The opening line of a book can establish a mood, setting, insight to a character and so much more. They can dive straight into action or provide us with just enough intriguing information that we simply must keep reading to find out more!
Instead of judging a book by its cover, why not decide if you’ll borrow based on its opening line, here are some compelling books with excellent first lines that are guaranteed to have you hooked.
1. Reckless Girls by Rachel Hawkins
“Saltwater and blood taste the same."
Also available as Large Print.
3. Finlay Donovan is Killing it by Elle Cosimano
“It’s a widely known fact that most moms are ready to kill someone by 8.30 am on any given morning.”
Also available as Large Print.
4. My Annihilation by Fuminori Nakamura
“Turn this page, and you may give up your entire life.”
6. Circe by Madeline Miller
“When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist.”
Also available as eAudio (BorrowBox), eBook (Libby), Large Print, and as a Book Club Kit.
7. Where'd you go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
“The first annoying thing is when I ask Dad what he thinks happened to Mom, he always says, ‘What’s most important is for you to understand it’s not your fault.’”
This book has been adapted into a film starring Cate Blanchett which you can borrow here.
9. This Thing Between Us by Gus Moreno
“Your family wouldn’t let me bury you in a tree pod.”
10. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
“The snow in the mountains was melting and Bunny had been dead for several weeks before we came to understand the gravity of our situation.”
Also available as eAudio (BorrowBox).