Before Chapter One, you might find a teaser or a snippet from later in the story to hook the reader. Or perhaps a map or family tree related to the plot.
It could be a prologue or an introduction. Sometimes, there's also a foreword written by someone other than the author.
Well, often what precedes Chapter One is an author's note or a dedication. Also, a preface giving some background on the story or the writing process is common.
It could be a prologue that sets the stage or provides background information.
It could be something like 'Great Expectations author' or 'A Tale of Two Cities creator'.
The clues might involve descriptions of the man's appearance, personality traits, or his actions in the story. Also, references to other characters related to him could be part of it. Sometimes, symbols or objects associated with him could be the key.
It could be a prologue. A prologue often sets the stage or provides background information before the start of the main story in Chapter 1.
I think 'cape' could be a clue for a comic accoutrement. It's a common accessory for superheroes in comics.
As far as I know, none of his popular novels like 'Shutter Island' have any known 'crossword' references.
It could be a common theme or setting. Maybe a specific author's name or a genre.
Some possible clues could be 'saga', 'odyssey', or 'tale that spans time'. They imply a story that's complex and drawn-out.
Perhaps 'weighty' in a more metaphorical sense. A 'weighty' novel is one that has a lot of depth, complex themes, and substantial content. For instance, classic novels like 'Moby - Dick' are weighty not just in their physical form but also in the ideas and stories they convey. This could be what the crossword clue is hinting at.
It could be something like 'ROMANCE AUTHOR' or 'EMOTIONAL SCRIBER'.