Fiction Explained

Behind the Scene

I’ve been enjoying serializing my novel Wrongful Accusations. But let me be honest, it hasn’t been easy.

Since I’ve been working on this story for several years now, I thought it would be easy to post a chapter or two every week. I was hoping to get feedback to make it better, but I haven’t found many readers. The subscribers I do have don’t engage so here I am. Stuck trying to figure out what the heck to do with this story.

I have somewhat of an idea as to how I want the story to end but until I settle on that, Wrongful Accusations is on pause.

Not to fall back into my “Queen of Quitting” mode, I will be showing the behind-the-scenes for each chapter. Since I like everything, I do to have a purpose, this tactic actually has two.

• Help other writers analyze their works in progress.

• Help me figure out the best way to finish the story.

I call that a win-win.

Every Tuesday, I will explain how I come up with ideas for scenes and include snippets from the chapters. I hope to:

1. Engage My Readers: You will enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at my creative process and feel more connected to my story.

2. Attract Writers: Aspiring writers will appreciate actionable advice and real-world examples, especially when tied to a live story.

You will know when I get unstuck when you see a cute, chocolate redhead or some other image; otherwise, it will just be my logo at the top. Even then, I will continue with the behind-the-scenes posts if you good people find value in it.

---

Chapter One of Wrongful Accusations

Behind the Scene: Crafting a Gripping First Chapter

How I Introduced the Case That Starts It All

This week, I’m giving you an inside look at the first chapter of Wrongful Accusations. Every mystery needs a compelling opening, and this chapter was my chance to introduce P.I. Sandra “Sassy” Johnson, set the tone, and establish the stakes.

Here’s an excerpt:

“I need your help,” the woman said, wiping her nose. “I’ve been accused of murdering my daughter’s father. You have to help me; I’m too pretty to go to jail.”

I looked the plus-sized woman over, thinking that if I was a horny woman in prison, that lady would not even be in my top ten people to seduce. “Did you kill him, Mrs. …?”

“Ms. Heard. Pearce and I aren’t married yet,” she said, looking at the gentleman next to her. He just smiled and remained silent. I could tell he hears this a lot. “No, I did not kill him. He was a sorry excuse for a man, but I wouldn’t kill him. My daughter, Nedra, is devastated.”

How I Came Up with This Scene

For a first chapter, I wanted to:

1. Introduce the Main Character: Sassy is sharp, observant, and unafraid to be candid, which sets the tone for her voice throughout the story.

2. Present the Case: The stakes are high—a woman accused of murdering her child’s father—and I wanted to show her desperation while hinting at underlying layers to the story.

3. Establish Relationships: The dynamic between Shannon, Pearce, and Sassy gives a glimpse into their personalities and sets up future conflicts and discoveries.

I drew inspiration from real-life stories of wrongful accusations, where first impressions of the accused often cloud the truth. Writing Shannon’s character as both desperate and flawed added complexity—she’s not perfect, but is she a murderer? That’s for Sassy (and readers) to figure out.

Writing Takeaway

To write an engaging first chapter:

1. Start with a Hook: The opening scene immediately raises questions: Why is Shannon accused? Can she be trusted?

2. Create a Memorable Protagonist: Sassy’s voice—her humor, observations, and candor—helps readers connect with her.

3. Introduce Conflict Early: From Shannon’s accusation to Sassy’s suspicions about Pearce, tension is woven into the dialogue and details.

Try It Yourself

Think about your story’s first chapter. Does it introduce your main character’s personality and the central conflict? If not, consider ways to tighten your opening.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! What’s the most gripping first chapter you’ve ever read? Or, if you’re writing a story, what’s your favorite part about crafting openings?

Until next time,

Susie

“Continue writing with purpose”

---

P.S. Catch up on all chapters of Wrongful Accusations here.