Anyone can write a book, but it takes a special talent to weave together a story that keeps your readers devouring your pages and gobbling up your words. What are the secrets to keeping your readers riveted to each page, unable to set your book down? The answer is as simple as 1, 2, 3.

1)  The Hook - It's been said that you should never "judge a book by its cover" and most avid readers adhere to this principle. However, they WILL judge your book by its first couple of pages. You only have one chance to make a great first impression, so use it wisely. Set the bait and hook your readers early on. If you're writing a murder mystery, set the discovery of the body on the first page. If you're penning a horror novel in the tradition of Stephen King, introduce the savage beast in your opening paragraphs. What fish could resist such a tempting worm?

2)  Reel Them In - Now that your readers have taken a bite, you've got to keep them chomping on the bait. A simple way to accomplish this is to imbed mini hooks at the end of each chapter. The average reader will set a book down at a natural stopping point (the end of a chapter). Who knows when they'll be tempted to next pick it up? Your job, as a storyteller, is to prevent this down time from happening in the first place. You've got to make your readers want to move on to the next chapter, then the next and the next. Let your worm dangle from its hook in the closing paragraphs of each chapter. Human beings are curious by nature and will forge onward for answers, just like the bass will keep nibbling the meaty hook.

3)  The Big Catch - So you've got your readers hooked and you're reeling them in. Don't make the big mistake of losing their interest in the final stages. Don't let all your hard work be in vain. Readers' reviews and repeat buyers will hinge on your ability to make a lasting impression, so don't let the big one get away. Have you kept your details consistent throughout your book? Have you answered all of your readers' questions by the last sentence? Does the romantic couple end up living happily ever after? Is the killer brought to justice? Don't disappoint. You may be the best fisherman in the world, but if you can't reel in the big catch then your skills will go largely unnoticed. Work with your editor to insure your book is "The Big One," the one that readers will want to share with their friends, who will share with their friends, who will....well, you get the picture. And remember, compelling storytelling is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Go fish!