We’ve all been there. You pick up a new novel—straight from the bookshelf or your e-reader’s catalog—but you just can’t get into it. You don’t feel immersed in the world, connected to the characters, or drawn into the plot.
Now put yourself in the writer’s shoes. How could you have avoided losing your reader so early in your work? If you want to keep readers hooked, follow these tips:
Create a Noteworthy Title
Your title is the first thing people will read—make it memorable. Maybe it makes readers scratch their heads, maybe it’s beautiful, or maybe it’s so horrific that it sparks instant intrigue. One thing is for sure: it should make readers excited to pick up your work.
Have a Strong Opener
Your opening line has the power to leave perhaps the greatest impact on a reader—rivaled only by your closing line. It should make a statement, whether by being unexpected, controversial, or grand. And it doesn’t have to be long! One of the most memorable opening lines of all time is “Call me Ishmael” from Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick.
Start with an Eventful Scene
It’s Writing Advice 101: drop your readers right into the action. Readers typically don’t want to wade through pages of backstory or exposition. Instead, your opening scene should push the plot forward by showing, not telling.
Don’t Be Afraid to Be Unusual
There’s nothing groundbreaking about going to the grocery store. Getting stuck inside a grocery store during a tornado? That’s a different story. Let your imagination run wild. Readers crave something they’ve never read before—or a fresh, exciting take on an ordinary situation.
Shift the Tone
A major shift in tone can hook readers instantly. For example, you might start with a casual, lighthearted tone and then suddenly shift to something serious mid-scene. Or you could go from stern and stifling to unexpectedly comedic. Not only does this give your writing depth, but it also keeps readers on their toes.
Craft Compelling Characters
Your characters are the heart of your story—give readers a reason to follow them. If you write a compassionate character, readers will want to cheer them on. If your character is diabolical, readers may stick around just to see their downfall. Strong, compelling characters create an emotional connection between the reader and the story.
Save Some Surprises
Your first few pages should leave readers wanting more. Drop hints about your developing plotlines. Spark questions that can only be answered by reading on. Your writing should have a lot to give—so don’t give it all away at once.
More Do’s and Don’ts
✅ Do: Introduce your main character early on.
❌ Don’t: Introduce a full ensemble cast on the first page. No one will remember every single character, much less care about them.
✅ Do: Feature dialogue in your introduction.
❌ Don’t: Start with a line of dialogue that has no clear speaker—it will only confuse readers.
✅ Do: Be descriptive and fully develop your setting.
❌ Don’t: Dive into the entire history of your world in the first line. Readers will be snoring before they reach Chapter Two.
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