Opening book lines

The first lines of a book often set the stage for the reading experience. While there are many books which are worth the effort of plowing on even when the start is a bit slow and unattractive, there are others which have beckoned me with opening lines so artful that I could not help devouring…

Opening lines define our stories in so many ways, setting the stage for everything to come. Yet, they don’t have to be as confounding as they seem—all it takes is knowing the traits of a strong opening, and then applying those to your own novel!

Lines from some books

Illustrated with the top 100 opening lines of novels, learn ten ways to effectively open your novel or story. Start your own novel with confidence. | Fiction Notes by Darcy Pattison

When I wrote my huge guide to book writing (Book Craft) I cut out all the nonfiction tips and strategies last minute; I’d already explored a bunch of material in my writing courses but wasn’t quite ready to share the nonfiction resources. Mainly, because, while I’m proud of the detailed 24 chapter novel outlining templates, […]

How to create great opening lines for your novels.

The opening line of a book are like the curtains swooping up, revealing the stage as the author ushers you into the story and also another world. An opening line forms the first impression. It is the opening line that grabs your attention and hooks you into the story! There are some amazing opening lines that fill the reader in you with curiosity and intrigue to find out more. Here are 23 opening lines of books that will make you want to read them now…