The Make-or-Break Reality
Your book's opening pages aren't just the start of the story — they're your only real chance to hook readers, agents, and publishers.
If your opening pages don't work, nothing else matters. You could have the most brilliant plot twist on page 200, but readers will never get there. Publishers and agents will pass. Early reviewers will give up.
The first ten pages must accomplish what many writers spend entire chapters trying to do. They establish voice, introduce compelling characters, create immediate engagement, and promise readers an experience worth their time. Your book's success often lives or dies in these opening moments. Literary agents typically request only the first few pages in query submissions because they know these pages reveal everything about a writer's skill and the book's potential.
Industry professionals make decisions within the first few paragraphs
Your book's success often lives or dies in these opening pages.
Agents and editors typically request only the first few pages in query submissions because they know these pages reveal everything about a writer's skill and the book's potential.
Perfecting the "first ten" improves the entire book
When you understand what makes your opening work, you understand what makes your whole story work.
The first ten pages must accomplish what many writers spend entire chapters trying to do. They establish voice, introduce compelling characters, create immediate engagement, and promise readers an experience worth their time.
Many writers find that fixing their first ten pages solves problems they didn't even know existed throughout their manuscript.
Tired of rejection?
Professional feedback tells you exactly what's working — or what's driving readers away.
In addition to detailed in-line comments, you'll get a full editorial letter highlighting the specific strengths and areas for improvement, with clear feedback on exactly why things are working — or not.
Find out if your hook actually hooks, your pacing draws readers forward, your voice is distinctive, the main character is worthy of a reader's investment, and if you're even starting in the right place.
Your story deserves readers who can't put it down. Let's make sure your first ten pages are perfect page turners.