Hi, Jo here welcoming bestselling author, Mary Balogh, back to the Word Wenches. I've been delighting in Mary's new covers, and so I'm happy that she wants to talk about the subject. Of course, we're looking forward to your views and comments, and one lucky commenter will win a copy of Mary's book, Only a Kiss. If you already own that one, then you can choose another title.
Mary's recent complete series is the Survivor's Club, about a group of men and women who shared a difficult time during the Peninsula War. The first book is The Proposal, and its cover history illustrates what Mary is going to address.
Over to Mary.
Until recently I would have said that I never choose a book by its cover. After all, the cover is the one thing over which the author probably had very little input or control. Covers are designed within publishing houses according to the current theory of what will sell. In the historical romance genre, for example, if it seems that men with bare, waxed, over-developed chests and the generic white shirt or headless women or women with billowing skirts are what readers are looking for, then chances are that is the sort of cover writers will be landed with whether they want them or not-or whether the picture is historically accurate or not. At present the billowing skirt seems to be in vogue even though the book itself is very likely to be Regency and Regency fashions, in my opinion, are more gorgeous and romantic and sexy than the fashions of any other era.
I do my reading on a Kindle and make most of my book choices by browsing on Amazon. Like most other readers, I choose largely by author and within certain genres. In those cases covers do not have any bearing upon my choice. I will buy the book regardless. But I am always searching for new authors and I like to dabble in new genres just to see if there is anything to take my fancy and broaden my reading horizons. And I have made the discovery that yes, indeed, I am very much affected by covers. I will not buy a book solely upon the appeal of the cover, but that is what makes me stop to take a closer look. There are no doubt countless books I would enjoy enormously and countless new authors whose backlists I would devour voraciously if I could but find them. But it is the cover that draws me-or repels me.
As an author, I take my own observations to heart. If I choose or at least narrow the choices by cover, then so must many other readers. It is probably an exaggeration to say that I have wept real tears over several of my covers down the years, but I have certainly wept inwardly. It is only recently, however, that I have waged battle.
It happened when the powers that be insisted despite all my pleas to the contrary upon giving me the half-naked men covers for some of my Survivors' Club books. Those covers would sell books and attract new, younger readers, I was told. Perhaps they did. Perhaps there are armies of readers out there who like that sort of cover and will pick up one of my books for the first time and then proceed to purchase every book of my considerable backlist. I ought to take that possibility into consideration, oughtn't I? After all, I am in the business of writing books in order to make money. Let's be realistic about it.
Well, yes, let's be realistic about it. What exactly do I want to accomplish as a writer? Am I just in the business of writing books to make money? The key word here is "just." Of course I want to sell books. It is how I make my living and how I have made my living for thirty years. But my stories come from my soul, from the precious talent with which I was born–and no, I am not exaggerating or waxing sentimental here. Writing stories is what I was born to do. I know that with increasing certainty as I grow older. Specifically, I was born to write about love and hope and joy, in all of which I believe passionately. I am a shy introvert and find it difficult to reach out beyond the confines of my family and a few friends with the love for humanity and all forms of life I feel. But I can do it in writing, and I have worked long and hard to do it well. I would never include anything in my stories just to sell copies. I have to remain true to myself. Ought I, then, to allow an outside entity to display my stories to a reading public with the sort of cover that is likely to sell even if it is not representative of the story within or the author who wrote it?
That is a genuine question, not a rhetorical one. I am not critical of anyone who will do anything within her power to sell the product upon which she has expended so much time and effort. But for me the answer is no. I write about love and romance. That word "romance" has given its name to a whole vast genre and sometimes becomes synonymous with "sex." Not for me, however. I want covers that are romantic and beautiful and clearly indicate to a potential reader what (s)he is likely to find within the covers. I changed publisher halfway through the Survivors' Club series and now have full control over my covers (at the expense of more work on my part!) And I must say that so far I have been given covers so gorgeous that now I can almost weep over them for an entirely different reason! 
So, yes, unless I am buying a specific author or following a personal recommendation, I will continue to choose at least initially according to covers that attract me. And I will have to hope that my covers will attract readers both new and old to the love stories within the pages. If potential new readers turn away because the cover does not have a half-naked man or a woman with a skirt that billows across the whole page, then so be it.
I would LOVE to hear comments on this theme!
So would I, Mary. Many interesting thoughts there.
So, readers, over to you! What covers do you find most appealing for historical romance?
Which of Mary's covers shown here do you like most?
Any and all views and opinions on the subject welcome, and remember, there's a book for one randomly picked commenter.
Thank you, Mary, for visiting the Wenches again, and for such an interesting and thought provoking piece.
Jo
I like Mary’s new covers – they are beautiful, romantic, and they show the whole woman,not just below the neck 🙁
I also like the republication of some of Mary’s older titles in trade paperback format — not only is it great that these books are exposed to a new audience, they are really nice books to look at and they’re easier on my arthritic thumb as they stay open by themselves. They also seem likely to last longer than mass market paperbacks do.
I too loathe studmuffin covers and I am quite insulted that publishing marketers think that I read these books only for the sex – which is what those covers scream to me.
I note that Madeline Hunter is still stuck with them — I’ve been reading the Wicked trilogy (Book #2 of which just came out) and it’s the same old studmuffin. Happily I know I will enjoy a new Hunter book, but that cover makes me want to hurl it across the room. I wonder if she likes her covers or whether she too would like something better.
I like Mary’s new covers – they are beautiful, romantic, and they show the whole woman,not just below the neck 🙁
I also like the republication of some of Mary’s older titles in trade paperback format — not only is it great that these books are exposed to a new audience, they are really nice books to look at and they’re easier on my arthritic thumb as they stay open by themselves. They also seem likely to last longer than mass market paperbacks do.
I too loathe studmuffin covers and I am quite insulted that publishing marketers think that I read these books only for the sex – which is what those covers scream to me.
I note that Madeline Hunter is still stuck with them — I’ve been reading the Wicked trilogy (Book #2 of which just came out) and it’s the same old studmuffin. Happily I know I will enjoy a new Hunter book, but that cover makes me want to hurl it across the room. I wonder if she likes her covers or whether she too would like something better.
I like Mary’s new covers – they are beautiful, romantic, and they show the whole woman,not just below the neck 🙁
I also like the republication of some of Mary’s older titles in trade paperback format — not only is it great that these books are exposed to a new audience, they are really nice books to look at and they’re easier on my arthritic thumb as they stay open by themselves. They also seem likely to last longer than mass market paperbacks do.
I too loathe studmuffin covers and I am quite insulted that publishing marketers think that I read these books only for the sex – which is what those covers scream to me.
I note that Madeline Hunter is still stuck with them — I’ve been reading the Wicked trilogy (Book #2 of which just came out) and it’s the same old studmuffin. Happily I know I will enjoy a new Hunter book, but that cover makes me want to hurl it across the room. I wonder if she likes her covers or whether she too would like something better.
I like Mary’s new covers – they are beautiful, romantic, and they show the whole woman,not just below the neck 🙁
I also like the republication of some of Mary’s older titles in trade paperback format — not only is it great that these books are exposed to a new audience, they are really nice books to look at and they’re easier on my arthritic thumb as they stay open by themselves. They also seem likely to last longer than mass market paperbacks do.
I too loathe studmuffin covers and I am quite insulted that publishing marketers think that I read these books only for the sex – which is what those covers scream to me.
I note that Madeline Hunter is still stuck with them — I’ve been reading the Wicked trilogy (Book #2 of which just came out) and it’s the same old studmuffin. Happily I know I will enjoy a new Hunter book, but that cover makes me want to hurl it across the room. I wonder if she likes her covers or whether she too would like something better.
I like Mary’s new covers – they are beautiful, romantic, and they show the whole woman,not just below the neck 🙁
I also like the republication of some of Mary’s older titles in trade paperback format — not only is it great that these books are exposed to a new audience, they are really nice books to look at and they’re easier on my arthritic thumb as they stay open by themselves. They also seem likely to last longer than mass market paperbacks do.
I too loathe studmuffin covers and I am quite insulted that publishing marketers think that I read these books only for the sex – which is what those covers scream to me.
I note that Madeline Hunter is still stuck with them — I’ve been reading the Wicked trilogy (Book #2 of which just came out) and it’s the same old studmuffin. Happily I know I will enjoy a new Hunter book, but that cover makes me want to hurl it across the room. I wonder if she likes her covers or whether she too would like something better.
First of all, any Mary Balogh book is going to be a definite pick. I’ve been confused on the first covers because they are so different from the current covers,I wasn’t sure if they were in the same series. Thank you for the explanation. I was drawn to The Proposal because of the new look of the cover and like the continuation in this look. I too am drawn to the covers. I now read the synopsis of the book page on Amazon,as well as the ratings, even though they don’t always agree with my eventual assessment. I hope more authors are given the choice on covers. I agree bare chested men and drop shoulder flowing dresses aren’t always the draw to purchase the book.Thank you Mary for your wonderful books.
First of all, any Mary Balogh book is going to be a definite pick. I’ve been confused on the first covers because they are so different from the current covers,I wasn’t sure if they were in the same series. Thank you for the explanation. I was drawn to The Proposal because of the new look of the cover and like the continuation in this look. I too am drawn to the covers. I now read the synopsis of the book page on Amazon,as well as the ratings, even though they don’t always agree with my eventual assessment. I hope more authors are given the choice on covers. I agree bare chested men and drop shoulder flowing dresses aren’t always the draw to purchase the book.Thank you Mary for your wonderful books.
First of all, any Mary Balogh book is going to be a definite pick. I’ve been confused on the first covers because they are so different from the current covers,I wasn’t sure if they were in the same series. Thank you for the explanation. I was drawn to The Proposal because of the new look of the cover and like the continuation in this look. I too am drawn to the covers. I now read the synopsis of the book page on Amazon,as well as the ratings, even though they don’t always agree with my eventual assessment. I hope more authors are given the choice on covers. I agree bare chested men and drop shoulder flowing dresses aren’t always the draw to purchase the book.Thank you Mary for your wonderful books.
First of all, any Mary Balogh book is going to be a definite pick. I’ve been confused on the first covers because they are so different from the current covers,I wasn’t sure if they were in the same series. Thank you for the explanation. I was drawn to The Proposal because of the new look of the cover and like the continuation in this look. I too am drawn to the covers. I now read the synopsis of the book page on Amazon,as well as the ratings, even though they don’t always agree with my eventual assessment. I hope more authors are given the choice on covers. I agree bare chested men and drop shoulder flowing dresses aren’t always the draw to purchase the book.Thank you Mary for your wonderful books.
First of all, any Mary Balogh book is going to be a definite pick. I’ve been confused on the first covers because they are so different from the current covers,I wasn’t sure if they were in the same series. Thank you for the explanation. I was drawn to The Proposal because of the new look of the cover and like the continuation in this look. I too am drawn to the covers. I now read the synopsis of the book page on Amazon,as well as the ratings, even though they don’t always agree with my eventual assessment. I hope more authors are given the choice on covers. I agree bare chested men and drop shoulder flowing dresses aren’t always the draw to purchase the book.Thank you Mary for your wonderful books.
Thank you, Janice. It always feels good to be agreed with, though I respect contrary opinions too.
Thank you, Janice. It always feels good to be agreed with, though I respect contrary opinions too.
Thank you, Janice. It always feels good to be agreed with, though I respect contrary opinions too.
Thank you, Janice. It always feels good to be agreed with, though I respect contrary opinions too.
Thank you, Janice. It always feels good to be agreed with, though I respect contrary opinions too.
Thank you, Margaret.
Thank you, Margaret.
Thank you, Margaret.
Thank you, Margaret.
Thank you, Margaret.
Mary, I applaud your stand on romance covers! That it means so much to you shows the integrity you have for your work and for the romance fiction readers and industry. Thank you!
It’s always seemed insulting that a publisher thinks I need to see bare skin on a cover to buy a book, or that once I begin reading I won’t notice the cover details that have nothing to do with the setting/characters/story. There have been many times I’ve put on a paperback cover simply to hide the annoying cover art while I’m reading the book. (And I like that with Kindle it’s a non-issue!)
Thanks for all your hard work, Mary. I’ve always admired the great depth and true-ness of emotion and storyline in your books.
Mary, I applaud your stand on romance covers! That it means so much to you shows the integrity you have for your work and for the romance fiction readers and industry. Thank you!
It’s always seemed insulting that a publisher thinks I need to see bare skin on a cover to buy a book, or that once I begin reading I won’t notice the cover details that have nothing to do with the setting/characters/story. There have been many times I’ve put on a paperback cover simply to hide the annoying cover art while I’m reading the book. (And I like that with Kindle it’s a non-issue!)
Thanks for all your hard work, Mary. I’ve always admired the great depth and true-ness of emotion and storyline in your books.
Mary, I applaud your stand on romance covers! That it means so much to you shows the integrity you have for your work and for the romance fiction readers and industry. Thank you!
It’s always seemed insulting that a publisher thinks I need to see bare skin on a cover to buy a book, or that once I begin reading I won’t notice the cover details that have nothing to do with the setting/characters/story. There have been many times I’ve put on a paperback cover simply to hide the annoying cover art while I’m reading the book. (And I like that with Kindle it’s a non-issue!)
Thanks for all your hard work, Mary. I’ve always admired the great depth and true-ness of emotion and storyline in your books.
Mary, I applaud your stand on romance covers! That it means so much to you shows the integrity you have for your work and for the romance fiction readers and industry. Thank you!
It’s always seemed insulting that a publisher thinks I need to see bare skin on a cover to buy a book, or that once I begin reading I won’t notice the cover details that have nothing to do with the setting/characters/story. There have been many times I’ve put on a paperback cover simply to hide the annoying cover art while I’m reading the book. (And I like that with Kindle it’s a non-issue!)
Thanks for all your hard work, Mary. I’ve always admired the great depth and true-ness of emotion and storyline in your books.
Mary, I applaud your stand on romance covers! That it means so much to you shows the integrity you have for your work and for the romance fiction readers and industry. Thank you!
It’s always seemed insulting that a publisher thinks I need to see bare skin on a cover to buy a book, or that once I begin reading I won’t notice the cover details that have nothing to do with the setting/characters/story. There have been many times I’ve put on a paperback cover simply to hide the annoying cover art while I’m reading the book. (And I like that with Kindle it’s a non-issue!)
Thanks for all your hard work, Mary. I’ve always admired the great depth and true-ness of emotion and storyline in your books.
I buy authors, not covers. New authors I find on free and or cheap book websites. Although that is not entirely true. Amazon does offer books that are similar to my favorite authors and if the synopsis and ratings encourage I buy. Mary, all your readers hope you continue to write about “romance” for a very long time.
I buy authors, not covers. New authors I find on free and or cheap book websites. Although that is not entirely true. Amazon does offer books that are similar to my favorite authors and if the synopsis and ratings encourage I buy. Mary, all your readers hope you continue to write about “romance” for a very long time.
I buy authors, not covers. New authors I find on free and or cheap book websites. Although that is not entirely true. Amazon does offer books that are similar to my favorite authors and if the synopsis and ratings encourage I buy. Mary, all your readers hope you continue to write about “romance” for a very long time.
I buy authors, not covers. New authors I find on free and or cheap book websites. Although that is not entirely true. Amazon does offer books that are similar to my favorite authors and if the synopsis and ratings encourage I buy. Mary, all your readers hope you continue to write about “romance” for a very long time.
I buy authors, not covers. New authors I find on free and or cheap book websites. Although that is not entirely true. Amazon does offer books that are similar to my favorite authors and if the synopsis and ratings encourage I buy. Mary, all your readers hope you continue to write about “romance” for a very long time.
I agree. Studmuffin covers are appropriate if the book is very sex-filled, but even then, I don’t like them. I especially don’t like them when they are not period-appropriate. I doubt that many Regency men waxed their chests. I’m not a super-stickler for detail, but I hate it when authors who I know are careful with facts are stuck with covers with women wearing what look like 80s (and I mean 1980s) evening gowns on Regency romances. And please don’t get me started on the waxed highlanders in kilts just back from the cleaners doing things with broadswords that are not just dangerous, but impossible! I know it’s a business and publishers think they know what they’re doing, but I can’t see how misrepresenting a book can be good for sales – at least repeat sales!
I agree. Studmuffin covers are appropriate if the book is very sex-filled, but even then, I don’t like them. I especially don’t like them when they are not period-appropriate. I doubt that many Regency men waxed their chests. I’m not a super-stickler for detail, but I hate it when authors who I know are careful with facts are stuck with covers with women wearing what look like 80s (and I mean 1980s) evening gowns on Regency romances. And please don’t get me started on the waxed highlanders in kilts just back from the cleaners doing things with broadswords that are not just dangerous, but impossible! I know it’s a business and publishers think they know what they’re doing, but I can’t see how misrepresenting a book can be good for sales – at least repeat sales!
I agree. Studmuffin covers are appropriate if the book is very sex-filled, but even then, I don’t like them. I especially don’t like them when they are not period-appropriate. I doubt that many Regency men waxed their chests. I’m not a super-stickler for detail, but I hate it when authors who I know are careful with facts are stuck with covers with women wearing what look like 80s (and I mean 1980s) evening gowns on Regency romances. And please don’t get me started on the waxed highlanders in kilts just back from the cleaners doing things with broadswords that are not just dangerous, but impossible! I know it’s a business and publishers think they know what they’re doing, but I can’t see how misrepresenting a book can be good for sales – at least repeat sales!
I agree. Studmuffin covers are appropriate if the book is very sex-filled, but even then, I don’t like them. I especially don’t like them when they are not period-appropriate. I doubt that many Regency men waxed their chests. I’m not a super-stickler for detail, but I hate it when authors who I know are careful with facts are stuck with covers with women wearing what look like 80s (and I mean 1980s) evening gowns on Regency romances. And please don’t get me started on the waxed highlanders in kilts just back from the cleaners doing things with broadswords that are not just dangerous, but impossible! I know it’s a business and publishers think they know what they’re doing, but I can’t see how misrepresenting a book can be good for sales – at least repeat sales!
