First Paragraphs
Bestseller Beginnings
by Joyce Wycoff
15 Fiction - 15 Non-fiction (from NYT lists) of 30 Bestselling Books: February, 2025
From the cover of Wind and Truth
First glance … what is it that makes you pick up a book at the bookstore … or stop to read a review online?
That magical combination of title, cover, and opening words telegraphs a message that prompts your hand … or your mind (or heart) to reach out for it.
As you read these openings, think about the effect the author is trying to create: curiosity? compassion? connection?
Your 50 - 100,000 word labor of love will be subject to that same first glance.
My hope is that these beginnings might spark ideas for you.
— joyce
Prior to Chapter 1, there are four pages of hand written journal entries.
