I need your help!

[Maura]

Hey guys, I decided to join this group because I can really use some advice. I've recently started writing the beginnings of a book. And when I say recently, I mean I started impulsively a few days ago. Just like I've done a million times before. But this time I really want to finish what I've started. I'm a fifteen-year-old girl who's always admired writers but who's just to lame to write a book herself.

So this is me trying!
My first question is pretty simple! I want to write an outline for my book and I was wondering what's a must in doing that! What is essential in an outline?

Also, is it wise to decide how many chapters you're going to write?

Kind regards,
Maura

[Freja]

I would guess that it is wise.... I did that.

Does anyone mind telling me what they would do if the year was 1887 and you just learned that your 'apprentice' is insanely rich and the police think he was kidnapped but you agreed not to rat him out?