Let’s talk about the one thing most writers overlook in their rush to hit “publish”: the first page of your eBook.
You’ve spent months, maybe years, on writing this story, this guide, this manifesto. But when a reader opens your eBook for the first time, what’s the very first thing they see? Is it clean? Compelling? Clear? Or is it a messy pile of fonts, disclaimers, and vague acknowledgments that make them wonder if they made a mistake?
The truth is, what should be on the first page of an eBook can make or break that first impression. And in today’s digital world, you don’t get many second chances. Whether you’re a first-time author or working with an ebook writer for hire, this guide walks you through the must-haves (and must-avoid) for your eBook’s opening.
What Should be on the First Page of an eBook?
You don’t know how much book-writing experts stress the first page. This is usually what people get to see even before peeking at the book’s content. Call it the make-or-break page if you will. Do right, and expect your eBook to turn into a global sensation overnight. Do wrong, and see it just sit on the digital shelves. Let’s not keep you waiting and get right into what you’re here for.
1. The Title of the Book (Obviously, But…)
Yes, it sounds basic, but this is non-negotiable. Your title should be front and center, properly formatted, and styled consistently with your branding. Don’t overthink it, but don’t underplay it either.
Make it big. Make it bold. And please—no Comic Sans.
2. Subtitle (If You Have One)
Subtitles are your wingman. If your title is intriguing but mysterious, your subtitle clarifies the value. Think of this like your second handshake—friendly, specific, and full of promise.
For example:
Main Title: The Calm Code
Subtitle: How to Unlock Peace in a Noisy World
It’s not just filler. A good subtitle tells your reader what they’re getting into, and why it’s worth their time.
3. Author Name
Whether you’re writing under your real name or using a pen name, this needs to be included, usually centered below the title. Bonus points if it matches the name on your cover design; consistency builds trust.
If you’re working with a ghostwriter or ebook writer for hire, make sure the credit is placed correctly based on your agreement.
4. Publisher Information (Optional But Smart)
Even if you’re self-publishing, adding your brand name or imprint (even a made-up one) shows a level of professionalism. It makes your book look and feel official. This could be something simple like:
Published by Silver Leaf Books
or
Independently published via Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
5. Copyright Notice
This isn’t just a legal box to check. It’s your way of saying, “Hey, this content is mine.” It doesn’t need to be long or lawyer-y—just a simple copyright year and name will do.
Example:
© 2025 by Jordan Reese. All rights reserved.
You can always include a full copyright page later, but a brief line here is a good start.
6. Optional Tagline or Praise Line
If you’ve got a killer one-liner or an endorsement, slot it in just below the title. This works well for fiction or memoirs—something that creates intrigue right off the bat.
Example:
“A haunting debut that lingers long after the last page.” — IndieReads Weekly
A strong quote or compelling tagline earns you extra points in credibility and reader curiosity.
7. Clean, Centered Layout
This isn’t a content point, but a formatting one, and it matters. The first page should look good. That means:
- No clutter
- Generous line spacing
- Centered alignment
- No colors that clash with your cover palette
- Genius use of whitespacing
If you’re unsure how to pull this off visually, working with a cover designer or layout expert can save you a lot of stress, and prevent those awkward formatting fails that show up on mobile devices.
What Shouldn’t Be on the First Page of an eBook?
Just as important as knowing what to include is knowing what to leave out. So let’s clear the air:
1. Don’t Start With a Dedication or Acknowledgment
Save that for after the title page. Opening with personal shoutouts can confuse readers or even make them bounce. It’s lovely, but it’s not what they came for.
2. No Walls of Text
This is not the time to hit your reader with backstory, disclaimers, or five-paragraph bios. The first page should feel light and inviting, not like legal paperwork.
3. Avoid Generic Clipart or Stock Images
Especially in free eBooks, people sometimes throw in unrelated visuals to “fill space.” Don’t. If your cover looks polished but your first page features pixelated flowers or cheesy icons, readers will notice.
Why Your First Page Design Deserves Attention
Let’s say it plainly: the visual impact of your first page carries weight. Whether your book is downloaded in San Antonio or Washington, design consistency and professional formatting increase perceived value.
That’s why hiring a cover designer, or using professional eBook writing services in Austin, Chicago, Las Vegas, or Houston, isn’t just a splurge. It’s a strategy.
Platforms like Hire eBook Writer Now offer access to formatting and layout support, too, not just writing help. This kind of support helps you hit the ground running and keeps your book looking sharp across all devices.
Final Note
If you take nothing else from this, remember this: your first page is your eBook’s handshake. It should be confident, clean, and give readers a clear sense of what they’re about to experience.
What should be on the first page of an eBook isn’t just a formatting checklist. It’s a moment of trust-building with your audience. And when done right, it sets the tone for every page that follows.
Need help getting it all together? Whether you’re looking for a full ghostwriting partner or just some solid structure, platforms like Hire eBook Writer Now bring together writers, designers, and editors to help your book launch right.
Because great books don’t start with “Once upon a time.” They start with intention.
Quick Answers to Reader Questions
There’s no magic number, but the average eBook runs 20 to 100 pages, depending on genre. Nonfiction how-tos tend to be shorter. Novels hover around the 80–200 page mark.
Typically, through royalties on platforms like Amazon KDP, usually 35% to 70% depending on pricing and distribution settings.
Technically, there’s no hard minimum. But anything under 2,500 words may feel more like a pamphlet than a book. Most eBooks start at 5,000+ words to feel substantial.
Romance, self-help, business, and mystery/thriller consistently top the charts, especially in digital formats. Know your market before you write.
