I have a few different story ideas flitting around in my head, and I've taken shots at starting each one, but I get stuck at the same place: the opening.
Before I even write a book, I sit down for a week or two and mill my characters and my plot around in my head until I've got something. Then I sit down and do that "expand the idea" thing where you write a sentence, then a paragraph, until you have a detailed outline. My friends usually look it over and tell me what they think. Up to that point - it's all fine and awesome.
One I sit down and try to write the beginning though, I start having issues. I don't know how to set up where my characters start, how to pace their introduction, or how soon to throw in the plot-catalyst. I've tried getting ideas from other writers to gauge these, but it all varies a lot.
I'd love some advice!