Discover a simple 5-step formula to write a page-turning blurb that grabs attention, builds intrigue, and drives clicks.

We call it SCOPE and it works for any blurb.

Your book blurb must be well-written and compelling to get a reader’s attention. Your blurb will be an important part of your marketing.

To write a good blurb, you have to make it short and exciting, yet relevant. You need to:

1. Cut out sub-plots.
2. Add tension to make it dramatic.
3. Try not to mention more than two characters’ names.
4. Promise your audience a read they won’t forget.

Write A Page-Turning Book Blurb In Just 5 Steps

I’ve come up with this easy acronym to help you create a book blurb. I call it SCOPE. Follow these five pointers and see if it works for you.

SCOPE

Setting
Conflict
Objective
Possible Solution
Emotional Promise

1. Setting: All stories involve characters who are in a certain setting at a certain time.
2. Conflict: A good story places these characters in a situation where they have to act or react. A good way to start this part of your blurb is with the words: But, However, Until
3. Objective: What do your characters need to do?
4. Possible Solution: Offer the reader hope here. Show them how the protagonist can overcome. Give them a reason to pick up the book. Use the word ‘If’ here.
5. Emotional Promise: Tell them how the book will make them feel. This sets the mood for your reader.

I am using the film The Edge of Tomorrow to write a blurb using this formula.

Book Blurb Example:

1. London. The near future. Aliens have invaded Earth and colonised Europe. Major William Cage is a PR expert for the US Army working with the British to stop the invaders crossing the English Channel. Battle after battle is lost until an unexpected victory gives humanity hope.
2. But a planned push into Europe fails. Cage finds himself in a war he has no way to fight and he is killed. However, he wakes up, rebooted back a day every time he dies.
3. He lives through hellish day after day, until he finds Sergeant Rita Vrataski who shows him how to fight the enemy.
4. They painstakingly work out how to destroy the aliens. If they succeed, they will save Earth.
5. This thrilling, action-packed, science-fiction war story will show you how heroes are made and wars can be won. Against the odds.

You can shorten (or lengthen) this to suit your needs.

SCOPE will work for any blurb. Why don’t you try it on a book you’ve read or a film you’ve seen recently?

The Last Word

Don’t let a weak blurb hold your book back. Use these five steps to refine your message. Turn readers, editors, and publishers into eager readers. Your book blurb deserves to be irresistible.

If you liked this article, you will enjoy:

1. How To Write A Query Letter In 12 Easy Steps
2. How To Write A One-Page Synopsis
3. 8 Points To Consider When You Name Your Book

by Amanda Patterson
© Amanda Patterson

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