Have a fresh and engaging plot. Avoid cliches and offer unexpected twists and turns. Good world-building and vivid descriptions can also draw readers in and make them feel immersed in the story.
Start with a captivating opening scene. Something exciting or mysterious that makes readers curious and eager to know more. Also, build tension and suspense throughout the story to keep them hooked.
Open with a dramatic event. For example, a near - death experience for one of the characters. 'The car screeched to a halt just inches from where she stood, her life flashing before her eyes. In that moment, she thought of him, the man she had pushed away. This kind of high - stakes start immediately hooks the reader as they wonder who this man is and what their relationship is all about.
Start with a gripping opening scene. It could be a high-stakes situation, a mystery, or a surprising event that makes readers want to know more.
One effective way is to start with a captivating hook - a surprising statement, a thrilling scene, or a mystery. It instantly grabs the reader's interest and makes them want to know more.
By creating an interesting character right away. For example, if the main character has a really unique job or hobby, like being a treasure hunter or a master of ancient calligraphy. It makes the reader want to know more about them.
To grab an agent's attention, you should focus on the most exciting parts of your novel in the pitch. If there's a big showdown between the hero and the villain at the end, give a taste of that. Mention any relevant credentials you might have, like if you've won a writing contest or have relevant experience in the subject matter of your novel. Use strong, vivid language in your pitch. Instead of saying 'the character was sad', say 'the character was consumed by a desolate melancholy'. This makes your pitch more memorable.
One way is to start with an interesting or mysterious statement. For example, 'The door creaked open, and a cold wind rushed in, but no one was there.' This immediately makes the reader wonder what's going on.
By being mysterious. For example, 'Is it here?' 'I'm not sure, but something's different.' This makes the reader wonder what 'it' is and what's different, thus grabbing their attention.
By starting with a bang. For example, an explosion in a space station that throws the characters into immediate chaos.
The opening of 'Pulp Fiction' grabs the audience's attention through its unique dialogue. The characters talk in a way that's different from most movies, and it makes you want to listen more.
First, come up with a fresh idea. Then, build well-rounded characters that readers can relate to. Also, make sure the pacing is just right - not too slow or too fast.