Diva Jefferson

Dear readers, thank you for sticking with me through everything. As I write more query letters for agents and  fine-tune the synopsis for editors, I cannot help but notice how little is posted about the latter. What is it about the synopsis that scares writers? The best way to get over the fear is to write it first. If you know the plot of your story, then you should have no problem dishing out the details. I think it even works better than an outline in some cases.

Remember: The synopsis isn't a sales blurb, neither should it leave the reader in suspense. So, when writing a synopsis, tell all.

So, we all know a synopsis is a description of the best parts in our books, but did you know there are different kinds? Have you ever wondered what the difference between a brief synopsis and a full synopsis is?

A brief synopsis is a detailed description in present tense usually 350-450 words and between 1-2 pages long. Don't confuse this with a "brief summary" which is better known as a pitch. 

A short synopsis is a detailed description in present tense usually two to ten pages long, and five pages at the most.

A full synopsis is a detailed description in present tense of the whole book with each page representing a whole chapter or one synopsis page for every twenty-five manuscript pages.

The most popular request I've seen from editors/agents is a brief synopsis of about 1-2 pages. This doesn't mean you shouldn't write a longer one. Sometimes the best way to choose the best lines is seeing a bigger picture of your work, a broader landscape.


Here are some synopsis writing tips for fiction writers:

• Take one step at a time. 
• Read through each page of your manuscript and write a summary of each chapter or so on.
• Look for themes and symbolism as you read.
• Take out the most important plot points and characters, anything that moves the story forward, and put them in the synopsis.
• Capitalize the main character's names the first time they are mentioned in the manuscript.
• Double space like you would your manuscript.
• Write to entice the reader. Think: Hardcover book jacket blurb meets enthusiastic movie description.
• Write in present tense, third person.
• Edit, edit, edit.
• Remove as many adverbs and adjectives as possible and replace them with action.
• And please don't leave the reader in suspense.

(For more information about these tips and more, please visit: How To Write A Synopsis by Marg Gilks and Writing A Synopsis by The Literary Consultancy [TLC])

Writing a synopsis can be a scary endeavor, but anything is possible when you put your mind to it.

I look forward to seeing you all on St. Paddy's Day for an Irish recipe and a giveaway!
What better way to celebrate the one year anniversary for the release of To Love An Irishman by Diva Jefferson? Take care.



Happy writing!

When a writer finishes a novel and lands a contract with a publisher, his/her work is not done. Actually, it's far from being over with. Whether you traditionally publish or self-publish, the road is still the same. There is a lot of promotion and marketing ahead that only you can do. Yes, some publishers will kick-start your career by knowing people in the right fields, but most of the time you're the only one who can meet with your readers and give them a reason to read your books.

Here are some ways to start the process before you finish the work in progress:
--Social media networks are the key. If you don't have an established Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Myspace account, those readers who join those sites to find the latest information about their favorite authors will miss out on what you have to offer.

I'd wear one, would you?

--An author website is all the rage. This is the best way to show readers your latest releases and provide press information.

--A blog comes in handy for writers who like to help other writers in the craft and connect with even more readers. At the end of the blog tour for To Love An Irishman, I joined my first blog hop and I had over 40 people comment on one post!

--Make a name for yourself. A brand, even. You could create a tagline or interact with as much people as possible. The more readers who hear your name will remember it in the future.

--Other ways to promote include hosting a giveaway on Goodreads, having a release party for your book at your house or a friends, making t-shirts like the one above, creating a hangout session on Google+ to interact with your readers through video, etc.

It doesn't matter what you do, just get out there. Yes, I could've done a lot more for my debut release, attended conferences and hosted a party in my hometown, but I chose to do most of my marketing online. I created a video during the book release party, and I was interviewed by several blog owners.

The best thing about self-promotion is that you learn more tips and tricks along the way.

Right now, I'm on the home-stretch of my work in progress. In between writing and the other projects I have going on, I'm starting the promotion for my book. And it doesn't have a publisher yet. :)

Do you have any tips that are not mentioned here? How do you self-promote your books? Please tell me in a comment below. Thank you for reading!



Happy writing!
Diva J.

North & South (2004):
In this adaptation from Elizabeth Gaskell's novel set during the Victorian Industrial Revolution, Margaret Hale is forced to move to Milton, which is in the north. She takes offense to the people, and most of the time she does not agree with the handsome textile manager's, Mr. Thornton's, views. Although their difference in beliefs overwhelm them, there is a chemistry that ignites their passion.


Wuthering Heights (2009):
Given the choice between a life of comfort (with Edgar Linton) and a profound love (with Heathcliff), Cathy's actions have repercussions for multiple generations in this haunting story of turbulent passion and revenge.



Jane Eyre (2006):




Cranford (2007):


Persuasion (2007):

Things You'll Need:

• Large Skillet
• Sauce Pot (optional)
• 1 Head Green Cabbage
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion
• 1/2 lb. Thick Cut Bacon/ Canadian Bacon
• 2-3 White Potatoes
• 4 Cups Vegetable Stock or Chicken Stock (your choice)
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board

Preparation:

• Remove core from the green cabbage and coarsely chop the remaining cabbage leaves.

• Chop potatoes into 1/2" cubes.

Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Melt butter in the sauce pan set on medium heat. Add onion and bacon. Saute for 8-10 minutes until onions become translucent and bacon begins to crisp.

Step 2: Add chopped cabbage and potatoes. Continue to saute for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Pour in vegetable stock. If necessary, transfer ingredients to a larger stock pot if saute pan is not large enough. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 5: Serve.

Of course, everyone's tastes vary. You might find adding chicken stock instead of vegetable stock tastes richer. I prefer Canadian bacon instead, due to the lower fat content. If you try the recipe out, please feel free to tell me all about it!



Where was the first St. Patty's Day celebration held?
Now it's GIVEAWAY time! Win a free e-book copy of To Love An Irishman when you comment below with your answer to the question. (Don't worry, all comments will qualify for the contest. The question is just for fun.) Winners will be posted on Wednesday, the 21st, along with the correct answer.

Thank you so much for sharing in this special moment with me!!!
Next stop today is Ravencraft's Romance Realm. See you there. :)

Don't forget to join me tomorrow for Blog Tour, Day #2 on Happily Ever After Thoughts.


Happy writing,
Diva J. :)




Purchase To Love An Irishman from Black Opal Books today!

Also available at:
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