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Semi-related, I don’t understand how authors can pour so much work into a book and let it be published with a mediocre cover and backmatter. The old saying is j

Semi-related, I don’t understand how authors can pour so much work into a book and let it be published with a mediocre cover and backmatter. The old saying is just the opposite. A bad and cliche cover is the real death sentence for a book. And the summary on the back, that’s almost more important than the first chapter! Do authors and publishers really believe that smattering reviews on the backside would somehow impress a reader? “I love this book” says New York Times. Okay…? What’s the pull? IMO the backside of the book should be written in the style of the novel rather than a marketing pitch. Let the reader get a glimpse of the story from the main character’s perspective in their own words.

FemmeAndroid 5y ago
Unless you're talking about self publishing, most authors don't get a strong say in how the book looks. That's up to the publishers. And it's my understanding that publishers really do believe those pull quotes really do affect sales.
jeffwass 5y ago
Traditionally-published authors usually have little say in the layout of their books. I’ve heard of cases where authors have absolutely hated the cover artwork chosen by the publishing houses but were unable to sway opinions. It’s part of the process of going with a traditional publisher. They do the marketing for you, as compared to self publishing, and therefore you have to accept their ‘marketing’ decisions, including cover design.