How to Grab Your Readers’ Attention
We live in a three-second world. Social media has trained us to shorten our attention spans and focus on only what immediately resonates with us. Because of that, readers might not invest but so much time in figuring out if a book is great for them. They have a million other choices with the click of a button on their phones.
So it’s up to authors to grab attention in those first three seconds and hold it. How do authors do it? By crafting an incredible first line and building on it.
Ideas for Strong First Lines
Spark Curiosity: A great opening line often poses a question or presents a scenario that compels the reader to continue. It piques curiosity and makes the reader want to know more. Example: “I was told I’d never been here before, but I definitely have.”
Immediate Hook: The opening line should grab the reader's attention right away. An immediate hook is a great way to do this by introducing a mystery, a surprise, or a vivid image that piques curiosity. The line might hint at an unusual situation or a compelling conflict. Example: “My toes hung off the edge of the cliff as I stood, shaking.”
Emotional Significance (including conflict or tension): Romance is driven by emotions. A powerful opening line evokes an emotional response. This emotional pull encourages readers to continue. Example: “She stood at the back of the church, tears welling in her eyes.”
Character Introduction: Strong openings often provide a glimpse of a key character and reveal something unique or relatable about the character, drawing readers into their world and making them eager to learn more about their journey. Example: “One, two, three… When I’m worried, I count my steps.”
Setting the Tone: The first line can sometimes set the tone for the novel and/or establish the mood, whether it's light-hearted, passionate, dramatic, or humorous. This helps readers understand what kind of emotional experience they are in for. Example: “I doubled over laughing, unable to breathe.”
Voice and Style: A distinctive narrative voice or style can make an opening line memorable. Bestselling authors often use a unique voice that reflects the protagonist’s personality and the overall vibe of the story, making it stand out from the start. Example: “I’m not a beauty queen.” (This sets the tone, and we know right away, this isn’t the typical 20-something cutie that we often see in romance novels.)
Subtle Foreshadowing: An effective opening line can subtly foreshadow key themes or conflicts that will unfold throughout the novel. This technique creates a sense of anticipation and sets up expectations for the reader. Example: “I hadn’t been back home in ten years.”
Starting In Medias Res: Beginning in the midst of action or an ongoing situation can immerse the reader immediately. Example: “Out of breath, she pushed herself to continue, her feet pounding against the pavement, only one destination in mind.”
Once you have that initial first line, building on it and holding the reader’s attention will convince them to invest their time and money in the entire story.