Hi, Jo here. I've been thinking about book covers a lot recently, for a range of reasons. Covers are important, because they do affect our purchasing of books, but also sometimes our relationship with a book. The cover can form part of our expectation, and continue to influence us as we read. Of course with e-books covers can have less influence as generally once we start to read we'll never see the cover again.
But let's think of dramatic examples. I love Terry Pratchett's work, and I'm sure it would always have found its huge readership, but would it have become popular so quickly without the brilliant cartoonish covers? 
Typepad is doing odd things with images, which is a shame when I'm doing an image-based blog. Onward! With apologies.
To look at historical romance, there was a time a while back when covers for humorous ones had a cartoony or cut paper cover, which was very effective at telling readers what to expect, especially as most of us like humor. I'm not sure why they didn't last long.
The look continues in Britain, especially for Julian Quinn, who of course often includes light humor in her books.
Does anyone remember the cut paper covers? I'd say they were about 12 years ago, but I could be way off. I'd love a title so I could look for some.
Of course long ago historical romances were known for the clinch. That was their brand. It told us all what to expect.
Not necessarily the exact content of the book, but the type of book. As for content, in My Lady Notorious, the heroine's hair has been shorn and the hero is a slender guy who tells her he's prettier than she is! Oh, and it takes place in November, when such a tryst is extremely unlikely. But the book sold well, because as the saying now goes, it did what it said on the tin in all ways that matter. 
At the same time, traditional regencies had fully dressed couples wooing, or occasionally a heroine alone, but sometimes with odd expressions!
Then, if you remember, we had the "thingy covers." Clinches went out of fashion and covers had author, title, and something. 
Or sometimes just author and title. With or without objects the covers told the reader little about the book, and were sometimes downright mystifying. Julia Ross's delicious book is rather more confusion than Illusion.
So that was abandoned, to most authors' relief, and the wheel turned, generally for the better. We had people back, and sometimes they looked a bit like the people in the book in approximately the right costume. But then, the lady's clothing began to slip.
At first it was only a shoulder, but soon the historical romance brand was a woman's naked back. Why, I can't fathom, but it must be working. And yet, perhaps the backs are beginning to retreat. In favor of…? What new appealing cover looks are you seeing?
I've kept my heroine's clothes on on recent covers, and now Wench Joanna's newest cover has a completely dressed hero. Could this be a trend? I'd like to think so.
Part of the reason covers have been on my mind is because I've been working on a new cover for An Arranged Marriage, the first of my Company of Rogues books. I really loved the original paperback cover, perhaps more than any other cover I've had because it captured Nicholas, Eleanor, and their complex relationship.
When it came to e-publishing it, I couldn't find any image I liked and had to make do with something that wasn't right. It bugged me. And then I found the right image, and now the cover is a homage to that original. You can see all the AM covers here, including a meaningless thingie.
I'm happy. And to celebrate, I updated my video about the Rogues. You can see it here.
What's your opinion on covers for historical romance? Do you remember them for decades, and if so, what were the high points and low points in your opinion?
Has a cover ever made you grab a book without any other reason? Have you held onto a battered copy because you love the cover?
Has one turned you off a book you were thinking of buying?
What would be your ideal "brand" for historical romance? Or will you simply always go by author?
I'll give a copy of Forbidden Magic — the one with a very good cover — to one commenter. Have at it!
Jo
Love the e-book cover.
I was never a cover girl. I had my list of auto-buy authors. For others, I look at it for two seconds, and then read the blurb. I hate Amazon’s short space for the blurb; I always have to click on more.
I got a kick about a discussion on another blog about a fantasy series’ covers. The first one the heroine has lovely long hair. That hair is chopped with a knife in the the first 20 pages. The second book has her with short ragged hair; the author’s fans hated that cover. The third cover is a compromise–flying medium length hair.
My pet peeve now is cut off heads. I know it’s about letting the reader visualize the hero/heroine, but right now a look at the supermarket mini shelf of books is little disturbing–a mix of dark menacing guys, headless hunks, graceful female necks, and sweeping skirts.
All this does is make me want to go to a book store and browse in the old way.
Love the e-book cover.
I was never a cover girl. I had my list of auto-buy authors. For others, I look at it for two seconds, and then read the blurb. I hate Amazon’s short space for the blurb; I always have to click on more.
I got a kick about a discussion on another blog about a fantasy series’ covers. The first one the heroine has lovely long hair. That hair is chopped with a knife in the the first 20 pages. The second book has her with short ragged hair; the author’s fans hated that cover. The third cover is a compromise–flying medium length hair.
My pet peeve now is cut off heads. I know it’s about letting the reader visualize the hero/heroine, but right now a look at the supermarket mini shelf of books is little disturbing–a mix of dark menacing guys, headless hunks, graceful female necks, and sweeping skirts.
All this does is make me want to go to a book store and browse in the old way.
Love the e-book cover.
I was never a cover girl. I had my list of auto-buy authors. For others, I look at it for two seconds, and then read the blurb. I hate Amazon’s short space for the blurb; I always have to click on more.
I got a kick about a discussion on another blog about a fantasy series’ covers. The first one the heroine has lovely long hair. That hair is chopped with a knife in the the first 20 pages. The second book has her with short ragged hair; the author’s fans hated that cover. The third cover is a compromise–flying medium length hair.
My pet peeve now is cut off heads. I know it’s about letting the reader visualize the hero/heroine, but right now a look at the supermarket mini shelf of books is little disturbing–a mix of dark menacing guys, headless hunks, graceful female necks, and sweeping skirts.
All this does is make me want to go to a book store and browse in the old way.
Love the e-book cover.
I was never a cover girl. I had my list of auto-buy authors. For others, I look at it for two seconds, and then read the blurb. I hate Amazon’s short space for the blurb; I always have to click on more.
I got a kick about a discussion on another blog about a fantasy series’ covers. The first one the heroine has lovely long hair. That hair is chopped with a knife in the the first 20 pages. The second book has her with short ragged hair; the author’s fans hated that cover. The third cover is a compromise–flying medium length hair.
My pet peeve now is cut off heads. I know it’s about letting the reader visualize the hero/heroine, but right now a look at the supermarket mini shelf of books is little disturbing–a mix of dark menacing guys, headless hunks, graceful female necks, and sweeping skirts.
All this does is make me want to go to a book store and browse in the old way.
Love the e-book cover.
I was never a cover girl. I had my list of auto-buy authors. For others, I look at it for two seconds, and then read the blurb. I hate Amazon’s short space for the blurb; I always have to click on more.
I got a kick about a discussion on another blog about a fantasy series’ covers. The first one the heroine has lovely long hair. That hair is chopped with a knife in the the first 20 pages. The second book has her with short ragged hair; the author’s fans hated that cover. The third cover is a compromise–flying medium length hair.
My pet peeve now is cut off heads. I know it’s about letting the reader visualize the hero/heroine, but right now a look at the supermarket mini shelf of books is little disturbing–a mix of dark menacing guys, headless hunks, graceful female necks, and sweeping skirts.
All this does is make me want to go to a book store and browse in the old way.
To me, a book cover is a necessary evil, but not something I pay much attention to. I have authors I automatically purchase, else I look at the blurb on the back and hardly notice the cover.
To me, a book cover is a necessary evil, but not something I pay much attention to. I have authors I automatically purchase, else I look at the blurb on the back and hardly notice the cover.
To me, a book cover is a necessary evil, but not something I pay much attention to. I have authors I automatically purchase, else I look at the blurb on the back and hardly notice the cover.
To me, a book cover is a necessary evil, but not something I pay much attention to. I have authors I automatically purchase, else I look at the blurb on the back and hardly notice the cover.
To me, a book cover is a necessary evil, but not something I pay much attention to. I have authors I automatically purchase, else I look at the blurb on the back and hardly notice the cover.
Hi Jo –
I love the covers that have beautiful clothes and handsome men/beautiful women, but I don’t care particularly for the “slipping clothes”. I do enjoy the naked male chest, of course, but it’s not going to make me buy the book, truly! Since I buy books almost exclusively on my Nook, the cover is not really appreciated, since it’s black and white and not very good resolution.
But having said that, I just looked at the covers for An Arranged Marriage and yes indeedy, the new cover is definitely grand, with Nicholas looking appropriately roguish!
My pet peeve is the titles that books often get, not yours necessarily, but in general. I asked about this at a local book festival and everyone on the panel groaned and said “OH DON’T get us started on the titles!” Apparently it’s a marketing thing and the titles are meant to grab attention but not necssarily tell you that much about the actual content of the book.
So since I can’t always tell from the cover or the title what the story is, or months later remember the story from looking at the cover or title, I rely on the authors whom I know and love, their recommendations about their other books and other authors, and sites like this one to keep me in the loop.
Cheers, Jeannette Halpin
Hi Jo –
I love the covers that have beautiful clothes and handsome men/beautiful women, but I don’t care particularly for the “slipping clothes”. I do enjoy the naked male chest, of course, but it’s not going to make me buy the book, truly! Since I buy books almost exclusively on my Nook, the cover is not really appreciated, since it’s black and white and not very good resolution.
