How to Write a Compelling First Page That Hooks Readers Instantly

I’ve lost count of how many books I’ve picked up, read the first page, and set back down.

It’s not that the writing was bad – it might have been perfectly fine. But if that first page doesn’t grab me, if it doesn’t make me lean in with curiosity, it’s hard to convince myself to keep going. And I know I’m not alone.

Agents, editors, and everyday readers decide within moments whether they’re going to invest their time in a book. It may not seem fair, but it’s the reality of the industry. That’s why your opening page isn’t just an introduction. It’s a promise to your reader.

So, what makes a first page truly compelling? Let’s break it down.

Why Your First Page Makes or Breaks Your Novel

The first page of your novel is a preview of everything to come. It tells your reader:

• Here’s the kind of story you’re stepping into.
• Here’s the voice you’ll be following.
• Here’s a hint at the journey ahead.

Think about your favorite novels. Odds are, their first pages immediately pull you into the world, whether it’s through a strong voice, an intriguing situation, or a compelling character. The first page sets expectations, and when done well, it makes the reader feel like they’ve already begun an adventure they don’t want to abandon.

Readers Need a Reason to Care – Fast

A common mistake I see in early drafts is writers spending too much time “warming up” before getting to the heart of the story. They describe the setting in detail. They introduce the protagonist in a way that feels like a formal handshake. They explain the history of the world.

But here’s the thing: readers don’t need everything all at once – they need just enough to be intrigued.

A great first page immediately gives the reader something to care about. Maybe it’s an unanswered question, a hint of tension, or an unusual situation. Whatever it is, it should make the reader think: I want to know more.

A few ways to do this:

• Drop us into an interesting moment – something is already happening.
• Let us feel the protagonist’s emotions right away.
• Create contrast (something unexpected, funny, or unsettling).

Start Where the Story Starts

One of the biggest issues I see in early drafts? The story doesn’t actually start on page one.

Often, writers begin with backstory, scene-setting, or a slow introduction. But the best first pages drop us into the action. That doesn’t mean explosions or car chases – it just means something is already unfolding.

Here’s a simple trick: Look at your draft and ask yourself, “What’s the latest possible moment I could begin?” Often, the story actually starts later than you think.

Every Word Counts

On the first page, there’s no room for fluff. Every sentence should serve a purpose.

• If a description doesn’t help establish tone, setting, or mood, cut it.
• If a line of dialogue doesn’t reveal something important, cut it.
• If you’re explaining something the reader doesn’t need to know yet, save it for later.

A strong first page isn’t about loading it with action or fancy prose – it’s about precision. It’s

A Strong First Page Doesn’t Mean Overloading the Reader

A big misconception about first pages is that they need to be big. Big stakes. Big tension. Big revelations.

That’s not necessarily true.

A powerful first page can be quiet. It can be a character reflecting on something. It can be a subtle moment – as long as it makes the reader lean in.

Take The Catcher in the Rye: “If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you’ll probably want to know is where I was born…” That’s not a dramatic, high-stakes moment. But it’s engaging because the voice is so strong.

If you take one thing away from this, let it be this: Your first page matters. A lot. It’s your reader’s first impression of your story, and first impressions stick.

So, take a deep breath. Revisit your opening.

If you’re working on a novel and want to learn more about crafting a compelling first page, come check out my free workshop on the 19: Hooked From the Start.