You can start with a thought - provoking statement. Such as 'In a world where everyone's secrets are laid bare, one secret remained hidden.' This makes the reader start to think about what that secret could be and how it will play out in the story. It gives a sense of intrigue right from the start.
A good way is to introduce a mysterious character. Say something like 'There was a man in the corner of the room, his face hidden by the shadows. No one knew who he was or what he was doing there.' This mystery makes the reader want to learn more about the character.
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.
One way is to start with a character in a relatable situation. For example, a young girl waiting nervously for her first day at a new school. It immediately makes the reader empathize.
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.'
A good way to begin is with a sense of impending doom. 'I felt it in my bones, that something was horribly wrong. There was a heaviness in the air, a stillness that was not peaceful but rather filled with a lurking danger. I didn't know what it was yet, but I knew it was coming for me.' This type of start makes the reader feel the unease that the character is experiencing.
One great way to start a scary story is with an unexpected sound. For example, 'In the dead of night, a shrill scream pierced through the silence, making my blood run cold.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and sets a spooky mood.
One great way is to start with a vivid description. For example, 'The sun was a blazing ball of fire in the sky, casting long, menacing shadows across the desolate landscape.' This immediately sets the scene and draws the reader in.
First, you can start with the classics like 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. It's a great introduction to the vampire genre. Another good way is to ask for recommendations from friends who are into vampire fiction. You could also look for popular vampire series at your local library or bookstore.
One way to start a story in 3rd person fiction is by setting the scene. For example, 'The small town of Oakwood lay still under the early morning mist, its cobblestone streets empty save for a stray cat.' This immediately gives the reader a sense of place.
You can start a fiction story by introducing a mystery. For instance, 'The letter arrived on a Tuesday, addressed to no one in particular, yet it held a secret that would change everything.' Action is another great start. 'He ran as fast as he could, not daring to look back at the shadowy figure chasing him.' And a character's emotion can be a starting point too. 'Anger welled up inside him as he stared at the unfair verdict.'
You can start with a shocking event. For example, a character witnessing a murder right at the beginning of the story. This grabs the reader's attention immediately.