Since editing a bit every week is proving to be a challenge, though I am doing some it is basically negligible when looking at it in the big picture, my goal is to write my next post on Sunday next week so that it can be up on Monday morning. Also, I want to read more of the novel that has been sitting on my shelf for a long time now, so long it has probably started to gather dust.
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As someone who is always concerned with detail, I pay close attention to how a chapter is announced. I especially like when a book will use chapter titles that suit the tone of the book. For example, in my copy of Lord of the Rings the chapters are written in roman numerals which makes sense because the story feels old and powerful.
Some novels will include a quote at the beginning of every chapter. I find that they either spoil what is about to happen or don't make any sense. Then I forget to skip back to it and read it after I'm finished the chapter to understand the underlying message. Usually I will skip the quote if they are longer than a sentence because I will be so excited to get on to the next chapter.
One thing that I've noticed that I like recently is when there are chapter titles. For example, the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is called "The Boy who Lived". Other titles that might appear are "Diagon Alley" which is fitting because in that chapter it's the first time they go there. They are fun because it is straightforward and if I'm rereading the book then it allows me to find the chapter or scene I wanted to read more quickly.
Another fun addition can be artwork at the beginning of the chapter. These are always nice touches, especially if they are unique symbols or drawings that capture the feel of the story.
Any way to give a hint across to the reader without spoiling anything is a good because it allows them to get excited for it and it builds suspense. If you have been teasing a certain object or confrontation for a while and one chapter has it in the title it will make the reader eager to read it and finally get to see something develop.
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