Hook Your Readers: 12 Proven Strategies to Write a Best-Selling Book

by Tamar Sloan

Readers subconsciously want certain things from a book…and best-selling writers make sure they deliver it. Thanks to evolution, the magic of story is wired into our brains - some of us can articulate why, many of us can't - but science certainly can. Story serves a unique function in the human psyche, a purpose so vital to our success as a species that humans are inescapably drawn to it. The multibillion-dollar publishing industry is a testament to this. But readers aren't drawn to any old story, there are certain elements that tip the scales between the slush pile and the yes pile, the bottom-dwellers and the best-sellers, the meh books and the holy-hardcover-I-can't-put-this-down! books. And now you can discover exactly what these elements are. Packed with real-life examples and practical exercises, Hook your Reader breaks down the essential components of chart-busting books. Writers of all genres and experience levels will learn how Give readers what they are really looking for Capture their readers by sparking curiosity Engage their readers with the power of emotion Craft a compelling character that readers can't help but connect with From the unique perspective of practicing psychologist and best-selling author, Tamar Sloan, Hook Your Readers allows you to hack your reader's brain by creating a book that they'll be unable to put down. So, go ahead, discover what makes a best-selling book and why, but more importantly, how you can write one too.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

134 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 13, 2018

About the author

Tamar really struggled writing this bio, in part because it’s in third person, but mostly because she hasn’t decided whether she’s primarily a psychologist who loves writing, or a writer with a lifelong fascination with psychology.

She must have been someone pretty awesome in a previous life (past life regression indicated a Care Bear), because she gets to do both. Beginning her career as a youth worker, then a secondary school teacher, before becoming a school psychologist, Tamar helps children and teens to live and thrive despite life’s hurdles like loss, relationship difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma.

As lover of reading, inspired by books that sparked beautiful movies in her head, Tamar loves to write young adult romance. To be honest, it was probably inevitable that her knowledge and love of literature would translate into writing emotion driven stories of finding life and love beyond our comfort zones. You can find out more about Tamar’s books at www.tamarsloan.com

A lifetime consumer of knowledge, Tamar holds degrees in Applied Science, Education and Psychology. When not reading, writing or working with teens, Tamar can be found with her husband and two children enjoying country life on their small slice of the Australian bush.
The driving force for all of Tamar’s writing is sharing and connecting. In truth, connecting with others is why she writes. She loves to hear from readers and fellow writers. Find her on all the usual social media channels or her website.

Reviews

[Annie Lima · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book quite helpful, and I highlighted a lot of things for future reference. I especially appreciated the careful research that obviously went into writing it (the author cited sources, and everything). The frequent references to evolution were annoying, and the book could have used a better edit. But the author has obviously studied psychology and knows what she's talking about when it comes to how people think, feel, and react. I recommend this resource for any fiction writer.

[Darryl Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical and easy methods for creating chatacters and plots for bestsellers.

This is a book that I read with pleasure and want to keep as a constant reference as it contains a wealth of guidlines that make sense. Using plenty of examples from actual bestsellers, the author provides practical guides that serve to lift your book over and beyond the ordinary and will help hook readers and make your writing compellingly readable. As a touchstone for magically enhancing your skills as a novelist this book is must for all authors and writers of fiction.

[Keoki Nunies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

This novel is a great way to include emotions in your work. Do not underestimate the powers of emotion when telling your stories!!! Start with one section, one scene or sentence and repeat the process. Excellent read.

[Shyla Colt]

A quick read that gives excellent pointers, tips, and questions you might not have considered to help improve your writing. I enjoyed this. It's a nice one to read to add more tips to your writing toolbox.

[Bob Nadal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic look at the psychology of writing!

[A.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her blog is on hiatus and as a thanks to readers, she has made her writing books free.
https://psychwriter.com.au/
And they are pretty good, so go get them.
4 stars

[Lizette Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical advise.

The author provides practical tips for writers who want to develop solid characters, and raise the readers curiosity level to keep purchasing your books.