’t nail your first chapter, your book could be in jeopardy. (Oh, I went there…) Let’s say you have an MC named Jill. Starting out, you may feel tempted to lead with her backstory. After all, you need to explain why Jill doesn’t trust men, before she meets her love interest, r...