posted
On Amazon and Smashwords, you have the option of adding a list of descriptive words when you post a new book. Various words (or on Smashwords, short phrases) that relate to your book to make it easier to find in a search.
To me, this is almost as aggravating as coming up with a blurb. Anybody have an easy method to settle on a list? I think Amazon limits you to seven. So, how do you pick out the seven words that best summarize your story?
Posts: 884 | Registered: Feb 2012
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posted
I wouldn't focus on using the words to summarize so much as choosing terms that are likely to lead the right readers to your book.
For instance, what kinds of search terms do you use when trying to find a certain kind of book? You'd look up genre probably (not *by* genre, but actually use the genre as a search term), and then maybe the feel of the book: dark, light-hearted, funny. And maybe some element specifics: robot, unicorn, magic, gods, etc. If it's set in the real world or common imaginary setting, use that too--Washington, Atlantis, Avalon, etc.
You don't want to get too focused with your word choice, because unless someone's looking for your book in particular, chances are you'll miss out (and if they're looking for your book in particular, they'll type in the title, making the search terms moot). So, proably not character names, or made up terms (perhaps using one--the most important--made up term might be ok).
So, in other words, I'd go general, not specific.
Hope that helps a little.
Posts: 66 | Registered: Nov 2011
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posted
A similar topic was addressed recently at a conference I attended.
If my very poor memory serves, some of the advice was to look at the audience you are trying to reach. Then look at the tags of successful (blockbuster?) books in the genre. Using the same/similar tags leads to a greater chance of your book showing up in searches when the audience is looking for something similar.
At amazon, the books are categorized broadly, and then descending into specifics. So, spread your tags out over at least two broad categories.
For instance, if you have a YA paranormal, then tag something on the macro level for YA and Romance and Fantasy/Paranormal. This hits the broadest possible audience who might be interested in your book.
That's just what I remember off the top of my head, and, in full disclosure, I haven't tried it. But, it seemed to make sense to me.
posted
If it's a longer one I think a short synopses would do. Try to say something about the intro, middle and conclusion.
If it's seven words I think Roxy and MJ both have it right.
Oh, Dean Wesley Smith just happens to have a week long online workshop that deals with blurbs and such.
He may have some shorter videos dealing with that too. They cost less I believe. There might be books out there that talk about them too.
Posts: 5289 | Registered: Jun 2010
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posted
If I could say it in seven words, why would the reader want to push through the next hundred thousand?
I see the point---and sometimes I wish I could search the pre-Internet book-and-magazine stuff for something I have only a hazy memory of---but I think I'll add that to my list of Annoying New Things Advances in Technology Have Wrought. Deal with it when I have to.
Posts: 8809 | Registered: Aug 2005
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