Ever wondered why all bestselling authors seem to obsess over their book cover designs? It’s not just vanity—certain design elements can play a crucial role in a book’s success. When you’re starting out, a DIY cover is fine (as long as you use our templates); but all my big-earning author friends spend $500~$1000 for their book covers, and they make it back in a few days when their book launches.
Genre-Specific Design
Bestselling authors know the importance of genre-specific design. Readers have certain expectations based on the genre, and the book cover must reflect this. A sci-fi novel with a cover that screams romance could leave readers feeling confused and misled. Your cover is the key to reaching the right readers, and the better it is, the less you’ll need to plead, bargain or beg for them to buy your book.
The Right Typography
Typography is another element that bestselling authors pay close attention to. The font used for the title and author name not only needs to be legible and aesthetically pleasing but also set the right tone for the book.
Impactful Imagery
A picture is worth a thousand words, and the right image can convey the essence of your book in an instant. Bestselling authors often use compelling imagery that draws readers in and gives them a glimpse of the story within.
Strategic Color Use
The use of color is another critical factor. Bestselling authors use strategic colors to evoke specific emotions and set the mood. Dark colors might suggest a thriller or mystery, while bright colors could indicate a light-hearted romance or comedy.
Professional Design
Last but certainly not least, all bestselling authors invest in professional design. A high-quality, professionally designed cover can set a book apart in a crowded marketplace and attract more readers.
There’s a reason why bestselling authors obsess over these design elements—they understand that a well-designed cover can attract readers, convey the book’s tone and genre, and ultimately, contribute to the book’s success. So, if you’re serious about writing a bestseller, start giving these design elements the attention they deserve.
PS – obviously you can agree with this list, without actually knowing *how* to choose the right pictures; or which fonts are best for your genre; or how to blend everything together and make it work. But that’s what my free video tutorials are for (make sure you sign up to get them).
Stay tuned for more insights on writing, publishing, and book design. Until then, happy writing and designing!
