by Mary Jo
Once upon a time, in that distant day before the internet and .jpg files and indie ebook publishing, receiving your cover from your publisher was a very big deal. You opened the envelope breathlessly, then studied the cover flat with joy, horror, or something in between. You flashed your cover proudly at conferences if you liked it, or moaned and asked for commiseration if you didn't.
The original cover of Uncommon Vows is not a favorite of mine. It was fairly eye catching, 
I like the colors, and it fulfilled the basic requirement of getting hair colors right: he's a very fair Norman blond, she has dark hair like the half Welsh heroine.
BUT–he looks like a 17 year old California surfer dude with a pompadour. A convincing and deadly knight? Not so much. Plus, in the first version they sent, you could see the angled raglan seams on the shoulders of his sweatshirt. I howled about that (raglan sleeves????) and they changed it, but still. Not to mention that with those slashes in his shirt, why no blood?
The heroine has dark hair, but instead of being a slim, fey forest sprite, she looks like a busty barmaid who has been around the track a few too many times. And with the falcon on her unprotected arm, again there should be blood! There's a reason why falcon handlers have leather arm protectors. <G>
Later on, my publisher reissued all my backlist books over time with new budget covers that have objects rather than people. The effect is neutral, though not very grabby. There is a silver mirror in the story, so this one is okay. But it's so neutral I 
almost forgot this cover's existence!
Move along a number of years. Uncommon Vows went out of print and I got my rights reverted because MINE. This didn't mean much until ebooks came along and all of sudden, we could republish our back list, yay! UV was not one of the first books I e-published because it's a standalone, not part of a series, and it's my only medieval.
I was lucky to find cover artist extraordinaire Kim Killion early on and we figured things out together. In those early days, the biggest challenge was to find good stock art 
to use on the covers. Finding an appropriate medieval image was REALLY hard!
I eventually settled on this image of a hooded man with a sword and a woman watching warily. The art is attractive and the content kind of worked because when we first meet Adrian, he's in a monastery with the intention of taking final vows, hence the robe. And wariness also works because this is my "subversion of the captivity fantasy" book and Meriel doesn't want anything to do with Adrian for a good part of the book.
But I was never fully satisfied with the cover because it could be interpreted as having a slightly creepy vibe–a vampire or BDSM or something, which isn't true to the story. So even though artistically the cover was very effective, ultimately I never used it. When I finally got around to publishing the book, I went back to Kim and started looking through the stock image sites for a better picture.
This one is a great improvement. Kim used the same styling and colors from the unused cover because I liked that part a lot. In this cover, the characters are clearly connecting with each other and she's wearing a lovely medieval style gown. He's not wearing much at all <G>, but he's good looking and Kim was able to lighten his hair to Norman blond. But I HATED the buzz cut! 
Still, it was a pretty good cover and I used it for years. But when I decided to make Uncommon Vows the first in my program of Print On Demand titles, it seemed like a good time to update the cover. I started searching at Period Images, a stock photo site that does a good job with historic costumes.
In the medieval section, I found this excellent image of a knight and a petite lady and turned it over to Kim so she could work her magic. First of all, she flipped the image from right to left. 
Then she turned the lady's platinum blond hair to black (not easy!), and lightened the man's dark blond hair because much is made of the fact that Adrian has very blond Nordic hair.
And lo! the results are above! I love this cover for the tenderness between the two, and the fact that they look a lot like my characters. I had Kim use the same colors and styling and fonts because I like them so much.
AND I have my Print On Demand edition! These are big books, 5" x 8.5", and because they are produced more or less to order, they are expensive: $14.99 is the list price at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. But they are beautiful, and I'll give one of these to on US reader who comments between now and midnight Tuesday. (If someone outside the US wins the drawing, I'll send a gift e-book.) 
I hope you enjoyed this cover journey! Is there one version you particularly like? You know which one is my favorite, but I never expect everyone to agree with me!
Mary Jo
Msry Jo, I have the blue neutral one but it had the most important thing of all on it – your name! 😀 However, I must say the new cover looks more like what I imagined the hero and heroine to look like. Thanks for the fascinating look into the joys/frustrations of publishing a book. 🙂
Msry Jo, I have the blue neutral one but it had the most important thing of all on it – your name! 😀 However, I must say the new cover looks more like what I imagined the hero and heroine to look like. Thanks for the fascinating look into the joys/frustrations of publishing a book. 🙂
Msry Jo, I have the blue neutral one but it had the most important thing of all on it – your name! 😀 However, I must say the new cover looks more like what I imagined the hero and heroine to look like. Thanks for the fascinating look into the joys/frustrations of publishing a book. 🙂
Msry Jo, I have the blue neutral one but it had the most important thing of all on it – your name! 😀 However, I must say the new cover looks more like what I imagined the hero and heroine to look like. Thanks for the fascinating look into the joys/frustrations of publishing a book. 🙂
Msry Jo, I have the blue neutral one but it had the most important thing of all on it – your name! 😀 However, I must say the new cover looks more like what I imagined the hero and heroine to look like. Thanks for the fascinating look into the joys/frustrations of publishing a book. 🙂
Mary Jo* forgive the new phone’s idiosyncrasies and arbitrary substitions to what I’ve actually typed! 🙂
Mary Jo* forgive the new phone’s idiosyncrasies and arbitrary substitions to what I’ve actually typed! 🙂
Mary Jo* forgive the new phone’s idiosyncrasies and arbitrary substitions to what I’ve actually typed! 🙂
Mary Jo* forgive the new phone’s idiosyncrasies and arbitrary substitions to what I’ve actually typed! 🙂
Mary Jo* forgive the new phone’s idiosyncrasies and arbitrary substitions to what I’ve actually typed! 🙂
I also have the blue “mirror” cover, but, as Karen W says, your name as author is the most important thing to consider.
I also have the blue “mirror” cover, but, as Karen W says, your name as author is the most important thing to consider.
I also have the blue “mirror” cover, but, as Karen W says, your name as author is the most important thing to consider.
I also have the blue “mirror” cover, but, as Karen W says, your name as author is the most important thing to consider.
I also have the blue “mirror” cover, but, as Karen W says, your name as author is the most important thing to consider.
What an interesting article about covers. I like this new one for the reasons you mentioned and the couple are authentic looking.
What an interesting article about covers. I like this new one for the reasons you mentioned and the couple are authentic looking.
What an interesting article about covers. I like this new one for the reasons you mentioned and the couple are authentic looking.
What an interesting article about covers. I like this new one for the reasons you mentioned and the couple are authentic looking.
