We just had this blurb debate in my writing group! The group was divided. Some said it’s a meaningless circle jerk. Others think readers need them and that they help sell books.
I actually do read blurbs, but I'm not sure a "big name" blurb matters all that much. Only because most readers don't have any idea who most writers are, even if they've been on the bestseller list off and on. There's really only a couple dozen with name recognition. When is your novel coming out?
Nov 12. And funny, I’m the exact opposite. I only care about the blurb when it’s a huge name. Like I once bought a book Obama blurbed. Cause I was like who on earth managed to get their book blurbed by Obama... ?? The answer was Cixin Liu. Though I see now that they removed Obama’s blurb from the new edition in favor of a Netflix sticker. Interesting. Guess Netflix has more weight now than Obama.
Etaf Rum’s 2nd novel, Evil Eye, is a must read. So is her first book, A Woman is No Man. Definitely NOT summery beach reads! Evil Eye is intense, beautiful, and so thought-provoking, I can’t stop thinking about it.
Can't wait to read The Women and Happiness Falls. And I think blurbs are very important (Maybe not if you're the number 1 bestselling author with a loyal fan base.☺️) In general, I feel generosity among writers propels us forward. Little things like writing a review or giving a like or writing a one-sentence blurb can make a difference.💛
I loved Happiness Falls but I think it’s a very unique book for a specific type of reader — analytical types. I think that’s why reviews are mixed.
Oh interesting. I'll read the first chapter in the bookshop before I commit. Do you think I would like it?
We just had this blurb debate in my writing group! The group was divided. Some said it’s a meaningless circle jerk. Others think readers need them and that they help sell books.
I actually do read blurbs, but I'm not sure a "big name" blurb matters all that much. Only because most readers don't have any idea who most writers are, even if they've been on the bestseller list off and on. There's really only a couple dozen with name recognition. When is your novel coming out?
Nov 12. And funny, I’m the exact opposite. I only care about the blurb when it’s a huge name. Like I once bought a book Obama blurbed. Cause I was like who on earth managed to get their book blurbed by Obama... ?? The answer was Cixin Liu. Though I see now that they removed Obama’s blurb from the new edition in favor of a Netflix sticker. Interesting. Guess Netflix has more weight now than Obama.
Picking up Zadie Smith’s novel when I’m in the U.K. soon. Can’t wait 🤗
Thanks for a great list.
That sounds delicious. I love the idea of buying it in London. You'll have to show us what the UK cover looks like.
Def! I can only find it in German in Basel so it’s a must for me 😂
Etaf Rum’s 2nd novel, Evil Eye, is a must read. So is her first book, A Woman is No Man. Definitely NOT summery beach reads! Evil Eye is intense, beautiful, and so thought-provoking, I can’t stop thinking about it.
I've seen this on so many lists. Good to know you loved it. In what ways is it thought provoking? I'm so curious.
Holly by S King. She was such a great character in his Mr. Mercedes/Bill Hodges trilogy!
Can't wait to read The Women and Happiness Falls. And I think blurbs are very important (Maybe not if you're the number 1 bestselling author with a loyal fan base.☺️) In general, I feel generosity among writers propels us forward. Little things like writing a review or giving a like or writing a one-sentence blurb can make a difference.💛
Thank you for the shout out Brooke! It really was a great night. You’re such a natural interviewer.