10 Things You Need to Know to Write a Great Book Blurb

The purpose of a blurb is to attract the interest of perspective readers. It must be short, succinct and enticing. Before you write your blog, determine the market for your novel then check out book blurbs in your genre on bookstore shelves and on Amazon. Here are 10 things you need to know to write a great book blurb.

A book blurb should

1. open with a hook line related to your particular genre.

2. name the main protagonists and antagonist.

3. state a goal or problem. Hint at obstacles, conflicts, and stakes, but don’t reveal the plot.

4. not be cluttered with the names of secondary characters.

5. be written in the tone of your book—funny, dark, romantic, mysterious

6. contain a couple of emotional words—dangerous, vicious, tragic, intrigue, murder, betrayal, love

7. not contain a “spoiler!” It’s meant to create curiosity not satisfy it.

8. be written in third person present tense.

9. be between 100-150 words long

10. end with a phrase or question that entices readers to read the book to find out what will happen.

Remember, the blurb is one of the most important selling points of your book along with the cover. Would be customers first look at the book cover then flip the book over and read the blurb. So put considerable time and effort into perfecting your blurb.

More tips:

How to Write a Query Letter for a Mystery Novel
How to Write a Synopsis of Your Mystery Novel