Strangely enough I almost started a thread on this subject today, but coming from the other direction.
Make no mistake. I can't help you in any way. Except that I did download your book -DEAD(ish).
But no points there as I didn't know that you were a MR member 'til now.
I do read a lot from new writers and after reading a page or two from one of them today I had wanted to put a general question out there asking if any MR members wanted to do what you are proposing.
One of the few books that I really hated was "A Confederacy of Dunces". Yes, I know, EVERYBODY else loves it.
What I remember reading somewhere is that the author couldn't get it published, committed suicide, and his mother had someone edit and publish it.
From that I've learned that editors and publishers can be critical. I'm not going to mention the person that made me think of A Confederacy of Dunces. Their writing isn't so bad that they should take that rout out. Maybe close though. You, nomesque, can save their life if you can find them.
I do agree with David Marseilles. Good cover will attract my attention and may get me interested.
A cover like this will not get my money.
This one catches your attention.
And that is it. I wish you good luck because some writers need help.
PS- thanks for DEAD(ish).