How to Write a Novel Opening that Hooks Readers

A strong opening hook is a great way to pull readers into the story and get them invested in your novel. In this video I discuss five different ways you could create a hook for your story.

This video is part of my Novel Boot Camp series. A new video will be posted every weekday in July.

The FULL SCHEDULE can be viewed here:

ellenbrockediting.com/2016/06/22/novel-boot-cam…

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VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

- A hook is anything that gets the reader to want to keep reading.

- There are no rules for how to create an effective opening hook. If it works, it works!

- Most novels have more than one type of hook in the opening scene.

Five Types of Opening Hooks

1. The Setting - something about the location or time period is unique and captivating.

2. The Circumstance - something personal to your character is intriguing, such as a unique occupation, disability, or magical ability.

3. An Interesting Question - something about the opening scene raises a question and the reader wants to continue reading in order to learn the answer.

4. A Conflict that Demonstrates the Goal - a conflict that shows what the character is trying to achieve so that the reader is pulled in by wanting to see the outcome.

5. A Conflict that Demonstrates the Problem - a conflict that shows what problem the character is facing which hooks the reader on an emotional level.