good hooks for a mystery story

A strange object found in an unexpected place can be a great hook. For example, a golden key in a modern, high - tech office. It makes the reader wonder where it came from and what it unlocks.

An unusual object or symbol that keeps popping up can be a good hook too. Say, a strange amulet is found at every crime scene. This mystery surrounding the amulet will intrigue readers and make them eager to find out its significance in the story.

A character with a mysterious past is a great hook. For instance, a new neighbor moves in and has a tattoo on his wrist that seems to be a code or a symbol related to a long - forgotten crime. The other characters, and the readers, are then intrigued to find out who this person really is and what their past holds.

A sudden scream in the dead of night can be a great hook. It creates an immediate sense of unease and mystery. The reader will be eager to find out who screamed and why.

Starting with a character in a dangerous or exciting situation is also great. Say, a hiker lost in a dense forest at night, hearing strange noises. This hooks the reader as they want to know if the hiker will survive and what is making those noises.

An unexpected event at the very beginning is also a good hook. Such as a character suddenly finding themselves in a completely different world without any prior warning. This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them wonder how the character got there and what will happen next.

Beginning with a thought - provoking question can also be a good hook. Such as 'What if you woke up one day and found out that the world you knew was just a simulation?' It forces the reader to start thinking about this wild concept and draws them into the story to find out if there's an answer or exploration of this question within the narrative.

A mystery or a riddle can be a great hook. For example, starting a story with 'The door was ajar, and a strange sound was coming from inside. What could it be?' It immediately makes the reader curious. Another one could be a shocking statement like 'She woke up to find herself in a world where time had stopped.' This kind of hook grabs the reader's attention right away.

A mysterious letter arriving at the protagonist's doorstep can be a great hook. It immediately raises questions and draws the reader in.

Beginning with a Christmas elf who is running late for the big Christmas preparations is a good hook. Everyone knows elves are crucial for Christmas, and the idea of one being late adds an element of chaos and interest. The reader will be curious to find out if the elf can make it in time and what problems might arise because of the delay.