What an interesting article about covers. I like this new one for the reasons you mentioned and the couple are authentic looking.
wow, I had let this book slip back into the dim recesses of my mind! I remember that I liked it, but clearly I’m going to have to reread. I wonder if I still have a print copy around here or if it got lost in my last couple of moves? Maybe I’ll buy a new copy with this wonderful new cover… From what I can recall it really does give a much better impression of the plot, or, at least, of the emotional tenor. I love the Word Wenches – always a new set of thoughts, and I really love Mary Jo’s entire body of work.
wow, I had let this book slip back into the dim recesses of my mind! I remember that I liked it, but clearly I’m going to have to reread. I wonder if I still have a print copy around here or if it got lost in my last couple of moves? Maybe I’ll buy a new copy with this wonderful new cover… From what I can recall it really does give a much better impression of the plot, or, at least, of the emotional tenor. I love the Word Wenches – always a new set of thoughts, and I really love Mary Jo’s entire body of work.
wow, I had let this book slip back into the dim recesses of my mind! I remember that I liked it, but clearly I’m going to have to reread. I wonder if I still have a print copy around here or if it got lost in my last couple of moves? Maybe I’ll buy a new copy with this wonderful new cover… From what I can recall it really does give a much better impression of the plot, or, at least, of the emotional tenor. I love the Word Wenches – always a new set of thoughts, and I really love Mary Jo’s entire body of work.
wow, I had let this book slip back into the dim recesses of my mind! I remember that I liked it, but clearly I’m going to have to reread. I wonder if I still have a print copy around here or if it got lost in my last couple of moves? Maybe I’ll buy a new copy with this wonderful new cover… From what I can recall it really does give a much better impression of the plot, or, at least, of the emotional tenor. I love the Word Wenches – always a new set of thoughts, and I really love Mary Jo’s entire body of work.
wow, I had let this book slip back into the dim recesses of my mind! I remember that I liked it, but clearly I’m going to have to reread. I wonder if I still have a print copy around here or if it got lost in my last couple of moves? Maybe I’ll buy a new copy with this wonderful new cover… From what I can recall it really does give a much better impression of the plot, or, at least, of the emotional tenor. I love the Word Wenches – always a new set of thoughts, and I really love Mary Jo’s entire body of work.
I agree! That new cover is so much more impactful and the tenderness really comes through! I especially love the placement of the hands. This is one of my fave books of yours – in fact, I think I feel the need for a re-read!
I agree! That new cover is so much more impactful and the tenderness really comes through! I especially love the placement of the hands. This is one of my fave books of yours – in fact, I think I feel the need for a re-read!
I agree! That new cover is so much more impactful and the tenderness really comes through! I especially love the placement of the hands. This is one of my fave books of yours – in fact, I think I feel the need for a re-read!
I agree! That new cover is so much more impactful and the tenderness really comes through! I especially love the placement of the hands. This is one of my fave books of yours – in fact, I think I feel the need for a re-read!
I agree! That new cover is so much more impactful and the tenderness really comes through! I especially love the placement of the hands. This is one of my fave books of yours – in fact, I think I feel the need for a re-read!
Good things come to those who persevere! The new cover is FABULOUS! And love your account of the cover oydessey. Sigh All authors can relate to that (don’t get me started on the Signet cover where a rather unfortunate shadow rendering made it look like the hero had peeed in his pants!)
Good things come to those who persevere! The new cover is FABULOUS! And love your account of the cover oydessey. Sigh All authors can relate to that (don’t get me started on the Signet cover where a rather unfortunate shadow rendering made it look like the hero had peeed in his pants!)
Good things come to those who persevere! The new cover is FABULOUS! And love your account of the cover oydessey. Sigh All authors can relate to that (don’t get me started on the Signet cover where a rather unfortunate shadow rendering made it look like the hero had peeed in his pants!)
Good things come to those who persevere! The new cover is FABULOUS! And love your account of the cover oydessey. Sigh All authors can relate to that (don’t get me started on the Signet cover where a rather unfortunate shadow rendering made it look like the hero had peeed in his pants!)
Good things come to those who persevere! The new cover is FABULOUS! And love your account of the cover oydessey. Sigh All authors can relate to that (don’t get me started on the Signet cover where a rather unfortunate shadow rendering made it look like the hero had peeed in his pants!)
Without a doubt, the latest cover is the best by far. I had to laugh at your description of the woman on the first cover – busty barmaid (smile). It reminds me of an old Jane Russell poster for some western she made back in the 50s.
Without a doubt, the latest cover is the best by far. I had to laugh at your description of the woman on the first cover – busty barmaid (smile). It reminds me of an old Jane Russell poster for some western she made back in the 50s.
Without a doubt, the latest cover is the best by far. I had to laugh at your description of the woman on the first cover – busty barmaid (smile). It reminds me of an old Jane Russell poster for some western she made back in the 50s.
Without a doubt, the latest cover is the best by far. I had to laugh at your description of the woman on the first cover – busty barmaid (smile). It reminds me of an old Jane Russell poster for some western she made back in the 50s.
Without a doubt, the latest cover is the best by far. I had to laugh at your description of the woman on the first cover – busty barmaid (smile). It reminds me of an old Jane Russell poster for some western she made back in the 50s.
I have the first cover one and yes, I did wonder about the falcon on the poor girl’s forearm! I actually wrote you a fan letter about this book because it was so intense and gripping; I rated it then and now as one of my favorites of all romance novels. How Adrian moves from dark obsession to realization of his sin to that moving speech he has with Meriel–pow! Everything and the final note perfect. I am going to order this book and then indulge my fantasy that Adrian REALLY was looking for me……cough. (even if sylph Welsh looking is not who I am!)
I have the first cover one and yes, I did wonder about the falcon on the poor girl’s forearm! I actually wrote you a fan letter about this book because it was so intense and gripping; I rated it then and now as one of my favorites of all romance novels. How Adrian moves from dark obsession to realization of his sin to that moving speech he has with Meriel–pow! Everything and the final note perfect. I am going to order this book and then indulge my fantasy that Adrian REALLY was looking for me……cough. (even if sylph Welsh looking is not who I am!)
I have the first cover one and yes, I did wonder about the falcon on the poor girl’s forearm! I actually wrote you a fan letter about this book because it was so intense and gripping; I rated it then and now as one of my favorites of all romance novels. How Adrian moves from dark obsession to realization of his sin to that moving speech he has with Meriel–pow! Everything and the final note perfect. I am going to order this book and then indulge my fantasy that Adrian REALLY was looking for me……cough. (even if sylph Welsh looking is not who I am!)
I have the first cover one and yes, I did wonder about the falcon on the poor girl’s forearm! I actually wrote you a fan letter about this book because it was so intense and gripping; I rated it then and now as one of my favorites of all romance novels. How Adrian moves from dark obsession to realization of his sin to that moving speech he has with Meriel–pow! Everything and the final note perfect. I am going to order this book and then indulge my fantasy that Adrian REALLY was looking for me……cough. (even if sylph Welsh looking is not who I am!)
I have the first cover one and yes, I did wonder about the falcon on the poor girl’s forearm! I actually wrote you a fan letter about this book because it was so intense and gripping; I rated it then and now as one of my favorites of all romance novels. How Adrian moves from dark obsession to realization of his sin to that moving speech he has with Meriel–pow! Everything and the final note perfect. I am going to order this book and then indulge my fantasy that Adrian REALLY was looking for me……cough. (even if sylph Welsh looking is not who I am!)
Wow,I love the” insider” information ! A pet peeve of mine is when the cover does not match the characters description. I love the print on demand cover!!