But having said that, I just looked at the covers for An Arranged Marriage and yes indeedy, the new cover is definitely grand, with Nicholas looking appropriately roguish!
My pet peeve is the titles that books often get, not yours necessarily, but in general. I asked about this at a local book festival and everyone on the panel groaned and said “OH DON’T get us started on the titles!” Apparently it’s a marketing thing and the titles are meant to grab attention but not necssarily tell you that much about the actual content of the book.
So since I can’t always tell from the cover or the title what the story is, or months later remember the story from looking at the cover or title, I rely on the authors whom I know and love, their recommendations about their other books and other authors, and sites like this one to keep me in the loop.
Cheers, Jeannette Halpin
Hi Jo –
I love the covers that have beautiful clothes and handsome men/beautiful women, but I don’t care particularly for the “slipping clothes”. I do enjoy the naked male chest, of course, but it’s not going to make me buy the book, truly! Since I buy books almost exclusively on my Nook, the cover is not really appreciated, since it’s black and white and not very good resolution.
But having said that, I just looked at the covers for An Arranged Marriage and yes indeedy, the new cover is definitely grand, with Nicholas looking appropriately roguish!
My pet peeve is the titles that books often get, not yours necessarily, but in general. I asked about this at a local book festival and everyone on the panel groaned and said “OH DON’T get us started on the titles!” Apparently it’s a marketing thing and the titles are meant to grab attention but not necssarily tell you that much about the actual content of the book.
So since I can’t always tell from the cover or the title what the story is, or months later remember the story from looking at the cover or title, I rely on the authors whom I know and love, their recommendations about their other books and other authors, and sites like this one to keep me in the loop.
Cheers, Jeannette Halpin
Hi Jo –
I love the covers that have beautiful clothes and handsome men/beautiful women, but I don’t care particularly for the “slipping clothes”. I do enjoy the naked male chest, of course, but it’s not going to make me buy the book, truly! Since I buy books almost exclusively on my Nook, the cover is not really appreciated, since it’s black and white and not very good resolution.
But having said that, I just looked at the covers for An Arranged Marriage and yes indeedy, the new cover is definitely grand, with Nicholas looking appropriately roguish!
My pet peeve is the titles that books often get, not yours necessarily, but in general. I asked about this at a local book festival and everyone on the panel groaned and said “OH DON’T get us started on the titles!” Apparently it’s a marketing thing and the titles are meant to grab attention but not necssarily tell you that much about the actual content of the book.
So since I can’t always tell from the cover or the title what the story is, or months later remember the story from looking at the cover or title, I rely on the authors whom I know and love, their recommendations about their other books and other authors, and sites like this one to keep me in the loop.
Cheers, Jeannette Halpin
Hi Jo –
I love the covers that have beautiful clothes and handsome men/beautiful women, but I don’t care particularly for the “slipping clothes”. I do enjoy the naked male chest, of course, but it’s not going to make me buy the book, truly! Since I buy books almost exclusively on my Nook, the cover is not really appreciated, since it’s black and white and not very good resolution.
But having said that, I just looked at the covers for An Arranged Marriage and yes indeedy, the new cover is definitely grand, with Nicholas looking appropriately roguish!
My pet peeve is the titles that books often get, not yours necessarily, but in general. I asked about this at a local book festival and everyone on the panel groaned and said “OH DON’T get us started on the titles!” Apparently it’s a marketing thing and the titles are meant to grab attention but not necssarily tell you that much about the actual content of the book.
So since I can’t always tell from the cover or the title what the story is, or months later remember the story from looking at the cover or title, I rely on the authors whom I know and love, their recommendations about their other books and other authors, and sites like this one to keep me in the loop.
Cheers, Jeannette Halpin
I love pretty, interesting, almost any type except ugly or violent covers, but I NEVER buy a book by the cover.
My favorite authors could even have a blank cover with nothing except their name. A new to me author has to have an exceptional recommendation from a source I respect. Covers are incidental to me.
I love pretty, interesting, almost any type except ugly or violent covers, but I NEVER buy a book by the cover.
My favorite authors could even have a blank cover with nothing except their name. A new to me author has to have an exceptional recommendation from a source I respect. Covers are incidental to me.
I love pretty, interesting, almost any type except ugly or violent covers, but I NEVER buy a book by the cover.
My favorite authors could even have a blank cover with nothing except their name. A new to me author has to have an exceptional recommendation from a source I respect. Covers are incidental to me.
I love pretty, interesting, almost any type except ugly or violent covers, but I NEVER buy a book by the cover.
My favorite authors could even have a blank cover with nothing except their name. A new to me author has to have an exceptional recommendation from a source I respect. Covers are incidental to me.
I love pretty, interesting, almost any type except ugly or violent covers, but I NEVER buy a book by the cover.
My favorite authors could even have a blank cover with nothing except their name. A new to me author has to have an exceptional recommendation from a source I respect. Covers are incidental to me.
See, the Arranged Marriage cover is interesting (either one) because the characters don’t just look like generic romance cover models. I like the Julia Quinn cover, too (but then it’s BLUE!). The UK has better covers for authors like Lisa Kleypas, in my opinion, even if the women on them are wearing Regency dresses and Kleypas writes Victorians!
My problem with historical romance covers that are too man-chesty is that they don’t do justice to the detailed research and complex storylines so many of the books have. I know I’m one of many who was slow to pick up anything in the genre (though I’ve loved historical fiction since I was a child) because I got the wrong impression of what the genre was all about!
See, the Arranged Marriage cover is interesting (either one) because the characters don’t just look like generic romance cover models. I like the Julia Quinn cover, too (but then it’s BLUE!). The UK has better covers for authors like Lisa Kleypas, in my opinion, even if the women on them are wearing Regency dresses and Kleypas writes Victorians!
My problem with historical romance covers that are too man-chesty is that they don’t do justice to the detailed research and complex storylines so many of the books have. I know I’m one of many who was slow to pick up anything in the genre (though I’ve loved historical fiction since I was a child) because I got the wrong impression of what the genre was all about!
See, the Arranged Marriage cover is interesting (either one) because the characters don’t just look like generic romance cover models. I like the Julia Quinn cover, too (but then it’s BLUE!). The UK has better covers for authors like Lisa Kleypas, in my opinion, even if the women on them are wearing Regency dresses and Kleypas writes Victorians!
My problem with historical romance covers that are too man-chesty is that they don’t do justice to the detailed research and complex storylines so many of the books have. I know I’m one of many who was slow to pick up anything in the genre (though I’ve loved historical fiction since I was a child) because I got the wrong impression of what the genre was all about!
See, the Arranged Marriage cover is interesting (either one) because the characters don’t just look like generic romance cover models. I like the Julia Quinn cover, too (but then it’s BLUE!). The UK has better covers for authors like Lisa Kleypas, in my opinion, even if the women on them are wearing Regency dresses and Kleypas writes Victorians!
My problem with historical romance covers that are too man-chesty is that they don’t do justice to the detailed research and complex storylines so many of the books have. I know I’m one of many who was slow to pick up anything in the genre (though I’ve loved historical fiction since I was a child) because I got the wrong impression of what the genre was all about!
See, the Arranged Marriage cover is interesting (either one) because the characters don’t just look like generic romance cover models. I like the Julia Quinn cover, too (but then it’s BLUE!). The UK has better covers for authors like Lisa Kleypas, in my opinion, even if the women on them are wearing Regency dresses and Kleypas writes Victorians!
My problem with historical romance covers that are too man-chesty is that they don’t do justice to the detailed research and complex storylines so many of the books have. I know I’m one of many who was slow to pick up anything in the genre (though I’ve loved historical fiction since I was a child) because I got the wrong impression of what the genre was all about!
Oh this is pet peeve of mine. Having lurid covers and half clad people on the cover does not appeal to me at all. For a genre that has such dramatic story lines and so much emotion and character development (when it is done well) it is a shame that they have to be clad so vulgarly so customers will buy. I have had to explain to various family members that no these are not torrid love stories. In recent times the beautiful gowns by the women are welcome and of course the well clad gentleman in Joanne Bournes new title already begs reading!! So here I am hoping that the covers get a more decent look so we can proudly carry them anywhere.
Oh this is pet peeve of mine. Having lurid covers and half clad people on the cover does not appeal to me at all. For a genre that has such dramatic story lines and so much emotion and character development (when it is done well) it is a shame that they have to be clad so vulgarly so customers will buy. I have had to explain to various family members that no these are not torrid love stories. In recent times the beautiful gowns by the women are welcome and of course the well clad gentleman in Joanne Bournes new title already begs reading!! So here I am hoping that the covers get a more decent look so we can proudly carry them anywhere.
