55. Why Your First Pages Matter More Than You Think

Today I'm discussing one of the most crucial parts of your novel: the first pages. You've heard it a million times, your opening pages need to quote hook readers, but why is that so important? Well, these first pages are your novels, handshake. They set up expectations, pose story questions, establish tone.

And if you're aiming for traditional publishing, they might just be your one shot at impressing literary agents or editors at publishing houses. In this episode, I'll unpack why those first pages matter so much and how to make them work hard for your story.

Website | April Workshop

Transcript

STEPS TO STORY EP 55 - Why First Pages Matter

[00:00:00] Nicole Meier: Today we're discussing one of the most crucial parts of your novel. The first pages, you've heard it a million times, your opening pages need to quote hook readers, but why is that so important? In this episode, we'll unpack why those first pages matter so much and how to make them work hard for your story.

[00:00:27] Nicole Meier: Welcome to Steps to Story. This season I'm focusing on helping you grow as a writer and as an author. I am Nicole Meier, multi published author and certified book coach here to guide you on strengthening your story and getting it out into the world. This season we'll explore ways to overcome the challenges that hold writers back from breaking through creative blocks to fine tuning your story structure and navigating the publishing world with confidence.

[00:00:55] Nicole Meier: Wherever you are in your journey, consider this your supportive space to find clarity, direction, and encouragement. Let's take the next step in your story together.

[00:01:10] Nicole Meier: Hey there, novel writers. Before we dive into today's episode, I have something special to share with you, especially if you're looking to nail those crucial first pages of your novel. I'm hosting an intimate online workshop designed to help you refine and strengthen your book's opening scene. And when I say intimate, I mean it.

[00:01:32] Nicole Meier: This is limited to just six writers. I intentionally keep my workshops small and intimate as a kind of antidote to the many and personal Zoom courses that wind up being a sea of faces on Zoom. Writers tell me that they're tired of these kinds of courses that have been marketed to them, and I get it. If you're one of those writers who likes small and purposeful, I'm your coach.

[00:01:56] Nicole Meier: Over three evening Zoom sessions, we'll cover how to craft an irresistible opening, and you'll get personalized editorial feedback on Epda 1500 words. Plus, you'll gain insights from fellow writers and some personal guidance to help you level up the goal, to leave you with polished pages that editors can't refuse and readers can't put down.

[00:02:19] Nicole Meier: The workshop runs April 1st, April 8th and April 15th from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. It's open to both first time and established writers Spots are limited, so if this sounds like what you need, email me at nicole@nicolemeyer.com. I'd love to see you inside the workshop. All right, let's get into today's topic, why your first pages matter more than you think.

[00:02:45] Nicole Meier: All right. Today we're discussing one of the most crucial parts of your novel. The first pages, you've heard it a million times, your opening pages need to quote hook readers, but why is that so important? Well, these first pages are your novels, handshake. They set up expectations, pose story questions, establish tone.

[00:03:06] Nicole Meier: And if you're aiming for traditional publishing, they might just be your one shot at impressing literary agents or editors at publishing houses. Whew. No pressure, right? But don't worry, that's why we're here. In this episode, we'll unpack why those first pages matter so much and how to make them work hard for your story.

[00:03:25] Nicole Meier: So grab a pen and paper and let's get right into it. Okay? Let's be real for a second. Most readers, agents, and editors decide whether they're in or out within the first few pages. Sometimes even in the first few paragraphs. It's harsh but true. If your opening pages don't grab attention immediately, they might never make it to that beautifully crafted plot twist in chapter 10.

[00:03:52] Nicole Meier: So why are these pages so make or break? Here's the deal. They set up reader expectations. If you promise a dark atmospheric thriller, but start with a light sunny day at the beach, you are going to lose people fast. The first pages are where readers decide if they trust you enough to tell a story worth investing their time in.

[00:04:16] Nicole Meier: But first, let's pause. If you are in the early drafting stage, take a deep breath. Seriously, your first pages don't have to be perfect right out of the gate. I've said that a hundred times. As a book coach, I'm giving you permission to let your opening be messy. Focus on getting the bones of your story down first fixed comes later.

[00:04:39] Nicole Meier: Embrace that honeymoon phase of writing when it's all about discovering your characters and the world. But when you do come back for revisions, you'll want to focus on these key elements. Let's break 'em down. Alright. First, let's really look at the hook when, let's talk about why curiosity here is your best friend.

