So I’m working on a new novel (finally), a thriller about a gold heist. I am considering trying to go the traditional publishing route with this one as I would like to see what that experience is like. I have a few friends/acquaintances who are just killing it in the trad pub world.

Part of getting your work considered in the traditional publishing world, either by an agent or a publisher, is having an amazing opening, because realistically, if they don’t like the first 100 or fewer words,...