Oh this is pet peeve of mine. Having lurid covers and half clad people on the cover does not appeal to me at all. For a genre that has such dramatic story lines and so much emotion and character development (when it is done well) it is a shame that they have to be clad so vulgarly so customers will buy. I have had to explain to various family members that no these are not torrid love stories. In recent times the beautiful gowns by the women are welcome and of course the well clad gentleman in Joanne Bournes new title already begs reading!! So here I am hoping that the covers get a more decent look so we can proudly carry them anywhere.
Oh this is pet peeve of mine. Having lurid covers and half clad people on the cover does not appeal to me at all. For a genre that has such dramatic story lines and so much emotion and character development (when it is done well) it is a shame that they have to be clad so vulgarly so customers will buy. I have had to explain to various family members that no these are not torrid love stories. In recent times the beautiful gowns by the women are welcome and of course the well clad gentleman in Joanne Bournes new title already begs reading!! So here I am hoping that the covers get a more decent look so we can proudly carry them anywhere.
Oh this is pet peeve of mine. Having lurid covers and half clad people on the cover does not appeal to me at all. For a genre that has such dramatic story lines and so much emotion and character development (when it is done well) it is a shame that they have to be clad so vulgarly so customers will buy. I have had to explain to various family members that no these are not torrid love stories. In recent times the beautiful gowns by the women are welcome and of course the well clad gentleman in Joanne Bournes new title already begs reading!! So here I am hoping that the covers get a more decent look so we can proudly carry them anywhere.
I agree with you about the cut off heads, Shannon.
I agree with you about the cut off heads, Shannon.
I agree with you about the cut off heads, Shannon.
I agree with you about the cut off heads, Shannon.
I agree with you about the cut off heads, Shannon.
Jeannette, I agree about titles. I like the long ones because they often tell more, but publishers sometimes resist because they think they’ll clutter the cover. And, of course, they love to include certain words, so we see them again and again.
Jeannette, I agree about titles. I like the long ones because they often tell more, but publishers sometimes resist because they think they’ll clutter the cover. And, of course, they love to include certain words, so we see them again and again.
Jeannette, I agree about titles. I like the long ones because they often tell more, but publishers sometimes resist because they think they’ll clutter the cover. And, of course, they love to include certain words, so we see them again and again.
Jeannette, I agree about titles. I like the long ones because they often tell more, but publishers sometimes resist because they think they’ll clutter the cover. And, of course, they love to include certain words, so we see them again and again.
Jeannette, I agree about titles. I like the long ones because they often tell more, but publishers sometimes resist because they think they’ll clutter the cover. And, of course, they love to include certain words, so we see them again and again.
Beverly, there have been times when I’d welcome a plain cover. Sometimes they do create disturbing images in my head.
Beverly, there have been times when I’d welcome a plain cover. Sometimes they do create disturbing images in my head.
Beverly, there have been times when I’d welcome a plain cover. Sometimes they do create disturbing images in my head.
Beverly, there have been times when I’d welcome a plain cover. Sometimes they do create disturbing images in my head.
Beverly, there have been times when I’d welcome a plain cover. Sometimes they do create disturbing images in my head.
Sonya, I agree that many covers give a wrong impression to people who don’t know the genre.
Sonya, I agree that many covers give a wrong impression to people who don’t know the genre.
Sonya, I agree that many covers give a wrong impression to people who don’t know the genre.
Sonya, I agree that many covers give a wrong impression to people who don’t know the genre.
Sonya, I agree that many covers give a wrong impression to people who don’t know the genre.
Yes, I agree, Prema. Covers we can be proud of.
Yes, I agree, Prema. Covers we can be proud of.
Yes, I agree, Prema. Covers we can be proud of.
Yes, I agree, Prema. Covers we can be proud of.
Yes, I agree, Prema. Covers we can be proud of.
My pet peeve is the cut off head. Especially the heroine. It’s as if she doesn’t really exist. Also in the first few pages it describes the hero/heroine and the picture on the front is completely different. Maybe if the description was embedded In the book, but the first few pages? Black hair in the book and blond on the cover?
I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting. Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good. The slipping clothes in winter, especially with snow in the background? The same heroes face on numerous books by numerous authors. irritating.
I had better stop – I could go on forever.
Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.
My pet peeve is the cut off head. Especially the heroine. It’s as if she doesn’t really exist. Also in the first few pages it describes the hero/heroine and the picture on the front is completely different. Maybe if the description was embedded In the book, but the first few pages? Black hair in the book and blond on the cover?
I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting. Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good. The slipping clothes in winter, especially with snow in the background? The same heroes face on numerous books by numerous authors. irritating.
I had better stop – I could go on forever.
Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.
My pet peeve is the cut off head. Especially the heroine. It’s as if she doesn’t really exist. Also in the first few pages it describes the hero/heroine and the picture on the front is completely different. Maybe if the description was embedded In the book, but the first few pages? Black hair in the book and blond on the cover?
I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting. Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good. The slipping clothes in winter, especially with snow in the background? The same heroes face on numerous books by numerous authors. irritating.
I had better stop – I could go on forever.
Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.
My pet peeve is the cut off head. Especially the heroine. It’s as if she doesn’t really exist. Also in the first few pages it describes the hero/heroine and the picture on the front is completely different. Maybe if the description was embedded In the book, but the first few pages? Black hair in the book and blond on the cover?
I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting. Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good. The slipping clothes in winter, especially with snow in the background? The same heroes face on numerous books by numerous authors. irritating.
I had better stop – I could go on forever.
Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.
My pet peeve is the cut off head. Especially the heroine. It’s as if she doesn’t really exist. Also in the first few pages it describes the hero/heroine and the picture on the front is completely different. Maybe if the description was embedded In the book, but the first few pages? Black hair in the book and blond on the cover?
I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting. Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good. The slipping clothes in winter, especially with snow in the background? The same heroes face on numerous books by numerous authors. irritating.
I had better stop – I could go on forever.
Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.
Jo I have been reading and collecting romances for a long time. I remember when all historical romance books had to have a sailing ship in them, usually with the woman failing out of her bodice. My dad called these bosom and frigate books. One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover. I never figured out where the ship fit in as the book took place high in the Rocky Mountains where even the rivers (usually headwaters) are only a few feet deep. I most enjoy looking at covers with people, full or bust but no headless shots; man woman or both. It is nice if the cover people match the story but not a rule breaker. The best covers are where the story scene starts on the front and moves over side and back and you get a larger feel for the book.
Jo I have been reading and collecting romances for a long time. I remember when all historical romance books had to have a sailing ship in them, usually with the woman failing out of her bodice. My dad called these bosom and frigate books. One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover. I never figured out where the ship fit in as the book took place high in the Rocky Mountains where even the rivers (usually headwaters) are only a few feet deep. I most enjoy looking at covers with people, full or bust but no headless shots; man woman or both. It is nice if the cover people match the story but not a rule breaker. The best covers are where the story scene starts on the front and moves over side and back and you get a larger feel for the book.
Jo I have been reading and collecting romances for a long time. I remember when all historical romance books had to have a sailing ship in them, usually with the woman failing out of her bodice. My dad called these bosom and frigate books. One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover. I never figured out where the ship fit in as the book took place high in the Rocky Mountains where even the rivers (usually headwaters) are only a few feet deep. I most enjoy looking at covers with people, full or bust but no headless shots; man woman or both. It is nice if the cover people match the story but not a rule breaker. The best covers are where the story scene starts on the front and moves over side and back and you get a larger feel for the book.
Jo I have been reading and collecting romances for a long time. I remember when all historical romance books had to have a sailing ship in them, usually with the woman failing out of her bodice. My dad called these bosom and frigate books. One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover. I never figured out where the ship fit in as the book took place high in the Rocky Mountains where even the rivers (usually headwaters) are only a few feet deep. I most enjoy looking at covers with people, full or bust but no headless shots; man woman or both. It is nice if the cover people match the story but not a rule breaker. The best covers are where the story scene starts on the front and moves over side and back and you get a larger feel for the book.
Jo I have been reading and collecting romances for a long time. I remember when all historical romance books had to have a sailing ship in them, usually with the woman failing out of her bodice. My dad called these bosom and frigate books. One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover. I never figured out where the ship fit in as the book took place high in the Rocky Mountains where even the rivers (usually headwaters) are only a few feet deep. I most enjoy looking at covers with people, full or bust but no headless shots; man woman or both. It is nice if the cover people match the story but not a rule breaker. The best covers are where the story scene starts on the front and moves over side and back and you get a larger feel for the book.
I do remember thinking the covers for historical romance looked intense, especially back in the 70s. I never bought a book based on cover. I’d look at the story line to see if I’d be interested in it. Once I found an author I liked I’d always look for their books regardless of cover.
I do remember thinking the covers for historical romance looked intense, especially back in the 70s. I never bought a book based on cover. I’d look at the story line to see if I’d be interested in it. Once I found an author I liked I’d always look for their books regardless of cover.
I do remember thinking the covers for historical romance looked intense, especially back in the 70s. I never bought a book based on cover. I’d look at the story line to see if I’d be interested in it. Once I found an author I liked I’d always look for their books regardless of cover.
