I am working on a new mystery series and am interested in knowing what makes you choose a book at the store, at the library or online. What attracts you and convinces you to buy that book?
- Is it the cover?
- The book blurb?
- Is it the colour of the cover? Are you attracted to blue books or red books, for example?
- Is it because the book was written by a favourite author you follow?
- Is it the genre – mystery, romance, etc.?
- Or is it a random choice – the title just appeals to you?
When authors, particularly self-published ones, get ready to design their covers or have someone design them, knowing what would attract readers to their latest offerings is a big help.
We have a lending library in our building where I put copies of my books and I have noticed that when I use a picture of a person on the cover, those books disappear first. Does using a photo of a person on the cover draw you in and make you want to read it?
Some other comments I have read about book covers in other articles and blogs online are:
- Stop filling the back cover with review quotes and put a book blurb instead.
- If it is a series, include the book number on the cover and the spine.
For me, being very word oriented, it’s the title, the author and the genre – usually mystery. The book blurb on the back, if there is one, is my next stop. Does the this teaser live up to the title? Does this help me decide to read the book?
Are you attracted to a book by its cover? What features help you make your choice? You can comment below.
The cover is definitely a plus, it’s what will get my attention initially, but the genre is a major player for me (everything thriller/mystery). Book title, like the cover, matters. If it happens to be written by a favourite author, then that’s great. The blurb is what will solidify my decision of purchasing the book. Colour can be eye-catching, allows for a first look, but no more.
Joelle
I really don’t mind. I just need it to feel real.