Writing a book blurb is one of the most daunting tasks for many authors—myself included when I first started out in publishing back in 2016. The thought of condensing an entire story into just a few short paragraphs was intimidating, to say the least. But after writing dozens of blurbs, I’ve refined a formula that works every time. In fact, I now write the blurb before I even begin outlining the story. Why? Because the blurb is the heart of your book; it tells you and your readers what the story is truly about.
Here’s how I do it:
1. Start with a Line of Dialogue
I always begin with a line of dialogue that captures the essence of the story. This line should be something that resonates with the core of the narrative and hints at the emotions or conflict that drive the plot. It’s your hook—the first impression that draws readers in.
Once I have that line, I place it in bold letters at the very top of the blurb. It’s a way of giving potential readers a taste of the voice and tone of the book right from the start.
2. Introduce the First Main Character
The next step is to write a paragraph from the perspective of one of the main characters. This paragraph should give readers insight into who this character is, what they want, and the challenges they’re facing. Focus on the emotional stakes and what’s driving this character forward. Make sure it’s engaging and leaves readers wanting to know more about this person’s journey.
3. Introduce the Second Main Character
After establishing the first MC, do the same for the second one. This paragraph should highlight their personality, their struggles, and how their path crosses with the first character’s. This creates a dynamic tension and sets up the relationship that will be central to the story. Remember, in romance, the chemistry between your characters is everything—let it shine through here.
4. Wrap It Up with a Teaser
The final paragraph is where you bring it all together. Summarize the main conflict or dilemma that these characters face, and leave the reader with a sense of anticipation. This is your last chance to entice them to pick up the book, so make it count. Use this space to tease the drama, the romance, the stakes—whatever makes your story unique and irresistible.
5. Keep It Short and Sweet
One of the biggest challenges in writing a blurb is keeping it concise. It’s tempting to include every subplot and nuance, but less is more. Focus on the main plot and the primary emotional arc. The goal is to give readers just enough to intrigue them, not to overwhelm them with details.
6. Remember the Tone
Match the tone of your blurb to the tone of your book. If it’s a lighthearted romance, let that playfulness come through. If it’s more intense, make sure your blurb reflects that. This helps set reader expectations and attracts the right audience for your story.
By following these steps, I’ve found that writing blurbs has gone from being something I dreaded to something I look forward to. It’s become an essential part of my writing process, giving me clarity on the story before I even begin outlining. If you’re an author who struggles with blurbs, give this formula a try. It might just make the whole process a little less daunting—and a lot more fun.
Here’s an example from my novella, Making It Fierce.
“Please, don’t look at me.”
Elijah Stevens once epitomized strength and valor. He spent 14 years of his life in the Marines, but an accident left him disfigured and ashamed. Returning to his hometown, he finds solace in the loving embrace of his grandmother. Frightened of being pitied, he struggles to find meaningful work, until his granny points out he has the voice of an angel.
Now Elijah is a successful audiobook narrator and voice actor. He’s made peace with his life in the shadows, until one day while narrating a romance novel, he realizes he’s never been lonelier in his life.
Lucas Crane hosts a popular radio show, and his soothing voice and sense of humor have earned him a devoted fan base. Lucas never lacks for male attention, but he’s never met a man who held his interest beyond three dates. That changes when he meets an extremely shy voice actor, who insists on recording a commercial in the dark. Intrigued by this mystery man, Lucas pursues him, but soon despairs of ever breaking through the sad man’s walls. Until one day, the barriers to Elijah’s heart begin to crumble.
Making It Fierce is a love story between a stubborn man afraid of his reflection in the mirror, and the bright, funny man who coaxes him out of the shadows. The authors love tropes, and here you’ll find opposites attract, a military man, hurt/comfort, and more.
Happy writing!
Ian O. Lewis and Luke Jameson 