To round out 2018, we’ve got brave girls, an abundance of blood, and murder. To submit a first line, email booklifeeditor@booklife.com.

A Bullied Reunion by Chris Ponici

“There is no greater high than the moment just before you kill a human being.”

The Flute Player from Urumqi by Jeffrey L. Carnett

“They call my father a terrorist.”

Evelyn Marsh by Scott Clemens

“Evelyn’s first murder was an accident.”

The Obsession by Dawn Brotherton

“There was so much blood.”

Brainwashed by Paul Aertker

“Lucas Benes lay in a sleeping bag on the roof of his father’s hotel, dreaming about a past he couldn’t remember.”

The Castle Blues Quake by Linda Covella

“Man, that girl don’t scare, not easy, anyhow.”