Wow,I love the” insider” information ! A pet peeve of mine is when the cover does not match the characters description. I love the print on demand cover!!
Wow,I love the” insider” information ! A pet peeve of mine is when the cover does not match the characters description. I love the print on demand cover!!
Wow,I love the” insider” information ! A pet peeve of mine is when the cover does not match the characters description. I love the print on demand cover!!
Wow,I love the” insider” information ! A pet peeve of mine is when the cover does not match the characters description. I love the print on demand cover!!
My husband writes sci-fi novels and getting the cover just right is such a huge task – almost as big as writing the book itself! (He self-publishes through Amazon, so he has to do everything pretty much himself – or find someone to do it. He prefers it that way.) Between his experience and your post, it makes me appreciate authors and books even more. I LOVE the new cover – it’s absolutely gorgeous! I definitely know which one would make me want to read this book 🙂
My husband writes sci-fi novels and getting the cover just right is such a huge task – almost as big as writing the book itself! (He self-publishes through Amazon, so he has to do everything pretty much himself – or find someone to do it. He prefers it that way.) Between his experience and your post, it makes me appreciate authors and books even more. I LOVE the new cover – it’s absolutely gorgeous! I definitely know which one would make me want to read this book 🙂
My husband writes sci-fi novels and getting the cover just right is such a huge task – almost as big as writing the book itself! (He self-publishes through Amazon, so he has to do everything pretty much himself – or find someone to do it. He prefers it that way.) Between his experience and your post, it makes me appreciate authors and books even more. I LOVE the new cover – it’s absolutely gorgeous! I definitely know which one would make me want to read this book 🙂
My husband writes sci-fi novels and getting the cover just right is such a huge task – almost as big as writing the book itself! (He self-publishes through Amazon, so he has to do everything pretty much himself – or find someone to do it. He prefers it that way.) Between his experience and your post, it makes me appreciate authors and books even more. I LOVE the new cover – it’s absolutely gorgeous! I definitely know which one would make me want to read this book 🙂
My husband writes sci-fi novels and getting the cover just right is such a huge task – almost as big as writing the book itself! (He self-publishes through Amazon, so he has to do everything pretty much himself – or find someone to do it. He prefers it that way.) Between his experience and your post, it makes me appreciate authors and books even more. I LOVE the new cover – it’s absolutely gorgeous! I definitely know which one would make me want to read this book 🙂
I have the blue one, but it’s really not the cover that I “go” for, it’s the words on the inside. The cover gets my attention when I first look at it. I think this is the first books written by you that I read, but one of my all time favorites.
I have the blue one, but it’s really not the cover that I “go” for, it’s the words on the inside. The cover gets my attention when I first look at it. I think this is the first books written by you that I read, but one of my all time favorites.
I have the blue one, but it’s really not the cover that I “go” for, it’s the words on the inside. The cover gets my attention when I first look at it. I think this is the first books written by you that I read, but one of my all time favorites.
I have the blue one, but it’s really not the cover that I “go” for, it’s the words on the inside. The cover gets my attention when I first look at it. I think this is the first books written by you that I read, but one of my all time favorites.
I have the blue one, but it’s really not the cover that I “go” for, it’s the words on the inside. The cover gets my attention when I first look at it. I think this is the first books written by you that I read, but one of my all time favorites.
The color combination of the Print on Demand version is my favorite. The connection and position of the models to each other is strong. Beautiful marketing strategy to pull the viewer to the story.
The color combination of the Print on Demand version is my favorite. The connection and position of the models to each other is strong. Beautiful marketing strategy to pull the viewer to the story.
The color combination of the Print on Demand version is my favorite. The connection and position of the models to each other is strong. Beautiful marketing strategy to pull the viewer to the story.
The color combination of the Print on Demand version is my favorite. The connection and position of the models to each other is strong. Beautiful marketing strategy to pull the viewer to the story.
The color combination of the Print on Demand version is my favorite. The connection and position of the models to each other is strong. Beautiful marketing strategy to pull the viewer to the story.
It was very interesting to hear about how you get covers on your books. I do like your new cover the best and would love to read it. Thanks.
It was very interesting to hear about how you get covers on your books. I do like your new cover the best and would love to read it. Thanks.
It was very interesting to hear about how you get covers on your books. I do like your new cover the best and would love to read it. Thanks.
It was very interesting to hear about how you get covers on your books. I do like your new cover the best and would love to read it. Thanks.
It was very interesting to hear about how you get covers on your books. I do like your new cover the best and would love to read it. Thanks.
If all the covers were lined up, with no other information on them, I would definitely choose the new one. There seems to be tenderness there and the hero looks like he has a story to tell.
I love to hear from all the Wenches about the process of writing and getting books published. It is a world so far removed from my own and I find it fascinating. Thank you for letting us in on your trials and triumphs.
If all the covers were lined up, with no other information on them, I would definitely choose the new one. There seems to be tenderness there and the hero looks like he has a story to tell.
I love to hear from all the Wenches about the process of writing and getting books published. It is a world so far removed from my own and I find it fascinating. Thank you for letting us in on your trials and triumphs.
If all the covers were lined up, with no other information on them, I would definitely choose the new one. There seems to be tenderness there and the hero looks like he has a story to tell.
I love to hear from all the Wenches about the process of writing and getting books published. It is a world so far removed from my own and I find it fascinating. Thank you for letting us in on your trials and triumphs.
If all the covers were lined up, with no other information on them, I would definitely choose the new one. There seems to be tenderness there and the hero looks like he has a story to tell.
I love to hear from all the Wenches about the process of writing and getting books published. It is a world so far removed from my own and I find it fascinating. Thank you for letting us in on your trials and triumphs.
If all the covers were lined up, with no other information on them, I would definitely choose the new one. There seems to be tenderness there and the hero looks like he has a story to tell.
I love to hear from all the Wenches about the process of writing and getting books published. It is a world so far removed from my own and I find it fascinating. Thank you for letting us in on your trials and triumphs.
You covers are dramatic and exciting. I like the newest cover since it is so appealing and perfect for the novel.
You covers are dramatic and exciting. I like the newest cover since it is so appealing and perfect for the novel.
You covers are dramatic and exciting. I like the newest cover since it is so appealing and perfect for the novel.
You covers are dramatic and exciting. I like the newest cover since it is so appealing and perfect for the novel.
You covers are dramatic and exciting. I like the newest cover since it is so appealing and perfect for the novel.
The blue cover is tasteful and very artistic. That is my favorite cover by far. Your novel sounds compelling and enthralling. I enjoyed this interesting post about your writing.
The blue cover is tasteful and very artistic. That is my favorite cover by far. Your novel sounds compelling and enthralling. I enjoyed this interesting post about your writing.
The blue cover is tasteful and very artistic. That is my favorite cover by far. Your novel sounds compelling and enthralling. I enjoyed this interesting post about your writing.
The blue cover is tasteful and very artistic. That is my favorite cover by far. Your novel sounds compelling and enthralling. I enjoyed this interesting post about your writing.
The blue cover is tasteful and very artistic. That is my favorite cover by far. Your novel sounds compelling and enthralling. I enjoyed this interesting post about your writing.