I do remember thinking the covers for historical romance looked intense, especially back in the 70s. I never bought a book based on cover. I’d look at the story line to see if I’d be interested in it. Once I found an author I liked I’d always look for their books regardless of cover.
I do remember thinking the covers for historical romance looked intense, especially back in the 70s. I never bought a book based on cover. I’d look at the story line to see if I’d be interested in it. Once I found an author I liked I’d always look for their books regardless of cover.
I try not to pay paricular attention to cover art. Too easy to be led astray, particularly by jewel tones. But I prefer romantic/ethereal to explicit/suggestive covers.
I try not to pay paricular attention to cover art. Too easy to be led astray, particularly by jewel tones. But I prefer romantic/ethereal to explicit/suggestive covers.
I try not to pay paricular attention to cover art. Too easy to be led astray, particularly by jewel tones. But I prefer romantic/ethereal to explicit/suggestive covers.
I try not to pay paricular attention to cover art. Too easy to be led astray, particularly by jewel tones. But I prefer romantic/ethereal to explicit/suggestive covers.
I try not to pay paricular attention to cover art. Too easy to be led astray, particularly by jewel tones. But I prefer romantic/ethereal to explicit/suggestive covers.
My comment to publishers or whoever chooses a cover for a book, the bare backed woman in a red dress with no head all look alike. Unless the reader looks very carefully for the name of the author, there will be errors made, I have passed on books because I thought it must be one I read before.
I believe that it would be an advantage to all concerned if whoever designs the cover would actually read the book and the descriptions of the characters there would be more accurate covers. You know, covers which actually represent the books.
Covers which show a prospective buyer something accurate about the story would be nice. People with their clothes on would be nice. Or give me the Author’s name in large letters over the title and that will let me know the quality which I can expect.
You know, I do not believe Regency men shaved their chests, nor did women walk around with their dresses falling off their backs.
I guess, in short, give me a cover which is either representative of the book, or with nothing but the Author’s Name and the Title.
My comment to publishers or whoever chooses a cover for a book, the bare backed woman in a red dress with no head all look alike. Unless the reader looks very carefully for the name of the author, there will be errors made, I have passed on books because I thought it must be one I read before.
I believe that it would be an advantage to all concerned if whoever designs the cover would actually read the book and the descriptions of the characters there would be more accurate covers. You know, covers which actually represent the books.
Covers which show a prospective buyer something accurate about the story would be nice. People with their clothes on would be nice. Or give me the Author’s name in large letters over the title and that will let me know the quality which I can expect.
You know, I do not believe Regency men shaved their chests, nor did women walk around with their dresses falling off their backs.
I guess, in short, give me a cover which is either representative of the book, or with nothing but the Author’s Name and the Title.
My comment to publishers or whoever chooses a cover for a book, the bare backed woman in a red dress with no head all look alike. Unless the reader looks very carefully for the name of the author, there will be errors made, I have passed on books because I thought it must be one I read before.
I believe that it would be an advantage to all concerned if whoever designs the cover would actually read the book and the descriptions of the characters there would be more accurate covers. You know, covers which actually represent the books.
Covers which show a prospective buyer something accurate about the story would be nice. People with their clothes on would be nice. Or give me the Author’s name in large letters over the title and that will let me know the quality which I can expect.
You know, I do not believe Regency men shaved their chests, nor did women walk around with their dresses falling off their backs.
I guess, in short, give me a cover which is either representative of the book, or with nothing but the Author’s Name and the Title.
My comment to publishers or whoever chooses a cover for a book, the bare backed woman in a red dress with no head all look alike. Unless the reader looks very carefully for the name of the author, there will be errors made, I have passed on books because I thought it must be one I read before.
I believe that it would be an advantage to all concerned if whoever designs the cover would actually read the book and the descriptions of the characters there would be more accurate covers. You know, covers which actually represent the books.
Covers which show a prospective buyer something accurate about the story would be nice. People with their clothes on would be nice. Or give me the Author’s name in large letters over the title and that will let me know the quality which I can expect.
You know, I do not believe Regency men shaved their chests, nor did women walk around with their dresses falling off their backs.
I guess, in short, give me a cover which is either representative of the book, or with nothing but the Author’s Name and the Title.
My comment to publishers or whoever chooses a cover for a book, the bare backed woman in a red dress with no head all look alike. Unless the reader looks very carefully for the name of the author, there will be errors made, I have passed on books because I thought it must be one I read before.
I believe that it would be an advantage to all concerned if whoever designs the cover would actually read the book and the descriptions of the characters there would be more accurate covers. You know, covers which actually represent the books.
Covers which show a prospective buyer something accurate about the story would be nice. People with their clothes on would be nice. Or give me the Author’s name in large letters over the title and that will let me know the quality which I can expect.
You know, I do not believe Regency men shaved their chests, nor did women walk around with their dresses falling off their backs.
I guess, in short, give me a cover which is either representative of the book, or with nothing but the Author’s Name and the Title.
This is going to date me. I remember the first time I saw Fabio on a cover…yow! I thought to myself, now there’s a hunk…I remember a display at Border’s book store for The Conqueror by Brenda Joyce and there was a life size cut-out of Fabio in black leather standing beside the book display. I don’t know how many times I kept going past Border’s. Those were the days.
I am one of the few people who like the cut off heads. I’m not crazy about backless women or shirtless men in snow. I’ve never understood why “the person in charge of book covers” thinks I (a woman) will be attracted to big bosoms on a cover. I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.
This is going to date me. I remember the first time I saw Fabio on a cover…yow! I thought to myself, now there’s a hunk…I remember a display at Border’s book store for The Conqueror by Brenda Joyce and there was a life size cut-out of Fabio in black leather standing beside the book display. I don’t know how many times I kept going past Border’s. Those were the days.
I am one of the few people who like the cut off heads. I’m not crazy about backless women or shirtless men in snow. I’ve never understood why “the person in charge of book covers” thinks I (a woman) will be attracted to big bosoms on a cover. I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.
This is going to date me. I remember the first time I saw Fabio on a cover…yow! I thought to myself, now there’s a hunk…I remember a display at Border’s book store for The Conqueror by Brenda Joyce and there was a life size cut-out of Fabio in black leather standing beside the book display. I don’t know how many times I kept going past Border’s. Those were the days.
I am one of the few people who like the cut off heads. I’m not crazy about backless women or shirtless men in snow. I’ve never understood why “the person in charge of book covers” thinks I (a woman) will be attracted to big bosoms on a cover. I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.
This is going to date me. I remember the first time I saw Fabio on a cover…yow! I thought to myself, now there’s a hunk…I remember a display at Border’s book store for The Conqueror by Brenda Joyce and there was a life size cut-out of Fabio in black leather standing beside the book display. I don’t know how many times I kept going past Border’s. Those were the days.
I am one of the few people who like the cut off heads. I’m not crazy about backless women or shirtless men in snow. I’ve never understood why “the person in charge of book covers” thinks I (a woman) will be attracted to big bosoms on a cover. I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.
This is going to date me. I remember the first time I saw Fabio on a cover…yow! I thought to myself, now there’s a hunk…I remember a display at Border’s book store for The Conqueror by Brenda Joyce and there was a life size cut-out of Fabio in black leather standing beside the book display. I don’t know how many times I kept going past Border’s. Those were the days.
I am one of the few people who like the cut off heads. I’m not crazy about backless women or shirtless men in snow. I’ve never understood why “the person in charge of book covers” thinks I (a woman) will be attracted to big bosoms on a cover. I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.
I don’t judge a book based on its cover. Isn’t that good of me. I look for the author then check the title to see if I already read it. I remember when the started putting a plain cover over the half naked people covers. I thought this was a waste of paper. If I already picked up the book to see if I wanted it, a second cover wouldn’t make me change my mind. However, I do see how so much nakedness could give people the wrong idea. My son seeing my collection of “risque” covers started calling these books historical porn. Was the second cover supposed to be the equivalent of the brown paper wrapper on Playboy and Penthouse?
I would much rather a name and a flower or some simple image than the human focused covers. When they are really wrong, I start to worry about the quality of the publisher. For all of you using Kim Killion for epub covers, thank you.
Please keep creating such lovely black and white type that fill up the covers. That is what means most to me.
I don’t judge a book based on its cover. Isn’t that good of me. I look for the author then check the title to see if I already read it. I remember when the started putting a plain cover over the half naked people covers. I thought this was a waste of paper. If I already picked up the book to see if I wanted it, a second cover wouldn’t make me change my mind. However, I do see how so much nakedness could give people the wrong idea. My son seeing my collection of “risque” covers started calling these books historical porn. Was the second cover supposed to be the equivalent of the brown paper wrapper on Playboy and Penthouse?
I would much rather a name and a flower or some simple image than the human focused covers. When they are really wrong, I start to worry about the quality of the publisher. For all of you using Kim Killion for epub covers, thank you.
