Synopsis Advice please

by elizabeth madden
13th April 2016

My apologies if this question has been answered before, but as a new member and fledgling author, I am having some difficulty in working out how to go about providing a synopsis of my completed novel, which I wish to submit to publishers. Advice on this from my fellow writers would be heartily welcomed.

Replies

Don't overlook the note in para 3 that most publishers do not accept direct submissions. Before you even think of writing a synopsis or letter, choose your recipient very carefully. For one thing, it won't get you anywhere to submit where it's not welcome, and for another, the stress it causes you isn't worth it.

There's a good book on the subject that's worth having on your shelf: Nicola Morgan's Write a Great Synopsis.

Lorraine

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Lorraine
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21/04/2016

This is something I also struggle with. The link is very helpful. Thank you for sharing

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Z Hodges
16/04/2016

Hello Elizabeth,

I am in total agreement, I too have struggled with a synopsis for my book. There seems to be a wide range of advice, most of it conflicting. The link that Alison has given you is one of the better ones. I have followed the design of being concise and to the point. 'This is what happens, this is the impact on my characters'. I would also make sure your covering letter grabs the agent or publisher, that's the first part they read, and the first hurdle you need to clear.

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14/04/2016