Ignore the laws of grammar. They're for morons. Do not interfere with the editor's wee job by capping up the first couple of introductory words or adding classy stars between sections and chapters leave the editor something to do. Just use schoolroom layout. The pros will do the fancy stuff.
Sound research turns a yarn into a story.
We can help here. Some hints on characterisation and dialogue Getting the people in your writing to seem alive can sometimes be a tricky task. Think of people you know and adapt them. For physical descriptions also think of friends, family, acquaintances or even photographs you have seen and remembered. That way you don't lose track.