Please keep creating such lovely black and white type that fill up the covers. That is what means most to me.
I don’t judge a book based on its cover. Isn’t that good of me. I look for the author then check the title to see if I already read it. I remember when the started putting a plain cover over the half naked people covers. I thought this was a waste of paper. If I already picked up the book to see if I wanted it, a second cover wouldn’t make me change my mind. However, I do see how so much nakedness could give people the wrong idea. My son seeing my collection of “risque” covers started calling these books historical porn. Was the second cover supposed to be the equivalent of the brown paper wrapper on Playboy and Penthouse?
I would much rather a name and a flower or some simple image than the human focused covers. When they are really wrong, I start to worry about the quality of the publisher. For all of you using Kim Killion for epub covers, thank you.
Please keep creating such lovely black and white type that fill up the covers. That is what means most to me.
I don’t judge a book based on its cover. Isn’t that good of me. I look for the author then check the title to see if I already read it. I remember when the started putting a plain cover over the half naked people covers. I thought this was a waste of paper. If I already picked up the book to see if I wanted it, a second cover wouldn’t make me change my mind. However, I do see how so much nakedness could give people the wrong idea. My son seeing my collection of “risque” covers started calling these books historical porn. Was the second cover supposed to be the equivalent of the brown paper wrapper on Playboy and Penthouse?
I would much rather a name and a flower or some simple image than the human focused covers. When they are really wrong, I start to worry about the quality of the publisher. For all of you using Kim Killion for epub covers, thank you.
Please keep creating such lovely black and white type that fill up the covers. That is what means most to me.
I don’t judge a book based on its cover. Isn’t that good of me. I look for the author then check the title to see if I already read it. I remember when the started putting a plain cover over the half naked people covers. I thought this was a waste of paper. If I already picked up the book to see if I wanted it, a second cover wouldn’t make me change my mind. However, I do see how so much nakedness could give people the wrong idea. My son seeing my collection of “risque” covers started calling these books historical porn. Was the second cover supposed to be the equivalent of the brown paper wrapper on Playboy and Penthouse?
I would much rather a name and a flower or some simple image than the human focused covers. When they are really wrong, I start to worry about the quality of the publisher. For all of you using Kim Killion for epub covers, thank you.
Please keep creating such lovely black and white type that fill up the covers. That is what means most to me.
One of the many problems with covers is that they look so much alike. There are a few months with red gowns spreading across the bottom of the page, followed by a few months of purple gowns spreading across the bottom, followed by whatever is the next color of the month. It’s not just that you can’t tell the book by the cover. You can’t tell the books apart by the covers.
I have to say that my favorite covers were the paintings used on the reissues of the Georgette Heyer books. They were lovely.
One of the many problems with covers is that they look so much alike. There are a few months with red gowns spreading across the bottom of the page, followed by a few months of purple gowns spreading across the bottom, followed by whatever is the next color of the month. It’s not just that you can’t tell the book by the cover. You can’t tell the books apart by the covers.
I have to say that my favorite covers were the paintings used on the reissues of the Georgette Heyer books. They were lovely.
One of the many problems with covers is that they look so much alike. There are a few months with red gowns spreading across the bottom of the page, followed by a few months of purple gowns spreading across the bottom, followed by whatever is the next color of the month. It’s not just that you can’t tell the book by the cover. You can’t tell the books apart by the covers.
I have to say that my favorite covers were the paintings used on the reissues of the Georgette Heyer books. They were lovely.
One of the many problems with covers is that they look so much alike. There are a few months with red gowns spreading across the bottom of the page, followed by a few months of purple gowns spreading across the bottom, followed by whatever is the next color of the month. It’s not just that you can’t tell the book by the cover. You can’t tell the books apart by the covers.
I have to say that my favorite covers were the paintings used on the reissues of the Georgette Heyer books. They were lovely.
One of the many problems with covers is that they look so much alike. There are a few months with red gowns spreading across the bottom of the page, followed by a few months of purple gowns spreading across the bottom, followed by whatever is the next color of the month. It’s not just that you can’t tell the book by the cover. You can’t tell the books apart by the covers.
I have to say that my favorite covers were the paintings used on the reissues of the Georgette Heyer books. They were lovely.
I have always enjoyed the book covers that showed the lead characters matching their physical description against a background described at some point inside the book. That said, a book cover may catch my eye, but the author and synopsis on the back are the true selling points for me. I enjoy characters with personality plus! Some authors breathe life into the people that inhabit their books, while other authors may have all the plot points, angst and fraught situations essential to the story but it is still somehow flat and lifeless. Give me a mouthy miss and a masterful mister, throw in some witty dialogue and more than a handful of sparks, and I’m a happy camper.
I have always enjoyed the book covers that showed the lead characters matching their physical description against a background described at some point inside the book. That said, a book cover may catch my eye, but the author and synopsis on the back are the true selling points for me. I enjoy characters with personality plus! Some authors breathe life into the people that inhabit their books, while other authors may have all the plot points, angst and fraught situations essential to the story but it is still somehow flat and lifeless. Give me a mouthy miss and a masterful mister, throw in some witty dialogue and more than a handful of sparks, and I’m a happy camper.
I have always enjoyed the book covers that showed the lead characters matching their physical description against a background described at some point inside the book. That said, a book cover may catch my eye, but the author and synopsis on the back are the true selling points for me. I enjoy characters with personality plus! Some authors breathe life into the people that inhabit their books, while other authors may have all the plot points, angst and fraught situations essential to the story but it is still somehow flat and lifeless. Give me a mouthy miss and a masterful mister, throw in some witty dialogue and more than a handful of sparks, and I’m a happy camper.
I have always enjoyed the book covers that showed the lead characters matching their physical description against a background described at some point inside the book. That said, a book cover may catch my eye, but the author and synopsis on the back are the true selling points for me. I enjoy characters with personality plus! Some authors breathe life into the people that inhabit their books, while other authors may have all the plot points, angst and fraught situations essential to the story but it is still somehow flat and lifeless. Give me a mouthy miss and a masterful mister, throw in some witty dialogue and more than a handful of sparks, and I’m a happy camper.
I have always enjoyed the book covers that showed the lead characters matching their physical description against a background described at some point inside the book. That said, a book cover may catch my eye, but the author and synopsis on the back are the true selling points for me. I enjoy characters with personality plus! Some authors breathe life into the people that inhabit their books, while other authors may have all the plot points, angst and fraught situations essential to the story but it is still somehow flat and lifeless. Give me a mouthy miss and a masterful mister, throw in some witty dialogue and more than a handful of sparks, and I’m a happy camper.
Everything you said! It seems we’re supposed to want 2014 men as our historical romance heroes, and I don’t see the point of that! Historical romance is different because the time is different!
Everything you said! It seems we’re supposed to want 2014 men as our historical romance heroes, and I don’t see the point of that! Historical romance is different because the time is different!
Everything you said! It seems we’re supposed to want 2014 men as our historical romance heroes, and I don’t see the point of that! Historical romance is different because the time is different!
Everything you said! It seems we’re supposed to want 2014 men as our historical romance heroes, and I don’t see the point of that! Historical romance is different because the time is different!
Everything you said! It seems we’re supposed to want 2014 men as our historical romance heroes, and I don’t see the point of that! Historical romance is different because the time is different!
Jenny said: “I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting.”
The problem with them, apart from cost, was that they often got mangled in handling and then people wouldn’t buy them.
“Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good” They still do those. My last two have had stepbacks.
“Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.”
Thanks! I’m pleased.
Jenny said: “I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting.”
The problem with them, apart from cost, was that they often got mangled in handling and then people wouldn’t buy them.
“Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good” They still do those. My last two have had stepbacks.
“Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.”
Thanks! I’m pleased.
Jenny said: “I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting.”
The problem with them, apart from cost, was that they often got mangled in handling and then people wouldn’t buy them.
“Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good” They still do those. My last two have had stepbacks.
“Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.”
Thanks! I’m pleased.
Jenny said: “I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting.”
The problem with them, apart from cost, was that they often got mangled in handling and then people wouldn’t buy them.
“Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good” They still do those. My last two have had stepbacks.
“Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.”
Thanks! I’m pleased.
Jenny said: “I do remember some books that had a little picture cut out of the front so the next page could be seen. Interesting.”
The problem with them, apart from cost, was that they often got mangled in handling and then people wouldn’t buy them.
“Also the step back type, I think it was called. That is good” They still do those. My last two have had stepbacks.
“Having said all that I really like your new cover Jo. The last few have been beautiful.”
Thanks! I’m pleased.
“One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover.” LOL!
Sometimes, you do wonder what they’re thinking.
“One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover.” LOL!
Sometimes, you do wonder what they’re thinking.
“One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover.” LOL!
Sometimes, you do wonder what they’re thinking.
“One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover.” LOL!
Sometimes, you do wonder what they’re thinking.
“One book set in 1880’s Colorado had a ship on the cover.” LOL!
