Due to the elliptical nature of Unrequited (it shifts about in time, past, present etc, I think the prologue is absolutely vital yes. I also think the epilogue serves it's place, though perhaps it isn't quite as important. I'll let my readers decide.

JB

Personally, I don't like the term 'hook'. I know that I'm the exception because everyone in the industry uses it but it bothers me. My opinion is that readers are not fish and can see the bait for what it is.

I'm not sure about that. Just thinking about the way that I choose a book at Waterstones. I'l read the first three to four pages and if it leaves me wanting to know more, I'll buy the book. So yes, I know that it is a hook that I fell for, but I go out looking for the hook. I think uit just depends on the kind of fiction you want to write.

I like the idea of the slow build - but it seems you can't use it in fiction.

Though it works in film?

Sarah