Your cover is your book’s first impression—and it can make or break a reader’s decision to click. In this side-by-side example, you’ll see the clear difference between a professionally designed cover that grabs attention and one that falls flat. From genre alignment to typography and clarity at thumbnail size, these details matter more than you think.

Thinking about self-publishing your book but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly guide walks you through every step of the process—from editing and formatting to choosing the right platforms and launching your book like a pro. If you're ready to take control of your publishing journey, this is the roadmap you need.