Sometimes, you do wonder what they’re thinking.
Good point, Jackie. It’s great if a cover conveys the drama and conflict, whatever that is.
Good point, Jackie. It’s great if a cover conveys the drama and conflict, whatever that is.
Good point, Jackie. It’s great if a cover conveys the drama and conflict, whatever that is.
Good point, Jackie. It’s great if a cover conveys the drama and conflict, whatever that is.
Good point, Jackie. It’s great if a cover conveys the drama and conflict, whatever that is.
It is easy to be led astray, Nancy. I like romantic, but if a cover is too ethereal I’m likely to think the book without substance.
Yes, I can be affected by covers!
It is easy to be led astray, Nancy. I like romantic, but if a cover is too ethereal I’m likely to think the book without substance.
Yes, I can be affected by covers!
It is easy to be led astray, Nancy. I like romantic, but if a cover is too ethereal I’m likely to think the book without substance.
Yes, I can be affected by covers!
It is easy to be led astray, Nancy. I like romantic, but if a cover is too ethereal I’m likely to think the book without substance.
Yes, I can be affected by covers!
It is easy to be led astray, Nancy. I like romantic, but if a cover is too ethereal I’m likely to think the book without substance.
Yes, I can be affected by covers!
Annette, I’m with you about covers that actually represent the book. And that Regency ladies didn’t go around with their gowns falling off, and no corset underneath!
However, some manly men don’t have visible chest hair. It’s to do with ancestry and gene pools.
Annette, I’m with you about covers that actually represent the book. And that Regency ladies didn’t go around with their gowns falling off, and no corset underneath!
However, some manly men don’t have visible chest hair. It’s to do with ancestry and gene pools.
Annette, I’m with you about covers that actually represent the book. And that Regency ladies didn’t go around with their gowns falling off, and no corset underneath!
However, some manly men don’t have visible chest hair. It’s to do with ancestry and gene pools.
Annette, I’m with you about covers that actually represent the book. And that Regency ladies didn’t go around with their gowns falling off, and no corset underneath!
However, some manly men don’t have visible chest hair. It’s to do with ancestry and gene pools.
Annette, I’m with you about covers that actually represent the book. And that Regency ladies didn’t go around with their gowns falling off, and no corset underneath!
However, some manly men don’t have visible chest hair. It’s to do with ancestry and gene pools.
That’s the problem, isn’t it, Kay. A bad cover can be a real turn off.
That’s the problem, isn’t it, Kay. A bad cover can be a real turn off.
That’s the problem, isn’t it, Kay. A bad cover can be a real turn off.
That’s the problem, isn’t it, Kay. A bad cover can be a real turn off.
That’s the problem, isn’t it, Kay. A bad cover can be a real turn off.
Glad you’re liking the new look indie covers, Lyn. I reckon with most authors choosing their cover style in indie it’s a pretty good guide to what’s inside.
Glad you’re liking the new look indie covers, Lyn. I reckon with most authors choosing their cover style in indie it’s a pretty good guide to what’s inside.
Glad you’re liking the new look indie covers, Lyn. I reckon with most authors choosing their cover style in indie it’s a pretty good guide to what’s inside.
Glad you’re liking the new look indie covers, Lyn. I reckon with most authors choosing their cover style in indie it’s a pretty good guide to what’s inside.
Glad you’re liking the new look indie covers, Lyn. I reckon with most authors choosing their cover style in indie it’s a pretty good guide to what’s inside.
Lil, so true about the similarities of covers. Fashion. Or lemmings. *G*
Lil, so true about the similarities of covers. Fashion. Or lemmings. *G*
Lil, so true about the similarities of covers. Fashion. Or lemmings. *G*
Lil, so true about the similarities of covers. Fashion. Or lemmings. *G*
Lil, so true about the similarities of covers. Fashion. Or lemmings. *G*
Good point, Claire, about back copy. That’s a clincher for me, too, and sometimes it’s a turn off. I know authors sometimes don’t have any say, but if it makes the plot sound nonsense, or includes inaccuracies, it puts me off.
Good point, Claire, about back copy. That’s a clincher for me, too, and sometimes it’s a turn off. I know authors sometimes don’t have any say, but if it makes the plot sound nonsense, or includes inaccuracies, it puts me off.
Good point, Claire, about back copy. That’s a clincher for me, too, and sometimes it’s a turn off. I know authors sometimes don’t have any say, but if it makes the plot sound nonsense, or includes inaccuracies, it puts me off.
Good point, Claire, about back copy. That’s a clincher for me, too, and sometimes it’s a turn off. I know authors sometimes don’t have any say, but if it makes the plot sound nonsense, or includes inaccuracies, it puts me off.
Good point, Claire, about back copy. That’s a clincher for me, too, and sometimes it’s a turn off. I know authors sometimes don’t have any say, but if it makes the plot sound nonsense, or includes inaccuracies, it puts me off.
“I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.”
Spot on, Kay!
I used to love the covers with a detailed Regency backdrop and appropriately clothed hero and/or heroine. They were not only interesting to scan, they set apart the Regency novels from the bodice rippers. Today, unfortunately, we have faux Regencies that _are_ bodice rippers, and I’ll pass on any cover that blatantly indicates that. So many books, so little time … covers are important!
“I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.”
Spot on, Kay!
I used to love the covers with a detailed Regency backdrop and appropriately clothed hero and/or heroine. They were not only interesting to scan, they set apart the Regency novels from the bodice rippers. Today, unfortunately, we have faux Regencies that _are_ bodice rippers, and I’ll pass on any cover that blatantly indicates that. So many books, so little time … covers are important!
“I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.”
Spot on, Kay!
I used to love the covers with a detailed Regency backdrop and appropriately clothed hero and/or heroine. They were not only interesting to scan, they set apart the Regency novels from the bodice rippers. Today, unfortunately, we have faux Regencies that _are_ bodice rippers, and I’ll pass on any cover that blatantly indicates that. So many books, so little time … covers are important!
“I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.”
Spot on, Kay!
I used to love the covers with a detailed Regency backdrop and appropriately clothed hero and/or heroine. They were not only interesting to scan, they set apart the Regency novels from the bodice rippers. Today, unfortunately, we have faux Regencies that _are_ bodice rippers, and I’ll pass on any cover that blatantly indicates that. So many books, so little time … covers are important!
“I don’t think that a cover of a book has ever made me want to buy the book, on the other hand a bad cover with atrocious art may make me not buy a book.”
Spot on, Kay!
I used to love the covers with a detailed Regency backdrop and appropriately clothed hero and/or heroine. They were not only interesting to scan, they set apart the Regency novels from the bodice rippers. Today, unfortunately, we have faux Regencies that _are_ bodice rippers, and I’ll pass on any cover that blatantly indicates that. So many books, so little time … covers are important!
Since my copy of “An Arranged Marriage” is dog-eared from many readings, I feel less guilty about saying that I truly dislike the current frequent use of photographs on covers. I want to create my own image of the characters from the author’s descriptions. Not sure why ‘painted’ covers bother me less than photos.
Given the above, it will come as no surprise to hear me say that I liked the “thingie” covers–or at least some of them. I remember the covers on Judith McNaught’s romances would have VERY LARGE TYPE and a centered image relating to something in the story. And Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn books–at least, the original family stories–were just title and author in fancy script on dark metallic colored covers.
And I could not count how many books I bought because they had a piece of tartan draped across the cover!
Since my copy of “An Arranged Marriage” is dog-eared from many readings, I feel less guilty about saying that I truly dislike the current frequent use of photographs on covers. I want to create my own image of the characters from the author’s descriptions. Not sure why ‘painted’ covers bother me less than photos.
Given the above, it will come as no surprise to hear me say that I liked the “thingie” covers–or at least some of them. I remember the covers on Judith McNaught’s romances would have VERY LARGE TYPE and a centered image relating to something in the story. And Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn books–at least, the original family stories–were just title and author in fancy script on dark metallic colored covers.
And I could not count how many books I bought because they had a piece of tartan draped across the cover!
Since my copy of “An Arranged Marriage” is dog-eared from many readings, I feel less guilty about saying that I truly dislike the current frequent use of photographs on covers. I want to create my own image of the characters from the author’s descriptions. Not sure why ‘painted’ covers bother me less than photos.
Given the above, it will come as no surprise to hear me say that I liked the “thingie” covers–or at least some of them. I remember the covers on Judith McNaught’s romances would have VERY LARGE TYPE and a centered image relating to something in the story. And Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn books–at least, the original family stories–were just title and author in fancy script on dark metallic colored covers.
And I could not count how many books I bought because they had a piece of tartan draped across the cover!
Since my copy of “An Arranged Marriage” is dog-eared from many readings, I feel less guilty about saying that I truly dislike the current frequent use of photographs on covers. I want to create my own image of the characters from the author’s descriptions. Not sure why ‘painted’ covers bother me less than photos.
