Synopses

[Rachel Caldecott]

I was just wondering whether the synopsis has to follow the exact order of chapters. What I mean is: In this story, Ink Slip, a historical time slip, my first chapter is set in the present. But in the first paragraph of the synopsis I wanted to show the wider context. I'm not being very clear but these are the opening sentences. Do you think it matters that the historical part (Hungarian revolution) starts in chapter 2?

Hungary 1849, the Magyar Revolution is already failing. Jolana follows her husband, Gustavus Zerffi, into exile. As she travels through the territory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire alone, she finds herself at the mercy of unscrupulous strangers.

More than a hundred and sixty years later in England, Jolana’s descendant, Maya, returns home to clear her deceased grandmother’s house. In a trunk in the attic, she finds Jolana’s diary which catapults her into the past.
Thanks

 

[Brooke]

hmm, i don't think it has to. i recently read a wonderful novel in which the first chapter began in the middle of the action (or rather, the aftermath of it), while the book blurb gave information/exposition on the events beforehand. i know the book blurb is different from the synopsis, but neither of them necessarily have to start in the same place the book itself does. hope this helps!

 

[Hannah Faoileán]

I agree with @Brooke. The agent/publisher/competition wants to see that they'll be getting a complete story with a good story arc, that the writer knows how to write a story. So, no. It will be fine to start in the past.

 

[E G Logan]

Hungary 1849, the Magyar Revolution is already failing. Jolana follows her husband, Gustavus Zerffi, into exile. As she travels through the territory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire alone, she finds herself at the mercy of unscrupulous strangers.

More than a hundred and sixty years later in England, Jolana’s descendant, Maya, returns home to clear her deceased grandmother’s house. In a trunk in the attic, she finds Jolana’s diary which catapults her into the past.

I think this works, just like this. IMO.

 

[Vagabond Heart]

Rachel, this is a submission synopsis, right, not a working synopsis?
In which case no, I don't think it matters at all. I think it works to introduce the set-up of the story at the beginning of the synopsis, and continue on from there.