Aspiring Authors

Ahhh... ok... Serenity is our local expert on all things Vampire-like.... and beginning with a tragedy can work.

Maybe let the story start with the tragedy, put in italics something like '20 year later" and then start your main story. In the tragedy give some hint, maybe tease your reader with the things to come (i.e. give them a reason to want to read the next chapter).

Flashbacks can subtract from the clarity of your story unless done well. But you can always try it one way, and if you don't like it then try it the other.

If it seemes like your getting derailed by issues that don't have to be perfect yet.. I suggest jump in feet first and see if you like the splash