I enjoy reading and hearing about how book covers come to be. This newest cover for Uncommon Vows is THE best one!
I enjoy reading and hearing about how book covers come to be. This newest cover for Uncommon Vows is THE best one!
I enjoy reading and hearing about how book covers come to be. This newest cover for Uncommon Vows is THE best one!
I enjoy reading and hearing about how book covers come to be. This newest cover for Uncommon Vows is THE best one!
I enjoy reading and hearing about how book covers come to be. This newest cover for Uncommon Vows is THE best one!
I had a copy of the original one, and must have donated it in one of my efforts to reduce my collection. I liked it OK, but then I never notice covers much unless there is some glaring error. I REALLY like the new version and hope you sell lots of the printed version, since I am so worried that fewer and fewer books are being actually put down on paper these days. You can actually see the links in the chain mail.
I had a copy of the original one, and must have donated it in one of my efforts to reduce my collection. I liked it OK, but then I never notice covers much unless there is some glaring error. I REALLY like the new version and hope you sell lots of the printed version, since I am so worried that fewer and fewer books are being actually put down on paper these days. You can actually see the links in the chain mail.
I had a copy of the original one, and must have donated it in one of my efforts to reduce my collection. I liked it OK, but then I never notice covers much unless there is some glaring error. I REALLY like the new version and hope you sell lots of the printed version, since I am so worried that fewer and fewer books are being actually put down on paper these days. You can actually see the links in the chain mail.
I had a copy of the original one, and must have donated it in one of my efforts to reduce my collection. I liked it OK, but then I never notice covers much unless there is some glaring error. I REALLY like the new version and hope you sell lots of the printed version, since I am so worried that fewer and fewer books are being actually put down on paper these days. You can actually see the links in the chain mail.
I had a copy of the original one, and must have donated it in one of my efforts to reduce my collection. I liked it OK, but then I never notice covers much unless there is some glaring error. I REALLY like the new version and hope you sell lots of the printed version, since I am so worried that fewer and fewer books are being actually put down on paper these days. You can actually see the links in the chain mail.
I didn’t realize until recently that covers are supposed to “brand” the book. That is, you look at the cover and you know what genre a book is. A knight for a medieval, modern looking people for contemporaries, etc. Trouble is, that works for pure genres, but not always for mixed ones, like a dystopian fantasy medieval. Your cover brands the book well.
Also, there is a dearth of historical images. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen the Regency lady with her back to the reader. Mary Balogh’s books have that one, too, so it’s not just indie books. I understand that finding historical-looking photos is hard. There is more of a variety now than there used to be, but until indies are rich enough to afford paying an artist for a unique image, I guess we’re stuck with the same images over and over. And yes, I’ve seen the image on “Uncommon Vows” on other books.
I didn’t realize until recently that covers are supposed to “brand” the book. That is, you look at the cover and you know what genre a book is. A knight for a medieval, modern looking people for contemporaries, etc. Trouble is, that works for pure genres, but not always for mixed ones, like a dystopian fantasy medieval. Your cover brands the book well.
Also, there is a dearth of historical images. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen the Regency lady with her back to the reader. Mary Balogh’s books have that one, too, so it’s not just indie books. I understand that finding historical-looking photos is hard. There is more of a variety now than there used to be, but until indies are rich enough to afford paying an artist for a unique image, I guess we’re stuck with the same images over and over. And yes, I’ve seen the image on “Uncommon Vows” on other books.
I didn’t realize until recently that covers are supposed to “brand” the book. That is, you look at the cover and you know what genre a book is. A knight for a medieval, modern looking people for contemporaries, etc. Trouble is, that works for pure genres, but not always for mixed ones, like a dystopian fantasy medieval. Your cover brands the book well.
Also, there is a dearth of historical images. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen the Regency lady with her back to the reader. Mary Balogh’s books have that one, too, so it’s not just indie books. I understand that finding historical-looking photos is hard. There is more of a variety now than there used to be, but until indies are rich enough to afford paying an artist for a unique image, I guess we’re stuck with the same images over and over. And yes, I’ve seen the image on “Uncommon Vows” on other books.
I didn’t realize until recently that covers are supposed to “brand” the book. That is, you look at the cover and you know what genre a book is. A knight for a medieval, modern looking people for contemporaries, etc. Trouble is, that works for pure genres, but not always for mixed ones, like a dystopian fantasy medieval. Your cover brands the book well.
Also, there is a dearth of historical images. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen the Regency lady with her back to the reader. Mary Balogh’s books have that one, too, so it’s not just indie books. I understand that finding historical-looking photos is hard. There is more of a variety now than there used to be, but until indies are rich enough to afford paying an artist for a unique image, I guess we’re stuck with the same images over and over. And yes, I’ve seen the image on “Uncommon Vows” on other books.
I didn’t realize until recently that covers are supposed to “brand” the book. That is, you look at the cover and you know what genre a book is. A knight for a medieval, modern looking people for contemporaries, etc. Trouble is, that works for pure genres, but not always for mixed ones, like a dystopian fantasy medieval. Your cover brands the book well.
Also, there is a dearth of historical images. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen the Regency lady with her back to the reader. Mary Balogh’s books have that one, too, so it’s not just indie books. I understand that finding historical-looking photos is hard. There is more of a variety now than there used to be, but until indies are rich enough to afford paying an artist for a unique image, I guess we’re stuck with the same images over and over. And yes, I’ve seen the image on “Uncommon Vows” on other books.
Count me as the oddball who likes them all! I liked the original cover because it was so eye-catching (which is great when I want to find it on my bookshelves for a reread). But I think the others are quite nice as well.
I do agree that the new one best captures the spirit of this mercurial romance!
Count me as the oddball who likes them all! I liked the original cover because it was so eye-catching (which is great when I want to find it on my bookshelves for a reread). But I think the others are quite nice as well.
I do agree that the new one best captures the spirit of this mercurial romance!
Count me as the oddball who likes them all! I liked the original cover because it was so eye-catching (which is great when I want to find it on my bookshelves for a reread). But I think the others are quite nice as well.
I do agree that the new one best captures the spirit of this mercurial romance!
Count me as the oddball who likes them all! I liked the original cover because it was so eye-catching (which is great when I want to find it on my bookshelves for a reread). But I think the others are quite nice as well.
I do agree that the new one best captures the spirit of this mercurial romance!
Count me as the oddball who likes them all! I liked the original cover because it was so eye-catching (which is great when I want to find it on my bookshelves for a reread). But I think the others are quite nice as well.
I do agree that the new one best captures the spirit of this mercurial romance!
The new cover is definitely the best. It’s gorgeous. The guy on the one in the middle looks like the guy from Arrow, the tv series. The very best of luck with it.
The new cover is definitely the best. It’s gorgeous. The guy on the one in the middle looks like the guy from Arrow, the tv series. The very best of luck with it.
The new cover is definitely the best. It’s gorgeous. The guy on the one in the middle looks like the guy from Arrow, the tv series. The very best of luck with it.
The new cover is definitely the best. It’s gorgeous. The guy on the one in the middle looks like the guy from Arrow, the tv series. The very best of luck with it.
