Cover typography is a sequence, not a collection of labels. Readers should understand what to read first, what supports it, and what can wait until the cover is viewed at a larger size.
Make the title silhouette intentional
The title's width, line breaks, and overall block shape are visible before every word is read. Balance lines by meaning and visual weight, avoid isolated short words where possible, and test whether the block still feels deliberate when reduced to a small tile.
Let the subtitle explain rather than compete
A subtitle can clarify subject, promise, or format, particularly in practical nonfiction. It rarely needs the title's contrast or decorative treatment. Give it enough size and spacing to read on the full cover while accepting that it may recede at marketplace thumbnail size.
Scale the author name to the publishing context
A recognized author may lead the hierarchy; a debut author usually benefits from letting title and concept lead. Either choice should be explicit. The author line still needs sufficient contrast and print size, not a token placement squeezed into the remaining edge.
Use contrast as a system
Create hierarchy through size, weight, width, value, color, position, and negative space before adding effects. A display face and supporting face should have distinct roles. If every line is uppercase, centered, outlined, and equally bright, the differences between them disappear.