Synopsis Style

Angkor · Mar 13, 2009

To make it easier on the eye I've written the synopsis for my latest novel in bullet form. I thought it flows better. The language is very concise. I figured busy agents would find it easier and faster to digest what my story is all about.

I read in a couple of agent blogs, however, that voice is what they're looking for in a synopsis. An engaging voice will hook them more than the barebones outline of a plot. Now I'm debating whether to re-cast my synopsis in more narrative form.

I'd be interested in knowing others' views on this, particularly those who have snagged agents.

Cyia · Mar 13, 2009

It depends on what the agent wants. Some want a brief overview, some want a detailed chapter-by-chapter. (Didn't know this myself until the last couple of days.) If an agent requests a synopsis, ask them which the prefer.

It definitely needs to be in voice whichever kind they want. That synopsis is like a writing sample for them to get a taste of your story-telling style.

jclarkdawe · Mar 14, 2009

Short answer is it depends. You might want to look at How to Write a Synopsis (

1 2).

Normally the primary purpose of a synopsis is to see whether there are any plot holes. For that purpose, you're correct and a bullet format would be fine. And it is usually hard to get a lot of voice into a synopsis. However, agents are always looking at your voice. A bullet format would have none, probably.

Although I usually go through a bullet format is writing a synopsis, personally I'd go to the next step and put it into narrative form.

Best of luck,

Jim Clark-Dawe

Irysangel · Mar 14, 2009

Narrative form is my vote. Bullet points might be good for non-fiction but I haven't heard of it for fiction.

Synopsis Style

Angkor

practical experience, FTW

Cyia

Rewriting My Destiny

jclarkdawe

Feeling lucky, Query?

Irysangel

She of Many Names