Given the above, it will come as no surprise to hear me say that I liked the “thingie” covers–or at least some of them. I remember the covers on Judith McNaught’s romances would have VERY LARGE TYPE and a centered image relating to something in the story. And Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn books–at least, the original family stories–were just title and author in fancy script on dark metallic colored covers.
And I could not count how many books I bought because they had a piece of tartan draped across the cover!
Since my copy of “An Arranged Marriage” is dog-eared from many readings, I feel less guilty about saying that I truly dislike the current frequent use of photographs on covers. I want to create my own image of the characters from the author’s descriptions. Not sure why ‘painted’ covers bother me less than photos.
Given the above, it will come as no surprise to hear me say that I liked the “thingie” covers–or at least some of them. I remember the covers on Judith McNaught’s romances would have VERY LARGE TYPE and a centered image relating to something in the story. And Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn books–at least, the original family stories–were just title and author in fancy script on dark metallic colored covers.
And I could not count how many books I bought because they had a piece of tartan draped across the cover!
So many excellent comments that I totally agree with. I like the cover models to resemble the characters and the time period at least a little bit. Hate when they don’t even get the hair color right. And don’t get me started about the ones with completely different body types! I’m not even going to get into the different states of (un)dress…..
That said there are some AMAZING covers out there! But I still choose books according to author and description of the book rather than the covers.
I have passed on books because the cover was SO bad that I couldn’t get past it to open and read. There is a blog that does a feature called WTF Cover Saturday. It is not for casual viewing…
So many excellent comments that I totally agree with. I like the cover models to resemble the characters and the time period at least a little bit. Hate when they don’t even get the hair color right. And don’t get me started about the ones with completely different body types! I’m not even going to get into the different states of (un)dress…..
That said there are some AMAZING covers out there! But I still choose books according to author and description of the book rather than the covers.
I have passed on books because the cover was SO bad that I couldn’t get past it to open and read. There is a blog that does a feature called WTF Cover Saturday. It is not for casual viewing…
So many excellent comments that I totally agree with. I like the cover models to resemble the characters and the time period at least a little bit. Hate when they don’t even get the hair color right. And don’t get me started about the ones with completely different body types! I’m not even going to get into the different states of (un)dress…..
That said there are some AMAZING covers out there! But I still choose books according to author and description of the book rather than the covers.
I have passed on books because the cover was SO bad that I couldn’t get past it to open and read. There is a blog that does a feature called WTF Cover Saturday. It is not for casual viewing…
So many excellent comments that I totally agree with. I like the cover models to resemble the characters and the time period at least a little bit. Hate when they don’t even get the hair color right. And don’t get me started about the ones with completely different body types! I’m not even going to get into the different states of (un)dress…..
That said there are some AMAZING covers out there! But I still choose books according to author and description of the book rather than the covers.
I have passed on books because the cover was SO bad that I couldn’t get past it to open and read. There is a blog that does a feature called WTF Cover Saturday. It is not for casual viewing…
So many excellent comments that I totally agree with. I like the cover models to resemble the characters and the time period at least a little bit. Hate when they don’t even get the hair color right. And don’t get me started about the ones with completely different body types! I’m not even going to get into the different states of (un)dress…..
That said there are some AMAZING covers out there! But I still choose books according to author and description of the book rather than the covers.
I have passed on books because the cover was SO bad that I couldn’t get past it to open and read. There is a blog that does a feature called WTF Cover Saturday. It is not for casual viewing…
I guess am not terribly picky. I don’t really mind cut off heads, and I liked a lot of the thingy covers. The Balogh “Slightly” ones with the raised print and metallic tones were lovely, and made a nice matched set, but I suppose they are expensive to produce. I like the “big dress” covers that are in vogue now, and the jewel tones, but in general I like them to have their clothes on. Joanne’s new book as well as the new Arranged Marriage cover are very classy. But my favorite covers out of all your books are the traditional Regencies that were reissued as trade paperbacks, especially Lord Wraybourne’s Betrothed and Emily and the Dark Angel, as shown here: http://www.jobev.com/tradreg.html#LORDWR I love those books!
I guess am not terribly picky. I don’t really mind cut off heads, and I liked a lot of the thingy covers. The Balogh “Slightly” ones with the raised print and metallic tones were lovely, and made a nice matched set, but I suppose they are expensive to produce. I like the “big dress” covers that are in vogue now, and the jewel tones, but in general I like them to have their clothes on. Joanne’s new book as well as the new Arranged Marriage cover are very classy. But my favorite covers out of all your books are the traditional Regencies that were reissued as trade paperbacks, especially Lord Wraybourne’s Betrothed and Emily and the Dark Angel, as shown here: http://www.jobev.com/tradreg.html#LORDWR I love those books!
I guess am not terribly picky. I don’t really mind cut off heads, and I liked a lot of the thingy covers. The Balogh “Slightly” ones with the raised print and metallic tones were lovely, and made a nice matched set, but I suppose they are expensive to produce. I like the “big dress” covers that are in vogue now, and the jewel tones, but in general I like them to have their clothes on. Joanne’s new book as well as the new Arranged Marriage cover are very classy. But my favorite covers out of all your books are the traditional Regencies that were reissued as trade paperbacks, especially Lord Wraybourne’s Betrothed and Emily and the Dark Angel, as shown here: http://www.jobev.com/tradreg.html#LORDWR I love those books!
I guess am not terribly picky. I don’t really mind cut off heads, and I liked a lot of the thingy covers. The Balogh “Slightly” ones with the raised print and metallic tones were lovely, and made a nice matched set, but I suppose they are expensive to produce. I like the “big dress” covers that are in vogue now, and the jewel tones, but in general I like them to have their clothes on. Joanne’s new book as well as the new Arranged Marriage cover are very classy. But my favorite covers out of all your books are the traditional Regencies that were reissued as trade paperbacks, especially Lord Wraybourne’s Betrothed and Emily and the Dark Angel, as shown here: http://www.jobev.com/tradreg.html#LORDWR I love those books!
I guess am not terribly picky. I don’t really mind cut off heads, and I liked a lot of the thingy covers. The Balogh “Slightly” ones with the raised print and metallic tones were lovely, and made a nice matched set, but I suppose they are expensive to produce. I like the “big dress” covers that are in vogue now, and the jewel tones, but in general I like them to have their clothes on. Joanne’s new book as well as the new Arranged Marriage cover are very classy. But my favorite covers out of all your books are the traditional Regencies that were reissued as trade paperbacks, especially Lord Wraybourne’s Betrothed and Emily and the Dark Angel, as shown here: http://www.jobev.com/tradreg.html#LORDWR I love those books!
I ADORE Joanna Bourne’s newest cover. I really liked her “Black Hawk” cover also. I feel that as a publisher, Harlequin Historical does the best historical covers–they’re unique, they match the story and characters, and they’re colorful without being gratuitously showy.
I HATE clinches. I think they’re ugly and silly. Likewise, I find the covers where the ahistorical clothes are falling off the man or the woman silly. I’d rather have a thingy cover than these covers.
For me, a good cover enhances the pleasure of buying the book, but for the most part, it could be a brown paper cover, and if the author’s an auto-buy or the book’s highly recommended, I’m buying it.
I ADORE Joanna Bourne’s newest cover. I really liked her “Black Hawk” cover also. I feel that as a publisher, Harlequin Historical does the best historical covers–they’re unique, they match the story and characters, and they’re colorful without being gratuitously showy.
I HATE clinches. I think they’re ugly and silly. Likewise, I find the covers where the ahistorical clothes are falling off the man or the woman silly. I’d rather have a thingy cover than these covers.
For me, a good cover enhances the pleasure of buying the book, but for the most part, it could be a brown paper cover, and if the author’s an auto-buy or the book’s highly recommended, I’m buying it.
I ADORE Joanna Bourne’s newest cover. I really liked her “Black Hawk” cover also. I feel that as a publisher, Harlequin Historical does the best historical covers–they’re unique, they match the story and characters, and they’re colorful without being gratuitously showy.
I HATE clinches. I think they’re ugly and silly. Likewise, I find the covers where the ahistorical clothes are falling off the man or the woman silly. I’d rather have a thingy cover than these covers.
For me, a good cover enhances the pleasure of buying the book, but for the most part, it could be a brown paper cover, and if the author’s an auto-buy or the book’s highly recommended, I’m buying it.
I ADORE Joanna Bourne’s newest cover. I really liked her “Black Hawk” cover also. I feel that as a publisher, Harlequin Historical does the best historical covers–they’re unique, they match the story and characters, and they’re colorful without being gratuitously showy.
I HATE clinches. I think they’re ugly and silly. Likewise, I find the covers where the ahistorical clothes are falling off the man or the woman silly. I’d rather have a thingy cover than these covers.
For me, a good cover enhances the pleasure of buying the book, but for the most part, it could be a brown paper cover, and if the author’s an auto-buy or the book’s highly recommended, I’m buying it.