I agree. Studmuffin covers are appropriate if the book is very sex-filled, but even then, I don’t like them. I especially don’t like them when they are not period-appropriate. I doubt that many Regency men waxed their chests. I’m not a super-stickler for detail, but I hate it when authors who I know are careful with facts are stuck with covers with women wearing what look like 80s (and I mean 1980s) evening gowns on Regency romances. And please don’t get me started on the waxed highlanders in kilts just back from the cleaners doing things with broadswords that are not just dangerous, but impossible! I know it’s a business and publishers think they know what they’re doing, but I can’t see how misrepresenting a book can be good for sales – at least repeat sales!
I also choose a book buy it’s cover. I love the bright colors of the beautiful dresses. Then I will read the back to see if I will like the content of the book. I also buy by author if I am reading a series I don’t bother w/cover or even care to read the back I just want the story to continue. ..rhanks
I also choose a book buy it’s cover. I love the bright colors of the beautiful dresses. Then I will read the back to see if I will like the content of the book. I also buy by author if I am reading a series I don’t bother w/cover or even care to read the back I just want the story to continue. ..rhanks
I also choose a book buy it’s cover. I love the bright colors of the beautiful dresses. Then I will read the back to see if I will like the content of the book. I also buy by author if I am reading a series I don’t bother w/cover or even care to read the back I just want the story to continue. ..rhanks
I also choose a book buy it’s cover. I love the bright colors of the beautiful dresses. Then I will read the back to see if I will like the content of the book. I also buy by author if I am reading a series I don’t bother w/cover or even care to read the back I just want the story to continue. ..rhanks
I also choose a book buy it’s cover. I love the bright colors of the beautiful dresses. Then I will read the back to see if I will like the content of the book. I also buy by author if I am reading a series I don’t bother w/cover or even care to read the back I just want the story to continue. ..rhanks
First off let me say I love Mary’s books, I’ve got a complete set of The Huxtable series and what drew me in was the cover at first. I just so happened to be walking by and saw it so I picked it up and read the back. Not only was it being praised on the back but I just couldn’t not read it after I read the first page. I recently got Silent Medoly and I fell in love with the cover,it was so pretty and after reading the plot I was intrigued. I’m not real big on seeing half naked men on the fronts of books but hey to each their own
First off let me say I love Mary’s books, I’ve got a complete set of The Huxtable series and what drew me in was the cover at first. I just so happened to be walking by and saw it so I picked it up and read the back. Not only was it being praised on the back but I just couldn’t not read it after I read the first page. I recently got Silent Medoly and I fell in love with the cover,it was so pretty and after reading the plot I was intrigued. I’m not real big on seeing half naked men on the fronts of books but hey to each their own
First off let me say I love Mary’s books, I’ve got a complete set of The Huxtable series and what drew me in was the cover at first. I just so happened to be walking by and saw it so I picked it up and read the back. Not only was it being praised on the back but I just couldn’t not read it after I read the first page. I recently got Silent Medoly and I fell in love with the cover,it was so pretty and after reading the plot I was intrigued. I’m not real big on seeing half naked men on the fronts of books but hey to each their own
First off let me say I love Mary’s books, I’ve got a complete set of The Huxtable series and what drew me in was the cover at first. I just so happened to be walking by and saw it so I picked it up and read the back. Not only was it being praised on the back but I just couldn’t not read it after I read the first page. I recently got Silent Medoly and I fell in love with the cover,it was so pretty and after reading the plot I was intrigued. I’m not real big on seeing half naked men on the fronts of books but hey to each their own
First off let me say I love Mary’s books, I’ve got a complete set of The Huxtable series and what drew me in was the cover at first. I just so happened to be walking by and saw it so I picked it up and read the back. Not only was it being praised on the back but I just couldn’t not read it after I read the first page. I recently got Silent Medoly and I fell in love with the cover,it was so pretty and after reading the plot I was intrigued. I’m not real big on seeing half naked men on the fronts of books but hey to each their own
I don’t know where this belief younger readers will pick up historicals with naked men on them comes from. Every time I have a discussion or blog about good and bad covers, it’s the older readers who want the naked men, and the younger readers who hate them!
I am getting very tired of publishers thinking they know what readers want better than the readers do!
In Australia we don’t do the naked man covers as much, and all the women I know go for the covers with beautiful artwork, and avoid the glistening, spray-tanned, anachronistic He-Men.
I don’t know where this belief younger readers will pick up historicals with naked men on them comes from. Every time I have a discussion or blog about good and bad covers, it’s the older readers who want the naked men, and the younger readers who hate them!
I am getting very tired of publishers thinking they know what readers want better than the readers do!
In Australia we don’t do the naked man covers as much, and all the women I know go for the covers with beautiful artwork, and avoid the glistening, spray-tanned, anachronistic He-Men.
I don’t know where this belief younger readers will pick up historicals with naked men on them comes from. Every time I have a discussion or blog about good and bad covers, it’s the older readers who want the naked men, and the younger readers who hate them!
I am getting very tired of publishers thinking they know what readers want better than the readers do!
In Australia we don’t do the naked man covers as much, and all the women I know go for the covers with beautiful artwork, and avoid the glistening, spray-tanned, anachronistic He-Men.
I don’t know where this belief younger readers will pick up historicals with naked men on them comes from. Every time I have a discussion or blog about good and bad covers, it’s the older readers who want the naked men, and the younger readers who hate them!
I am getting very tired of publishers thinking they know what readers want better than the readers do!
In Australia we don’t do the naked man covers as much, and all the women I know go for the covers with beautiful artwork, and avoid the glistening, spray-tanned, anachronistic He-Men.
I don’t know where this belief younger readers will pick up historicals with naked men on them comes from. Every time I have a discussion or blog about good and bad covers, it’s the older readers who want the naked men, and the younger readers who hate them!
I am getting very tired of publishers thinking they know what readers want better than the readers do!
In Australia we don’t do the naked man covers as much, and all the women I know go for the covers with beautiful artwork, and avoid the glistening, spray-tanned, anachronistic He-Men.
I also do not go by the covers I like to form my own opinion as to what people look like in the book, what one person finds attractive is different from another person – I have my favorite authors that I go by and I also go by referrals –
I also do not go by the covers I like to form my own opinion as to what people look like in the book, what one person finds attractive is different from another person – I have my favorite authors that I go by and I also go by referrals –
I also do not go by the covers I like to form my own opinion as to what people look like in the book, what one person finds attractive is different from another person – I have my favorite authors that I go by and I also go by referrals –
I also do not go by the covers I like to form my own opinion as to what people look like in the book, what one person finds attractive is different from another person – I have my favorite authors that I go by and I also go by referrals –
I also do not go by the covers I like to form my own opinion as to what people look like in the book, what one person finds attractive is different from another person – I have my favorite authors that I go by and I also go by referrals –
I choose books by the author, but sometimes come across an intriguing cover that makes me look closer. I don’t understand the supposed appeal of the decapitated figures trend (is it so the reader can better put herself in the heroine’s place? It just always looks like someone cropped the image in the wrong spot). As for the shirtless hero and giant flouncy dress covers, they often seem just as interchangeable as the headless figures, with no connection to the story or time period inside. The later covers on Mary’s books are just lovely, and convey much more emotion.
I choose books by the author, but sometimes come across an intriguing cover that makes me look closer. I don’t understand the supposed appeal of the decapitated figures trend (is it so the reader can better put herself in the heroine’s place? It just always looks like someone cropped the image in the wrong spot). As for the shirtless hero and giant flouncy dress covers, they often seem just as interchangeable as the headless figures, with no connection to the story or time period inside. The later covers on Mary’s books are just lovely, and convey much more emotion.
I choose books by the author, but sometimes come across an intriguing cover that makes me look closer. I don’t understand the supposed appeal of the decapitated figures trend (is it so the reader can better put herself in the heroine’s place? It just always looks like someone cropped the image in the wrong spot). As for the shirtless hero and giant flouncy dress covers, they often seem just as interchangeable as the headless figures, with no connection to the story or time period inside. The later covers on Mary’s books are just lovely, and convey much more emotion.
I choose books by the author, but sometimes come across an intriguing cover that makes me look closer. I don’t understand the supposed appeal of the decapitated figures trend (is it so the reader can better put herself in the heroine’s place? It just always looks like someone cropped the image in the wrong spot). As for the shirtless hero and giant flouncy dress covers, they often seem just as interchangeable as the headless figures, with no connection to the story or time period inside. The later covers on Mary’s books are just lovely, and convey much more emotion.
I choose books by the author, but sometimes come across an intriguing cover that makes me look closer. I don’t understand the supposed appeal of the decapitated figures trend (is it so the reader can better put herself in the heroine’s place? It just always looks like someone cropped the image in the wrong spot). As for the shirtless hero and giant flouncy dress covers, they often seem just as interchangeable as the headless figures, with no connection to the story or time period inside. The later covers on Mary’s books are just lovely, and convey much more emotion.
Thank you, Sylvia. Yes, cover art does not matter much when one is reading on a Kindle, but it still figures in the choice of a book to buy on Kindle.
Thank you, Sylvia. Yes, cover art does not matter much when one is reading on a Kindle, but it still figures in the choice of a book to buy on Kindle.
Thank you, Sylvia. Yes, cover art does not matter much when one is reading on a Kindle, but it still figures in the choice of a book to buy on Kindle.
Thank you, Sylvia. Yes, cover art does not matter much when one is reading on a Kindle, but it still figures in the choice of a book to buy on Kindle.
Thank you, Sylvia. Yes, cover art does not matter much when one is reading on a Kindle, but it still figures in the choice of a book to buy on Kindle.
Thank you, Anne. It is always interesting to hear how other people choose books.
Thank you, Anne. It is always interesting to hear how other people choose books.
Thank you, Anne. It is always interesting to hear how other people choose books.
Thank you, Anne. It is always interesting to hear how other people choose books.
Thank you, Anne. It is always interesting to hear how other people choose books.
I’m so glad you have control over your covers now, Mary. They are beautiful and representative of the historical content and romance inside. I commented on your blog once about the paperback cover for The Proposal, asking if that was your idea of Hugo, and you said absolutely not. I had purchased a hardback cover with the beautiful picture of Gwen on the outside and had developed an entirely different picture of Hugo in my mind. You then explained what you have written about in this article. I wish more authors had this choice. So glad you have stayed true to yourself. I like all of the covers above, but my favorite would be Longing.
I’m so glad you have control over your covers now, Mary. They are beautiful and representative of the historical content and romance inside. I commented on your blog once about the paperback cover for The Proposal, asking if that was your idea of Hugo, and you said absolutely not. I had purchased a hardback cover with the beautiful picture of Gwen on the outside and had developed an entirely different picture of Hugo in my mind. You then explained what you have written about in this article. I wish more authors had this choice. So glad you have stayed true to yourself. I like all of the covers above, but my favorite would be Longing.
I’m so glad you have control over your covers now, Mary. They are beautiful and representative of the historical content and romance inside. I commented on your blog once about the paperback cover for The Proposal, asking if that was your idea of Hugo, and you said absolutely not. I had purchased a hardback cover with the beautiful picture of Gwen on the outside and had developed an entirely different picture of Hugo in my mind. You then explained what you have written about in this article. I wish more authors had this choice. So glad you have stayed true to yourself. I like all of the covers above, but my favorite would be Longing.
I’m so glad you have control over your covers now, Mary. They are beautiful and representative of the historical content and romance inside. I commented on your blog once about the paperback cover for The Proposal, asking if that was your idea of Hugo, and you said absolutely not. I had purchased a hardback cover with the beautiful picture of Gwen on the outside and had developed an entirely different picture of Hugo in my mind. You then explained what you have written about in this article. I wish more authors had this choice. So glad you have stayed true to yourself. I like all of the covers above, but my favorite would be Longing.
I’m so glad you have control over your covers now, Mary. They are beautiful and representative of the historical content and romance inside. I commented on your blog once about the paperback cover for The Proposal, asking if that was your idea of Hugo, and you said absolutely not. I had purchased a hardback cover with the beautiful picture of Gwen on the outside and had developed an entirely different picture of Hugo in my mind. You then explained what you have written about in this article. I wish more authors had this choice. So glad you have stayed true to yourself. I like all of the covers above, but my favorite would be Longing.
Thanks for the chuckle, Imelda!
Thanks for the chuckle, Imelda!
Thanks for the chuckle, Imelda!
Thanks for the chuckle, Imelda!
Thanks for the chuckle, Imelda!
Thank you, Lee. Dresses do attract, don’t they?
Thank you, Lee. Dresses do attract, don’t they?
Thank you, Lee. Dresses do attract, don’t they?
Thank you, Lee. Dresses do attract, don’t they?
Thank you, Lee. Dresses do attract, don’t they?
I am glad to hear that some of my favorite covers have attracted readers too, Clarissa.
I am glad to hear that some of my favorite covers have attracted readers too, Clarissa.
I am glad to hear that some of my favorite covers have attracted readers too, Clarissa.
I am glad to hear that some of my favorite covers have attracted readers too, Clarissa.
I am glad to hear that some of my favorite covers have attracted readers too, Clarissa.
I hear this so often, Sonya, but still the myth persists that romance readers are avid sex fiends.
I hear this so often, Sonya, but still the myth persists that romance readers are avid sex fiends.
I hear this so often, Sonya, but still the myth persists that romance readers are avid sex fiends.
I hear this so often, Sonya, but still the myth persists that romance readers are avid sex fiends.
I hear this so often, Sonya, but still the myth persists that romance readers are avid sex fiends.
Yes, I do appreciate the problem publishers have, Barbara, when tastes in cover art vary so widely.
Yes, I do appreciate the problem publishers have, Barbara, when tastes in cover art vary so widely.
Yes, I do appreciate the problem publishers have, Barbara, when tastes in cover art vary so widely.
Yes, I do appreciate the problem publishers have, Barbara, when tastes in cover art vary so widely.
Yes, I do appreciate the problem publishers have, Barbara, when tastes in cover art vary so widely.
Emotion, yes, Faye, That is a key word, I think. I like it when a romance book has a romantic rather than a sexy cover.
Emotion, yes, Faye, That is a key word, I think. I like it when a romance book has a romantic rather than a sexy cover.
Emotion, yes, Faye, That is a key word, I think. I like it when a romance book has a romantic rather than a sexy cover.
Emotion, yes, Faye, That is a key word, I think. I like it when a romance book has a romantic rather than a sexy cover.
Emotion, yes, Faye, That is a key word, I think. I like it when a romance book has a romantic rather than a sexy cover.
I love the LONGING cover too, Betty. The dress was white to start with, but I had it changed. This was a Welsh mining valley!
I love the LONGING cover too, Betty. The dress was white to start with, but I had it changed. This was a Welsh mining valley!
I love the LONGING cover too, Betty. The dress was white to start with, but I had it changed. This was a Welsh mining valley!
I love the LONGING cover too, Betty. The dress was white to start with, but I had it changed. This was a Welsh mining valley!
I love the LONGING cover too, Betty. The dress was white to start with, but I had it changed. This was a Welsh mining valley!
I have been reading Mary’s books for many years and I would buy her books if there was nothing on the covers but her name.
I am a reader and always have a book in my purse ready to go in bank line ups, waiting rooms or bed side table. I read all sorts of genre. When I had my first child I was given a bag of swag by the hospital which included a romance novel along with samples of baby oriented products. I admit to having had a real prejudice against this genre, based largely on the covers which I felt insulted women and men equally. However, as I read always, even cereal boxes if that is what is handy, I read it. I was lucky. I do not remember the author of that book but I know that t was Regency and full of wonderful, fully developed, real characters! I found adventure, wit and humour together with honest romance.
After reading a few others I discovered that, just as with other genre that I read, there were authors I liked and appreciated and others who disappointed. Early on I came to trust that with Mary, I would find a story into which I could fall.
I like Mary’s new covers. They are a more honest representation of what you will find within. I cannot see that there is any lasting value in tricking someone into buying a book and I cannot believe that this view of women still persists.
Thanks for taking this on Mary!
I have been reading Mary’s books for many years and I would buy her books if there was nothing on the covers but her name.
I am a reader and always have a book in my purse ready to go in bank line ups, waiting rooms or bed side table. I read all sorts of genre. When I had my first child I was given a bag of swag by the hospital which included a romance novel along with samples of baby oriented products. I admit to having had a real prejudice against this genre, based largely on the covers which I felt insulted women and men equally. However, as I read always, even cereal boxes if that is what is handy, I read it. I was lucky. I do not remember the author of that book but I know that t was Regency and full of wonderful, fully developed, real characters! I found adventure, wit and humour together with honest romance.
After reading a few others I discovered that, just as with other genre that I read, there were authors I liked and appreciated and others who disappointed. Early on I came to trust that with Mary, I would find a story into which I could fall.
I like Mary’s new covers. They are a more honest representation of what you will find within. I cannot see that there is any lasting value in tricking someone into buying a book and I cannot believe that this view of women still persists.
Thanks for taking this on Mary!
I have been reading Mary’s books for many years and I would buy her books if there was nothing on the covers but her name.
I am a reader and always have a book in my purse ready to go in bank line ups, waiting rooms or bed side table. I read all sorts of genre. When I had my first child I was given a bag of swag by the hospital which included a romance novel along with samples of baby oriented products. I admit to having had a real prejudice against this genre, based largely on the covers which I felt insulted women and men equally. However, as I read always, even cereal boxes if that is what is handy, I read it. I was lucky. I do not remember the author of that book but I know that t was Regency and full of wonderful, fully developed, real characters! I found adventure, wit and humour together with honest romance.
After reading a few others I discovered that, just as with other genre that I read, there were authors I liked and appreciated and others who disappointed. Early on I came to trust that with Mary, I would find a story into which I could fall.
I like Mary’s new covers. They are a more honest representation of what you will find within. I cannot see that there is any lasting value in tricking someone into buying a book and I cannot believe that this view of women still persists.
Thanks for taking this on Mary!
I have been reading Mary’s books for many years and I would buy her books if there was nothing on the covers but her name.
I am a reader and always have a book in my purse ready to go in bank line ups, waiting rooms or bed side table. I read all sorts of genre. When I had my first child I was given a bag of swag by the hospital which included a romance novel along with samples of baby oriented products. I admit to having had a real prejudice against this genre, based largely on the covers which I felt insulted women and men equally. However, as I read always, even cereal boxes if that is what is handy, I read it. I was lucky. I do not remember the author of that book but I know that t was Regency and full of wonderful, fully developed, real characters! I found adventure, wit and humour together with honest romance.
