Cover art conventions in my Debut novel.
Hi all,
I've been working on my debut novel since January and am very close to finishing my first draft, I'm thinking end of June. I'll be taking July off writing to design my cover—as I have a games art degree—before moving onto editing, with a view to publish in October.
Now, my story is not just pure haremfantasy. At the moment I'm estimating seven novels. There are graphic sex scenes, and a coven building system from the start, but unlike a lot of other books in the genre, the sex isn't the point. There's a whole overarching plot of intrigue, action, magic systems and inter house politicking as well as a heavy emphasis on relationship building between my MC and his girls, as well as a quite extensive planned cast of characters. Each character has the ability to cast a different type of elemental magic, fire/water/life/death etc.
I don't know whether or not because it's such a progression fantasy as well, whether or not the typical Love interest on the cover is appropriate, though my MC will be adding at least one girl to his covening every book.
What are your thoughts? Would you only pick up a book in the genre if it did have the typical hottie on the cover?
Is there other genre signalling you see in covers that make you more likely to pick up a book?
Are you open to more characters on a cover? Or silhouettes of girls with the MMC in action scenes?
I want to get this right, become a serious author and build a following, hopefully, and that starts with connecting with my audience - you guys.