Indie author needs a compelling book cover design for a psychological thriller novella.

Want to win a job like this?
This customer received 117 book cover designs from 17 designers. They chose this book cover design from negrorichi as the winning design.
Join for free Find Design JobsBook Cover Design Brief
Book Title: Fertile Ground for Murder
Author's Name (pen name): Stella Sinclaire
I'll need a book cover design for both a paperback/hardbound book as well as for an ePub version of the same book. The thriller novels available today all have a 'look' to them and I would like mine to fit in with that genre. The uploaded files are rough concept drawings in the line of thinking I had.
Book details:
In the quiet, tightly-knit community of Willow Creek, Iowa, secrets often lie buried beneath layers of time and silence. True-crime podcaster Samantha Brewer returns to her childhood home after the shocking murder of her childhood friend and neighbor, Ethan Green. Determined to uncover the truth, Samantha embarks on a journey that will unravel the fabric of the town's peaceful facade.
As Samantha delves deeper into Ethan’s life, she uncovers a web of hidden relationships, long-held secrets, and unspoken betrayals. Her investigation leads her to confront her own past, including a strained relationship with her mother, Delores, and unresolved feelings for her old flame, Jake Emerson.
But as she pieces together the puzzle, Samantha discovers that the truth is far more dangerous than she ever imagined. With each revelation, the stakes rise, and she finds herself in a race against time to unveil the murderer before they strike again.
Fertile Ground for Murder is a gripping tale of family secrets, forbidden love, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their lies. Filled with suspense, emotional depth, and unexpected twists, this novel explores the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic small town and the enduring power of truth and redemption.
Target market:
"Fertile Ground for Murder" targets readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, mystery and crime fiction, domestic and family dramas, true crime podcasts, and women’s fiction. The mature themes and complex character development make it suitable for an adult audience looking for an emotionally engaging and suspenseful read.
Main characters:
Samantha Brewer:
Role: Protagonist and true-crime podcaster
Description: Samantha returns to her hometown to investigate the murder of her childhood friend, Ethan Green. As she delves deeper into the case, she confronts long-buried family secrets and personal demons. Her journey is one of uncovering the truth, seeking justice, and ultimately finding forgiveness and redemption.
Ethan Green:
Role: Victim and central figure in the mystery
Description: Ethan is a passionate organic farmer with a vision for sustainable agriculture. His murder sets off the chain of events that drive the narrative.
Target Market(s)
Adult readers: The complex themes, mature content, and sophisticated plot structure suggest an adult audience, likely 25 and older. Mystery and thriller enthusiasts: Fans of crime fiction, particularly those who enjoy small-town mysteries and cold case investigations. Readers interested in family dramas: The focus on family secrets and intergenerational conflict would appeal to those who enjoy stories about complex family dynamics. True crime aficionados: Given Samantha's background as a true crime podcaster, the book might appeal to fans of true crime narratives and investigative journalism. Women's fiction readers: The strong female protagonist and exploration of mother-daughter relationships could attract readers of women's fiction. Rural/small-town fiction fans: The vivid portrayal of small-town life and agricultural themes would appeal to readers who enjoy stories set in rural America. Readers interested in environmental and agricultural issues: The subplot involving organic farming and sustainable agriculture might draw readers with these interests. Fans of character-driven narratives: The deep exploration of Samantha's personal journey and the complex motivations of other characters would appeal to readers who prefer character-focused stories. Readers aged 30-55: While not exclusive, this age range might particularly relate to Samantha's journey of reconnecting with her past and grappling with family secrets. Individuals interested in themes of identity and self-discovery: The revelations about Samantha's family history and her journey of self-discovery would resonate with readers exploring similar themes in their own lives. This book seems to bridge several genres (mystery, family drama, women's fiction) and could potentially appeal to a broad range of adult readers who enjoy multilayered narratives combining suspense with emotional depth.
Look and feel
Each slider illustrates characteristics of the customer's brand and the style your logo design should communicate.
Elegant
Bold
Playful
Serious
Traditional
Modern
Personable
Professional
Feminine
Masculine
Colorful
Conservative
Economical
Upmarket
Requirements
Must have
- Should have some sort of farm scene (buildings), perhaps sillouetted in the background. The murder took place in the victim's field. Murder weapon was a knife (chef's knife).
Should not have
- Should not look 'cartoony' rather realistic.