An author who publishes independently has a lot of decisions to make. Hiring editors, coming up with titles and covers, deciding on where to sell, and how to get the word out about the new release are just a few.
Some artistically gifted authors design their own covers, while most use a cover designer. Those costs vary widely and can involve original artwork designed specifically for that book. Or, it may involve obtaining the rights to use photos of scenes, objects, and/or cover models that can then be combined or tweaked.
No matter what route is taken, a cover needs to draw a potential reader's eye and also convey the novel's mood and type of story, so buyers aren't led astray and then find themselves disappointed with the purchase.
What aspects of book covers draw your eye? Do you prefer just a setting (such as a cabin in the woods, a dark, sinister setting implying danger, or elements that convey that a book will be a cozy mystery?), or do you prefer to see either the heroine or hero (or both) on a cover?
Do certain colors grab your attention?
I would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment below, and you will be entered in a drawing for a free e-copy of Final Refuge.
Have a wonderful day!
Roxanne Rustand
Hi Roxanne, what a wonderful post! A good cover will get my attention every time, I think I like to see one of the characters on the cover conveying what will happen in the story (running, implying there is danger near), but it just depends on the story. I don't like just seeing a setting. My fave covers have been with Bethany House Publishers and Enclave, readers like myself always appreciate a good cover :) Thanks for the giveaway, would love to be entered! Blessings!
ReplyDeleteKara
Wman4JCATaolDOTcom
a good cover that's never been used before
ReplyDeletebn100candg at hotmail dot com
Yes, book covers catch my attention, especially if there are children and/or a dog on the cover! (pet peeve: "Amish" stories that have a picture of a woman covered in make-up--the do NOT wear make up!) badawson16 at aol dot com
ReplyDeleteThis is an eye-catching cover, and the blue immediately drew me in. Yes, I do believe that covers play a big role in in catching a reader's initial attention!
ReplyDeleteConnie
cps1950(at)gmail(dot)com
I love nature so I enjoy when that plays a big part in the cover, if that's appropriate to the story. Ones that are clever, like that have a different scene superimposed under a character's face to highlight different aspects of the plot are fun. I don't like when complementary colors play a large role as those feel discordant to me; I prefer coordination and beauty. The cover above is really cool.
ReplyDeleteamybradsher at gmail dot com
Great Article Urban Fantasy
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