Hey hey, a Hallmark Christmas Movie has come to us in mystery form!
As writers, we hear all the time that we’ve got to hook readers in just the first few pages or else. We’ve got to hook agents in the first few pages or else.
Whether you’re looking to get published or just hoping to hook your reader, first impressions are vital. Compelling opening scenes are the key to catching an agent or editor’s attention, and are crucial for keeping your reader engaged.
JEFF GERKE, THE FIRST FIFTY PAGES
Well then, let’s study those first few pages in other people’s stories, shall we?
Today I snagged from the New Release shelf:
The Senator’s Wife by Liv Constantine
After the more somber, experimental style of Oates’ book last week, I’m actually rather happy to have a suspenseful thriller that reads like something from the Hallmark Channel.
Liv Constantine’s The Senator’s Wife opens with a cross-couple conflict at a beach house, where husbands and wives have to comfort each other because one wife (Peg) accuses her senator husband of infidelity. While the scene reads a bit cheesy, I respect Constantine’s quick pacing through the scene along with the establishment of the conflict and low-key mystery to get things started. The prose is not flowery or unique; rather, it’s direct and clear like a screenplay, which is another reason I can’t help but think of “made for TV movie” as I read this. The plus side of this approach is Constantine’s prose is very accessible, so for those who want a popcorn mystery with a touch of cheese, I’m sure Constantine’s latest will fit their tastes perfectly.
No matter what the season brings, keep reading!
Read on, share on, and write on, my friends!