After reading a few others I discovered that, just as with other genre that I read, there were authors I liked and appreciated and others who disappointed. Early on I came to trust that with Mary, I would find a story into which I could fall.
I like Mary’s new covers. They are a more honest representation of what you will find within. I cannot see that there is any lasting value in tricking someone into buying a book and I cannot believe that this view of women still persists.
Thanks for taking this on Mary!
I have been reading Mary’s books for many years and I would buy her books if there was nothing on the covers but her name.
I am a reader and always have a book in my purse ready to go in bank line ups, waiting rooms or bed side table. I read all sorts of genre. When I had my first child I was given a bag of swag by the hospital which included a romance novel along with samples of baby oriented products. I admit to having had a real prejudice against this genre, based largely on the covers which I felt insulted women and men equally. However, as I read always, even cereal boxes if that is what is handy, I read it. I was lucky. I do not remember the author of that book but I know that t was Regency and full of wonderful, fully developed, real characters! I found adventure, wit and humour together with honest romance.
After reading a few others I discovered that, just as with other genre that I read, there were authors I liked and appreciated and others who disappointed. Early on I came to trust that with Mary, I would find a story into which I could fall.
I like Mary’s new covers. They are a more honest representation of what you will find within. I cannot see that there is any lasting value in tricking someone into buying a book and I cannot believe that this view of women still persists.
Thanks for taking this on Mary!
I too enjoy a good cover. though that is hardly the reason I choose a book. Not a fan of the burly men in white shirts or of the headless women, but I will buy them if it is an author I love. What also drives me nuts it when the person who picks the cover has no concept of what the story is about. I read one about a girl whose flaming red hair was important to her and the story, but on the cover she was blond. I think the author should have veto rights…it is his or her vision that wrote the story… Love the latest Balogh covers…
I too enjoy a good cover. though that is hardly the reason I choose a book. Not a fan of the burly men in white shirts or of the headless women, but I will buy them if it is an author I love. What also drives me nuts it when the person who picks the cover has no concept of what the story is about. I read one about a girl whose flaming red hair was important to her and the story, but on the cover she was blond. I think the author should have veto rights…it is his or her vision that wrote the story… Love the latest Balogh covers…
I too enjoy a good cover. though that is hardly the reason I choose a book. Not a fan of the burly men in white shirts or of the headless women, but I will buy them if it is an author I love. What also drives me nuts it when the person who picks the cover has no concept of what the story is about. I read one about a girl whose flaming red hair was important to her and the story, but on the cover she was blond. I think the author should have veto rights…it is his or her vision that wrote the story… Love the latest Balogh covers…
I too enjoy a good cover. though that is hardly the reason I choose a book. Not a fan of the burly men in white shirts or of the headless women, but I will buy them if it is an author I love. What also drives me nuts it when the person who picks the cover has no concept of what the story is about. I read one about a girl whose flaming red hair was important to her and the story, but on the cover she was blond. I think the author should have veto rights…it is his or her vision that wrote the story… Love the latest Balogh covers…
I too enjoy a good cover. though that is hardly the reason I choose a book. Not a fan of the burly men in white shirts or of the headless women, but I will buy them if it is an author I love. What also drives me nuts it when the person who picks the cover has no concept of what the story is about. I read one about a girl whose flaming red hair was important to her and the story, but on the cover she was blond. I think the author should have veto rights…it is his or her vision that wrote the story… Love the latest Balogh covers…
I agree with Mary! I love the softer covers that promote romance rather that the ones that promote raw sexuality.
I agree with Mary! I love the softer covers that promote romance rather that the ones that promote raw sexuality.
I agree with Mary! I love the softer covers that promote romance rather that the ones that promote raw sexuality.
I agree with Mary! I love the softer covers that promote romance rather that the ones that promote raw sexuality.
I agree with Mary! I love the softer covers that promote romance rather that the ones that promote raw sexuality.
I agree with everything you said in this blog. The only time that I notice covers in a meaningful way is when I’m searching for new authors in the library, bookstore, or on line. The cover will draw my eye to it. If I hadn’t already known you for the wonderful author that you are, the covers on THE ARRANGEMENT and THE PROPOSAL would not have even enticed me to give the book a second glance.
Now someone needs to address the subject of titles. There are way too many “wicked” dukes and rogues running around out there.
I agree with everything you said in this blog. The only time that I notice covers in a meaningful way is when I’m searching for new authors in the library, bookstore, or on line. The cover will draw my eye to it. If I hadn’t already known you for the wonderful author that you are, the covers on THE ARRANGEMENT and THE PROPOSAL would not have even enticed me to give the book a second glance.
Now someone needs to address the subject of titles. There are way too many “wicked” dukes and rogues running around out there.
I agree with everything you said in this blog. The only time that I notice covers in a meaningful way is when I’m searching for new authors in the library, bookstore, or on line. The cover will draw my eye to it. If I hadn’t already known you for the wonderful author that you are, the covers on THE ARRANGEMENT and THE PROPOSAL would not have even enticed me to give the book a second glance.
Now someone needs to address the subject of titles. There are way too many “wicked” dukes and rogues running around out there.
I agree with everything you said in this blog. The only time that I notice covers in a meaningful way is when I’m searching for new authors in the library, bookstore, or on line. The cover will draw my eye to it. If I hadn’t already known you for the wonderful author that you are, the covers on THE ARRANGEMENT and THE PROPOSAL would not have even enticed me to give the book a second glance.
Now someone needs to address the subject of titles. There are way too many “wicked” dukes and rogues running around out there.
I agree with everything you said in this blog. The only time that I notice covers in a meaningful way is when I’m searching for new authors in the library, bookstore, or on line. The cover will draw my eye to it. If I hadn’t already known you for the wonderful author that you are, the covers on THE ARRANGEMENT and THE PROPOSAL would not have even enticed me to give the book a second glance.
Now someone needs to address the subject of titles. There are way too many “wicked” dukes and rogues running around out there.
Love the new covers! They are so visually interesting that I’ve spent time just looking at them. And having real Regency dresses on the ladies! Yes.
I don’t need a copy of Only a Kiss because I just scored a copy at my Library Book Sale yesterday. I was totally surprised it didn’t was there!
As to what covers I do like – the hunky waxed guys just look too young. No life experience. And really? Do we need the chest? More action and adventure would be fun in the cover.
But I really don’t buy books by the cover. Though I do have to say I actually rejected a book yesterday partially because of the cover. (even for 50 cents) because it was about a Halloween Ball (with pumpkins and corn shucks) during the Regency period.
Really? Halloween Ball? I don’t think so!
My eyes are still burning with that image……
Love the new covers! They are so visually interesting that I’ve spent time just looking at them. And having real Regency dresses on the ladies! Yes.
I don’t need a copy of Only a Kiss because I just scored a copy at my Library Book Sale yesterday. I was totally surprised it didn’t was there!
As to what covers I do like – the hunky waxed guys just look too young. No life experience. And really? Do we need the chest? More action and adventure would be fun in the cover.
But I really don’t buy books by the cover. Though I do have to say I actually rejected a book yesterday partially because of the cover. (even for 50 cents) because it was about a Halloween Ball (with pumpkins and corn shucks) during the Regency period.
Really? Halloween Ball? I don’t think so!
My eyes are still burning with that image……
Love the new covers! They are so visually interesting that I’ve spent time just looking at them. And having real Regency dresses on the ladies! Yes.
I don’t need a copy of Only a Kiss because I just scored a copy at my Library Book Sale yesterday. I was totally surprised it didn’t was there!
As to what covers I do like – the hunky waxed guys just look too young. No life experience. And really? Do we need the chest? More action and adventure would be fun in the cover.
But I really don’t buy books by the cover. Though I do have to say I actually rejected a book yesterday partially because of the cover. (even for 50 cents) because it was about a Halloween Ball (with pumpkins and corn shucks) during the Regency period.
Really? Halloween Ball? I don’t think so!
My eyes are still burning with that image……
Love the new covers! They are so visually interesting that I’ve spent time just looking at them. And having real Regency dresses on the ladies! Yes.
I don’t need a copy of Only a Kiss because I just scored a copy at my Library Book Sale yesterday. I was totally surprised it didn’t was there!
As to what covers I do like – the hunky waxed guys just look too young. No life experience. And really? Do we need the chest? More action and adventure would be fun in the cover.
But I really don’t buy books by the cover. Though I do have to say I actually rejected a book yesterday partially because of the cover. (even for 50 cents) because it was about a Halloween Ball (with pumpkins and corn shucks) during the Regency period.
Really? Halloween Ball? I don’t think so!
My eyes are still burning with that image……
Love the new covers! They are so visually interesting that I’ve spent time just looking at them. And having real Regency dresses on the ladies! Yes.
I don’t need a copy of Only a Kiss because I just scored a copy at my Library Book Sale yesterday. I was totally surprised it didn’t was there!
As to what covers I do like – the hunky waxed guys just look too young. No life experience. And really? Do we need the chest? More action and adventure would be fun in the cover.
But I really don’t buy books by the cover. Though I do have to say I actually rejected a book yesterday partially because of the cover. (even for 50 cents) because it was about a Halloween Ball (with pumpkins and corn shucks) during the Regency period.
Really? Halloween Ball? I don’t think so!
My eyes are still burning with that image……
Sigh…delete the didn’t…I must have changed my mind what I was writing.
Sigh…delete the didn’t…I must have changed my mind what I was writing.
Sigh…delete the didn’t…I must have changed my mind what I was writing.
Sigh…delete the didn’t…I must have changed my mind what I was writing.
Sigh…delete the didn’t…I must have changed my mind what I was writing.
I do, also, agree with “Miss” Mary. I will sometimes pick up a book…or not…based upon its cover. To me, less is more, and the lovely newer covers on Mary’s books are wonderful. I do not want the covers of my books to scream “sex”; I want them to be a portrait of the characters within. I did, however, like the covers on the Survivor’s books that had just males. For the reason I stated: they appeared to be portraits of the young men she was writing about.
I am able to read a great deal in my job as a teacher of high school students. I do not want to read books that I feel like I must “cover the cover”, for fear that students think of me as reading something “inappropriate”. And, yes, what they see does indeed “matter” because I have to maintain a certain “image” to them; as well as being an influence to them to read. Historical Romance is one of my favorites, but I am not going for a book without a “story”…and a cover can sometimes be misleading. Again, I feel like the new covers on Mary’s books are wonderful, lovely, and in beautiful taste. (The Survivor’s Series are magnificent books, and it would be a shame for someone to pass them up because the covers were off-putting.)
I do, also, agree with “Miss” Mary. I will sometimes pick up a book…or not…based upon its cover. To me, less is more, and the lovely newer covers on Mary’s books are wonderful. I do not want the covers of my books to scream “sex”; I want them to be a portrait of the characters within. I did, however, like the covers on the Survivor’s books that had just males. For the reason I stated: they appeared to be portraits of the young men she was writing about.
I am able to read a great deal in my job as a teacher of high school students. I do not want to read books that I feel like I must “cover the cover”, for fear that students think of me as reading something “inappropriate”. And, yes, what they see does indeed “matter” because I have to maintain a certain “image” to them; as well as being an influence to them to read. Historical Romance is one of my favorites, but I am not going for a book without a “story”…and a cover can sometimes be misleading. Again, I feel like the new covers on Mary’s books are wonderful, lovely, and in beautiful taste. (The Survivor’s Series are magnificent books, and it would be a shame for someone to pass them up because the covers were off-putting.)
I do, also, agree with “Miss” Mary. I will sometimes pick up a book…or not…based upon its cover. To me, less is more, and the lovely newer covers on Mary’s books are wonderful. I do not want the covers of my books to scream “sex”; I want them to be a portrait of the characters within. I did, however, like the covers on the Survivor’s books that had just males. For the reason I stated: they appeared to be portraits of the young men she was writing about.
I am able to read a great deal in my job as a teacher of high school students. I do not want to read books that I feel like I must “cover the cover”, for fear that students think of me as reading something “inappropriate”. And, yes, what they see does indeed “matter” because I have to maintain a certain “image” to them; as well as being an influence to them to read. Historical Romance is one of my favorites, but I am not going for a book without a “story”…and a cover can sometimes be misleading. Again, I feel like the new covers on Mary’s books are wonderful, lovely, and in beautiful taste. (The Survivor’s Series are magnificent books, and it would be a shame for someone to pass them up because the covers were off-putting.)
I do, also, agree with “Miss” Mary. I will sometimes pick up a book…or not…based upon its cover. To me, less is more, and the lovely newer covers on Mary’s books are wonderful. I do not want the covers of my books to scream “sex”; I want them to be a portrait of the characters within. I did, however, like the covers on the Survivor’s books that had just males. For the reason I stated: they appeared to be portraits of the young men she was writing about.
I am able to read a great deal in my job as a teacher of high school students. I do not want to read books that I feel like I must “cover the cover”, for fear that students think of me as reading something “inappropriate”. And, yes, what they see does indeed “matter” because I have to maintain a certain “image” to them; as well as being an influence to them to read. Historical Romance is one of my favorites, but I am not going for a book without a “story”…and a cover can sometimes be misleading. Again, I feel like the new covers on Mary’s books are wonderful, lovely, and in beautiful taste. (The Survivor’s Series are magnificent books, and it would be a shame for someone to pass them up because the covers were off-putting.)
I do, also, agree with “Miss” Mary. I will sometimes pick up a book…or not…based upon its cover. To me, less is more, and the lovely newer covers on Mary’s books are wonderful. I do not want the covers of my books to scream “sex”; I want them to be a portrait of the characters within. I did, however, like the covers on the Survivor’s books that had just males. For the reason I stated: they appeared to be portraits of the young men she was writing about.
I am able to read a great deal in my job as a teacher of high school students. I do not want to read books that I feel like I must “cover the cover”, for fear that students think of me as reading something “inappropriate”. And, yes, what they see does indeed “matter” because I have to maintain a certain “image” to them; as well as being an influence to them to read. Historical Romance is one of my favorites, but I am not going for a book without a “story”…and a cover can sometimes be misleading. Again, I feel like the new covers on Mary’s books are wonderful, lovely, and in beautiful taste. (The Survivor’s Series are magnificent books, and it would be a shame for someone to pass them up because the covers were off-putting.)
Interesting remarks, Lesley. I pulled my first romance OUT of a cereal box!
Interesting remarks, Lesley. I pulled my first romance OUT of a cereal box!
Interesting remarks, Lesley. I pulled my first romance OUT of a cereal box!
Interesting remarks, Lesley. I pulled my first romance OUT of a cereal box!
Interesting remarks, Lesley. I pulled my first romance OUT of a cereal box!
Thank yu, Catherine.
Thank yu, Catherine.
Thank yu, Catherine.
Thank yu, Catherine.
Thank yu, Catherine.
Thanks, Bonnie.
Thanks, Bonnie.
Thanks, Bonnie.
Thanks, Bonnie.
Thanks, Bonnie.
Ah, yes, another hot topic, Mary T, and I agree with you!
Ah, yes, another hot topic, Mary T, and I agree with you!
Ah, yes, another hot topic, Mary T, and I agree with you!
Ah, yes, another hot topic, Mary T, and I agree with you!
Ah, yes, another hot topic, Mary T, and I agree with you!
Thanks for the laugh, Vicki!
Thanks for the laugh, Vicki!
Thanks for the laugh, Vicki!
Thanks for the laugh, Vicki!
Thanks for the laugh, Vicki!
Thank you for your interesting comments, Ginger.
Thank you for your interesting comments, Ginger.
Thank you for your interesting comments, Ginger.
Thank you for your interesting comments, Ginger.
Thank you for your interesting comments, Ginger.
Love the new covers, especially the Longing. They more accurately portray the contents of the book: romance/emotion, time period, heat level, the setting, and what the protagonists look like (red headed heroine not blonde!). Find it very frustrating when a romantic cover hides a soft-core erotica piece.
Also didn’t like the phase of ribbons and flowers that had nothing to do with the story, then steamy step-back. It seemed to imply I should be ashamed of what I was reading. Some publishers did bland graphics for kindle/ebooks, completely deleting the images and that too is frustrating when the cover image is beautiful.
Headless people on covers was better than blatantly not an image of the hero/ine. If the heroine is a plump brunette often in a green dress then show that…not a svelte auburn haired gal in yellow.
Carolyn Jewel did a couple blog posts about taking control of her branding and covers. It is enjoyable to learn these behind the scenes pieces on writing, like watching a cooking show for a dish I never expect to actually cook!
Anyway…love your books, the new covers and look forward to years of love and longing between those covers.
Love the new covers, especially the Longing. They more accurately portray the contents of the book: romance/emotion, time period, heat level, the setting, and what the protagonists look like (red headed heroine not blonde!). Find it very frustrating when a romantic cover hides a soft-core erotica piece.
Also didn’t like the phase of ribbons and flowers that had nothing to do with the story, then steamy step-back. It seemed to imply I should be ashamed of what I was reading. Some publishers did bland graphics for kindle/ebooks, completely deleting the images and that too is frustrating when the cover image is beautiful.
Headless people on covers was better than blatantly not an image of the hero/ine. If the heroine is a plump brunette often in a green dress then show that…not a svelte auburn haired gal in yellow.
Carolyn Jewel did a couple blog posts about taking control of her branding and covers. It is enjoyable to learn these behind the scenes pieces on writing, like watching a cooking show for a dish I never expect to actually cook!
Anyway…love your books, the new covers and look forward to years of love and longing between those covers.
Love the new covers, especially the Longing. They more accurately portray the contents of the book: romance/emotion, time period, heat level, the setting, and what the protagonists look like (red headed heroine not blonde!). Find it very frustrating when a romantic cover hides a soft-core erotica piece.
Also didn’t like the phase of ribbons and flowers that had nothing to do with the story, then steamy step-back. It seemed to imply I should be ashamed of what I was reading. Some publishers did bland graphics for kindle/ebooks, completely deleting the images and that too is frustrating when the cover image is beautiful.
Headless people on covers was better than blatantly not an image of the hero/ine. If the heroine is a plump brunette often in a green dress then show that…not a svelte auburn haired gal in yellow.
Carolyn Jewel did a couple blog posts about taking control of her branding and covers. It is enjoyable to learn these behind the scenes pieces on writing, like watching a cooking show for a dish I never expect to actually cook!
