I was asked what’s the best way to start a horror novel. The answer is: the same as the best way to start any novel but, with a horror novel, it’s even more important. It’s essential.

You jump right in with what’s called a ‘hook.’ That’s something that will pull the reader into the story fast and completely. With a horror novel, that ‘something’ should be horror-related. It’s best if it also foreshadows the climax because that’s good story-telling.

The hard part is creating a hook that doesn’t come across as contrived or irrelevant while it takes the reader seamlessly into the story.

Hmmmmm—— now that you know what to do, sit down and do some serious thinking. And plotting. And not sleeping because your own creation is giving you nightmares.

Good luck!