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synopsis

By shamus | Posted: 28 December 2008

Views: 393
I know a good synopsis is very important. But it seems to me different publishers want different things.  I wrote a 5 pager which one expert said was fine( just what publishers are looking for) but ive since found they prefer one page or even a half page. What is giving away too much and what is not enough?  Im confused as to what they really want.
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Comments 
louise
29 December 2008
You're not the only one. But usually asking for their guidelines tells you what they expect. 

I think the majority prefer a short one pager, merely because of the time factor, and perhaps in the body of your letter offer them a more detailed synopsis. If they find your short one intriguing they may well write to you and ask for more anyway.

I've been told to keep the synopsis in the present tense, and in character or mood of the book.

This is good: http://www.meredithbond.com/Synopsis.html
kemmylim
21 February 2009
I think the norm is one page, but its best to ask, I guess.
Here´s a link that you may find useful: http://www.fictionwriters.com/tips-synopsis.html

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shamus

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