The new cover is definitely the best. It’s gorgeous. The guy on the one in the middle looks like the guy from Arrow, the tv series. The very best of luck with it.
This is great, Mary Jo! I wish more authors posted about the process of a cover and it’s evolution. It’s really quite an artistic tale just like the story! 🙂 Great post!
This is great, Mary Jo! I wish more authors posted about the process of a cover and it’s evolution. It’s really quite an artistic tale just like the story! 🙂 Great post!
This is great, Mary Jo! I wish more authors posted about the process of a cover and it’s evolution. It’s really quite an artistic tale just like the story! 🙂 Great post!
This is great, Mary Jo! I wish more authors posted about the process of a cover and it’s evolution. It’s really quite an artistic tale just like the story! 🙂 Great post!
This is great, Mary Jo! I wish more authors posted about the process of a cover and it’s evolution. It’s really quite an artistic tale just like the story! 🙂 Great post!
Love the new cover! And the story behind it. I would also love to have a copy, and tomorrow just happens to be my birthday . . . .
Love the new cover! And the story behind it. I would also love to have a copy, and tomorrow just happens to be my birthday . . . .
Love the new cover! And the story behind it. I would also love to have a copy, and tomorrow just happens to be my birthday . . . .
Love the new cover! And the story behind it. I would also love to have a copy, and tomorrow just happens to be my birthday . . . .
Love the new cover! And the story behind it. I would also love to have a copy, and tomorrow just happens to be my birthday . . . .
Karen, I;m glad you enjoyed the look behind the curtain! Content is always more important than the cover–but a pleasing cover is a very nice thing to have.
Karen, I;m glad you enjoyed the look behind the curtain! Content is always more important than the cover–but a pleasing cover is a very nice thing to have.
Karen, I;m glad you enjoyed the look behind the curtain! Content is always more important than the cover–but a pleasing cover is a very nice thing to have.
Karen, I;m glad you enjoyed the look behind the curtain! Content is always more important than the cover–but a pleasing cover is a very nice thing to have.
Karen, I;m glad you enjoyed the look behind the curtain! Content is always more important than the cover–but a pleasing cover is a very nice thing to have.
Ellen, I also like that authenticity.
Ellen, I also like that authenticity.
Ellen, I also like that authenticity.
Ellen, I also like that authenticity.
Ellen, I also like that authenticity.
Molly Kate McGinn, thanks for the kind words about my books! We Word Wenches do try to make things interesting.
Molly Kate McGinn, thanks for the kind words about my books! We Word Wenches do try to make things interesting.
Molly Kate McGinn, thanks for the kind words about my books! We Word Wenches do try to make things interesting.
Molly Kate McGinn, thanks for the kind words about my books! We Word Wenches do try to make things interesting.
Molly Kate McGinn, thanks for the kind words about my books! We Word Wenches do try to make things interesting.
Kanch, a while back someone described one of my covers as “the moment before the kiss,” and I really like that. I’ll always choose the image where there is tenderness and feeling over one that is mere lust. I want the emotion!
Happy rereading–
Kanch, a while back someone described one of my covers as “the moment before the kiss,” and I really like that. I’ll always choose the image where there is tenderness and feeling over one that is mere lust. I want the emotion!
Happy rereading–
Kanch, a while back someone described one of my covers as “the moment before the kiss,” and I really like that. I’ll always choose the image where there is tenderness and feeling over one that is mere lust. I want the emotion!
Happy rereading–
Kanch, a while back someone described one of my covers as “the moment before the kiss,” and I really like that. I’ll always choose the image where there is tenderness and feeling over one that is mere lust. I want the emotion!
Happy rereading–
Kanch, a while back someone described one of my covers as “the moment before the kiss,” and I really like that. I’ll always choose the image where there is tenderness and feeling over one that is mere lust. I want the emotion!
Happy rereading–
Andrea, it’s always fun to get a group of long term writers together, maybe with a bottle of wine, and we share cover horror stories. Yours certainly qualifies!
Andrea, it’s always fun to get a group of long term writers together, maybe with a bottle of wine, and we share cover horror stories. Yours certainly qualifies!
Andrea, it’s always fun to get a group of long term writers together, maybe with a bottle of wine, and we share cover horror stories. Yours certainly qualifies!
Andrea, it’s always fun to get a group of long term writers together, maybe with a bottle of wine, and we share cover horror stories. Yours certainly qualifies!
Andrea, it’s always fun to get a group of long term writers together, maybe with a bottle of wine, and we share cover horror stories. Yours certainly qualifies!
By George, Mary T! I think there was a poster with exactly that pose.
By George, Mary T! I think there was a poster with exactly that pose.
By George, Mary T! I think there was a poster with exactly that pose.
By George, Mary T! I think there was a poster with exactly that pose.
By George, Mary T! I think there was a poster with exactly that pose.
Janice, I’m so glad Adrian made such a powerful impression on you! He’s one of my darkest heroes, and he has a long, hard journey to make before they reach their happy ending. And what are fictional heroes for if not to liven up our fantasies? *G*
Janice, I’m so glad Adrian made such a powerful impression on you! He’s one of my darkest heroes, and he has a long, hard journey to make before they reach their happy ending. And what are fictional heroes for if not to liven up our fantasies? *G*
Janice, I’m so glad Adrian made such a powerful impression on you! He’s one of my darkest heroes, and he has a long, hard journey to make before they reach their happy ending. And what are fictional heroes for if not to liven up our fantasies? *G*
Janice, I’m so glad Adrian made such a powerful impression on you! He’s one of my darkest heroes, and he has a long, hard journey to make before they reach their happy ending. And what are fictional heroes for if not to liven up our fantasies? *G*
Janice, I’m so glad Adrian made such a powerful impression on you! He’s one of my darkest heroes, and he has a long, hard journey to make before they reach their happy ending. And what are fictional heroes for if not to liven up our fantasies? *G*
Ann Marie, I think that having the wrong hair colors is the single most annoying element a cover can have! I was told back in the day that one of the major romance publisher insisted that the characters on the cover had to have different colored hair, one dark, on light. Aiieeeeee!
Ann Marie, I think that having the wrong hair colors is the single most annoying element a cover can have! I was told back in the day that one of the major romance publisher insisted that the characters on the cover had to have different colored hair, one dark, on light. Aiieeeeee!
Ann Marie, I think that having the wrong hair colors is the single most annoying element a cover can have! I was told back in the day that one of the major romance publisher insisted that the characters on the cover had to have different colored hair, one dark, on light. Aiieeeeee!
Ann Marie, I think that having the wrong hair colors is the single most annoying element a cover can have! I was told back in the day that one of the major romance publisher insisted that the characters on the cover had to have different colored hair, one dark, on light. Aiieeeeee!
Ann Marie, I think that having the wrong hair colors is the single most annoying element a cover can have! I was told back in the day that one of the major romance publisher insisted that the characters on the cover had to have different colored hair, one dark, on light. Aiieeeeee!
Chrissie, I’m sure you’ve heard your husband howling over the difficulty of getting a cover right! Yet we persist, because we owe it to our stories and our readers to convey what the story is about.
