To write a book includes so much more than just writing down ones story. Do you want the book to be in a specific genre, or is that not important for you? At some point you need to decide, as when it’s on the market, it will be put in genres whether you like it or not. Still most authors are writing in genres, but some books may be categorised in more than one, depending on your story.
Also, which age group is it directed to? This can be more important than you first think, so you do need to actually “think about it”. The language you use sets the tone. Also, the phrases and if you use a very tidy language or not sets the tone. Of course, a stilted writing can address a younger audience, but you will very likely choose less difficult words then. Regardless, avoid what is referred to as a sloppy language unless it needs to be there for a specific reason.
Something else and very importantly is sentence structure. Many authors use subordinate clauses instead of a full sentence. That – in the right context – can be very effective, so one shall not totally exclude them. Just don’t fall for the temptation using them throughout the whole book on every page. The reading may be very difficult if so.
How about punctuation? Do you know how to use it correctly? A comma after the wrong word can totally change the sentence. Avoid dangling modifier by taking help from others if you are insecure. Also remember that even a professional writer has its tone in the head when writing, so mistakes are unavoidable, therefore it’s a good idea to let someone else read your text when it’s finished.
As an interesting curiosity, we can tell you that the very first form of punctuation that was used had spaces or gaps between the words, there were no full stops or anything as such. Must be one of man’s most fantastic inventions. Well, the whole thing with language is or course, and the thing about writing and reading sure has taken us a long way in our development.
However, finally the whole book is written, you have done what you can with the text, changed it where you need to, taken away all grammar mistakes, taken help from someone or some others with it and finally you are there: the book is finished and now it only needs a cover! Here you need to think hard. What is the genre of the book? Yes, you need to decide if you haven’t before, because the cover sends signals. Does your idea of a book cover correspond with the genre? It tells a lot and what a pity if the cover says “fantasy” when it really is a “biography”.
But even if you have a good idea about how it shall look and it’s close to perfect, it must look professional. Try not to select a cover where too much is happening. Then consider the fonts and colours. Also think about when your book is presented there on the online shop (yes, most book are sold that way), the picture of it is so much smaller than the book itself. Does that little picture do it it justice? Another thing that many are keen on is to have their name as big as possible, sometimes even bigger than the title itself. Are you tempted? Ask yourself why and if it really is to your benefit.
Good luck with both writing, editing and book cover!