Authors pour their hearts and souls into their books. They’ve spent countless hours over a keyboard whipping characters and plots into shape. Once the story is done, authors want people to read their story. The book cover design entices people to buy and read the book. Without a great cover design the book will languish on the shelf. No one will click on it online.

When starting the design process begin with a vague concept. Don’t be too stringent in the beginning. For instance, your idea should be a couple sitting on a park bench rather than an old gray haired couple sitting on a park bench eating ice cream. Review available stock photos before limiting the concept.

Don’t show too much of your character. Studies have shown that readers like to build their own character image. One of the problems with converting books to movies is the actor doesn’t…