Anyway…love your books, the new covers and look forward to years of love and longing between those covers.
Love the new covers, especially the Longing. They more accurately portray the contents of the book: romance/emotion, time period, heat level, the setting, and what the protagonists look like (red headed heroine not blonde!). Find it very frustrating when a romantic cover hides a soft-core erotica piece.
Also didn’t like the phase of ribbons and flowers that had nothing to do with the story, then steamy step-back. It seemed to imply I should be ashamed of what I was reading. Some publishers did bland graphics for kindle/ebooks, completely deleting the images and that too is frustrating when the cover image is beautiful.
Headless people on covers was better than blatantly not an image of the hero/ine. If the heroine is a plump brunette often in a green dress then show that…not a svelte auburn haired gal in yellow.
Carolyn Jewel did a couple blog posts about taking control of her branding and covers. It is enjoyable to learn these behind the scenes pieces on writing, like watching a cooking show for a dish I never expect to actually cook!
Anyway…love your books, the new covers and look forward to years of love and longing between those covers.
Love the new covers, especially the Longing. They more accurately portray the contents of the book: romance/emotion, time period, heat level, the setting, and what the protagonists look like (red headed heroine not blonde!). Find it very frustrating when a romantic cover hides a soft-core erotica piece.
Also didn’t like the phase of ribbons and flowers that had nothing to do with the story, then steamy step-back. It seemed to imply I should be ashamed of what I was reading. Some publishers did bland graphics for kindle/ebooks, completely deleting the images and that too is frustrating when the cover image is beautiful.
Headless people on covers was better than blatantly not an image of the hero/ine. If the heroine is a plump brunette often in a green dress then show that…not a svelte auburn haired gal in yellow.
Carolyn Jewel did a couple blog posts about taking control of her branding and covers. It is enjoyable to learn these behind the scenes pieces on writing, like watching a cooking show for a dish I never expect to actually cook!
Anyway…love your books, the new covers and look forward to years of love and longing between those covers.
The Survivor series is one of my favourites and I think the covers as shown above are terrific. I think they must be the North American covers because the ones on the UK/Australian editions (Piatkus) are shockers in comparison.The girls are all in white/light coloured dresses and look about 18. I always download ebooks of autobuy authors like Mary Balogh on the day of release but like to collect paperback/hardback copies too, if I can obtain them. Why didn’t Piatkus use the same covers as those shown above? Good covers are an incentive to buy a book and I love covers that represent the characters and show a key scene accurately. As I close the book at the end a good cover makes me smile and reminds me of how much and why I have enjoyed getting to know the protagonists and their story. I’m delighted you have control over covers and hope your Australian publisher wakes up and follows suit before the next book is released.
The Survivor series is one of my favourites and I think the covers as shown above are terrific. I think they must be the North American covers because the ones on the UK/Australian editions (Piatkus) are shockers in comparison.The girls are all in white/light coloured dresses and look about 18. I always download ebooks of autobuy authors like Mary Balogh on the day of release but like to collect paperback/hardback copies too, if I can obtain them. Why didn’t Piatkus use the same covers as those shown above? Good covers are an incentive to buy a book and I love covers that represent the characters and show a key scene accurately. As I close the book at the end a good cover makes me smile and reminds me of how much and why I have enjoyed getting to know the protagonists and their story. I’m delighted you have control over covers and hope your Australian publisher wakes up and follows suit before the next book is released.
The Survivor series is one of my favourites and I think the covers as shown above are terrific. I think they must be the North American covers because the ones on the UK/Australian editions (Piatkus) are shockers in comparison.The girls are all in white/light coloured dresses and look about 18. I always download ebooks of autobuy authors like Mary Balogh on the day of release but like to collect paperback/hardback copies too, if I can obtain them. Why didn’t Piatkus use the same covers as those shown above? Good covers are an incentive to buy a book and I love covers that represent the characters and show a key scene accurately. As I close the book at the end a good cover makes me smile and reminds me of how much and why I have enjoyed getting to know the protagonists and their story. I’m delighted you have control over covers and hope your Australian publisher wakes up and follows suit before the next book is released.
The Survivor series is one of my favourites and I think the covers as shown above are terrific. I think they must be the North American covers because the ones on the UK/Australian editions (Piatkus) are shockers in comparison.The girls are all in white/light coloured dresses and look about 18. I always download ebooks of autobuy authors like Mary Balogh on the day of release but like to collect paperback/hardback copies too, if I can obtain them. Why didn’t Piatkus use the same covers as those shown above? Good covers are an incentive to buy a book and I love covers that represent the characters and show a key scene accurately. As I close the book at the end a good cover makes me smile and reminds me of how much and why I have enjoyed getting to know the protagonists and their story. I’m delighted you have control over covers and hope your Australian publisher wakes up and follows suit before the next book is released.
The Survivor series is one of my favourites and I think the covers as shown above are terrific. I think they must be the North American covers because the ones on the UK/Australian editions (Piatkus) are shockers in comparison.The girls are all in white/light coloured dresses and look about 18. I always download ebooks of autobuy authors like Mary Balogh on the day of release but like to collect paperback/hardback copies too, if I can obtain them. Why didn’t Piatkus use the same covers as those shown above? Good covers are an incentive to buy a book and I love covers that represent the characters and show a key scene accurately. As I close the book at the end a good cover makes me smile and reminds me of how much and why I have enjoyed getting to know the protagonists and their story. I’m delighted you have control over covers and hope your Australian publisher wakes up and follows suit before the next book is released.
Oh, thank you, thank you. I feel so tired–no, offended–by the overblown muscled guys on covers. Come to that, I don’t enjoy looking at them in real life. It makes me think that the guy is too self-absorbed in what he looks like to care about the woman.
My other gripe is a cover model that does not fit the description of any of the people in the book. If the story says the heroine is petite and the hero is 6’4″ and the cover shows them standing nose to nose, they’d better also show me the box she’s standing on.
Oh, thank you, thank you. I feel so tired–no, offended–by the overblown muscled guys on covers. Come to that, I don’t enjoy looking at them in real life. It makes me think that the guy is too self-absorbed in what he looks like to care about the woman.
My other gripe is a cover model that does not fit the description of any of the people in the book. If the story says the heroine is petite and the hero is 6’4″ and the cover shows them standing nose to nose, they’d better also show me the box she’s standing on.
Oh, thank you, thank you. I feel so tired–no, offended–by the overblown muscled guys on covers. Come to that, I don’t enjoy looking at them in real life. It makes me think that the guy is too self-absorbed in what he looks like to care about the woman.
My other gripe is a cover model that does not fit the description of any of the people in the book. If the story says the heroine is petite and the hero is 6’4″ and the cover shows them standing nose to nose, they’d better also show me the box she’s standing on.
Oh, thank you, thank you. I feel so tired–no, offended–by the overblown muscled guys on covers. Come to that, I don’t enjoy looking at them in real life. It makes me think that the guy is too self-absorbed in what he looks like to care about the woman.
My other gripe is a cover model that does not fit the description of any of the people in the book. If the story says the heroine is petite and the hero is 6’4″ and the cover shows them standing nose to nose, they’d better also show me the box she’s standing on.
Oh, thank you, thank you. I feel so tired–no, offended–by the overblown muscled guys on covers. Come to that, I don’t enjoy looking at them in real life. It makes me think that the guy is too self-absorbed in what he looks like to care about the woman.
My other gripe is a cover model that does not fit the description of any of the people in the book. If the story says the heroine is petite and the hero is 6’4″ and the cover shows them standing nose to nose, they’d better also show me the box she’s standing on.
A wonderful blog, Mary! Unlike you, I have wept actual tears over some of the covers I’ve received. (A few screams, too.) I have a design background so visuals matter a lot to me, and I learned early that a good cover will get people’s attention to the point where they look a little closer. Like you, I’m not keen on waxed abs, though I don’t mind a billowing skirt if it’s beautiful. If there are two people on the cover, I want there to be tenderness between them. Love, not lust. It’s easier to get billowing skirts. *G*
Many thanks for visiting Word Wenches again!
A wonderful blog, Mary! Unlike you, I have wept actual tears over some of the covers I’ve received. (A few screams, too.) I have a design background so visuals matter a lot to me, and I learned early that a good cover will get people’s attention to the point where they look a little closer. Like you, I’m not keen on waxed abs, though I don’t mind a billowing skirt if it’s beautiful. If there are two people on the cover, I want there to be tenderness between them. Love, not lust. It’s easier to get billowing skirts. *G*
Many thanks for visiting Word Wenches again!
A wonderful blog, Mary! Unlike you, I have wept actual tears over some of the covers I’ve received. (A few screams, too.) I have a design background so visuals matter a lot to me, and I learned early that a good cover will get people’s attention to the point where they look a little closer. Like you, I’m not keen on waxed abs, though I don’t mind a billowing skirt if it’s beautiful. If there are two people on the cover, I want there to be tenderness between them. Love, not lust. It’s easier to get billowing skirts. *G*
Many thanks for visiting Word Wenches again!
A wonderful blog, Mary! Unlike you, I have wept actual tears over some of the covers I’ve received. (A few screams, too.) I have a design background so visuals matter a lot to me, and I learned early that a good cover will get people’s attention to the point where they look a little closer. Like you, I’m not keen on waxed abs, though I don’t mind a billowing skirt if it’s beautiful. If there are two people on the cover, I want there to be tenderness between them. Love, not lust. It’s easier to get billowing skirts. *G*
Many thanks for visiting Word Wenches again!
A wonderful blog, Mary! Unlike you, I have wept actual tears over some of the covers I’ve received. (A few screams, too.) I have a design background so visuals matter a lot to me, and I learned early that a good cover will get people’s attention to the point where they look a little closer. Like you, I’m not keen on waxed abs, though I don’t mind a billowing skirt if it’s beautiful. If there are two people on the cover, I want there to be tenderness between them. Love, not lust. It’s easier to get billowing skirts. *G*
Many thanks for visiting Word Wenches again!
I buy books strictly by author, so covers make little impact on my choices. If a cover somehow does catch my attention, I might make a note and try to find a library copy. Sometimes I MIGHT find an author new to me that I enjoy, but that almost never happens. Most of my favorite authors are automatic buys and I am lucky enough to find other less favorite ones at the library. I find simpler less “sexy” ones more attractive, and really like most of Mary’s recent ones very much.
I buy books strictly by author, so covers make little impact on my choices. If a cover somehow does catch my attention, I might make a note and try to find a library copy. Sometimes I MIGHT find an author new to me that I enjoy, but that almost never happens. Most of my favorite authors are automatic buys and I am lucky enough to find other less favorite ones at the library. I find simpler less “sexy” ones more attractive, and really like most of Mary’s recent ones very much.
I buy books strictly by author, so covers make little impact on my choices. If a cover somehow does catch my attention, I might make a note and try to find a library copy. Sometimes I MIGHT find an author new to me that I enjoy, but that almost never happens. Most of my favorite authors are automatic buys and I am lucky enough to find other less favorite ones at the library. I find simpler less “sexy” ones more attractive, and really like most of Mary’s recent ones very much.
I buy books strictly by author, so covers make little impact on my choices. If a cover somehow does catch my attention, I might make a note and try to find a library copy. Sometimes I MIGHT find an author new to me that I enjoy, but that almost never happens. Most of my favorite authors are automatic buys and I am lucky enough to find other less favorite ones at the library. I find simpler less “sexy” ones more attractive, and really like most of Mary’s recent ones very much.
I buy books strictly by author, so covers make little impact on my choices. If a cover somehow does catch my attention, I might make a note and try to find a library copy. Sometimes I MIGHT find an author new to me that I enjoy, but that almost never happens. Most of my favorite authors are automatic buys and I am lucky enough to find other less favorite ones at the library. I find simpler less “sexy” ones more attractive, and really like most of Mary’s recent ones very much.
Hi Mary Balogh: I had the time this morning and read your entire blog about book covers and I am so glad you took control of your own covers. As long as your name and others of the Word Wenches is on the cover, then I most definitely buy. You, Ms. Balogh are an auto-buy for me as I love the romance and exquisite prose you use. You make me cry, you entertain, and you make me sigh – which is what I want to feel and that is a big thing. I want to be MOVED by a story! As far as your covers – I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new look! A favorite is impossible to choose but I love the water and because of the view from the hill where she stands – I guess it would be ……. UNFORGIVEN. God Bless you and your peers for the pleasure you give to all your fans!!!
Regards, Marilyn Rondeau
Hi Mary Balogh: I had the time this morning and read your entire blog about book covers and I am so glad you took control of your own covers. As long as your name and others of the Word Wenches is on the cover, then I most definitely buy. You, Ms. Balogh are an auto-buy for me as I love the romance and exquisite prose you use. You make me cry, you entertain, and you make me sigh – which is what I want to feel and that is a big thing. I want to be MOVED by a story! As far as your covers – I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new look! A favorite is impossible to choose but I love the water and because of the view from the hill where she stands – I guess it would be ……. UNFORGIVEN. God Bless you and your peers for the pleasure you give to all your fans!!!
Regards, Marilyn Rondeau
Hi Mary Balogh: I had the time this morning and read your entire blog about book covers and I am so glad you took control of your own covers. As long as your name and others of the Word Wenches is on the cover, then I most definitely buy. You, Ms. Balogh are an auto-buy for me as I love the romance and exquisite prose you use. You make me cry, you entertain, and you make me sigh – which is what I want to feel and that is a big thing. I want to be MOVED by a story! As far as your covers – I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new look! A favorite is impossible to choose but I love the water and because of the view from the hill where she stands – I guess it would be ……. UNFORGIVEN. God Bless you and your peers for the pleasure you give to all your fans!!!
Regards, Marilyn Rondeau
Hi Mary Balogh: I had the time this morning and read your entire blog about book covers and I am so glad you took control of your own covers. As long as your name and others of the Word Wenches is on the cover, then I most definitely buy. You, Ms. Balogh are an auto-buy for me as I love the romance and exquisite prose you use. You make me cry, you entertain, and you make me sigh – which is what I want to feel and that is a big thing. I want to be MOVED by a story! As far as your covers – I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new look! A favorite is impossible to choose but I love the water and because of the view from the hill where she stands – I guess it would be ……. UNFORGIVEN. God Bless you and your peers for the pleasure you give to all your fans!!!
Regards, Marilyn Rondeau
Hi Mary Balogh: I had the time this morning and read your entire blog about book covers and I am so glad you took control of your own covers. As long as your name and others of the Word Wenches is on the cover, then I most definitely buy. You, Ms. Balogh are an auto-buy for me as I love the romance and exquisite prose you use. You make me cry, you entertain, and you make me sigh – which is what I want to feel and that is a big thing. I want to be MOVED by a story! As far as your covers – I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new look! A favorite is impossible to choose but I love the water and because of the view from the hill where she stands – I guess it would be ……. UNFORGIVEN. God Bless you and your peers for the pleasure you give to all your fans!!!
Regards, Marilyn Rondeau
Covers have always attracted me, but it’s the blurb that reels me in to buy.
Covers have always attracted me, but it’s the blurb that reels me in to buy.
Covers have always attracted me, but it’s the blurb that reels me in to buy.
Covers have always attracted me, but it’s the blurb that reels me in to buy.
Covers have always attracted me, but it’s the blurb that reels me in to buy.
I bought my first historical romance based on a whim and the cover. Only Enchanting. I fell in love with the genre and have been reading non stop since. The cover influences how I see the characters.
I bought my first historical romance based on a whim and the cover. Only Enchanting. I fell in love with the genre and have been reading non stop since. The cover influences how I see the characters.
I bought my first historical romance based on a whim and the cover. Only Enchanting. I fell in love with the genre and have been reading non stop since. The cover influences how I see the characters.
I bought my first historical romance based on a whim and the cover. Only Enchanting. I fell in love with the genre and have been reading non stop since. The cover influences how I see the characters.
I bought my first historical romance based on a whim and the cover. Only Enchanting. I fell in love with the genre and have been reading non stop since. The cover influences how I see the characters.
Thanks again, Mary. Obviously you’ve hit a point with your covers. I’m happy with my recent ones, and I do have some say, which certainly helps. Great discussion.
Thanks again, Mary. Obviously you’ve hit a point with your covers. I’m happy with my recent ones, and I do have some say, which certainly helps. Great discussion.
Thanks again, Mary. Obviously you’ve hit a point with your covers. I’m happy with my recent ones, and I do have some say, which certainly helps. Great discussion.
Thanks again, Mary. Obviously you’ve hit a point with your covers. I’m happy with my recent ones, and I do have some say, which certainly helps. Great discussion.
Thanks again, Mary. Obviously you’ve hit a point with your covers. I’m happy with my recent ones, and I do have some say, which certainly helps. Great discussion.
I am more than happy to see the new covers of more romantic dresses versus tanned & sculpted torsos any day that reflect the content of the books. As someone who has recently gotten back into reading for fun, and having stumbled upon Mary’s books. I absolutely have love reading the latest books.
In finding a new author to read, some of the covers for romance books in general do have the tendency to make me hesitant to pick up the book, if only for the reason that I will be teased that it’s a sex book. While it hasn’t stopped me from reading said romance book, it does feel taboo
I am more than happy to see the new covers of more romantic dresses versus tanned & sculpted torsos any day that reflect the content of the books. As someone who has recently gotten back into reading for fun, and having stumbled upon Mary’s books. I absolutely have love reading the latest books.
In finding a new author to read, some of the covers for romance books in general do have the tendency to make me hesitant to pick up the book, if only for the reason that I will be teased that it’s a sex book. While it hasn’t stopped me from reading said romance book, it does feel taboo
I am more than happy to see the new covers of more romantic dresses versus tanned & sculpted torsos any day that reflect the content of the books. As someone who has recently gotten back into reading for fun, and having stumbled upon Mary’s books. I absolutely have love reading the latest books.
In finding a new author to read, some of the covers for romance books in general do have the tendency to make me hesitant to pick up the book, if only for the reason that I will be teased that it’s a sex book. While it hasn’t stopped me from reading said romance book, it does feel taboo
I am more than happy to see the new covers of more romantic dresses versus tanned & sculpted torsos any day that reflect the content of the books. As someone who has recently gotten back into reading for fun, and having stumbled upon Mary’s books. I absolutely have love reading the latest books.
