How to Write a Blurb for Your Novel: When writing a novel, there are few selling tools as important as a solidly written book blurb. Sure, the cover design creates intrigue. But, if you have caught a potential reader’s attention, the blurb is what will sell your book—and convert readers.
When defining a “blurb” it’s important to distinguish between a “description blurb” that you write for the back cover of your book and a “review blurb”. Here, we’ll be focusing on the former. How to write a blurb as an author.
Do’s and Don’ts How to Write a Blurb
Here are the do’s and don’t on how to write a blurb that you need to adhere to.
Do’s
- Reference the genre and central theme
- Create intrigue around the main conflict
- Dive right in and introduce your protagonist
- Keep it short and punchy
- Reference your book-writing or professional status, if it relates to your book
Don’ts
- Give away any spoilers, no matter how tempted you are
- Give a summary of the first chapter
- Open with “In a world,” or any other overused phrase
- Give everything away
- Say how amazing your book is
- Compare yourself to other writers or your book to other books
The Anatomy and Examples of a Blurb
While there’s no perfect formula for writing the best blurb for your novel, there are some patterns worth noting. Firstly, highlight your success in the book-writing world.
Secondly, introduces the protagonist in a way that creates intrigue without delving into details. And last but not least, referencing the central point of conflict—without explaining how a resolution may come about.
Take a look at the blurb examples below—Bella Andre’s, Kiss Me Like This, Donna Tartt’s The Goldfinch, and E L James’ Fifty Shades of Grey. Take note of any patterns. Any consistencies. And what the authors seem to be saying. And not saying.