How to Know If Your Book Idea Has Legs (Before You Spend a Year Writing It)

There’s nothing worse than pouring your soul into a book only to realize no one wants to read it. It’s not about chasing trends or selling out. It’s about being strategic. If you’re going to spend months writing and revising, you want to make sure the idea actually connects with readers. Here’s how to test your concept before you dive into the writing process.

1. Can You Summarize It in One Strong Sentence?

If you can’t explain your book clearly, your readers won’t get it either. Try this format for nonfiction: “This book helps [who] do [what] so they can [why].” For fiction: “It’s about [who] in a world where [twist or conflict], and they must [goal] before [consequence].” If that sentence feels clunky or vague, you may need to sharpen the core idea.

2. Does It Solve a Problem, Answer a Question, or Deliver a Payoff?

Nonfiction readers need a reason to care. What will they walk away with? Clarity? Motivation? Practical skills? Even fiction readers are looking for something—tension, emotional payoff, escape, insight. If your idea doesn’t promise value, it probably won’t keep anyone turning pages.

3. Who Wants This—and Are They Actively Looking for It?

Your book isn’t for everyone. The more specific your audience, the more likely you are to reach them. Do a quick scan on Amazon or Google. Are people reading about this topic or genre? Are similar books selling well? What are readers complaining about in reviews? What’s missing that you could offer? If no one’s looking for it, you’ll have to work harder to sell it.

4. Can You Talk About It Without Getting Bored?

You’re going to be working on this project for a long time. If you’re already tired of explaining your concept, that’s a red flag. But if talking about it sparks energy and new ideas, that’s a sign you’re onto something. Enthusiasm matters. You’ll need it to push through the hard parts.

5. Have You Tested It With Real People?

Don’t wait until the book is done to get feedback. Share your idea with other writers, early readers, or potential audience members. Ask them if they’d buy this book. Ask what they find most interesting, and what confuses them. Listen more than you defend. Early feedback saves time and strengthens your concept.

Your Idea Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect. But It Has to Be Clear.

You don’t need a viral idea or a guaranteed publishing deal. But if you want your book to make an impact, you need a focused, purposeful concept. One that speaks to a specific reader and offers them something they want or need. The clearer your idea, the easier it will be to write, sell, and promote.

At Morgan Media & Publishing, we help authors shape and strengthen their concepts before they commit to the long road of publishing. Whether you’re just brainstorming or refining a manuscript, we offer honest insight and real support to help you move forward with confidence.

Have a book idea but not sure if it’s strong enough to go the distance? Reach out today. We’ll help you figure out if your story is ready to grow—or if it needs a little more time to take root.