I ADORE Joanna Bourne’s newest cover. I really liked her “Black Hawk” cover also. I feel that as a publisher, Harlequin Historical does the best historical covers–they’re unique, they match the story and characters, and they’re colorful without being gratuitously showy.
I HATE clinches. I think they’re ugly and silly. Likewise, I find the covers where the ahistorical clothes are falling off the man or the woman silly. I’d rather have a thingy cover than these covers.
For me, a good cover enhances the pleasure of buying the book, but for the most part, it could be a brown paper cover, and if the author’s an auto-buy or the book’s highly recommended, I’m buying it.
One more about covers: I ADORE C.S. Harris’s Sebastian St. Cyr covers. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and covey a good historical feel.
One more about covers: I ADORE C.S. Harris’s Sebastian St. Cyr covers. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and covey a good historical feel.
One more about covers: I ADORE C.S. Harris’s Sebastian St. Cyr covers. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and covey a good historical feel.
One more about covers: I ADORE C.S. Harris’s Sebastian St. Cyr covers. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and covey a good historical feel.
One more about covers: I ADORE C.S. Harris’s Sebastian St. Cyr covers. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and covey a good historical feel.
Convey, not covey
Convey, not covey
Convey, not covey
Convey, not covey
Convey, not covey
I usually start with the author. Like with you Jo, I buy every one of your books. I like the paperback or hard back copies to keep for all time. And yes, the ones with the more beautiful or compelling covers get the best spots on my shelves.
If I am just “shopping”, the cover and the title get my attention about the same, and that is what makes me turn the page!😃
I usually start with the author. Like with you Jo, I buy every one of your books. I like the paperback or hard back copies to keep for all time. And yes, the ones with the more beautiful or compelling covers get the best spots on my shelves.
If I am just “shopping”, the cover and the title get my attention about the same, and that is what makes me turn the page!😃
I usually start with the author. Like with you Jo, I buy every one of your books. I like the paperback or hard back copies to keep for all time. And yes, the ones with the more beautiful or compelling covers get the best spots on my shelves.
If I am just “shopping”, the cover and the title get my attention about the same, and that is what makes me turn the page!😃
I usually start with the author. Like with you Jo, I buy every one of your books. I like the paperback or hard back copies to keep for all time. And yes, the ones with the more beautiful or compelling covers get the best spots on my shelves.
If I am just “shopping”, the cover and the title get my attention about the same, and that is what makes me turn the page!😃
I usually start with the author. Like with you Jo, I buy every one of your books. I like the paperback or hard back copies to keep for all time. And yes, the ones with the more beautiful or compelling covers get the best spots on my shelves.
If I am just “shopping”, the cover and the title get my attention about the same, and that is what makes me turn the page!😃
I so agree, Sonya. It’s the way the characters aren’t of our time that makes them really interesting to explore.
I so agree, Sonya. It’s the way the characters aren’t of our time that makes them really interesting to explore.
I so agree, Sonya. It’s the way the characters aren’t of our time that makes them really interesting to explore.
I so agree, Sonya. It’s the way the characters aren’t of our time that makes them really interesting to explore.
I so agree, Sonya. It’s the way the characters aren’t of our time that makes them really interesting to explore.
You’re right, Mary. Covers are important. Sometimes they’re also misleading — both ways!
There should be a truth in advertizing rule. 🙂
You’re right, Mary. Covers are important. Sometimes they’re also misleading — both ways!
There should be a truth in advertizing rule. 🙂
You’re right, Mary. Covers are important. Sometimes they’re also misleading — both ways!
There should be a truth in advertizing rule. 🙂
You’re right, Mary. Covers are important. Sometimes they’re also misleading — both ways!
There should be a truth in advertizing rule. 🙂
You’re right, Mary. Covers are important. Sometimes they’re also misleading — both ways!
There should be a truth in advertizing rule. 🙂
LOL on the tartan, Constance! But yes, done well just title and author can work very well.
LOL on the tartan, Constance! But yes, done well just title and author can work very well.
LOL on the tartan, Constance! But yes, done well just title and author can work very well.
LOL on the tartan, Constance! But yes, done well just title and author can work very well.
LOL on the tartan, Constance! But yes, done well just title and author can work very well.
Thanks, Karin. Those covers were lovely. Most of them. I wasn’t at all happy with The Stolen Bride. Randal looked about 18 and Sophie looked like a shop window mannequin!
Thanks, Karin. Those covers were lovely. Most of them. I wasn’t at all happy with The Stolen Bride. Randal looked about 18 and Sophie looked like a shop window mannequin!
Thanks, Karin. Those covers were lovely. Most of them. I wasn’t at all happy with The Stolen Bride. Randal looked about 18 and Sophie looked like a shop window mannequin!
Thanks, Karin. Those covers were lovely. Most of them. I wasn’t at all happy with The Stolen Bride. Randal looked about 18 and Sophie looked like a shop window mannequin!
Thanks, Karin. Those covers were lovely. Most of them. I wasn’t at all happy with The Stolen Bride. Randal looked about 18 and Sophie looked like a shop window mannequin!
Yes, Kiera, Harl H do often do good covers, and they publish a wide range of historicals as well.
Yes, Kiera, Harl H do often do good covers, and they publish a wide range of historicals as well.
Yes, Kiera, Harl H do often do good covers, and they publish a wide range of historicals as well.
Yes, Kiera, Harl H do often do good covers, and they publish a wide range of historicals as well.
Yes, Kiera, Harl H do often do good covers, and they publish a wide range of historicals as well.
I agree about those covers, but they wouldn’t work for romance IMO. The dark mystery element would be misleading for most.
Often it’s the tone of a cover that has the most impact, which is why I think it’s a shame that some really don’t have any.
I agree about those covers, but they wouldn’t work for romance IMO. The dark mystery element would be misleading for most.
Often it’s the tone of a cover that has the most impact, which is why I think it’s a shame that some really don’t have any.
I agree about those covers, but they wouldn’t work for romance IMO. The dark mystery element would be misleading for most.
Often it’s the tone of a cover that has the most impact, which is why I think it’s a shame that some really don’t have any.
I agree about those covers, but they wouldn’t work for romance IMO. The dark mystery element would be misleading for most.
Often it’s the tone of a cover that has the most impact, which is why I think it’s a shame that some really don’t have any.
I agree about those covers, but they wouldn’t work for romance IMO. The dark mystery element would be misleading for most.
Often it’s the tone of a cover that has the most impact, which is why I think it’s a shame that some really don’t have any.
Thanks, Sheila. Cover, title, author, back copy. All the things that make us buy a book!
Thanks, Sheila. Cover, title, author, back copy. All the things that make us buy a book!
Thanks, Sheila. Cover, title, author, back copy. All the things that make us buy a book!
Thanks, Sheila. Cover, title, author, back copy. All the things that make us buy a book!
Thanks, Sheila. Cover, title, author, back copy. All the things that make us buy a book!
Yes, I agree. I really like how well C.S. Harris’s covers match her books. I wish romance would try to infuse their covers with the same, as you say it, “tone.” I wish romance covers would convey a sense of place, time, and story elements as an immersive experience.
Yes, I agree. I really like how well C.S. Harris’s covers match her books. I wish romance would try to infuse their covers with the same, as you say it, “tone.” I wish romance covers would convey a sense of place, time, and story elements as an immersive experience.
Yes, I agree. I really like how well C.S. Harris’s covers match her books. I wish romance would try to infuse their covers with the same, as you say it, “tone.” I wish romance covers would convey a sense of place, time, and story elements as an immersive experience.
Yes, I agree. I really like how well C.S. Harris’s covers match her books. I wish romance would try to infuse their covers with the same, as you say it, “tone.” I wish romance covers would convey a sense of place, time, and story elements as an immersive experience.
Yes, I agree. I really like how well C.S. Harris’s covers match her books. I wish romance would try to infuse their covers with the same, as you say it, “tone.” I wish romance covers would convey a sense of place, time, and story elements as an immersive experience.
I’ve bought many books based on covers, especially several authors that were new to me. I will not buy a “Fabio” type cover. My favorites are the one with beautiful ball gowns or men in nice breeches, but past of their heads are missing. It leaves more to the imagination.
I’ve bought many books based on covers, especially several authors that were new to me. I will not buy a “Fabio” type cover. My favorites are the one with beautiful ball gowns or men in nice breeches, but past of their heads are missing. It leaves more to the imagination.
I’ve bought many books based on covers, especially several authors that were new to me. I will not buy a “Fabio” type cover. My favorites are the one with beautiful ball gowns or men in nice breeches, but past of their heads are missing. It leaves more to the imagination.
I’ve bought many books based on covers, especially several authors that were new to me. I will not buy a “Fabio” type cover. My favorites are the one with beautiful ball gowns or men in nice breeches, but past of their heads are missing. It leaves more to the imagination.
I’ve bought many books based on covers, especially several authors that were new to me. I will not buy a “Fabio” type cover. My favorites are the one with beautiful ball gowns or men in nice breeches, but past of their heads are missing. It leaves more to the imagination.