Sometimes, your story’s setting, format, or container can carry the hook, even if the story itself is subtle. Examples:

• Told in letters from a grief writing group


• Set inside a niche subculture (roller derby moms, death doulas, ASMR influencers)


• Nonlinear, countdown, or framed by a mystery

5. Add One High-Concept Layer

Sometimes all you need is one... See more