In finding a new author to read, some of the covers for romance books in general do have the tendency to make me hesitant to pick up the book, if only for the reason that I will be teased that it’s a sex book. While it hasn’t stopped me from reading said romance book, it does feel taboo
I am more than happy to see the new covers of more romantic dresses versus tanned & sculpted torsos any day that reflect the content of the books. As someone who has recently gotten back into reading for fun, and having stumbled upon Mary’s books. I absolutely have love reading the latest books.
In finding a new author to read, some of the covers for romance books in general do have the tendency to make me hesitant to pick up the book, if only for the reason that I will be teased that it’s a sex book. While it hasn’t stopped me from reading said romance book, it does feel taboo
agree Janice – read M. Hunter’s new series, was disappointed
agree Janice – read M. Hunter’s new series, was disappointed
agree Janice – read M. Hunter’s new series, was disappointed
agree Janice – read M. Hunter’s new series, was disappointed
agree Janice – read M. Hunter’s new series, was disappointed
I love all your book covers they are so beautiful. It would be hard to just pick one and with such beautiful stories to go with them.
I love all your book covers they are so beautiful. It would be hard to just pick one and with such beautiful stories to go with them.
I love all your book covers they are so beautiful. It would be hard to just pick one and with such beautiful stories to go with them.
I love all your book covers they are so beautiful. It would be hard to just pick one and with such beautiful stories to go with them.
I love all your book covers they are so beautiful. It would be hard to just pick one and with such beautiful stories to go with them.
Dear Mary and Jo,
Covers can indeed be important, and I often dismiss a book immediately when I see a cover that appears particularly “trashy” That said, given a crazily busy lifestyle with very, very little time to “read,” I often “borrow” audio books from the library and listen to them on my phone while I do the 101 things that need to be done everyday outside of work that I can do with earbuds in! If I fall in love with a book (which obviously in Mary’s case, usually happens immediately), I then order a paper copy to own, and given the miracles of modern convenience, the book arrives long before I’ve finished listening, and I’m often astonished to see the cover. This happened this week, in fact, with Longing – I knew immediately that I would want a copy to to keep, and I’m ashamed that I’m still only about 1/2 way through – but I was struck by the cover’s beauty when I took it out of the box yesterday. Your books are all so beautifully and tenderly written, and I am proud to have them on my bookshelves. Thank you!!!!!
Dear Mary and Jo,
Covers can indeed be important, and I often dismiss a book immediately when I see a cover that appears particularly “trashy” That said, given a crazily busy lifestyle with very, very little time to “read,” I often “borrow” audio books from the library and listen to them on my phone while I do the 101 things that need to be done everyday outside of work that I can do with earbuds in! If I fall in love with a book (which obviously in Mary’s case, usually happens immediately), I then order a paper copy to own, and given the miracles of modern convenience, the book arrives long before I’ve finished listening, and I’m often astonished to see the cover. This happened this week, in fact, with Longing – I knew immediately that I would want a copy to to keep, and I’m ashamed that I’m still only about 1/2 way through – but I was struck by the cover’s beauty when I took it out of the box yesterday. Your books are all so beautifully and tenderly written, and I am proud to have them on my bookshelves. Thank you!!!!!
Dear Mary and Jo,
Covers can indeed be important, and I often dismiss a book immediately when I see a cover that appears particularly “trashy” That said, given a crazily busy lifestyle with very, very little time to “read,” I often “borrow” audio books from the library and listen to them on my phone while I do the 101 things that need to be done everyday outside of work that I can do with earbuds in! If I fall in love with a book (which obviously in Mary’s case, usually happens immediately), I then order a paper copy to own, and given the miracles of modern convenience, the book arrives long before I’ve finished listening, and I’m often astonished to see the cover. This happened this week, in fact, with Longing – I knew immediately that I would want a copy to to keep, and I’m ashamed that I’m still only about 1/2 way through – but I was struck by the cover’s beauty when I took it out of the box yesterday. Your books are all so beautifully and tenderly written, and I am proud to have them on my bookshelves. Thank you!!!!!
Dear Mary and Jo,
Covers can indeed be important, and I often dismiss a book immediately when I see a cover that appears particularly “trashy” That said, given a crazily busy lifestyle with very, very little time to “read,” I often “borrow” audio books from the library and listen to them on my phone while I do the 101 things that need to be done everyday outside of work that I can do with earbuds in! If I fall in love with a book (which obviously in Mary’s case, usually happens immediately), I then order a paper copy to own, and given the miracles of modern convenience, the book arrives long before I’ve finished listening, and I’m often astonished to see the cover. This happened this week, in fact, with Longing – I knew immediately that I would want a copy to to keep, and I’m ashamed that I’m still only about 1/2 way through – but I was struck by the cover’s beauty when I took it out of the box yesterday. Your books are all so beautifully and tenderly written, and I am proud to have them on my bookshelves. Thank you!!!!!
Dear Mary and Jo,
Covers can indeed be important, and I often dismiss a book immediately when I see a cover that appears particularly “trashy” That said, given a crazily busy lifestyle with very, very little time to “read,” I often “borrow” audio books from the library and listen to them on my phone while I do the 101 things that need to be done everyday outside of work that I can do with earbuds in! If I fall in love with a book (which obviously in Mary’s case, usually happens immediately), I then order a paper copy to own, and given the miracles of modern convenience, the book arrives long before I’ve finished listening, and I’m often astonished to see the cover. This happened this week, in fact, with Longing – I knew immediately that I would want a copy to to keep, and I’m ashamed that I’m still only about 1/2 way through – but I was struck by the cover’s beauty when I took it out of the box yesterday. Your books are all so beautifully and tenderly written, and I am proud to have them on my bookshelves. Thank you!!!!!
Gosh, I cannot say this any more emphatically than this: I love, love, LOVE the new covers, Mary. I’m so glad you took the extra steps to change publishers so that your stories are honored with covers that are representative of the thought you put into your writing.
I hate the half-naked look of covers that are slapped onto all books regardless of content. Elegance, grace, and yes, romance are pushed to the wayside in service of raw sexuality. Let there be some mystery, some intrigue on the cover, rather than selling everything to all comers.
I sincerely do not believe that readers like those half-naked covers. No reader that I have talked to or read in comments on numerous blog posts has ever claimed that they love those covers, buy books based on those covers, and feel they’re entirely appropriate.
Everyone I know hates them. Yet, publishers love them. What a contradiction!
Readers are left with no choice but to buy books despite the covers.
Gosh, I cannot say this any more emphatically than this: I love, love, LOVE the new covers, Mary. I’m so glad you took the extra steps to change publishers so that your stories are honored with covers that are representative of the thought you put into your writing.
I hate the half-naked look of covers that are slapped onto all books regardless of content. Elegance, grace, and yes, romance are pushed to the wayside in service of raw sexuality. Let there be some mystery, some intrigue on the cover, rather than selling everything to all comers.
I sincerely do not believe that readers like those half-naked covers. No reader that I have talked to or read in comments on numerous blog posts has ever claimed that they love those covers, buy books based on those covers, and feel they’re entirely appropriate.
Everyone I know hates them. Yet, publishers love them. What a contradiction!
Readers are left with no choice but to buy books despite the covers.
Gosh, I cannot say this any more emphatically than this: I love, love, LOVE the new covers, Mary. I’m so glad you took the extra steps to change publishers so that your stories are honored with covers that are representative of the thought you put into your writing.
I hate the half-naked look of covers that are slapped onto all books regardless of content. Elegance, grace, and yes, romance are pushed to the wayside in service of raw sexuality. Let there be some mystery, some intrigue on the cover, rather than selling everything to all comers.
I sincerely do not believe that readers like those half-naked covers. No reader that I have talked to or read in comments on numerous blog posts has ever claimed that they love those covers, buy books based on those covers, and feel they’re entirely appropriate.
Everyone I know hates them. Yet, publishers love them. What a contradiction!
Readers are left with no choice but to buy books despite the covers.
Gosh, I cannot say this any more emphatically than this: I love, love, LOVE the new covers, Mary. I’m so glad you took the extra steps to change publishers so that your stories are honored with covers that are representative of the thought you put into your writing.
I hate the half-naked look of covers that are slapped onto all books regardless of content. Elegance, grace, and yes, romance are pushed to the wayside in service of raw sexuality. Let there be some mystery, some intrigue on the cover, rather than selling everything to all comers.
I sincerely do not believe that readers like those half-naked covers. No reader that I have talked to or read in comments on numerous blog posts has ever claimed that they love those covers, buy books based on those covers, and feel they’re entirely appropriate.
Everyone I know hates them. Yet, publishers love them. What a contradiction!
Readers are left with no choice but to buy books despite the covers.
Gosh, I cannot say this any more emphatically than this: I love, love, LOVE the new covers, Mary. I’m so glad you took the extra steps to change publishers so that your stories are honored with covers that are representative of the thought you put into your writing.
I hate the half-naked look of covers that are slapped onto all books regardless of content. Elegance, grace, and yes, romance are pushed to the wayside in service of raw sexuality. Let there be some mystery, some intrigue on the cover, rather than selling everything to all comers.
I sincerely do not believe that readers like those half-naked covers. No reader that I have talked to or read in comments on numerous blog posts has ever claimed that they love those covers, buy books based on those covers, and feel they’re entirely appropriate.
Everyone I know hates them. Yet, publishers love them. What a contradiction!
Readers are left with no choice but to buy books despite the covers.
I have many of your books in Audible format. Many times, because I buy the book on the day it comes out, the cover is simply words, no images at all. I have a completely different cover for my beloved, The Proposal. I hated the look of that man on the cover because in my mind, Hugo was completely different. The covers of the later books in the series ARE beautiful! Cannot wait for the Duke’s story!
I have many of your books in Audible format. Many times, because I buy the book on the day it comes out, the cover is simply words, no images at all. I have a completely different cover for my beloved, The Proposal. I hated the look of that man on the cover because in my mind, Hugo was completely different. The covers of the later books in the series ARE beautiful! Cannot wait for the Duke’s story!
I have many of your books in Audible format. Many times, because I buy the book on the day it comes out, the cover is simply words, no images at all. I have a completely different cover for my beloved, The Proposal. I hated the look of that man on the cover because in my mind, Hugo was completely different. The covers of the later books in the series ARE beautiful! Cannot wait for the Duke’s story!
I have many of your books in Audible format. Many times, because I buy the book on the day it comes out, the cover is simply words, no images at all. I have a completely different cover for my beloved, The Proposal. I hated the look of that man on the cover because in my mind, Hugo was completely different. The covers of the later books in the series ARE beautiful! Cannot wait for the Duke’s story!
I have many of your books in Audible format. Many times, because I buy the book on the day it comes out, the cover is simply words, no images at all. I have a completely different cover for my beloved, The Proposal. I hated the look of that man on the cover because in my mind, Hugo was completely different. The covers of the later books in the series ARE beautiful! Cannot wait for the Duke’s story!
I love your covers. I admit, I did like the two “Survivors’ club” covers that had the bare-chested men on them. *g*
But,in general, a bare chest isn’t necessary or sufficient to get me to buy a book, or heaven forbid, one where the man is undoing his pants.
I want a story with romance, not just sex. Sex can be part of the story, as long as there isn’t too much or and it’s not too kinky. And I do mean story. There has to be lots going on in the books I like, and pages and pages of sex do not constitute story for me.
I do like pretty covers, though, with or without people on them. A cover I think ugly is a distinct turnoff, and I wouldn’t look twice at such a book.
That said, I always read the book description and take a look inside. I like only certain genres, and I rarely stray, although I might if something (not just the cover) catches my eye.
Covers are important, and they have to be eye-catching. But not everyone wants to be hit in the face with blatant sexuality. An elegant cover will work, too.
I love your covers. I admit, I did like the two “Survivors’ club” covers that had the bare-chested men on them. *g*
But,in general, a bare chest isn’t necessary or sufficient to get me to buy a book, or heaven forbid, one where the man is undoing his pants.
I want a story with romance, not just sex. Sex can be part of the story, as long as there isn’t too much or and it’s not too kinky. And I do mean story. There has to be lots going on in the books I like, and pages and pages of sex do not constitute story for me.
I do like pretty covers, though, with or without people on them. A cover I think ugly is a distinct turnoff, and I wouldn’t look twice at such a book.
That said, I always read the book description and take a look inside. I like only certain genres, and I rarely stray, although I might if something (not just the cover) catches my eye.
Covers are important, and they have to be eye-catching. But not everyone wants to be hit in the face with blatant sexuality. An elegant cover will work, too.
I love your covers. I admit, I did like the two “Survivors’ club” covers that had the bare-chested men on them. *g*
But,in general, a bare chest isn’t necessary or sufficient to get me to buy a book, or heaven forbid, one where the man is undoing his pants.
I want a story with romance, not just sex. Sex can be part of the story, as long as there isn’t too much or and it’s not too kinky. And I do mean story. There has to be lots going on in the books I like, and pages and pages of sex do not constitute story for me.
I do like pretty covers, though, with or without people on them. A cover I think ugly is a distinct turnoff, and I wouldn’t look twice at such a book.
That said, I always read the book description and take a look inside. I like only certain genres, and I rarely stray, although I might if something (not just the cover) catches my eye.
Covers are important, and they have to be eye-catching. But not everyone wants to be hit in the face with blatant sexuality. An elegant cover will work, too.
I love your covers. I admit, I did like the two “Survivors’ club” covers that had the bare-chested men on them. *g*
But,in general, a bare chest isn’t necessary or sufficient to get me to buy a book, or heaven forbid, one where the man is undoing his pants.
I want a story with romance, not just sex. Sex can be part of the story, as long as there isn’t too much or and it’s not too kinky. And I do mean story. There has to be lots going on in the books I like, and pages and pages of sex do not constitute story for me.
I do like pretty covers, though, with or without people on them. A cover I think ugly is a distinct turnoff, and I wouldn’t look twice at such a book.
That said, I always read the book description and take a look inside. I like only certain genres, and I rarely stray, although I might if something (not just the cover) catches my eye.
Covers are important, and they have to be eye-catching. But not everyone wants to be hit in the face with blatant sexuality. An elegant cover will work, too.
I love your covers. I admit, I did like the two “Survivors’ club” covers that had the bare-chested men on them. *g*
But,in general, a bare chest isn’t necessary or sufficient to get me to buy a book, or heaven forbid, one where the man is undoing his pants.
I want a story with romance, not just sex. Sex can be part of the story, as long as there isn’t too much or and it’s not too kinky. And I do mean story. There has to be lots going on in the books I like, and pages and pages of sex do not constitute story for me.
I do like pretty covers, though, with or without people on them. A cover I think ugly is a distinct turnoff, and I wouldn’t look twice at such a book.
That said, I always read the book description and take a look inside. I like only certain genres, and I rarely stray, although I might if something (not just the cover) catches my eye.
Covers are important, and they have to be eye-catching. But not everyone wants to be hit in the face with blatant sexuality. An elegant cover will work, too.
For years I made a point of using book covers to avoid stereotype comments from friends, colleagues, and even strangers. A bare chested man or half undressed woman on the cover is the equivalent of the interviewers of old who always wanted romance authors to read the love scenes aloud. I like covers that set the scene for the story and time. Bravo, Mary!
For years I made a point of using book covers to avoid stereotype comments from friends, colleagues, and even strangers. A bare chested man or half undressed woman on the cover is the equivalent of the interviewers of old who always wanted romance authors to read the love scenes aloud. I like covers that set the scene for the story and time. Bravo, Mary!
For years I made a point of using book covers to avoid stereotype comments from friends, colleagues, and even strangers. A bare chested man or half undressed woman on the cover is the equivalent of the interviewers of old who always wanted romance authors to read the love scenes aloud. I like covers that set the scene for the story and time. Bravo, Mary!
For years I made a point of using book covers to avoid stereotype comments from friends, colleagues, and even strangers. A bare chested man or half undressed woman on the cover is the equivalent of the interviewers of old who always wanted romance authors to read the love scenes aloud. I like covers that set the scene for the story and time. Bravo, Mary!
For years I made a point of using book covers to avoid stereotype comments from friends, colleagues, and even strangers. A bare chested man or half undressed woman on the cover is the equivalent of the interviewers of old who always wanted romance authors to read the love scenes aloud. I like covers that set the scene for the story and time. Bravo, Mary!
I have to admit the first time I read one of your books was because of a book sale our local library was having. After searching through the hundreds of books the powder blue dust cover of Simply Love caught my attention. I also loved the size of print, being visually impaired but also a self proclaimed book worm, I had to take the chance! After that I ordered from Misty River Books two more from the Simply series. One of the covers confused me, maybe it’s my vision but simply Magic had too much green. Since then my very good friend and fellow historical romance reader has me hooked on so many of of your books. Currently we are both enjoying the Survivors club series. I will say I love the trueness of your covers now, not geared to one age group. I’m 34 and my dear friend is 70. I even have my mum hooked on your books and she will admit she’s not much of a reader (although I’m slowly changing that). I am curious to see what your covers will be like in Scotland next year when I visit family.
I have to admit the first time I read one of your books was because of a book sale our local library was having. After searching through the hundreds of books the powder blue dust cover of Simply Love caught my attention. I also loved the size of print, being visually impaired but also a self proclaimed book worm, I had to take the chance! After that I ordered from Misty River Books two more from the Simply series. One of the covers confused me, maybe it’s my vision but simply Magic had too much green. Since then my very good friend and fellow historical romance reader has me hooked on so many of of your books. Currently we are both enjoying the Survivors club series. I will say I love the trueness of your covers now, not geared to one age group. I’m 34 and my dear friend is 70. I even have my mum hooked on your books and she will admit she’s not much of a reader (although I’m slowly changing that). I am curious to see what your covers will be like in Scotland next year when I visit family.
I have to admit the first time I read one of your books was because of a book sale our local library was having. After searching through the hundreds of books the powder blue dust cover of Simply Love caught my attention. I also loved the size of print, being visually impaired but also a self proclaimed book worm, I had to take the chance! After that I ordered from Misty River Books two more from the Simply series. One of the covers confused me, maybe it’s my vision but simply Magic had too much green. Since then my very good friend and fellow historical romance reader has me hooked on so many of of your books. Currently we are both enjoying the Survivors club series. I will say I love the trueness of your covers now, not geared to one age group. I’m 34 and my dear friend is 70. I even have my mum hooked on your books and she will admit she’s not much of a reader (although I’m slowly changing that). I am curious to see what your covers will be like in Scotland next year when I visit family.
