Just a quick blog before today’s Wise Winamp Wednesday. Speaking of which, if you have any questions for my wise friend, toss them in the comment bag and I’ll get you the answers later today. Last call!
So the purpose of this blog blurt is a (slightly desperate) call for opinions.
I have been editing my science fiction novel, which means I am pretty much writing it again. And this is especially true about the first chapter. A lot of authors, agents, and editors have emphasized how important it is. In addition, the first sentence often has the power to make or break a novel.
See I know this because when I pick up a book, I read the first sentence. I don’t believe in random first sentences. Rather, I expect a kind of focus and a hook to grab me (not tickle or tap, GRAB)… that is, if the author cared enough to want to hook their readers.
Also, I believe that the author’s voice should shine through as soon as that, and if that’s not interesting, then the whole book will be a waste of my time. If I like it, I keep reading until I hit page 2, and just like that: my mind’s made up. Magic.
And that magic recipe makes for a whole lot of pressure and headache.
So I’ve been racking my brain for MY first sentence and one morning I woke up and wrote it down. It felt right. And here it is:
I should have known better than to follow a white cat.
Show of hands! Would YOU be interested and read on?
Boy it sure is cold here. *waits for fish*
