How important are the synopsis and the cover?

[MarkHockley]

Hi everyone,

I’m very happy to say that I’ve just had my debut novel published and would love to swap thoughts and opinions on what makes a compelling read. With this in mind, what do you think attracts a potential reader? Would it be the front cover like mine below or is it more likely to be on the strength of the synopsis? Just how important is the cover art and what really determines our decision to invest the time to actually sit down and read a book? As a new author, I feel these questions are very important, so any insights you can give will be greatly appreciated.

[migtig]

As an avid reader, I NEVER judge a book by it's cover. Actually sometimes, the cover artwork can be a bit off putting, too busy, and even have nothing whatsoever to do with the actual book. Just looking at the artwork would have had me miss a lot of very interesting books. I look at the synopsis on the back, or if it's a hardback on the inside jacket. If it intrigues me with the blurb, then I am eager to take home the book. If it is nothing but reviews, or no real description, I'll put it back on the shelf.

[migtig]

Oh and Congrats!

[Sharon (Premo)]

I usually stick to my favorite authors but they just can't write 'em as fast as I can read them. If it's an unknown author the cover is what catches my attention. Then I'll look for this...

Book Description
When two teenage boys, Tom Lewis and Jack Barton, climb the gigantic oak at the bottom of Tom's garden they embark on a journey that takes them toward adulthood, a change embracing both enlightenment and loss. Finding themselves in a dangerous, alien realm, where dreams and reality seem to interweave and deception is at the heart of everything, they come under the malevolent influence of a creature known as the White Wolf. What had began as a childish adventure is in fact something far darker and deeper, for the Wolf is playing a momentous game, an arcane puzzle that must be resolved. The boys walk a dark road of treachery and pain, love and lust, sacrifice and redemption. Friendship and loyalty are put to the test and corruption comes in many guises. Finally, truth can only be revealed through pain and forfeit. It is a journey into the heart of darkness where nothing and no-one are what they seem and the rules are the logic of a dream.

If I'm intrigued I might read the first few paragraphs. If I can't put it back on the shelf it goes home. If I can, I keep searching.

[vraiblonde]

How cool!

I agree with Mig - the synopsis is very important, cover art not so much.

[BS Gal (Premo)]

Synopsis.

[Nickel]

Originally Posted by Sharon

I usually stick to my favorite authors but they just can't write 'em as fast as I can read them. If it's an unknown author the cover is what catches my attention. Then I'll look for this...

If I'm intrigued I might read the first few paragraphs. If I can't put it back on the shelf it goes home. If I can, I keep searching.

[jenbengen]

Definitely synopsis for me. Artwork barely catches my eye.

Congrats on the book!!!

[MarkHockley]

Thanks to everyone for their replies!

I definitely agree that the synopsis is the most important thing. When I'm deciding whether to read a book or not, I always base my decision on the synopsis. While the cover can catch the eye initially, it would never be a major factor in my ultimate choice.

I think for my book it's a difficult balance as my story has the conventions of a children's adventure, but is actually far darker and more psychologically challenging (would only be suitable for twelve and ups). I wrote it with adults in mind, but whether they will want to read something like that remains to be seen (I live in hope! :) ).

Thanks again.

[Geek]

Originally Posted by MarkHockley

Thanks to everyone for their replies!

I definitely agree that the synopsis is the most important thing. When I'm deciding whether to read a book or not, I always base my decision on the synopsis. While the cover can catch the eye initially, it would never be a major factor in my ultimate choice.

I think for my book it's a difficult balance as my story has the conventions of a children's adventure, but is actually far darker and more psychologically challenging (would only be suitable for twelve and ups). I wrote it with adults in mind, but whether they will want to read something like that remains to be seen (I live in hope! :) ).

Thanks again.

Will you be doing a book signing around town? You should get this book out before Harry Potter.