I have to admit the first time I read one of your books was because of a book sale our local library was having. After searching through the hundreds of books the powder blue dust cover of Simply Love caught my attention. I also loved the size of print, being visually impaired but also a self proclaimed book worm, I had to take the chance! After that I ordered from Misty River Books two more from the Simply series. One of the covers confused me, maybe it’s my vision but simply Magic had too much green. Since then my very good friend and fellow historical romance reader has me hooked on so many of of your books. Currently we are both enjoying the Survivors club series. I will say I love the trueness of your covers now, not geared to one age group. I’m 34 and my dear friend is 70. I even have my mum hooked on your books and she will admit she’s not much of a reader (although I’m slowly changing that). I am curious to see what your covers will be like in Scotland next year when I visit family.
I have to admit the first time I read one of your books was because of a book sale our local library was having. After searching through the hundreds of books the powder blue dust cover of Simply Love caught my attention. I also loved the size of print, being visually impaired but also a self proclaimed book worm, I had to take the chance! After that I ordered from Misty River Books two more from the Simply series. One of the covers confused me, maybe it’s my vision but simply Magic had too much green. Since then my very good friend and fellow historical romance reader has me hooked on so many of of your books. Currently we are both enjoying the Survivors club series. I will say I love the trueness of your covers now, not geared to one age group. I’m 34 and my dear friend is 70. I even have my mum hooked on your books and she will admit she’s not much of a reader (although I’m slowly changing that). I am curious to see what your covers will be like in Scotland next year when I visit family.
I love your newer covers, Mary! I don’t choose a book because of the cover, but I have NOT chosen a book because of the cover. I choose because of the author, possibly the blurb on the back, recommendations. I read Kindle books, too, but I do miss seeing the cover every time I open the book. Helps me remember I read that book! LOL!!!
I love your newer covers, Mary! I don’t choose a book because of the cover, but I have NOT chosen a book because of the cover. I choose because of the author, possibly the blurb on the back, recommendations. I read Kindle books, too, but I do miss seeing the cover every time I open the book. Helps me remember I read that book! LOL!!!
I love your newer covers, Mary! I don’t choose a book because of the cover, but I have NOT chosen a book because of the cover. I choose because of the author, possibly the blurb on the back, recommendations. I read Kindle books, too, but I do miss seeing the cover every time I open the book. Helps me remember I read that book! LOL!!!
I love your newer covers, Mary! I don’t choose a book because of the cover, but I have NOT chosen a book because of the cover. I choose because of the author, possibly the blurb on the back, recommendations. I read Kindle books, too, but I do miss seeing the cover every time I open the book. Helps me remember I read that book! LOL!!!
I love your newer covers, Mary! I don’t choose a book because of the cover, but I have NOT chosen a book because of the cover. I choose because of the author, possibly the blurb on the back, recommendations. I read Kindle books, too, but I do miss seeing the cover every time I open the book. Helps me remember I read that book! LOL!!!
Thank you for making the case clear and allowing readers to comment. I hope you’ve sent the link to your publisher to reinforce those beautiful new covers. In he past, I understood that people picked books off the store shelves based on sweeping gowns, sailing ships, and horses, so I accepted the choices made for me. But like you, I’m writing romance, not erotica. And I read romance, not erotica. So when I see the naked male chest covers, I pass them by. The headless woman in sweeping gown image will only catch my eye if I recognize the author’s name.
And let us not get into the poorly designed indie covers that immediately say “amateur,” so I don’t even stop to read the blurbs!
I think we’ve reached a period where covers can convey content, knock wood!
Thank you for making the case clear and allowing readers to comment. I hope you’ve sent the link to your publisher to reinforce those beautiful new covers. In he past, I understood that people picked books off the store shelves based on sweeping gowns, sailing ships, and horses, so I accepted the choices made for me. But like you, I’m writing romance, not erotica. And I read romance, not erotica. So when I see the naked male chest covers, I pass them by. The headless woman in sweeping gown image will only catch my eye if I recognize the author’s name.
And let us not get into the poorly designed indie covers that immediately say “amateur,” so I don’t even stop to read the blurbs!
I think we’ve reached a period where covers can convey content, knock wood!
Thank you for making the case clear and allowing readers to comment. I hope you’ve sent the link to your publisher to reinforce those beautiful new covers. In he past, I understood that people picked books off the store shelves based on sweeping gowns, sailing ships, and horses, so I accepted the choices made for me. But like you, I’m writing romance, not erotica. And I read romance, not erotica. So when I see the naked male chest covers, I pass them by. The headless woman in sweeping gown image will only catch my eye if I recognize the author’s name.
And let us not get into the poorly designed indie covers that immediately say “amateur,” so I don’t even stop to read the blurbs!
I think we’ve reached a period where covers can convey content, knock wood!
Thank you for making the case clear and allowing readers to comment. I hope you’ve sent the link to your publisher to reinforce those beautiful new covers. In he past, I understood that people picked books off the store shelves based on sweeping gowns, sailing ships, and horses, so I accepted the choices made for me. But like you, I’m writing romance, not erotica. And I read romance, not erotica. So when I see the naked male chest covers, I pass them by. The headless woman in sweeping gown image will only catch my eye if I recognize the author’s name.
And let us not get into the poorly designed indie covers that immediately say “amateur,” so I don’t even stop to read the blurbs!
I think we’ve reached a period where covers can convey content, knock wood!
Thank you for making the case clear and allowing readers to comment. I hope you’ve sent the link to your publisher to reinforce those beautiful new covers. In he past, I understood that people picked books off the store shelves based on sweeping gowns, sailing ships, and horses, so I accepted the choices made for me. But like you, I’m writing romance, not erotica. And I read romance, not erotica. So when I see the naked male chest covers, I pass them by. The headless woman in sweeping gown image will only catch my eye if I recognize the author’s name.
And let us not get into the poorly designed indie covers that immediately say “amateur,” so I don’t even stop to read the blurbs!
I think we’ve reached a period where covers can convey content, knock wood!
Shallow. That’s me. If the guy on the cover is hot, I will look again, but it doesn’t make my decision for me…I like to think. However, the overall quality of the cover does matter. I look at a LOT of indie or self-pubbed books. If the covers there are cheesey or amateurish, I will pass, figuring that if they paid so little attention to the outside of the book, they probably paid just as little to the inside.
However, it does irritate when the dress isn’t from the same time period as the book.
Shallow. That’s me. If the guy on the cover is hot, I will look again, but it doesn’t make my decision for me…I like to think. However, the overall quality of the cover does matter. I look at a LOT of indie or self-pubbed books. If the covers there are cheesey or amateurish, I will pass, figuring that if they paid so little attention to the outside of the book, they probably paid just as little to the inside.
However, it does irritate when the dress isn’t from the same time period as the book.
Shallow. That’s me. If the guy on the cover is hot, I will look again, but it doesn’t make my decision for me…I like to think. However, the overall quality of the cover does matter. I look at a LOT of indie or self-pubbed books. If the covers there are cheesey or amateurish, I will pass, figuring that if they paid so little attention to the outside of the book, they probably paid just as little to the inside.
However, it does irritate when the dress isn’t from the same time period as the book.
Shallow. That’s me. If the guy on the cover is hot, I will look again, but it doesn’t make my decision for me…I like to think. However, the overall quality of the cover does matter. I look at a LOT of indie or self-pubbed books. If the covers there are cheesey or amateurish, I will pass, figuring that if they paid so little attention to the outside of the book, they probably paid just as little to the inside.
However, it does irritate when the dress isn’t from the same time period as the book.
Shallow. That’s me. If the guy on the cover is hot, I will look again, but it doesn’t make my decision for me…I like to think. However, the overall quality of the cover does matter. I look at a LOT of indie or self-pubbed books. If the covers there are cheesey or amateurish, I will pass, figuring that if they paid so little attention to the outside of the book, they probably paid just as little to the inside.
However, it does irritate when the dress isn’t from the same time period as the book.
I like the Unforgiven cover and have enjoyed The Survivors’ Club books. I admire your stand about your covers and the fact the you actually changed publisher’s in the middle if this series! Stick to your guns!
I like the Unforgiven cover and have enjoyed The Survivors’ Club books. I admire your stand about your covers and the fact the you actually changed publisher’s in the middle if this series! Stick to your guns!
I like the Unforgiven cover and have enjoyed The Survivors’ Club books. I admire your stand about your covers and the fact the you actually changed publisher’s in the middle if this series! Stick to your guns!
I like the Unforgiven cover and have enjoyed The Survivors’ Club books. I admire your stand about your covers and the fact the you actually changed publisher’s in the middle if this series! Stick to your guns!
I like the Unforgiven cover and have enjoyed The Survivors’ Club books. I admire your stand about your covers and the fact the you actually changed publisher’s in the middle if this series! Stick to your guns!
I love Mary’s covers as they convey more about the longing and the sensuality of the book. A church choir director, I used to cringe over “the heaving bosom” covers and now creep out of the library with “heaving chests and bosons.” (Thank you to my kindle paperwhite for saving me) I’d like a few words with these publishers!
I love Mary’s covers as they convey more about the longing and the sensuality of the book. A church choir director, I used to cringe over “the heaving bosom” covers and now creep out of the library with “heaving chests and bosons.” (Thank you to my kindle paperwhite for saving me) I’d like a few words with these publishers!
I love Mary’s covers as they convey more about the longing and the sensuality of the book. A church choir director, I used to cringe over “the heaving bosom” covers and now creep out of the library with “heaving chests and bosons.” (Thank you to my kindle paperwhite for saving me) I’d like a few words with these publishers!
I love Mary’s covers as they convey more about the longing and the sensuality of the book. A church choir director, I used to cringe over “the heaving bosom” covers and now creep out of the library with “heaving chests and bosons.” (Thank you to my kindle paperwhite for saving me) I’d like a few words with these publishers!
I love Mary’s covers as they convey more about the longing and the sensuality of the book. A church choir director, I used to cringe over “the heaving bosom” covers and now creep out of the library with “heaving chests and bosons.” (Thank you to my kindle paperwhite for saving me) I’d like a few words with these publishers!
I picked up your first book in the Survivor series, read the back bought the book, and all that followed. A cover is what draws me in first. Then the blurb. Covers I detest are the headless torso covers. I usually never pick those books up. Love your books, Mary.
I picked up your first book in the Survivor series, read the back bought the book, and all that followed. A cover is what draws me in first. Then the blurb. Covers I detest are the headless torso covers. I usually never pick those books up. Love your books, Mary.
I picked up your first book in the Survivor series, read the back bought the book, and all that followed. A cover is what draws me in first. Then the blurb. Covers I detest are the headless torso covers. I usually never pick those books up. Love your books, Mary.
I picked up your first book in the Survivor series, read the back bought the book, and all that followed. A cover is what draws me in first. Then the blurb. Covers I detest are the headless torso covers. I usually never pick those books up. Love your books, Mary.
I picked up your first book in the Survivor series, read the back bought the book, and all that followed. A cover is what draws me in first. Then the blurb. Covers I detest are the headless torso covers. I usually never pick those books up. Love your books, Mary.
Thank you for such detailed comments, Larisa.
Thank you for such detailed comments, Larisa.
Thank you for such detailed comments, Larisa.
Thank you for such detailed comments, Larisa.
Thank you for such detailed comments, Larisa.
The British books have a different publishers, GayLauren and thus different covers.
The British books have a different publishers, GayLauren and thus different covers.
The British books have a different publishers, GayLauren and thus different covers.
The British books have a different publishers, GayLauren and thus different covers.
The British books have a different publishers, GayLauren and thus different covers.
Chuckles!
Chuckles!
Chuckles!
Chuckles!
Chuckles!
Yes, I didn’t consider the couples covers, did I? I agree with you, Mary Jo.
Yes, I didn’t consider the couples covers, did I? I agree with you, Mary Jo.
Yes, I didn’t consider the couples covers, did I? I agree with you, Mary Jo.
Yes, I didn’t consider the couples covers, did I? I agree with you, Mary Jo.
Yes, I didn’t consider the couples covers, did I? I agree with you, Mary Jo.
Thank you, Beverly.
Thank you, Beverly.
Thank you, Beverly.
Thank you, Beverly.
Thank you, Beverly.
Thank you so much, Marilyn.
Thank you so much, Marilyn.
Thank you so much, Marilyn.
Thank you so much, Marilyn.
Thank you so much, Marilyn.
Ah, blurbs are another subject! Even those are rarely written by the author.
Ah, blurbs are another subject! Even those are rarely written by the author.
Ah, blurbs are another subject! Even those are rarely written by the author.
Ah, blurbs are another subject! Even those are rarely written by the author.
Ah, blurbs are another subject! Even those are rarely written by the author.
Lovely! Thank you for letting me know that, Dotti!
Lovely! Thank you for letting me know that, Dotti!
Lovely! Thank you for letting me know that, Dotti!
Lovely! Thank you for letting me know that, Dotti!
Lovely! Thank you for letting me know that, Dotti!
Yes, most people seem to have strong feelings about covers, don’t they?
Yes, most people seem to have strong feelings about covers, don’t they?
Yes, most people seem to have strong feelings about covers, don’t they?
Yes, most people seem to have strong feelings about covers, don’t they?
Yes, most people seem to have strong feelings about covers, don’t they?
I am glad you are back to reading romance, Vanessa.
I am glad you are back to reading romance, Vanessa.
I am glad you are back to reading romance, Vanessa.
I am glad you are back to reading romance, Vanessa.
I am glad you are back to reading romance, Vanessa.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you for your comments, Margaret.
Thank you for your comments, Margaret.
Thank you for your comments, Margaret.
Thank you for your comments, Margaret.
Thank you for your comments, Margaret.
Strange that, isn’t it, Keira. I have heard from a few readers who like the sexy covers, but not many.
Strange that, isn’t it, Keira. I have heard from a few readers who like the sexy covers, but not many.
Strange that, isn’t it, Keira. I have heard from a few readers who like the sexy covers, but not many.
Strange that, isn’t it, Keira. I have heard from a few readers who like the sexy covers, but not many.
Strange that, isn’t it, Keira. I have heard from a few readers who like the sexy covers, but not many.
Thank you, Mercy. Yes, that cover model looked nothing whatsoever like Hugo.
Thank you, Mercy. Yes, that cover model looked nothing whatsoever like Hugo.
Thank you, Mercy. Yes, that cover model looked nothing whatsoever like Hugo.
Thank you, Mercy. Yes, that cover model looked nothing whatsoever like Hugo.
Thank you, Mercy. Yes, that cover model looked nothing whatsoever like Hugo.
Thank you for your balanced comments, Linda.
Thank you for your balanced comments, Linda.
Thank you for your balanced comments, Linda.
Thank you for your balanced comments, Linda.
Thank you for your balanced comments, Linda.
Thank you, Leslie.
Thank you, Leslie.
Thank you, Leslie.
Thank you, Leslie.
Thank you, Leslie.
Yes, the cover of SIMPLY MAGIC was “busy,” Rachel-Anne. It has never been one of my favorites.
Yes, the cover of SIMPLY MAGIC was “busy,” Rachel-Anne. It has never been one of my favorites.
Yes, the cover of SIMPLY MAGIC was “busy,” Rachel-Anne. It has never been one of my favorites.
Yes, the cover of SIMPLY MAGIC was “busy,” Rachel-Anne. It has never been one of my favorites.
Yes, the cover of SIMPLY MAGIC was “busy,” Rachel-Anne. It has never been one of my favorites.
I agree that covers influence buying decisions, but not so much for me when it comes to favorite authors. I also purchase most books on a Kindle now, so I hardly ever consider covers at all anymore. But there is still something to be said for what first catches the eye, and with that in mind, I particularly like Mary’s new covers. For me, they hint at certain levels of wholesomeness, gentility, something, that really showcases Mary’s beautiful, heartfelt, classic stories. Like icing on the cake?
Regardless, I love to read, so even if I’m not particularly fond of the cover, I usually flip it over to the back for a glimpse of what wonderful things might be inside. How lucky we readers are that authors are willing to share their talents!
I agree that covers influence buying decisions, but not so much for me when it comes to favorite authors. I also purchase most books on a Kindle now, so I hardly ever consider covers at all anymore. But there is still something to be said for what first catches the eye, and with that in mind, I particularly like Mary’s new covers. For me, they hint at certain levels of wholesomeness, gentility, something, that really showcases Mary’s beautiful, heartfelt, classic stories. Like icing on the cake?
Regardless, I love to read, so even if I’m not particularly fond of the cover, I usually flip it over to the back for a glimpse of what wonderful things might be inside. How lucky we readers are that authors are willing to share their talents!
I agree that covers influence buying decisions, but not so much for me when it comes to favorite authors. I also purchase most books on a Kindle now, so I hardly ever consider covers at all anymore. But there is still something to be said for what first catches the eye, and with that in mind, I particularly like Mary’s new covers. For me, they hint at certain levels of wholesomeness, gentility, something, that really showcases Mary’s beautiful, heartfelt, classic stories. Like icing on the cake?
Regardless, I love to read, so even if I’m not particularly fond of the cover, I usually flip it over to the back for a glimpse of what wonderful things might be inside. How lucky we readers are that authors are willing to share their talents!
I agree that covers influence buying decisions, but not so much for me when it comes to favorite authors. I also purchase most books on a Kindle now, so I hardly ever consider covers at all anymore. But there is still something to be said for what first catches the eye, and with that in mind, I particularly like Mary’s new covers. For me, they hint at certain levels of wholesomeness, gentility, something, that really showcases Mary’s beautiful, heartfelt, classic stories. Like icing on the cake?
Regardless, I love to read, so even if I’m not particularly fond of the cover, I usually flip it over to the back for a glimpse of what wonderful things might be inside. How lucky we readers are that authors are willing to share their talents!
I agree that covers influence buying decisions, but not so much for me when it comes to favorite authors. I also purchase most books on a Kindle now, so I hardly ever consider covers at all anymore. But there is still something to be said for what first catches the eye, and with that in mind, I particularly like Mary’s new covers. For me, they hint at certain levels of wholesomeness, gentility, something, that really showcases Mary’s beautiful, heartfelt, classic stories. Like icing on the cake?
