
For this month’s post I’ve gathered first lines from older books that are about fighting for liberty. First Lines is a series of blog articles posted on around the first of the month. The first line of a story, we’re told, must hook the reader. Implied is that the reader will not buy the book if the first line isn’t great. These entries are from Amazon, my personal library, or other online booksellers. Do these first lines hook you? Do you want to read more?
Five First Lines
My name is Melisandre Stokes and this is my story. I am writing in July 1851 (Common Era, or—let’s face it—Anno Domini) in the guest chamber of a middle-class home in Kensington, London, England. I’m not a native of this place or time.
The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O., Neal Stephenson and Nicole Galland – 2017
In three weeks, Ndemi Vidal will die—here, in this very place.
Today is just practice.
Defy the Stars, Claudia Gray – 2017
At Key Academy, an instructor had explained to Cheris’s class that the threshold winnower was a weapon of last result, and not just for its notorious connotations.
Ninefox Gambit, Yoon Ha Lee – 2016
I stole the torturer’s tongue
It’s the first side of me some see
The first line you hear
First line of defense when I say
“See this long tongue illicitly acquired—doesn’t it suit me well?…”
Midnight Robber, Nalo Hopkinson – 2000
The giant bronze angel of death loomed over Miranda Clarke’s shoulder.
My Soul to Keep, Lynette M. Burrows
Clarification
There are no affiliate links in this post. Yes, there is a shameless plug for my own book. Otherwise, I don’t make a cent off of the books listed on this page. Usually these titles are pulled at random. They are here for your enjoyment. And to entice you to buy more books.
Do You Want to Read More?
Did you find a book you want to read? Check out previous First Lines posts. Please take a moment to share in the comments below—
Some great choices! I saw the subject line and thought “This would be a great post to include Defy the Stars” because I’d just finished reading the trilogy. And, lo and behold, there it was on your list. Great minds! Glad you included My Soul to Keep too since it clearly fits this list. The Neal Stephenson book looks interesting so I picked that up. Thanks!
Thanks, Terry. I’m so glad you found new reads in this. And thank you for the kind words about My Soul to Keep. I truly appreciate readers like you.