THE STORY MAP: OPENING IMAGE

Ok. This is it. The actual start of outlining your novel. The earlier stuff is important, but you've got to admit -- it's a little exciting to be at this point. From here on, you'll be able to see the story progress forward.

First up: The opening image. It sets the tone for the book, and it gives the first impression for your overall story. But this doesn't mean that your opening image needs to be the start of your Story A. If your story includes a prologue, for example, it might be a flashbac...