Regardless, I love to read, so even if I’m not particularly fond of the cover, I usually flip it over to the back for a glimpse of what wonderful things might be inside. How lucky we readers are that authors are willing to share their talents!
Thank you, Cindy.
Thank you, Cindy.
Thank you, Cindy.
Thank you, Cindy.
Thank you, Cindy.
Yes, we have so many choices now, Patricia (more than ever) that we need to signal more clearly to the reader what to expect whether in content or expertise.
Yes, we have so many choices now, Patricia (more than ever) that we need to signal more clearly to the reader what to expect whether in content or expertise.
Yes, we have so many choices now, Patricia (more than ever) that we need to signal more clearly to the reader what to expect whether in content or expertise.
Yes, we have so many choices now, Patricia (more than ever) that we need to signal more clearly to the reader what to expect whether in content or expertise.
Yes, we have so many choices now, Patricia (more than ever) that we need to signal more clearly to the reader what to expect whether in content or expertise.
Thank you, Marianne. It is good to hear all sorts of opinions. That is what I was hoping for.
Thank you, Marianne. It is good to hear all sorts of opinions. That is what I was hoping for.
Thank you, Marianne. It is good to hear all sorts of opinions. That is what I was hoping for.
Thank you, Marianne. It is good to hear all sorts of opinions. That is what I was hoping for.
Thank you, Marianne. It is good to hear all sorts of opinions. That is what I was hoping for.
Thank you, Karlene.
Thank you, Karlene.
Thank you, Karlene.
Thank you, Karlene.
Thank you, Karlene.
I will glad if covers begin to arouse more respect from the reading public, Sue.
I will glad if covers begin to arouse more respect from the reading public, Sue.
I will glad if covers begin to arouse more respect from the reading public, Sue.
I will glad if covers begin to arouse more respect from the reading public, Sue.
I will glad if covers begin to arouse more respect from the reading public, Sue.
Thank you, Diana.
Thank you, Diana.
Thank you, Diana.
Thank you, Diana.
Thank you, Diana.
Thank you, Beth.
Thank you, Beth.
Thank you, Beth.
Thank you, Beth.
Thank you, Beth.
I buy books based on author and the description of the story, not the cover so much. And I don’t have a problem with seeing bare-chested men on the cover IF it fits the story. I agree that, in the case of The Proposal, the first cover most definitely did not fit and prefer the revamped style on that and the rest of the Survivors Club books.
When I think of your books, Mary, I think of them as focusing primarily on the emotional growth of a couple, their falling in love and making the decision to spend their lives together. Even if there is sex in the story, e.g. Percy & Imogen, it’s not the mechanics of sex; it’s the love and romance.
I buy books based on author and the description of the story, not the cover so much. And I don’t have a problem with seeing bare-chested men on the cover IF it fits the story. I agree that, in the case of The Proposal, the first cover most definitely did not fit and prefer the revamped style on that and the rest of the Survivors Club books.
When I think of your books, Mary, I think of them as focusing primarily on the emotional growth of a couple, their falling in love and making the decision to spend their lives together. Even if there is sex in the story, e.g. Percy & Imogen, it’s not the mechanics of sex; it’s the love and romance.
I buy books based on author and the description of the story, not the cover so much. And I don’t have a problem with seeing bare-chested men on the cover IF it fits the story. I agree that, in the case of The Proposal, the first cover most definitely did not fit and prefer the revamped style on that and the rest of the Survivors Club books.
When I think of your books, Mary, I think of them as focusing primarily on the emotional growth of a couple, their falling in love and making the decision to spend their lives together. Even if there is sex in the story, e.g. Percy & Imogen, it’s not the mechanics of sex; it’s the love and romance.
I buy books based on author and the description of the story, not the cover so much. And I don’t have a problem with seeing bare-chested men on the cover IF it fits the story. I agree that, in the case of The Proposal, the first cover most definitely did not fit and prefer the revamped style on that and the rest of the Survivors Club books.
When I think of your books, Mary, I think of them as focusing primarily on the emotional growth of a couple, their falling in love and making the decision to spend their lives together. Even if there is sex in the story, e.g. Percy & Imogen, it’s not the mechanics of sex; it’s the love and romance.
I buy books based on author and the description of the story, not the cover so much. And I don’t have a problem with seeing bare-chested men on the cover IF it fits the story. I agree that, in the case of The Proposal, the first cover most definitely did not fit and prefer the revamped style on that and the rest of the Survivors Club books.
When I think of your books, Mary, I think of them as focusing primarily on the emotional growth of a couple, their falling in love and making the decision to spend their lives together. Even if there is sex in the story, e.g. Percy & Imogen, it’s not the mechanics of sex; it’s the love and romance.
I like them all, however my eye was caught on the half dressed man….
I like them all, however my eye was caught on the half dressed man….
I like them all, however my eye was caught on the half dressed man….
I like them all, however my eye was caught on the half dressed man….
I like them all, however my eye was caught on the half dressed man….
Mary Balogh, I believe that the covers reflect not only the stories, but the author as well. You are a very classy lady and your covers should reflect that. I am so glad you were able to get the type of covers you want for your recent books. They are classy and beautiful, just like the stories and you.
Mary Balogh, I believe that the covers reflect not only the stories, but the author as well. You are a very classy lady and your covers should reflect that. I am so glad you were able to get the type of covers you want for your recent books. They are classy and beautiful, just like the stories and you.
Mary Balogh, I believe that the covers reflect not only the stories, but the author as well. You are a very classy lady and your covers should reflect that. I am so glad you were able to get the type of covers you want for your recent books. They are classy and beautiful, just like the stories and you.
Mary Balogh, I believe that the covers reflect not only the stories, but the author as well. You are a very classy lady and your covers should reflect that. I am so glad you were able to get the type of covers you want for your recent books. They are classy and beautiful, just like the stories and you.
Mary Balogh, I believe that the covers reflect not only the stories, but the author as well. You are a very classy lady and your covers should reflect that. I am so glad you were able to get the type of covers you want for your recent books. They are classy and beautiful, just like the stories and you.
Are you perhaps thinking of one of the books called “Lady Hilary’s Halloween”? One is by Anne Barbour, the other by Mona Gedney. It’s been a long time since I read them, but I’ve got them both noted as “finished” and “good” 🙂 I can’t remember whether Halloween specifically played any part in the stories, but I am wondering — since these were series line books (Signet and Zebra respectively), maybe the cover art has more to do with seasonal marketing (both lines did holiday-themed books and covers) than the book’s actual content. The Anne Barbour is a bit of a time travel story about a lady with an interest in archaeology, and I’ve always liked her writing style.
Since you mention corn shucks, I am thinking that you saw the Mona Gedney, which shows a couple dancing in a harvest-themed setting, but Anne Barbour’s book only has a carved pumpkin on its cover, with the lead couple at a masquerade ball, and a studly Roman soldier ghost — fully dressed, as Romans soldiers go 🙂
I picture both authors gritting their teeth when they saw those covers and wishing they had had a vote — especially since, as I understand paperback budgets of the day, the cover artist got as much (and sometimes more) than the author got in her advance.
I do wish that publishers realized that covers can turn readers off as often as they turn them on. For me, the gooney pose and expression of the man on the Gedney cover is a groaner 🙁
Are you perhaps thinking of one of the books called “Lady Hilary’s Halloween”? One is by Anne Barbour, the other by Mona Gedney. It’s been a long time since I read them, but I’ve got them both noted as “finished” and “good” 🙂 I can’t remember whether Halloween specifically played any part in the stories, but I am wondering — since these were series line books (Signet and Zebra respectively), maybe the cover art has more to do with seasonal marketing (both lines did holiday-themed books and covers) than the book’s actual content. The Anne Barbour is a bit of a time travel story about a lady with an interest in archaeology, and I’ve always liked her writing style.
Since you mention corn shucks, I am thinking that you saw the Mona Gedney, which shows a couple dancing in a harvest-themed setting, but Anne Barbour’s book only has a carved pumpkin on its cover, with the lead couple at a masquerade ball, and a studly Roman soldier ghost — fully dressed, as Romans soldiers go 🙂
I picture both authors gritting their teeth when they saw those covers and wishing they had had a vote — especially since, as I understand paperback budgets of the day, the cover artist got as much (and sometimes more) than the author got in her advance.
I do wish that publishers realized that covers can turn readers off as often as they turn them on. For me, the gooney pose and expression of the man on the Gedney cover is a groaner 🙁
Are you perhaps thinking of one of the books called “Lady Hilary’s Halloween”? One is by Anne Barbour, the other by Mona Gedney. It’s been a long time since I read them, but I’ve got them both noted as “finished” and “good” 🙂 I can’t remember whether Halloween specifically played any part in the stories, but I am wondering — since these were series line books (Signet and Zebra respectively), maybe the cover art has more to do with seasonal marketing (both lines did holiday-themed books and covers) than the book’s actual content. The Anne Barbour is a bit of a time travel story about a lady with an interest in archaeology, and I’ve always liked her writing style.
Since you mention corn shucks, I am thinking that you saw the Mona Gedney, which shows a couple dancing in a harvest-themed setting, but Anne Barbour’s book only has a carved pumpkin on its cover, with the lead couple at a masquerade ball, and a studly Roman soldier ghost — fully dressed, as Romans soldiers go 🙂
I picture both authors gritting their teeth when they saw those covers and wishing they had had a vote — especially since, as I understand paperback budgets of the day, the cover artist got as much (and sometimes more) than the author got in her advance.
I do wish that publishers realized that covers can turn readers off as often as they turn them on. For me, the gooney pose and expression of the man on the Gedney cover is a groaner 🙁
Are you perhaps thinking of one of the books called “Lady Hilary’s Halloween”? One is by Anne Barbour, the other by Mona Gedney. It’s been a long time since I read them, but I’ve got them both noted as “finished” and “good” 🙂 I can’t remember whether Halloween specifically played any part in the stories, but I am wondering — since these were series line books (Signet and Zebra respectively), maybe the cover art has more to do with seasonal marketing (both lines did holiday-themed books and covers) than the book’s actual content. The Anne Barbour is a bit of a time travel story about a lady with an interest in archaeology, and I’ve always liked her writing style.
Since you mention corn shucks, I am thinking that you saw the Mona Gedney, which shows a couple dancing in a harvest-themed setting, but Anne Barbour’s book only has a carved pumpkin on its cover, with the lead couple at a masquerade ball, and a studly Roman soldier ghost — fully dressed, as Romans soldiers go 🙂
I picture both authors gritting their teeth when they saw those covers and wishing they had had a vote — especially since, as I understand paperback budgets of the day, the cover artist got as much (and sometimes more) than the author got in her advance.
I do wish that publishers realized that covers can turn readers off as often as they turn them on. For me, the gooney pose and expression of the man on the Gedney cover is a groaner 🙁
Are you perhaps thinking of one of the books called “Lady Hilary’s Halloween”? One is by Anne Barbour, the other by Mona Gedney. It’s been a long time since I read them, but I’ve got them both noted as “finished” and “good” 🙂 I can’t remember whether Halloween specifically played any part in the stories, but I am wondering — since these were series line books (Signet and Zebra respectively), maybe the cover art has more to do with seasonal marketing (both lines did holiday-themed books and covers) than the book’s actual content. The Anne Barbour is a bit of a time travel story about a lady with an interest in archaeology, and I’ve always liked her writing style.
Since you mention corn shucks, I am thinking that you saw the Mona Gedney, which shows a couple dancing in a harvest-themed setting, but Anne Barbour’s book only has a carved pumpkin on its cover, with the lead couple at a masquerade ball, and a studly Roman soldier ghost — fully dressed, as Romans soldiers go 🙂
I picture both authors gritting their teeth when they saw those covers and wishing they had had a vote — especially since, as I understand paperback budgets of the day, the cover artist got as much (and sometimes more) than the author got in her advance.
I do wish that publishers realized that covers can turn readers off as often as they turn them on. For me, the gooney pose and expression of the man on the Gedney cover is a groaner 🙁
Interesting topic and you raise some great points. In my humble opinion I think your covers are reflective of your author name and the kind of books you write, so when I pick one up I know what I’m getting. While the headless torsos are great eye candy, I will pick them up and read the blurb and excerpt, but I won’t buy them because of the cover. For a new author who has no following maybe getting the book picked up is
important. I don’t know. There is a sameness to them also, which causes me to skim for that added something that will catch my eye. I’ve seen some great covers that didn’t even have people on them. So the question goes round and round.
Interesting topic and you raise some great points. In my humble opinion I think your covers are reflective of your author name and the kind of books you write, so when I pick one up I know what I’m getting. While the headless torsos are great eye candy, I will pick them up and read the blurb and excerpt, but I won’t buy them because of the cover. For a new author who has no following maybe getting the book picked up is
important. I don’t know. There is a sameness to them also, which causes me to skim for that added something that will catch my eye. I’ve seen some great covers that didn’t even have people on them. So the question goes round and round.
Interesting topic and you raise some great points. In my humble opinion I think your covers are reflective of your author name and the kind of books you write, so when I pick one up I know what I’m getting. While the headless torsos are great eye candy, I will pick them up and read the blurb and excerpt, but I won’t buy them because of the cover. For a new author who has no following maybe getting the book picked up is
important. I don’t know. There is a sameness to them also, which causes me to skim for that added something that will catch my eye. I’ve seen some great covers that didn’t even have people on them. So the question goes round and round.
Interesting topic and you raise some great points. In my humble opinion I think your covers are reflective of your author name and the kind of books you write, so when I pick one up I know what I’m getting. While the headless torsos are great eye candy, I will pick them up and read the blurb and excerpt, but I won’t buy them because of the cover. For a new author who has no following maybe getting the book picked up is
important. I don’t know. There is a sameness to them also, which causes me to skim for that added something that will catch my eye. I’ve seen some great covers that didn’t even have people on them. So the question goes round and round.
Interesting topic and you raise some great points. In my humble opinion I think your covers are reflective of your author name and the kind of books you write, so when I pick one up I know what I’m getting. While the headless torsos are great eye candy, I will pick them up and read the blurb and excerpt, but I won’t buy them because of the cover. For a new author who has no following maybe getting the book picked up is
important. I don’t know. There is a sameness to them also, which causes me to skim for that added something that will catch my eye. I’ve seen some great covers that didn’t even have people on them. So the question goes round and round.
One can hope that publishers and cover designers will read not only Mary on covers but also the many comments that follow. I enjoyed the insights–and the humor of some–tremendousIy. I’d love to see the other covers–the British covers–for Mary Balogh’s books. Are the Australian covers different also? Could be quite the contest to line them all up for a vote. The cover-style gurus might learn something. Like many of the commenters, I am drawn to certain covers over others (My Georgette Heyer collection, for example, features many covers by a.e. barbosa and Philip Gough), and have found some covers to be turn-offs. Overall, it’s nice to find pleasure in both the cover and the story, but it’s the story I remember longest.
One can hope that publishers and cover designers will read not only Mary on covers but also the many comments that follow. I enjoyed the insights–and the humor of some–tremendousIy. I’d love to see the other covers–the British covers–for Mary Balogh’s books. Are the Australian covers different also? Could be quite the contest to line them all up for a vote. The cover-style gurus might learn something. Like many of the commenters, I am drawn to certain covers over others (My Georgette Heyer collection, for example, features many covers by a.e. barbosa and Philip Gough), and have found some covers to be turn-offs. Overall, it’s nice to find pleasure in both the cover and the story, but it’s the story I remember longest.
One can hope that publishers and cover designers will read not only Mary on covers but also the many comments that follow. I enjoyed the insights–and the humor of some–tremendousIy. I’d love to see the other covers–the British covers–for Mary Balogh’s books. Are the Australian covers different also? Could be quite the contest to line them all up for a vote. The cover-style gurus might learn something. Like many of the commenters, I am drawn to certain covers over others (My Georgette Heyer collection, for example, features many covers by a.e. barbosa and Philip Gough), and have found some covers to be turn-offs. Overall, it’s nice to find pleasure in both the cover and the story, but it’s the story I remember longest.
One can hope that publishers and cover designers will read not only Mary on covers but also the many comments that follow. I enjoyed the insights–and the humor of some–tremendousIy. I’d love to see the other covers–the British covers–for Mary Balogh’s books. Are the Australian covers different also? Could be quite the contest to line them all up for a vote. The cover-style gurus might learn something. Like many of the commenters, I am drawn to certain covers over others (My Georgette Heyer collection, for example, features many covers by a.e. barbosa and Philip Gough), and have found some covers to be turn-offs. Overall, it’s nice to find pleasure in both the cover and the story, but it’s the story I remember longest.
One can hope that publishers and cover designers will read not only Mary on covers but also the many comments that follow. I enjoyed the insights–and the humor of some–tremendousIy. I’d love to see the other covers–the British covers–for Mary Balogh’s books. Are the Australian covers different also? Could be quite the contest to line them all up for a vote. The cover-style gurus might learn something. Like many of the commenters, I am drawn to certain covers over others (My Georgette Heyer collection, for example, features many covers by a.e. barbosa and Philip Gough), and have found some covers to be turn-offs. Overall, it’s nice to find pleasure in both the cover and the story, but it’s the story I remember longest.
To me, the cover is like the content of the book. Bare chests and bulging breasts don’t do anymore for me than chapter long, gratuitous sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong, if the sex is well written and relevant to the story I love it. I love Mary’s beautiful covers, they are romantic and make me want to read the blurb to see if the story will appeal. The blurb is also very important, so 1. The cover attracts me. 2. The blurb hooks me.
Mary I have read your Huxtable Series more times than I can remember, it’s one of my GO TO series when I need a lift. Thank you.
To me, the cover is like the content of the book. Bare chests and bulging breasts don’t do anymore for me than chapter long, gratuitous sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong, if the sex is well written and relevant to the story I love it. I love Mary’s beautiful covers, they are romantic and make me want to read the blurb to see if the story will appeal. The blurb is also very important, so 1. The cover attracts me. 2. The blurb hooks me.
Mary I have read your Huxtable Series more times than I can remember, it’s one of my GO TO series when I need a lift. Thank you.
