1. Imagine making a trailer out of text. That's what I do when I start formulating a pitch. It might not be a bad idea to try and make that your goal as well. Include plot points that escalate tension but leave out twists or anything that can compromise the story. Ask yourself what parts of the book will make the readers continue to hold their breath VS ones that will allow them to exhale. Omit as many exhalation moments as possible.
2. When I write mine, I always start with a sentence that's an independent paragraph. This introductory sentence sets the mood for the rest of the novel. If it's funny, the sentence will be too. If it's sci-fi, the sentence will contain technical jargon that sounds appealing, etc. That's the initial hook and often it's the most important part of the entire thing.
3. Unfortunately, all my great examples manifest when I'm really drunk. Sad I know.
2. When I write mine, I always start with a sentence that's an independent paragraph. This introductory sentence sets the mood for the rest of the novel. If it's funny, the sentence will be too. If it's sci-fi, the sentence will contain technical jargon that sounds appealing, etc. That's the initial hook and often it's the most important part of the entire thing.
3. Unfortunately, all my great examples manifest when I'm really drunk. Sad I know.
4. http://www.bpsbooks.com/BPS-Books-blo...
http://leslielsanders.hubpages.com/hu...
http://www.thepassivevoice.com/07/201...
http://absolutewrite.com/forums/showt...
Here's a bag to go with all of that. The total cost will be one polished blurb.
Martin Reed