What are the best openings to horror novels?

One of the best openings is from 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen: 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' This line immediately sets the tone for the story which is centered around marriage and social status in 19th - century England.

Sure. 'The door slammed shut behind her, trapping her in the abandoned asylum. A shrill scream echoed through the halls.' This opening throws the character into a terrifying situation right away.

In 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' This opening is brilliant as it quickly establishes a social context and the central theme of marriage and wealth that runs throughout the novel.

In 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, the opening line 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' is brilliant. It not only gives a peek into the society's values and the central theme of marriage in the novel but also has a touch of humor. It makes the reader curious about how the story will unfold around this concept.

Well, one great opening could be a mysterious murder scene that immediately hooks the reader. Like in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' where a body is found in a strange and puzzling way.

A vivid description can also make a great novel opening. Such as 'The sun blazed down on the dusty town, the heat rising in shimmering waves from the cracked streets. The saloon doors swung open, and a figure emerged, his face hidden beneath a wide - brimmed hat.' This type of opening sets the scene and makes the reader curious about what will happen next. It gives a sense of place and a hint of mystery.

Beginning with a vivid description can be great. Like in 'The Great Gatsby' where it starts with 'In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since.' It gives a sense of the narrator's voice and draws you into their world.

One great opening is to start with a thought - provoking question. For example, 'Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world without colors?' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them curious to find out more. It sets the tone for a story that could be about a world where something fundamental has been altered.

A sudden, unexplained noise in the dead of night. For example, 'The creaking floorboard in the empty hallway woke her from a deep sleep. She lay there, frozen, as the sound repeated, each creak closer than the last.'

A dark and stormy night, with the wind howling like a banshee outside the old, creaky house. The protagonist is alone, a single candle flickering as they hear strange scratching noises at the door.