Chrissie, I’m sure you’ve heard your husband howling over the difficulty of getting a cover right! Yet we persist, because we owe it to our stories and our readers to convey what the story is about.
Chrissie, I’m sure you’ve heard your husband howling over the difficulty of getting a cover right! Yet we persist, because we owe it to our stories and our readers to convey what the story is about.
Chrissie, I’m sure you’ve heard your husband howling over the difficulty of getting a cover right! Yet we persist, because we owe it to our stories and our readers to convey what the story is about.
Chrissie, I’m sure you’ve heard your husband howling over the difficulty of getting a cover right! Yet we persist, because we owe it to our stories and our readers to convey what the story is about.
Lola Gaunt, how nice that UNCOMMON VOWS was the gateway drug for you! You’re right that what’s inside the cover matters most, but an attractive, accurate cover can’t help but be a plus.
Lola Gaunt, how nice that UNCOMMON VOWS was the gateway drug for you! You’re right that what’s inside the cover matters most, but an attractive, accurate cover can’t help but be a plus.
Lola Gaunt, how nice that UNCOMMON VOWS was the gateway drug for you! You’re right that what’s inside the cover matters most, but an attractive, accurate cover can’t help but be a plus.
Lola Gaunt, how nice that UNCOMMON VOWS was the gateway drug for you! You’re right that what’s inside the cover matters most, but an attractive, accurate cover can’t help but be a plus.
Lola Gaunt, how nice that UNCOMMON VOWS was the gateway drug for you! You’re right that what’s inside the cover matters most, but an attractive, accurate cover can’t help but be a plus.
Patricia Franzino, that’s what I try to do with my covers–pull the reader in to the story. The ebook has the same cover, of course–too pretty to waste. But the POD is a real stunner.
Patricia Franzino, that’s what I try to do with my covers–pull the reader in to the story. The ebook has the same cover, of course–too pretty to waste. But the POD is a real stunner.
Patricia Franzino, that’s what I try to do with my covers–pull the reader in to the story. The ebook has the same cover, of course–too pretty to waste. But the POD is a real stunner.
Patricia Franzino, that’s what I try to do with my covers–pull the reader in to the story. The ebook has the same cover, of course–too pretty to waste. But the POD is a real stunner.
Patricia Franzino, that’s what I try to do with my covers–pull the reader in to the story. The ebook has the same cover, of course–too pretty to waste. But the POD is a real stunner.
The new cover is the best, but really, I have no problem with the guy with the naked chest and buzz cut!
I do have an embarrassing confession to make though-when you said it was your only medieval, I got confused, because I could have sworn there were more, and then realized that I had mixed this book up with Jo Beverly’s medievals!
The new cover is the best, but really, I have no problem with the guy with the naked chest and buzz cut!
I do have an embarrassing confession to make though-when you said it was your only medieval, I got confused, because I could have sworn there were more, and then realized that I had mixed this book up with Jo Beverly’s medievals!
The new cover is the best, but really, I have no problem with the guy with the naked chest and buzz cut!
I do have an embarrassing confession to make though-when you said it was your only medieval, I got confused, because I could have sworn there were more, and then realized that I had mixed this book up with Jo Beverly’s medievals!
The new cover is the best, but really, I have no problem with the guy with the naked chest and buzz cut!
I do have an embarrassing confession to make though-when you said it was your only medieval, I got confused, because I could have sworn there were more, and then realized that I had mixed this book up with Jo Beverly’s medievals!
The new cover is the best, but really, I have no problem with the guy with the naked chest and buzz cut!
I do have an embarrassing confession to make though-when you said it was your only medieval, I got confused, because I could have sworn there were more, and then realized that I had mixed this book up with Jo Beverly’s medievals!
Jean Speer, I’m glad you enjoyed the back story of cover creation. I might never change the cover for this book again!
Jean Speer, I’m glad you enjoyed the back story of cover creation. I might never change the cover for this book again!
Jean Speer, I’m glad you enjoyed the back story of cover creation. I might never change the cover for this book again!
Jean Speer, I’m glad you enjoyed the back story of cover creation. I might never change the cover for this book again!
Jean Speer, I’m glad you enjoyed the back story of cover creation. I might never change the cover for this book again!
I have the blue mirror one but I REALLY like the new cover. He looks like he has seen the world, experienced it and isn’t a surfer dude. Also, agree that the whole image is tender.
Good luck with print on demand. By the way, I don’t need a new copy, just wanted to vote on the covers.
I have the blue mirror one but I REALLY like the new cover. He looks like he has seen the world, experienced it and isn’t a surfer dude. Also, agree that the whole image is tender.
Good luck with print on demand. By the way, I don’t need a new copy, just wanted to vote on the covers.
I have the blue mirror one but I REALLY like the new cover. He looks like he has seen the world, experienced it and isn’t a surfer dude. Also, agree that the whole image is tender.
Good luck with print on demand. By the way, I don’t need a new copy, just wanted to vote on the covers.
I have the blue mirror one but I REALLY like the new cover. He looks like he has seen the world, experienced it and isn’t a surfer dude. Also, agree that the whole image is tender.
Good luck with print on demand. By the way, I don’t need a new copy, just wanted to vote on the covers.
I have the blue mirror one but I REALLY like the new cover. He looks like he has seen the world, experienced it and isn’t a surfer dude. Also, agree that the whole image is tender.
Good luck with print on demand. By the way, I don’t need a new copy, just wanted to vote on the covers.
Thank you, April! As you can see from the blog, sometimes it’s a long road to the right cover. *G*
Thank you, April! As you can see from the blog, sometimes it’s a long road to the right cover. *G*
Thank you, April! As you can see from the blog, sometimes it’s a long road to the right cover. *G*
Thank you, April! As you can see from the blog, sometimes it’s a long road to the right cover. *G*
Thank you, April! As you can see from the blog, sometimes it’s a long road to the right cover. *G*
Anne, though the blue cover isn’t my favorite, it is very pretty. The shade of blue is distinctive, the silver mirror plays a role in the story, and there is the elegance of simplicity. I like that people have different favorites!
Anne, though the blue cover isn’t my favorite, it is very pretty. The shade of blue is distinctive, the silver mirror plays a role in the story, and there is the elegance of simplicity. I like that people have different favorites!
Anne, though the blue cover isn’t my favorite, it is very pretty. The shade of blue is distinctive, the silver mirror plays a role in the story, and there is the elegance of simplicity. I like that people have different favorites!
Anne, though the blue cover isn’t my favorite, it is very pretty. The shade of blue is distinctive, the silver mirror plays a role in the story, and there is the elegance of simplicity. I like that people have different favorites!
Anne, though the blue cover isn’t my favorite, it is very pretty. The shade of blue is distinctive, the silver mirror plays a role in the story, and there is the elegance of simplicity. I like that people have different favorites!
Thanks, Teddi!
Thanks, Teddi!
Thanks, Teddi!
Thanks, Teddi!
Thanks, Teddi!
