#237. 3 Signs Your Novel Doesn't Need a Prologue (& What To Do Instead)

You wrote a prologue for your novel. But now you're wondering if you really need it. Here are three honest signs your story might actually be stronger without one. Writing a prologue feels like the right move until you're three drafts in and still not sure if it's actually helping your story or just sitting there, taking up space at the front of your book. And the tricky part is that it's not always easy to tell. Because sometimes the prologue isn't the problem. And sometimes it really is. That's exactly what we're digging into in today's episode: I'm walking you through three signs that your prologue might not be doing what you think it is (and what to do instead) so your opening still grabs readers and pulls them straight into your story. You'll hear me talk about things like: [02:59] How prologues that deliver backstory or world-building can weaken your opening scene—and what readers actually need instead. [06:10] Why a flash-forward prologue can release tension before it has time to build (and how to tell if your plot twist is losing impact). [09:31] The subtle way a prologue can mask a weak first chapter —especially if your story starts too early. [11:17] A simple reading test to determine whether your prologue is structurally necessary —or just informational. [14:33] What it really means for a prologue to “earn its place” in your novel—and the mindset shift that makes the decision easier. If you've been going back and forth on your prologue , this episode will give you the clarity to finally make the call. Because when your opening is working (like really working), you'll feel it. And so will your readers. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. - How to Write a Prologue Readers Won't Skip (& When to Start at Chapter One Instead) Ep. - Novel Editing: 10 Steps to Editing Your First Draft Take the Author Success Quiz ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

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#237. 3 Signs Your Novel Doesn't Need a Prologue (& What To Do Instead) is an episode from Fiction Writing Made Easy by Savannah Gilbo.

This episode is 16:41 long.

This episode was published on Mar 3, 2026.

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