The Hardest Words To Write

As a publisher, I’ve congratulated countless authors, eyes sparkling with the satisfaction of a completed manuscript, only to watch their faces fall when I mention the next step: “Now we need to write your synopsis.”

You can almost hear their panic. The synopsis, often less than 500 words, somehow becomes the most daunting part of the process for many writers. One author at a recent book launch put it best:

“I wrote 50,000 words and then I had to summarise it, make a reader want to buy it and cover every topic in it.

How is this the hardest part of writing a book!?”

Different to a blurb and taglines (I’ll briefly discuss these later), a synopsis isn’t just a summary—it’s a book’s first impression. Here's why I think authors struggle to write their synopses...

Authors live inside their stories. They’ve spent months (or years) building complex characters, crafting layered plots, and perfecting the rhythm of their writing. Now they’re being asked to flatten all that brilliance into a single, short, summary?

But from a publishing perspective, the synopsis is crucial. It’s what editors pass around when considering its merit, it helps a publisher market and position the book in the industry, and it’s what booksellers and libraries use to decide if it fits on their shelves.

Here are my tips for making writing a synopsis easier:

1.    A synopsis has a purpose, so, it should:

• Outline the main plot from beginning to end (yes, spoilers included).

• Introduce the protagonist and their goals.

• Highlight major turning points.

• Show the resolution.

2.    To help build your synopsis, here are some questions you should ask yourself:

• Who is the main character?

• What do they want?

• What stands in their way?

• What major events change their path?

• How is the conflict resolved?

3. Keep it simple:

• Beginning: Introduce the main character and setup.

• Middle: Present the core conflict and major obstacles.

• End: Describe how the story is resolved.

The synopsis doesn’t have to be a torment, afterall, once completed, it becomes a useful tool—both for authors and the publisher.

Blurb, Synopsis, Tagline: What’s the Difference?

Blurb: The blurb is the short, enticing summary you find on the back cover. Its job is to hook readers without giving away too much. It teases, hints, and builds intrigue. Think of it as your book’s elevator pitch for readers. Example: Anna thought she knew everything about her sleepy seaside town—until a stranger’s arrival unearths secrets that could shatter everything she believes.

Synopsis: The synopsis gives a clear, spoiler-filled summary of the book’s entire plot, including the ending. It's what publishers, editors, and advertising agents use to understand the full scope of the story.

Tagline: The tagline is a short, catchy phrase—often just one line—used in marketing. It's designed to be memorable and emotionally engaging. Think of it as a headline or hook for a poster or social media ad. Example: Some secrets are meant to stay buried.

Writing a synopsis may feel like wrestling your story into a straitjacket, but it’s an essential step in presenting your book to the world. With a clear purpose, a simple structure, and the right mindset, the process becomes far less intimidating—and far more rewarding. And remember: while the blurb draws in readers and the tagline grabs attention, it’s the synopsis that lays the foundation for your book’s journey from manuscript to market. Embrace it as part of your craft—and part of your success.

For more publishing tips & tricks with industry expertise, check out my '6 Steps to Self-publishing' resource here: 6 Steps to Self-publishing with Crystal Leonardi | Bowerbird Publishing