One of the challenges a writer faces is how to “hook” readers. The opening lines of a novel cannot ensure the book’s success, but they can ensure its failure. Most readers will not read a book if the opening paragraphs don’t grab their attention. The first line of a novel is very important.
I keep a list of novels’ first lines in my writer’s notebook. The opening sentence I’m sharing with you today is from that list.
“I’m a good liar.” — Pretending to Dance, by Diane Chamberlain.
What’s the first line of a novel that you recall?
Janet
Janet's Writing Blog 
“Last night I dreamt I went to Manderly again” always springs to mind. So agree that the first line can feel make or break – the amount of days I’ve spent staring out the window trying desperately to think of that perfect first sentence!!
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Claire, thank you for following my blog and commenting. And thank you for quoting the first line from Rebecca! I must add it to my list of first lines.
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You’re welcome! The first line of Wuthering Heights often sticks in my mind too (In all of England I don’t believe… ) but I hate Wuthering Heights with the passion of a thousand suns so I try not to quote it!
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And thank you for following back!
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