This is the 2nd best hook. It can be used alone but should always follow the why hook. Allow the reader to empathize with the character. What will she do? Why? It can be a perfect spot to introduce a plot twist. Why hook → character reaction → difficult choice → possible surprise
For example:
Why: Jane has discovered that someone she trusted has betrayed her.
Reaction: She remembers all the times she defended him.
Choice: She can remain silent—or confront him.
Twist: The person she expected to support her is the one who betrays her next.
A. Begin with the protagonist. Jane Corcoran tightened her grip on her father’s hand to steady him as they walked towards McCarty’s
B. Reveal character through a characteristic moment .Her father kept dozing as they stumbled toward food. Jane jerked him awake. “Come on, Father. Just a little farther.”
C. . Dramatize rather than explain. Jane pushed her meager portion toward her younger siblings. “You eat it. I’m not hungry.”
D. Unique physical features (lightning bolt scar/tooth gap/v shaped eyebrows/tear drop beauty mark etc)
E. E. Unique mannerisms. (thumbs up or down/tapping fingers steeple fingers (hopeful /pulling ear(trying to make a decision)- rubbing eyes (doubting) Jane fidgeting with rosary
F. Animal like features (Owl/very observant-sloth/painstakingly slow-panda (large,cuddly,non threatening- Frog (hopping around from place to place)
G. Exhibits strengths and weaknesses (brave vs reckless (running into burning building can be both)-docile vs stubborn, (Accepting reasonable advice vs staying with your preconceived beliefs) fearful vs angry, disgust vs trust
H. Group or family connection (close knit or estranged) (poor vs. wealthy) Catholic vs Protestant law abiding vs criminal
I. Specific roles in the story (mentor/sidekick/villain/lover – what would he/she do?)
J. Backstory (could be tragic/inspiring/explanatory)
K. Inner conflict we all have (do it or not/what makes individual tick) (deeply religious Priest is Jane’s inner voice/alter ego.