That is true. I have to admit a good book cover is often the first thing that draws me.
Like always, sound advise on this forum has given me a lot to mull over - perhaps over a glass (or three) of red wine this evening. In an ideal situation I'd need an agent and publisher who's friendly to both genres. I feel it is important to know the likely readership - especially from a marketing point of view.
One of my story characters have just said something which sums it up quite well; "It is no good trying to sell a pint of cider to someone who doesn't like apples." Mind you, this same character is also responsible for the legendary
Fish Slapper of Eastleigh and
Tomato Pelter of Machylleth...
On a different note, I've often considered the idea of setting up my own publishing group in the future. Maybe after a lot of thorough research and some experience in this industry. One hopes I'll have the opportunity to play a significant role in the marketing of my own novels. I'd want to be there every step of the way; from the moment it lands on an agent's and editor's desk, to the moment a reader picks it up from the shelves.
Right. Now in this hypothetical future I'd need a professional editor, a good marketing team, and an artist who can design eye-catching covers. I'd also need time to write, as well as go through all the submissions one would undoubtable recieve in any publishing business venture - that with juggling university work too.
Maybe I'm wanting to do too much at once. I don't want to do anything that would be detrimental to my writing, for instance. I love writing. The feeling it gives me - that great rollercoaster ride of developing a novel, talking to the various characters like they're real people. And they are - at least to me.
Twi