8. Unexpected adult content

“I’m checking out your site on my lunch break. The first thing I see on your home page is your latest cover — a mostly nude computer-rendered couple performing an unlikely act. Not safe for work!”

Keep in mind that many people browse the web at work or in public places like libraries and coffee shops. If your writing and/or book covers are explicit, consider keeping the home page discreet and warning visitors that they’ll encounter adult content if they continue. This might also keep you from running afoul of your web host’s policy on adult content; some are very strict.