Linux and Windows dual-boot

[Huntsman]

So after lots of careful consideration, I decided to dual-boot Windows with Linux, however, I had problems with this before, this is why I'm asking for your advice.
I had this problem when I booted into Windows 8, my second partition would suddenly be unaccessible by Linux. I want to prevent that from happening because if I'm gonna dualboot I want a shared partition between Linux and Windows.

Few things:

1. I want Linux to boot as my primary OS
2. I will only use Windows for gaming and iTunes. Should I stick to Windows 8 (it's fast and lightweight) or install some Windows?
3. Tips?

[Martijn]

I used something like this in the past, and didn't encounter any problems.
You coud simply delete the current OS from your system, and install a Linux version you prefer. Once you got this working, create a second partition and install any prefered Windows version on it.
I, personally prefer windows 8.1.