Yes, Beverley Abney–real chain mail! Probably made for re-enactors or some such. The Period Images site does a very nice job with the costumes. I don’t honestly expect to sell many because they’re so expensive–double the cost of mass market. But I wanted print to be available for those of my readerse to prefer it.
Yes, Beverley Abney–real chain mail! Probably made for re-enactors or some such. The Period Images site does a very nice job with the costumes. I don’t honestly expect to sell many because they’re so expensive–double the cost of mass market. But I wanted print to be available for those of my readerse to prefer it.
Yes, Beverley Abney–real chain mail! Probably made for re-enactors or some such. The Period Images site does a very nice job with the costumes. I don’t honestly expect to sell many because they’re so expensive–double the cost of mass market. But I wanted print to be available for those of my readerse to prefer it.
Yes, Beverley Abney–real chain mail! Probably made for re-enactors or some such. The Period Images site does a very nice job with the costumes. I don’t honestly expect to sell many because they’re so expensive–double the cost of mass market. But I wanted print to be available for those of my readerse to prefer it.
Yes, Beverley Abney–real chain mail! Probably made for re-enactors or some such. The Period Images site does a very nice job with the costumes. I don’t honestly expect to sell many because they’re so expensive–double the cost of mass market. But I wanted print to be available for those of my readerse to prefer it.
LindaB, we might not love the concept of branding, but it is very useful in helping readers find the kind of books they’re looking for. It’s a real challenge for designers to do appropriate covers for cross genre books, but it should be possible to get the design at least into the right ball park.
You’re right that historical images are hard to find, though the supply is much better than it used to be. While I haven’t seen this particular image elsewhere, I’m not surprised it’s been used by others because it is such a good image. Luckily, the treatment–cropping, colors, layout, etc–keep them from looking too much alike. Usually.
LindaB, we might not love the concept of branding, but it is very useful in helping readers find the kind of books they’re looking for. It’s a real challenge for designers to do appropriate covers for cross genre books, but it should be possible to get the design at least into the right ball park.
You’re right that historical images are hard to find, though the supply is much better than it used to be. While I haven’t seen this particular image elsewhere, I’m not surprised it’s been used by others because it is such a good image. Luckily, the treatment–cropping, colors, layout, etc–keep them from looking too much alike. Usually.
LindaB, we might not love the concept of branding, but it is very useful in helping readers find the kind of books they’re looking for. It’s a real challenge for designers to do appropriate covers for cross genre books, but it should be possible to get the design at least into the right ball park.
You’re right that historical images are hard to find, though the supply is much better than it used to be. While I haven’t seen this particular image elsewhere, I’m not surprised it’s been used by others because it is such a good image. Luckily, the treatment–cropping, colors, layout, etc–keep them from looking too much alike. Usually.
LindaB, we might not love the concept of branding, but it is very useful in helping readers find the kind of books they’re looking for. It’s a real challenge for designers to do appropriate covers for cross genre books, but it should be possible to get the design at least into the right ball park.
You’re right that historical images are hard to find, though the supply is much better than it used to be. While I haven’t seen this particular image elsewhere, I’m not surprised it’s been used by others because it is such a good image. Luckily, the treatment–cropping, colors, layout, etc–keep them from looking too much alike. Usually.
LindaB, we might not love the concept of branding, but it is very useful in helping readers find the kind of books they’re looking for. It’s a real challenge for designers to do appropriate covers for cross genre books, but it should be possible to get the design at least into the right ball park.
You’re right that historical images are hard to find, though the supply is much better than it used to be. While I haven’t seen this particular image elsewhere, I’m not surprised it’s been used by others because it is such a good image. Luckily, the treatment–cropping, colors, layout, etc–keep them from looking too much alike. Usually.
ML, nothing wrong with liking the versions! All of them took work and thought. and they all more or less succeed. But we’re entitled to have our favorites. *G*
ML, nothing wrong with liking the versions! All of them took work and thought. and they all more or less succeed. But we’re entitled to have our favorites. *G*
ML, nothing wrong with liking the versions! All of them took work and thought. and they all more or less succeed. But we’re entitled to have our favorites. *G*
ML, nothing wrong with liking the versions! All of them took work and thought. and they all more or less succeed. But we’re entitled to have our favorites. *G*
ML, nothing wrong with liking the versions! All of them took work and thought. and they all more or less succeed. But we’re entitled to have our favorites. *G*
Okay, Teresa Broderick, I had to go and google images of the TV show. I definitely see what you mean! Though the TV guy didn’t have a bare chest in any of the pictures I saw. *G*
Okay, Teresa Broderick, I had to go and google images of the TV show. I definitely see what you mean! Though the TV guy didn’t have a bare chest in any of the pictures I saw. *G*
Okay, Teresa Broderick, I had to go and google images of the TV show. I definitely see what you mean! Though the TV guy didn’t have a bare chest in any of the pictures I saw. *G*
Okay, Teresa Broderick, I had to go and google images of the TV show. I definitely see what you mean! Though the TV guy didn’t have a bare chest in any of the pictures I saw. *G*
Okay, Teresa Broderick, I had to go and google images of the TV show. I definitely see what you mean! Though the TV guy didn’t have a bare chest in any of the pictures I saw. *G*
Thanks, Kim, I’m glad you liked the blog. I find this stuff fascinating, but of course I would. *G* Creating a cover is a collaborative process, but I hope I made it clear that you’re the senior partner who does the real work!
Thanks, Kim, I’m glad you liked the blog. I find this stuff fascinating, but of course I would. *G* Creating a cover is a collaborative process, but I hope I made it clear that you’re the senior partner who does the real work!
Thanks, Kim, I’m glad you liked the blog. I find this stuff fascinating, but of course I would. *G* Creating a cover is a collaborative process, but I hope I made it clear that you’re the senior partner who does the real work!
Thanks, Kim, I’m glad you liked the blog. I find this stuff fascinating, but of course I would. *G* Creating a cover is a collaborative process, but I hope I made it clear that you’re the senior partner who does the real work!
Thanks, Kim, I’m glad you liked the blog. I find this stuff fascinating, but of course I would. *G* Creating a cover is a collaborative process, but I hope I made it clear that you’re the senior partner who does the real work!
Thanks for a behind the scenes look at what goes into a book cover; I find it all rather fascinating. I’m thinking though that it must be rather prickly (and potentially chilly) to hug someone wearing chain mail!
Thanks for a behind the scenes look at what goes into a book cover; I find it all rather fascinating. I’m thinking though that it must be rather prickly (and potentially chilly) to hug someone wearing chain mail!
Thanks for a behind the scenes look at what goes into a book cover; I find it all rather fascinating. I’m thinking though that it must be rather prickly (and potentially chilly) to hug someone wearing chain mail!
Thanks for a behind the scenes look at what goes into a book cover; I find it all rather fascinating. I’m thinking though that it must be rather prickly (and potentially chilly) to hug someone wearing chain mail!
Thanks for a behind the scenes look at what goes into a book cover; I find it all rather fascinating. I’m thinking though that it must be rather prickly (and potentially chilly) to hug someone wearing chain mail!