[00:04:59] Nicole Meier: Your first pages need a hook, something that sparks curiosity immediately. This could be an unusual situation, a provocative question, or even a killer first line that makes the readers go, wait, what? The goal here isn't just to shock for shock's sake. It's about creating enough intrigue to make readers need to know what happens next.

[00:05:20] Nicole Meier: This is an optional, it's essential. Now let's move on and talk about why setting the tone and expectations are important. Your tone and style needs to be crystal clear from the start. Are you writing a brooding psychological thriller or a witty romantic comedy? Your word choice, pacing and even your opening imagery should all support that tone, mismatch your tone, and you risk losing readers or worse, confusing them.

[00:05:51] Nicole Meier: Consistency builds trust and trust keeps people turning the pages. Now let's talk about the story question, why it needs to haunt readers. Okay. A compelling story question is like an itch that readers need to scratch. Maybe it's will she escape or can he clear his name or will they fall in love?

[00:06:14] Nicole Meier: Whatever it is, it should be clear enough to hook readers, but open enough to leave them hungry for answers. This is especially true if you're querying agents. A strong story question shows that you know exactly where your plot is going and that you can deliver. Okay, let's move on and talk about the stakes.

[00:06:35] Nicole Meier: This is all about why readers need to care right away. If your protagonist doesn't stand to lose something valuable. Why should the reader care? Your first pages should include a hint at what's on the line, whether it's career or relationship, or even survival itself. Make readers care about the outcome early, and they'll follow your protagonist anywhere.

[00:07:01] Nicole Meier: Let's move on and talk about voice. Voice. Is that special something that makes your writing unmistakably yours? It's your authentic code, if you will. It's not just what you say, but how you say it. Think a voice as the glue that holds all these things together. And the stronger and more distinct it is, the more likely your readers and potential agents will keep reading.

[00:07:28] Nicole Meier: Okay, now we're gonna move into the idea of foreshadowing and intrigue. It's really all about planting some seeds early. A little foreshadowing can go a long way. I suggest you draw hints that pay off later in the story, but keep it subtle. No neon signs pointing to the twist. A well placed hint can turn a casual reader into a committed one.

[00:07:53] Nicole Meier: Pretty powerful, right? Okay, let's go over some common mistakes to avoid before we wrap up. Let's quickly cover some things not to do in your opening pages. The first one's a big one. No info dumping. I would say resist the urge to unload your world's entire backstory in the first chapter. Another no-no is slow.

[00:08:15] Nicole Meier: Starts opening with your character, waking up or looking in a mirror. Hard pass. It's been done a million times and we're not getting to the action quick enough. And then another. No-no is false beginnings. Don't start with a dream sequence that tricks readers, they won't. Thank you for it. This is just an example, but hopefully you can see where I'm going with this.

[00:08:37] Nicole Meier: Alright. Your first pages are a promise to readers, a contract that says, here's the kind of story you're going to get, and I promise it'll be worth your time. Get them right and you're setting the stage for everything that follows. Get them wrong, and it's really an uphill battle from there. Let's do a quick recap of things we've talked about in this episode.

[00:09:00] Nicole Meier: So let's talk about the essentials for your first pages. Number one, think about crafting a compelling hook. Number two, consider having a clear tone and style from the get go. Number three, include that story question that your reader will want answered. Number four, make sure you hint at some meaningful stakes.

[00:09:25] Nicole Meier: Number five, remember to include a distinct writer voice, and while we're at it, a distinct protagonist voice too. And number six, try and hint at a touch of foreshadowing. If you nail these things, you're not just hooking readers, you're setting them up for the ride of their lives. Sounds pretty cool, right?

[00:09:48] Nicole Meier: Alright, writers, I hope this deep dive into the why of your first pages has sparked some ideas for your own novel. If it's also sparked inspiration in you to strengthen your book's first pages. I hope to see you inside my April workshop. Email me at nicole@nicolemeier.com or see the link in the show notes.

[00:10:07] Nicole Meier: I. All right, everyone. Until next time, keep writing forward. And remember, I'm cheering for you all the way.

[00:10:18] Nicole Meier: If you want to check out my coaching programs for fiction writers, visit nicole meier.com. That's M-E-I-E-R. And if you like this episode, I'd love you to take a minute to leave a rating and review for this podcast. This will help more writers like you to discover the show. And to get going on their writing journey.

[00:10:39] Nicole Meier: Thanks so much for listening. Until next time, happy writing everyone.