One great way is to start with a vivid description of an otherworldly setting. For example, 'The mist - shrouded forest loomed ahead, its ancient trees twisted into strange shapes, their gnarled branches reaching out like skeletal hands. The air was thick with magic, and a strange, unearthly silence filled the space.'
You can also start a fantasy story with a prophecy or a legend. For instance, 'Long ago, a prophecy was foretold that a child born under a blood - red moon would be the one to defeat the dark lord and restore peace to the realm. But as the years passed, no such child had been found. Until now...' This hooks the reader because it sets up an expectation and a sense of grandeur. It gives the story a direction and a purpose from the very start, and the reader is eager to see how the prophecy unfolds.
A great start for a fantasy novel could be a sudden and unexpected event. Picture a city that is suddenly attacked by a horde of magical creatures no one has ever seen before. This kind of action - packed opening hooks the reader right away. You can then gradually introduce the world, the characters, and the rules of the fantasy realm as the story unfolds. Starting with a bang like this can make your novel very engaging from the very first page.
Start with a sudden, unexpected event. Like a magical explosion that shakes the peaceful village of the protagonist. 'A blinding flash of light erupted in the center of the village. The ground trembled as if in fear, and the villagers froze in shock. Then, from the heart of the explosion, a strange figure emerged, cloaked in a swirling mist of colors.'
One way is to start with a mysterious setting. For example, describe a dark and enchanted forest filled with strange noises and glowing lights. It immediately draws the reader into a world full of mystery and the unknown.
Start with a character in distress. Maybe a young wizard has lost his powers due to a dark curse. His struggle to regain his powers can be the starting point. It allows the readers to feel empathy for the character right away and be interested in seeing how he overcomes his problem.
Beginning a story with a strong action can be very effective. For instance, 'He ran as fast as he could, the sound of the approaching storm driving him forward.' This creates immediate tension. Starting with a character's internal monologue is also good. 'I knew this day would come, but I still wasn't prepared,' he thought, his heart pounding. Or you could start with a startling statement like 'The dead man walked into the room.'
One way is to begin with a mysterious setting. For example, describe a dark and enchanted forest where strange noises come from the thick bushes and an otherworldly mist hovers. This immediately sets a fantastical mood.
One good way is to start with a mysterious setting. For example, describe a strange, mist - covered forest where the trees seem to whisper secrets. This immediately draws the reader into an otherworldly place and makes them curious about what might be hidden within. Another way could be starting with a character in a moment of distress or confusion. Maybe a young wizard who has just lost his powers and is trying to figure out how to get them back. It gives an instant hook as readers will want to know how the character will resolve their situation.
One great way is to start with a mysterious setting. For example, describe a fog - covered forest where strange noises come from the deep. It immediately grabs the reader's attention and sets a spooky and fantastical mood.
Begin with a prophecy. 'Long ago, a seer foretold that a child born under the blood moon would be the one to bring an end to the dark sorcery that had plagued the land for centuries. And on that fateful night, a baby's cry was heard in a small cottage on the outskirts of the kingdom.' Prophecies are a great way to start a medieval fantasy story as they introduce an element of fate and destiny, which are common themes in this genre.
Beginning with an intriguing character in an unusual situation can be effective too. Say, a young girl wakes up in a world where all the colors are reversed. It makes the reader curious about who this girl is and what will happen to her in this strange place. Also, starting with a dialogue can be good. Like, '"Where are we?" he asked, his voice trembling as he looked around the desolate landscape.' It creates immediate tension and makes the reader want to know more about the speakers and their situation.