I think a cover should stand out against its competition on the virtual and physical book shelves. I am very attracted to color, so if there is a book that has a bright attractive picture on it, I will reach for it first, then read the title.
A title should give the reader a hint about the story. What is happening in the story? But I think it should have that grasp on what genre the book is as well. If it is dark and spooky, I wouldn't imagine having a cover with yellow unicorns and pink butterflies on it, but that is simply my opinion on the matter!
Oh heck yes! I love reading reviews. I build up an intense jolt of anxiety when I see a new one emerge.
The good ones are great, what else is there to say? It is a confidence booster to keep writing. For me, writing a series and getting good feedback reminds me that I'm not the only person who has read my book.
The bad ones anyways sting but they are important as well. Don't take it personal. Not everyone will like your work. That's OK!
Oh my gosh yes. My first book, Legion of Fire was picked up by Curious Corvid Publishing and Ravven and the editor Corbeaux Editorial Services were so incredibly wonderful. Absolutely a pleasure working with these ladies. I learned a million from them and it changed the way I write and the way I see books by just simple instruction and learning. I am beyond grateful for these folks for changing my life and working on my books all these years!
I actually find it relieving rather than draining. I think that writing can be the best form of expression. Someone can be anyone they want to be, go anywhere with anyone they want and transform into anything they wish without the fear of rejection. So, with that, I encourage aspiring writers to remember that writing isn't a job. It shouldn't be stressful. You don't have someone breathing down your neck and you don't have to clock in and clock out.
The most emotional and stressful part of writing is querying publishers, unless you are self-publishing, then it is marketing! With that, I say do your homework, talk to authors who have been there. There is many great writing groups on Twitter and the people will help you with anything! Make your name heard and your face seen.
