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. Obviously, some of my motivation is market research, but if I don't ask people who are interested in books who can I ask! 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. It may help me not to make the same mistakes if I ever get around to writing another one! :)
img150.imageshack.us/img150/...nfe8.jpg
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. Obviously, some of my motivation is market research, but if I don't ask people who are interested in books who can I ask! 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. It may help me not to make the same mistakes if I ever get around to writing another one! :)
img150.imageshack.us/img150/...nfe8.jpg
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Wed, August 8, 2007 - 10:44 AMI dont typically read new lit unless it has a badass synopsis. and maybe the right endorsements. most books have questionable covers. even the best books have shitting weird covers.
you cover is so shitty/weird that its actually awesome. maybe that was on purpose? i would definately pick it up and read the synopsis. if it was on a .25 table at a library sale i would buy your book just on the strength of you cover.
for me to read your book... it would have to make it to the top of the pile in front of an ever expanding shelf of classics. for example ahead of fantasy books like: the daedalus collections of polish and austrian fantasy, The Worm Ouroboros, The Gormenghast Novels etc. -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Wed, August 8, 2007 - 10:55 AMThanks for replying.
I've posted a synopsis a two short excerpts from the book at this link: hometown.aol.co.uk/markjohn...work.html
If you get a chance let me know what you think.
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Thu, August 9, 2007 - 12:50 PMDoesnt seem like my cup o tea. The cover is awesome!
good luck -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Mon, September 10, 2007 - 6:02 PMLike the cover of your book but think the mouth of the wolf is to large.
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Re: Cover
Mon, September 10, 2007 - 5:59 PMWhat do you think of my book's cover?
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Sun, August 12, 2007 - 12:55 PMWhile an interesting title and/or cover might cause me to pick up a book, it's probably the synopsis that makes the difference as to whether I'll actually decide to read it. -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Sun, August 12, 2007 - 2:04 PMHi Jen,
I completely agree with you. I've been thinking that myself. If you get a chance to check out my synopsis I would appreciate hearing your opinion on it. -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Mon, August 13, 2007 - 10:51 PMI think this synopsis says way too much. Rather than letting the reader discover for themselves the deeper meanings embedded in the story, it lays it all out for them. Don't sell your readers short. If you've done your job correctly they will get the bigger themes on their own.
I'd recommend cutting out the last four lines:
"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."
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Tue, August 14, 2007 - 6:00 PMIf your synopsis was:
"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"
I would read it... If some one recommended it. -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Wed, August 15, 2007 - 12:50 AMThanks again to everyone for the helpful comments. As for recommendations, I've had some positive reviews on Amazon UK and a strong one on Amazon US (which actually gives a very good impression of what the book is really like). -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Wed, August 15, 2007 - 1:12 AMThat souds great Mark ! -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Wed, August 15, 2007 - 3:05 AMThanks :) I need all of the encouragement I can get! When you're just starting out it's really hard to find people who will give a new writer a chance. Hope you get to read the book! -
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Re: Fantasy Author asking for some feedback
Tue, September 25, 2007 - 4:58 AMHi everyone,
I hope you will forgive me for getting all excited and letting you know about my first official review for The Magic Lands. You can find it here: www.enchantedentertainment.co.uk/b...y/
Of course, I hope it will help to encourage you to rush out and get a copy of the book!
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