Every story rises or falls on its opening lines. They’re the invitation—or the warning—that tells us whether to read on. A strong beginning can spark curiosity, create tension, or leave us unsettled enough that we have to turn the page. Below are several possible openings I’ve been working on. Each one heads in a different direction, and I’m curious: which grabs you first?
The Headless Mr. Williver
Jonathan and Bev looked down on the body of Harris Williver. “Well, there’s no doubt he’s dead,” Bev said softly, almost without emotion. “What was your first clue?” Jonathan asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he pointed to Williver’s head lying on its side about eight feet away.
The Old Victorian
Haunted or not, the old Victorian loomed at the end of an overgrown drive. Just looking at it—especially at dusk, when the fog held tightly to the gravel—gave Catherine the shivers. Goosebumps rose on the back of her neck and down her arms.
Train to Shuttlesworth
Sherlock tossed the telegram to the floor and glanced at John with the faintest smirk. “Quick, Watson,” he barked. “The game is afoot, and time is against us. The next train to Shuttlesworth leaves in less than twenty minutes. It’ll be tight, but we can make it!”
Rusty’s Master
Rusty pushed through the kitchen door and bolted into the back field. The Collie raced through wet, overgrown grass with ease, barking loudly. Suddenly he stopped, lowered his head, and began sniffing the lifeless body of his master.
The Shocking Suitcase
By the third time around, the suitcase was the only bag left on the carousel. Don, tasked with removing abandoned luggage, heaved it off the belt. It was unusually heavy. As he dragged it aside, the latches popped open and a rank smell gushed out. He flipped back the lid—and fainted. Inside was the dismembered body of a woman.
As readers, we want our attention grabbed right away. We want to say, “Well, this seems intriguing,” and keep reading. Or, sometimes, we simply aren’t drawn in. As a writer, I’m exploring which kinds of openings catch attention—and which might not. That’s where you come in: which of these beginnings would you want to see developed into a full story?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Simply email me at contact@dennisrdalton.com.
