Writing Book Blurbs: Tips from a Developmental Editor

Mastering Story Pacing and How to Keep Readers Hooked!!!

Looking for writer improvement and want to know what makes a good writer great? In this episode, Rebecca shares how to edit your book yourself and offers practical fantasy book blurb advice. Unlike typical writing tutorials, she explores how your blurb can actually shape and strengthen your story while you revise.
In this newest installment of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) talk about how writing your blurb early on can bring clarity to your plot, characters, and emotional arc. Whether you're working on a rough draft or tightening up your final revision, this episode helps you align your manuscript with the promises you’re making to readers in your blurb.
You’ll hear Rebecca break down what a blurb is—and what it definitely isn’t—and walk you through how to craft one that captures the soul of your story. She shares her five-step method for writing blurbs that engage readers, expose weak spots in your narrative, and meet genre expectations. For writers who struggle with blurbs (you’re not alone!), Rebecca also recommends Brian Cohen’s How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis as a must-have tool in your writing toolkit.
In This Episode:
How to craft a compelling blurb that highlights your story’s conflict, stakes, and emotional drive
Why distinguishing a blurb from a synopsis matters and how it affects reader interest
A clear five-step process to help you draft, revise, and polish your book blurb
Ways to use your blurb as a lens for self-editing and improving story cohesion
Common blurb pitfalls to avoid, from overcrowded character lists to tone mismatches
Recommended Resources:
Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]
Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]
Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]
Story Grid – https://storygrid.com
Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com
How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Brian Cohen
[00:00] Intro
[01:51] What is a blurb—and what isn’t it?
[04:17] When should you write your blurb?
[05:42] Why write a blurb before finishing your book?
[06:34] What resources and steps can help you write a strong blurb?
[14:18] How can your blurb help you reevaluate your story?
[22:28] Is it necessary to write your blurb early in the process?
[29:54] What should you do if your blurb and book don’t match?