Not all chapters end in cliff hangers though. Or should they?
In reality, an author can end a chapter anywhere they want. Just hit page break and move on. The author I'm reading right now seems has maybe 5 in her 600 page novel.
And as we structure our novels... are there unwritten rules or hidden roadmaps? Any hints on what would make a great chapter that does not end with the "cliffhanger."
For me, the cliffhanger is the easiest to write. But, the others... a little tougher.
If you are an active musician, especially jazz, there are analogies for you between a piece of music and a piece of creative writing. I will be happy to explain a little if you like.
No, they shouldn't. Many don't.
If there are any rules no one has told me.
A town meeting perhaps where residents gather and voice concern about the murder of another child. It's no longer a random murder and they have on their hands in their small quiet town, a child serial killer. Is it one of their own doing it, or someone they are not aware of. Several characters are introduced, some are kept and some are discarded and new ones brought in during the meeting.
Not a cliffhanger.
Now we return to the discovery in the woods.