To me, the cover is like the content of the book. Bare chests and bulging breasts don’t do anymore for me than chapter long, gratuitous sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong, if the sex is well written and relevant to the story I love it. I love Mary’s beautiful covers, they are romantic and make me want to read the blurb to see if the story will appeal. The blurb is also very important, so 1. The cover attracts me. 2. The blurb hooks me.
Mary I have read your Huxtable Series more times than I can remember, it’s one of my GO TO series when I need a lift. Thank you.
To me, the cover is like the content of the book. Bare chests and bulging breasts don’t do anymore for me than chapter long, gratuitous sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong, if the sex is well written and relevant to the story I love it. I love Mary’s beautiful covers, they are romantic and make me want to read the blurb to see if the story will appeal. The blurb is also very important, so 1. The cover attracts me. 2. The blurb hooks me.
Mary I have read your Huxtable Series more times than I can remember, it’s one of my GO TO series when I need a lift. Thank you.
To me, the cover is like the content of the book. Bare chests and bulging breasts don’t do anymore for me than chapter long, gratuitous sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong, if the sex is well written and relevant to the story I love it. I love Mary’s beautiful covers, they are romantic and make me want to read the blurb to see if the story will appeal. The blurb is also very important, so 1. The cover attracts me. 2. The blurb hooks me.
Mary I have read your Huxtable Series more times than I can remember, it’s one of my GO TO series when I need a lift. Thank you.
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
This is one of my hot buttons! I absolutely hate the shirtless men on the cover of my romances. I suffer them when it’s an author that I know and love, but it definitely does not draw me into picking up a book or purchasing it. I especially hate reading said book out in public where romance reader stereotypes abound.
I absolutely love your new covers, Mary. Kudos to you for finally getting a say so in how your work is displayed.
Believe it or not what draws me to romance novels are stately mansions or beautiful scenery – that seems to really speak to me of far off places that I want to visit within the pages of a good book!
I have been reading your books for many years and always wait impatiently for the next title. I also initially pick up a book by looking at the cover but would not buy the boo simply because of it. I usually read the fly leaf or back of the book and perhaps a few pages interspersed through it before i decide to buy it. i always enjoy your books and several other authors and frequently reread old books.
I have been reading your books for many years and always wait impatiently for the next title. I also initially pick up a book by looking at the cover but would not buy the boo simply because of it. I usually read the fly leaf or back of the book and perhaps a few pages interspersed through it before i decide to buy it. i always enjoy your books and several other authors and frequently reread old books.
I have been reading your books for many years and always wait impatiently for the next title. I also initially pick up a book by looking at the cover but would not buy the boo simply because of it. I usually read the fly leaf or back of the book and perhaps a few pages interspersed through it before i decide to buy it. i always enjoy your books and several other authors and frequently reread old books.
I have been reading your books for many years and always wait impatiently for the next title. I also initially pick up a book by looking at the cover but would not buy the boo simply because of it. I usually read the fly leaf or back of the book and perhaps a few pages interspersed through it before i decide to buy it. i always enjoy your books and several other authors and frequently reread old books.
I have been reading your books for many years and always wait impatiently for the next title. I also initially pick up a book by looking at the cover but would not buy the boo simply because of it. I usually read the fly leaf or back of the book and perhaps a few pages interspersed through it before i decide to buy it. i always enjoy your books and several other authors and frequently reread old books.
First I chose by author so I have all Mary’s books that are on ebook. I’m delighted to see Indiscreet is on it’s way. I find most covers an irritating cheat so, except for those that actively turn me off, try to ignore them. Anachronisms are one of my pet hates so the new covers are a relief in that area. I must admit that I don’t mind a male chest as long as it’s not hairless or in a shirt that opens all the way down the front. I find it so disrespectful to the author that the cover doesn’t reflect the story. We are there for the story. Give us clues to this story, not some other story. If the setting is a manor, don’t put in a picture of a castle. I love the new covers. And I’m deeply impressed that Mary has taken the stance she has. A wonderful writer whose integrity shines through her stories and is an example for us all.
First I chose by author so I have all Mary’s books that are on ebook. I’m delighted to see Indiscreet is on it’s way. I find most covers an irritating cheat so, except for those that actively turn me off, try to ignore them. Anachronisms are one of my pet hates so the new covers are a relief in that area. I must admit that I don’t mind a male chest as long as it’s not hairless or in a shirt that opens all the way down the front. I find it so disrespectful to the author that the cover doesn’t reflect the story. We are there for the story. Give us clues to this story, not some other story. If the setting is a manor, don’t put in a picture of a castle. I love the new covers. And I’m deeply impressed that Mary has taken the stance she has. A wonderful writer whose integrity shines through her stories and is an example for us all.
First I chose by author so I have all Mary’s books that are on ebook. I’m delighted to see Indiscreet is on it’s way. I find most covers an irritating cheat so, except for those that actively turn me off, try to ignore them. Anachronisms are one of my pet hates so the new covers are a relief in that area. I must admit that I don’t mind a male chest as long as it’s not hairless or in a shirt that opens all the way down the front. I find it so disrespectful to the author that the cover doesn’t reflect the story. We are there for the story. Give us clues to this story, not some other story. If the setting is a manor, don’t put in a picture of a castle. I love the new covers. And I’m deeply impressed that Mary has taken the stance she has. A wonderful writer whose integrity shines through her stories and is an example for us all.
First I chose by author so I have all Mary’s books that are on ebook. I’m delighted to see Indiscreet is on it’s way. I find most covers an irritating cheat so, except for those that actively turn me off, try to ignore them. Anachronisms are one of my pet hates so the new covers are a relief in that area. I must admit that I don’t mind a male chest as long as it’s not hairless or in a shirt that opens all the way down the front. I find it so disrespectful to the author that the cover doesn’t reflect the story. We are there for the story. Give us clues to this story, not some other story. If the setting is a manor, don’t put in a picture of a castle. I love the new covers. And I’m deeply impressed that Mary has taken the stance she has. A wonderful writer whose integrity shines through her stories and is an example for us all.
First I chose by author so I have all Mary’s books that are on ebook. I’m delighted to see Indiscreet is on it’s way. I find most covers an irritating cheat so, except for those that actively turn me off, try to ignore them. Anachronisms are one of my pet hates so the new covers are a relief in that area. I must admit that I don’t mind a male chest as long as it’s not hairless or in a shirt that opens all the way down the front. I find it so disrespectful to the author that the cover doesn’t reflect the story. We are there for the story. Give us clues to this story, not some other story. If the setting is a manor, don’t put in a picture of a castle. I love the new covers. And I’m deeply impressed that Mary has taken the stance she has. A wonderful writer whose integrity shines through her stories and is an example for us all.
Recently I was told I “must” read the books of a certain author, so trotted over to my local bookstore to pick one up. Imagine my dismay to discover scantily clad couples gracing the covers of all of this author’s books. These books did not have covers I would feel comfortable reading on a lunch break at school (I teach grade 3), nor could I comfortably read them when my 5 year old son was up and about. I decided that I had no choice but to buy one of her books from iBooks in order to see if I like her writing. Now, certainly this is an option, but I prefer paper to electronic reading for several reasons, and have yet to buy a copy of this author’s work. I don’t judge a book by its cover, but it definitely plays a factor. If I can’t take the book anywhere from school to the beach to my in-laws then I probably will, reluctantly, give the book a pass.
* Please don’t include me in the contest…I already have most of Mary Balogh’s books! She’s one writer I try not to miss!
Recently I was told I “must” read the books of a certain author, so trotted over to my local bookstore to pick one up. Imagine my dismay to discover scantily clad couples gracing the covers of all of this author’s books. These books did not have covers I would feel comfortable reading on a lunch break at school (I teach grade 3), nor could I comfortably read them when my 5 year old son was up and about. I decided that I had no choice but to buy one of her books from iBooks in order to see if I like her writing. Now, certainly this is an option, but I prefer paper to electronic reading for several reasons, and have yet to buy a copy of this author’s work. I don’t judge a book by its cover, but it definitely plays a factor. If I can’t take the book anywhere from school to the beach to my in-laws then I probably will, reluctantly, give the book a pass.
* Please don’t include me in the contest…I already have most of Mary Balogh’s books! She’s one writer I try not to miss!
Recently I was told I “must” read the books of a certain author, so trotted over to my local bookstore to pick one up. Imagine my dismay to discover scantily clad couples gracing the covers of all of this author’s books. These books did not have covers I would feel comfortable reading on a lunch break at school (I teach grade 3), nor could I comfortably read them when my 5 year old son was up and about. I decided that I had no choice but to buy one of her books from iBooks in order to see if I like her writing. Now, certainly this is an option, but I prefer paper to electronic reading for several reasons, and have yet to buy a copy of this author’s work. I don’t judge a book by its cover, but it definitely plays a factor. If I can’t take the book anywhere from school to the beach to my in-laws then I probably will, reluctantly, give the book a pass.
* Please don’t include me in the contest…I already have most of Mary Balogh’s books! She’s one writer I try not to miss!
Recently I was told I “must” read the books of a certain author, so trotted over to my local bookstore to pick one up. Imagine my dismay to discover scantily clad couples gracing the covers of all of this author’s books. These books did not have covers I would feel comfortable reading on a lunch break at school (I teach grade 3), nor could I comfortably read them when my 5 year old son was up and about. I decided that I had no choice but to buy one of her books from iBooks in order to see if I like her writing. Now, certainly this is an option, but I prefer paper to electronic reading for several reasons, and have yet to buy a copy of this author’s work. I don’t judge a book by its cover, but it definitely plays a factor. If I can’t take the book anywhere from school to the beach to my in-laws then I probably will, reluctantly, give the book a pass.
* Please don’t include me in the contest…I already have most of Mary Balogh’s books! She’s one writer I try not to miss!
Recently I was told I “must” read the books of a certain author, so trotted over to my local bookstore to pick one up. Imagine my dismay to discover scantily clad couples gracing the covers of all of this author’s books. These books did not have covers I would feel comfortable reading on a lunch break at school (I teach grade 3), nor could I comfortably read them when my 5 year old son was up and about. I decided that I had no choice but to buy one of her books from iBooks in order to see if I like her writing. Now, certainly this is an option, but I prefer paper to electronic reading for several reasons, and have yet to buy a copy of this author’s work. I don’t judge a book by its cover, but it definitely plays a factor. If I can’t take the book anywhere from school to the beach to my in-laws then I probably will, reluctantly, give the book a pass.
* Please don’t include me in the contest…I already have most of Mary Balogh’s books! She’s one writer I try not to miss!
I love all of the covers and I love the books.
I love all of the covers and I love the books.
I love all of the covers and I love the books.
I love all of the covers and I love the books.
I love all of the covers and I love the books.
Thank you, Mary Balogh, for coming over to chat with us, and thank you especially for many years of reading pleasure! I will continue to buy anything with your name on it, regardless of the cover. I recall the covers of the Bedwyn series, with just the title and author in embossed lettering, and each one had a different background color, lovely rich tones. I liked those a lot. For the most part, I prefer the new covers for the Survivor’s Club series. The model on “The Proposal” was not my image of Hugo at all. And I bypassed several other good authors for a long time because I was turned off by the naked chest/dress falling off covers.
But now I am going to be contrary and say I do like the original cover of “The Arrangement” with Vincent on it. It fits my image of him, because he was so much into exercise and physical fitness, and there is a scene in the book where the heroine sees him boxing with a naked chest. Also, the picture conveys a hint of vulnerability in his face, and his youthfulness.
Thank you, Mary Balogh, for coming over to chat with us, and thank you especially for many years of reading pleasure! I will continue to buy anything with your name on it, regardless of the cover. I recall the covers of the Bedwyn series, with just the title and author in embossed lettering, and each one had a different background color, lovely rich tones. I liked those a lot. For the most part, I prefer the new covers for the Survivor’s Club series. The model on “The Proposal” was not my image of Hugo at all. And I bypassed several other good authors for a long time because I was turned off by the naked chest/dress falling off covers.
But now I am going to be contrary and say I do like the original cover of “The Arrangement” with Vincent on it. It fits my image of him, because he was so much into exercise and physical fitness, and there is a scene in the book where the heroine sees him boxing with a naked chest. Also, the picture conveys a hint of vulnerability in his face, and his youthfulness.
Thank you, Mary Balogh, for coming over to chat with us, and thank you especially for many years of reading pleasure! I will continue to buy anything with your name on it, regardless of the cover. I recall the covers of the Bedwyn series, with just the title and author in embossed lettering, and each one had a different background color, lovely rich tones. I liked those a lot. For the most part, I prefer the new covers for the Survivor’s Club series. The model on “The Proposal” was not my image of Hugo at all. And I bypassed several other good authors for a long time because I was turned off by the naked chest/dress falling off covers.
But now I am going to be contrary and say I do like the original cover of “The Arrangement” with Vincent on it. It fits my image of him, because he was so much into exercise and physical fitness, and there is a scene in the book where the heroine sees him boxing with a naked chest. Also, the picture conveys a hint of vulnerability in his face, and his youthfulness.
Thank you, Mary Balogh, for coming over to chat with us, and thank you especially for many years of reading pleasure! I will continue to buy anything with your name on it, regardless of the cover. I recall the covers of the Bedwyn series, with just the title and author in embossed lettering, and each one had a different background color, lovely rich tones. I liked those a lot. For the most part, I prefer the new covers for the Survivor’s Club series. The model on “The Proposal” was not my image of Hugo at all. And I bypassed several other good authors for a long time because I was turned off by the naked chest/dress falling off covers.
But now I am going to be contrary and say I do like the original cover of “The Arrangement” with Vincent on it. It fits my image of him, because he was so much into exercise and physical fitness, and there is a scene in the book where the heroine sees him boxing with a naked chest. Also, the picture conveys a hint of vulnerability in his face, and his youthfulness.
Thank you, Mary Balogh, for coming over to chat with us, and thank you especially for many years of reading pleasure! I will continue to buy anything with your name on it, regardless of the cover. I recall the covers of the Bedwyn series, with just the title and author in embossed lettering, and each one had a different background color, lovely rich tones. I liked those a lot. For the most part, I prefer the new covers for the Survivor’s Club series. The model on “The Proposal” was not my image of Hugo at all. And I bypassed several other good authors for a long time because I was turned off by the naked chest/dress falling off covers.
But now I am going to be contrary and say I do like the original cover of “The Arrangement” with Vincent on it. It fits my image of him, because he was so much into exercise and physical fitness, and there is a scene in the book where the heroine sees him boxing with a naked chest. Also, the picture conveys a hint of vulnerability in his face, and his youthfulness.
I forgot to add, that aside from my auto-buy authors, I usually try new authors based on blog recommendations and my favored tropes(anything with a marriage of convenience, marriage between strangers, or a Cinderella type story and I’m hooked!). I also read the first few pages, usually the Amazon free sample, to see if it catches my interest.
I forgot to add, that aside from my auto-buy authors, I usually try new authors based on blog recommendations and my favored tropes(anything with a marriage of convenience, marriage between strangers, or a Cinderella type story and I’m hooked!). I also read the first few pages, usually the Amazon free sample, to see if it catches my interest.
I forgot to add, that aside from my auto-buy authors, I usually try new authors based on blog recommendations and my favored tropes(anything with a marriage of convenience, marriage between strangers, or a Cinderella type story and I’m hooked!). I also read the first few pages, usually the Amazon free sample, to see if it catches my interest.
I forgot to add, that aside from my auto-buy authors, I usually try new authors based on blog recommendations and my favored tropes(anything with a marriage of convenience, marriage between strangers, or a Cinderella type story and I’m hooked!). I also read the first few pages, usually the Amazon free sample, to see if it catches my interest.
I forgot to add, that aside from my auto-buy authors, I usually try new authors based on blog recommendations and my favored tropes(anything with a marriage of convenience, marriage between strangers, or a Cinderella type story and I’m hooked!). I also read the first few pages, usually the Amazon free sample, to see if it catches my interest.
I’m so glad, Mary Balogh, that you were able to take control over the design of the covers of your latest books. As you say, it is more work for you, but these new covers give readers a far better sense of the feel of your writing than the more quote unquote marketable bare-naked guy covers that Dell foisted upon the early Survivors’ Club series. The new covers are truly lovely.
Many of your covers inspired me when I was thinking about what I wanted the cover of my own first historical romance novel to look like. It was so important to me that the dress be accurate to the period that I ended up sewing a period reproduction dress myself for the cover model! Lots of work, but the completed cover made it SO worth the effort!
Keep up the good fight for classy covers, you classy lady, you!
I’m so glad, Mary Balogh, that you were able to take control over the design of the covers of your latest books. As you say, it is more work for you, but these new covers give readers a far better sense of the feel of your writing than the more quote unquote marketable bare-naked guy covers that Dell foisted upon the early Survivors’ Club series. The new covers are truly lovely.
Many of your covers inspired me when I was thinking about what I wanted the cover of my own first historical romance novel to look like. It was so important to me that the dress be accurate to the period that I ended up sewing a period reproduction dress myself for the cover model! Lots of work, but the completed cover made it SO worth the effort!
Keep up the good fight for classy covers, you classy lady, you!
I’m so glad, Mary Balogh, that you were able to take control over the design of the covers of your latest books. As you say, it is more work for you, but these new covers give readers a far better sense of the feel of your writing than the more quote unquote marketable bare-naked guy covers that Dell foisted upon the early Survivors’ Club series. The new covers are truly lovely.
Many of your covers inspired me when I was thinking about what I wanted the cover of my own first historical romance novel to look like. It was so important to me that the dress be accurate to the period that I ended up sewing a period reproduction dress myself for the cover model! Lots of work, but the completed cover made it SO worth the effort!
Keep up the good fight for classy covers, you classy lady, you!
I’m so glad, Mary Balogh, that you were able to take control over the design of the covers of your latest books. As you say, it is more work for you, but these new covers give readers a far better sense of the feel of your writing than the more quote unquote marketable bare-naked guy covers that Dell foisted upon the early Survivors’ Club series. The new covers are truly lovely.
Many of your covers inspired me when I was thinking about what I wanted the cover of my own first historical romance novel to look like. It was so important to me that the dress be accurate to the period that I ended up sewing a period reproduction dress myself for the cover model! Lots of work, but the completed cover made it SO worth the effort!
Keep up the good fight for classy covers, you classy lady, you!