Compelling Spy Thriller Openings.

[Samuel , Director]

Exactly what it says on the tin. What spy/geopolitical thrillers you have read that have had a compelling introduction. These can be used to set up a plot point, act as a character defining moment for a hero or villain and get the reader interested.

[Samuel , Director]

Start off with three examples:

1) The Hunter by Tom Wood. In which the main character pulls off a elegantly executed killing in a Paris street and then conducts a memorable killing spree through the corridors of a Paris hotel systematically targeting a hit-squad sent to kill him. This opening allowed the author to demonstrate his characters capabilities and mindset.

2) Patriot Games by Tom Clancy. In which wealthy academic and Marine Jack Ryan's holiday/business trip goes to hell in a handcart. In the span of a few hours, he nearly gets run over by a bus, saves the Prince Of Wales and his family from getting abducted, gets shot and is placed on the personal hit-list of one of the most dangerous terrorists in the UK. Acted as a great establishing character moment for Jack Ryan, a man who would be willing to risk his life if necessary.

Blacked Flagged by Steve Konkoly. In which the main character eliminates a Serbian militia leader in a most horrific way. It established the main character as a man bordering the line between sociopath and professional killer.