: Re: Can a novel chapter have a suspenseful flashforward opening? Like in the TV serials, can we have the opening section of the novel relate the ending or some part in between of the chapter (as
Yes you can.
It is actually quite a well used device in SF and Fantasy (books, although they obviously do it in tv shows too) with long build-ups, to start with an action scene from later as a opening for the book or a section/chapter. This hooks the reader and keeps them reading when they may otherwise find the book slow to get going.
The term I've mostly seen used for this is flash-forward.
The type of thing often used is the main character in the middle of a fight for his life, in a cell awaiting execution, on a derelict space ship with the air running out, hiding from pursuit in a forest and hearing the baying of hounds coming closer, etc. Just before something final happens, the story segues into the actual chapter, usually with some sort of "flashback" device at the end of the prologue along the lines of: I can't belive that bastard sold me out ... ; I should never have taken this job ... ; and to think, just a week ago they wanted to crown me king ... ; Things have certainly come a long way since ... Earlier that morning ...
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