Avoid prologues: they can be ยญannoying, especially a prologue ยญfollowing an introduction that comes after a foreword.
Elmore LeonardNever use an adverb to modify the verb 'said' . . . he admonished gravely. To use an adverb this way (or almost any way) is a mortal sin. The writer is now exposing himself in earnest, using a word that distracts and can interrupt the rhythm of the exchange.
Elmore LeonardI left advertising as fast as I could in 1961. And I haven't ever thought about going back.
Elmore LeonardI once saw Dizzy Gillespie at a live show, and it made me want to go home immediately and start writing.
Elmore Leonard