Storytelling is the truly powerful magic.

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:

Thorn Hedge by T. Kingfisher

I admit, I am a little bias with today’s selection. When I saw T. Kingfisher had a new dark take on a classic story, I had to jump on it.

Thorn Hedge does not disappoint. Its opening pages are told from the Fairy’s perspective, describing a crushingly long passage of time as she guards a mysterious tower and the thorn hedge surrounding it. Granted, we as writers are always told to “show, don’t tell.” Kingfisher does the opposite in order to reflect on how much time passes under the Fairy’s watchful eye. Initially the wall of thorns is massive and obvious, drawing the attention of princes and ambitious boys from all over, but as generations come and go, the everyday nature creeps up and grows over this wall. Yet the Fairy fears that the story—yes, the story—of the tower and its secret has not died in time. I do love how Kingfisher focuses on the power of words, of story, and how THAT is to be feared rather than any kind of magic or weapon of the world.

Clues are given to readers to help gauge time, such as the Plague masks of the Black Death and the red crosses worn by knights during the Crusades. I admit, I started getting impatient when we reached the Crusades, for it was starting to feel like we would only see this story as a walk through time, but behold! On the sixth page comes a knight. And then, my fellow creatures, the true narrative starts.

So, if you are one for brief, vivid tellings of classic tales, I don’t think you’ll go wrong with Kingfisher here. I LOVED her take on The Fall of the House of Usher, so I’m stoked to see what she does with this Grimm, dark tale. 😊

No matter what the season brings, keep reading!

Read on, share on, and write on, my friends!