The dreaded synopsis: A writing & plotting guide

by Elizabeth Sinclair

Submission guidelines for virtually every agent or publisher seeking novels include a request for a synopsis. Ergo, every novelist or aspiring novelist needs to know what a synopsis is and how to write one that will catch an editor’s fancy. This book by acclaimed romance writer Elizabeth Sinclair gives all the details . . . what to do and what not to do . . . to make your synopsis the effective selling tool you need.

Genres: Writing

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Shenoa Carroll-Bradd · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had an unfortunate number of typos, and illustrations that were more distracting than endearing.
That said, this slim little book is a plotting and characterization boot camp! It's super concentrated and delivers mini lessons on almost every aspect of a novel, plus revisions. While I thought it might be more focused on the synopsis, it takes a holistic approach and provides ways to improve your book while you're creating the synopsis itself.
Surprisingly useful, and probably good for any writer to leaf through.

[Barbara Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was excellent help for writing a synopsis. It played the process out step by step and answered many questions. I will use the book over many times

[Jonathan H. MONTES · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short book that is straight to the point. Here, I learned more about the specifications needed for writing a great synopsis that would eventually be requested by an agent or publishing house editor. I would give this a go if you are serious about writing. However, the content in this book is old fashioned and may not be relevant at all today. So, it's kind of a risk. But I did find useful information nonetheless.

[Mahrie Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is sub-lined "A writing and plotting guide." It delivers! Although this follows through with a romance exaple, the extrapolation to determining scenes and sequels and the question provided to ask are excellent. I'd recommend this book to the intermediate and accomplished writer. Beginners would also benefit from seeing the way Ms Sinclair structures a story.

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had some useful stuff, but what I'd really like, instead of a whole book of instructions and one example of a good synopsis (usually of a book the writer has agented or written), a how-to book that takes twenty well-known books and their synopses.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book's tips still apply although most editors and agents ask for much shorter synopsis now. Has absolutely contributed to every request I've ever received.