How to Craft a Page-Turning First Scene (Even If You Have No Idea Where to Start)

Struggling to start your story? You’re not alone. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page thinking, “How do I hook a reader before they scroll away?”—this episode is your lifeline.

In this week’s episode of the Christian Writers Podcast, I’m walking you through how to craft a powerful, page-turning opening scene—using the same bonus worksheet I give my students in the Middle School Magic writing class.

Whether you're writing clean fiction for kids, cozy mysteries, or faith-based stories for grown-ups, this episode will help you write an unforgettable first page—with heart, tension, and clarity.

We’ll break it down into 5 simple steps:

1. Show your character’s “normal” before the chaos
   
   
   
   


2. Hook readers with emotion, not exposition
   
   
   
   


3. Skip the info dump—drop them into action
   
   
   
   


4. Give us a reason to care
   
   
   
   


5. Leave a question dangling so they have to turn the page
   
   
   
   

✍️ Download the free bonus worksheet:

👉 Crafting the Perfect Opening Scene

🎁 BONUS: Need help with more than your first page?

Let’s work together! Book your personalized coaching session here:

👉 Christian Writer Coaching with Kathleen

📘 And if you love a clean, clever mystery with small-town charm, grab my cozy whodunit Book Club Murder—now available on Kindle Unlimited!