This is not the first time I have talked about cover art on my blog, nor will it likely be the last. As book lovers, many of us will be the first to admit that we do judge books by their covers. While my decision to buy or read a book is not generally based on the cover alone, the reality is that I am more likely to take a closer look at a book if I find the cover art appealing. So, first impressions do matter.
A beautiful cover.
It is said beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What might catch my eye, might turn up your nose. That being said, certain covers are sure to grab my attention. I admit I am kind of all over the place in what I find attractive in a cover. I love partial portraits, forest scenes, landscapes, water related images including rain, cats, birds, flowers . . . and the list could go on forever.
The iconic cover.
It is pretty clear what type of book I am going to be reading by the look of certain covers. I may blush at the cover with a half naked man with a wolf over his shoulder on the front, but I know that if I am in the mood for a paranormal romance, that might be a good choice.
I am especially drawn to cozy mystery covers that feature cats or dogs (don't most of them?) and/or books. And what of those gorgeous historical fiction covers with the woman or man dressed in period style clothes? That hat may be a dead give away. The outline of a dead body on the cover or a knife dripping in blood? I love a good mystery and may just have to take a closer look at a book with a cover like that.
Typography.
Layout, font and size of a title and the author's name can also attract me to a book. Sometimes simple is best. And there are quite a few covers that incorporate the title in the artwork in a creative and appealing way.
Colors.
Colors do matter. I am not a huge fan of single bold colors on covers like neon green or bright pink. I do tend to like muted darker colors, especially blues and greens and purples. Sometimes it is simply the contrast in the colors that appeals to me.
Illustrations versus photographs.
I have no talent when it comes to drawing or painting, much unlike my daughter and husband. I can take a decent photograph--but only because I have learned to take many at a time and hope at least one or two comes out well. I admire artists who have a gift with a pen, brush or camera. Some amazing covers have been created from their work.
These are just some of the ways a cover might catch my attention. Many of these covers could fit into any of the categories I mention, as you can see. Do any of these covers tempt you to take a closer look?
- What qualities do you find appealing in a book cover?
- What book covers do you find yourself attracted to?
- Do you have a favorite?
Linking up to the Blog All About It Challenge, hosted by Anna from Herding Cats and Burning Soup
and the Discussion Challenge hosted by Nicole @ Feed Your Fiction Addiction and Shannon @ It Starts at Midnight.
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