I love the new cover very much. As much as I love falcons I realized I did not like the placement of the bird in the picture. Raptors like to be up above and would not be comfortable at that height and not to mention not wearing sleeve protection! I used to be a zoo volunteer and I learned how to handle raptors. I’ve also never liked neutral covers. It seemed too much like we were trying to hide the fact that it was a romance. I will definitely be getting this, since you are definitely one of my automatic buys 🙂
I love the new cover very much. As much as I love falcons I realized I did not like the placement of the bird in the picture. Raptors like to be up above and would not be comfortable at that height and not to mention not wearing sleeve protection! I used to be a zoo volunteer and I learned how to handle raptors. I’ve also never liked neutral covers. It seemed too much like we were trying to hide the fact that it was a romance. I will definitely be getting this, since you are definitely one of my automatic buys 🙂
I love the new cover very much. As much as I love falcons I realized I did not like the placement of the bird in the picture. Raptors like to be up above and would not be comfortable at that height and not to mention not wearing sleeve protection! I used to be a zoo volunteer and I learned how to handle raptors. I’ve also never liked neutral covers. It seemed too much like we were trying to hide the fact that it was a romance. I will definitely be getting this, since you are definitely one of my automatic buys 🙂
I love the new cover very much. As much as I love falcons I realized I did not like the placement of the bird in the picture. Raptors like to be up above and would not be comfortable at that height and not to mention not wearing sleeve protection! I used to be a zoo volunteer and I learned how to handle raptors. I’ve also never liked neutral covers. It seemed too much like we were trying to hide the fact that it was a romance. I will definitely be getting this, since you are definitely one of my automatic buys 🙂
I love the new cover very much. As much as I love falcons I realized I did not like the placement of the bird in the picture. Raptors like to be up above and would not be comfortable at that height and not to mention not wearing sleeve protection! I used to be a zoo volunteer and I learned how to handle raptors. I’ve also never liked neutral covers. It seemed too much like we were trying to hide the fact that it was a romance. I will definitely be getting this, since you are definitely one of my automatic buys 🙂
Wow, Mary Jo, I LOVED reading of the tale of the cover progression! I’m guilty of not paying much attention to covers (and in the old days of real “bodice rippers” I always covered my paperbacks and then REALLY didn’t pay attention), but learning how your cover evolved over the years was fascinating. I love the new cover but probably won’t be buying a copy because I already own a copy of the original raglan sleeve edition! (Have you changed the story at all?)
Wow, Mary Jo, I LOVED reading of the tale of the cover progression! I’m guilty of not paying much attention to covers (and in the old days of real “bodice rippers” I always covered my paperbacks and then REALLY didn’t pay attention), but learning how your cover evolved over the years was fascinating. I love the new cover but probably won’t be buying a copy because I already own a copy of the original raglan sleeve edition! (Have you changed the story at all?)
Wow, Mary Jo, I LOVED reading of the tale of the cover progression! I’m guilty of not paying much attention to covers (and in the old days of real “bodice rippers” I always covered my paperbacks and then REALLY didn’t pay attention), but learning how your cover evolved over the years was fascinating. I love the new cover but probably won’t be buying a copy because I already own a copy of the original raglan sleeve edition! (Have you changed the story at all?)
Wow, Mary Jo, I LOVED reading of the tale of the cover progression! I’m guilty of not paying much attention to covers (and in the old days of real “bodice rippers” I always covered my paperbacks and then REALLY didn’t pay attention), but learning how your cover evolved over the years was fascinating. I love the new cover but probably won’t be buying a copy because I already own a copy of the original raglan sleeve edition! (Have you changed the story at all?)
Wow, Mary Jo, I LOVED reading of the tale of the cover progression! I’m guilty of not paying much attention to covers (and in the old days of real “bodice rippers” I always covered my paperbacks and then REALLY didn’t pay attention), but learning how your cover evolved over the years was fascinating. I love the new cover but probably won’t be buying a copy because I already own a copy of the original raglan sleeve edition! (Have you changed the story at all?)
Happy birthday, Jane! We’ll see what the tumbling dice come up with.
Happy birthday, Jane! We’ll see what the tumbling dice come up with.
Happy birthday, Jane! We’ll see what the tumbling dice come up with.
Happy birthday, Jane! We’ll see what the tumbling dice come up with.
Happy birthday, Jane! We’ll see what the tumbling dice come up with.
LOL, Karin! I’m always honored to be confused with Jo Beverley. She did–I think four medievals. All very fine.
LOL, Karin! I’m always honored to be confused with Jo Beverley. She did–I think four medievals. All very fine.
LOL, Karin! I’m always honored to be confused with Jo Beverley. She did–I think four medievals. All very fine.
LOL, Karin! I’m always honored to be confused with Jo Beverley. She did–I think four medievals. All very fine.
LOL, Karin! I’m always honored to be confused with Jo Beverley. She did–I think four medievals. All very fine.
Vicki L, I also like that he looks like a man who experienced much and done many difficult things. He needed Meriel so much!
Vicki L, I also like that he looks like a man who experienced much and done many difficult things. He needed Meriel so much!
Vicki L, I also like that he looks like a man who experienced much and done many difficult things. He needed Meriel so much!
Vicki L, I also like that he looks like a man who experienced much and done many difficult things. He needed Meriel so much!
Vicki L, I also like that he looks like a man who experienced much and done many difficult things. He needed Meriel so much!
Kareni, chain mail is definitely not made for cuddling! One of a wife’s duties was to disarm her husband when he returned from fighting, and you can see why she’d want to. *G*
Kareni, chain mail is definitely not made for cuddling! One of a wife’s duties was to disarm her husband when he returned from fighting, and you can see why she’d want to. *G*
Kareni, chain mail is definitely not made for cuddling! One of a wife’s duties was to disarm her husband when he returned from fighting, and you can see why she’d want to. *G*
Kareni, chain mail is definitely not made for cuddling! One of a wife’s duties was to disarm her husband when he returned from fighting, and you can see why she’d want to. *G*
Kareni, chain mail is definitely not made for cuddling! One of a wife’s duties was to disarm her husband when he returned from fighting, and you can see why she’d want to. *G*
Myrna, thanks for the compliment! Even for someone like me who doesn’t know a lot about raptors, the one on this cover just looks WRONG! She’s an important player in the book, though.
Myrna, thanks for the compliment! Even for someone like me who doesn’t know a lot about raptors, the one on this cover just looks WRONG! She’s an important player in the book, though.
Myrna, thanks for the compliment! Even for someone like me who doesn’t know a lot about raptors, the one on this cover just looks WRONG! She’s an important player in the book, though.
Myrna, thanks for the compliment! Even for someone like me who doesn’t know a lot about raptors, the one on this cover just looks WRONG! She’s an important player in the book, though.
Myrna, thanks for the compliment! Even for someone like me who doesn’t know a lot about raptors, the one on this cover just looks WRONG! She’s an important player in the book, though.
Margaret–No, the story is exactly the same. No need to buy another copy unless you want an e-version for an e-reader.
Margaret–No, the story is exactly the same. No need to buy another copy unless you want an e-version for an e-reader.
Margaret–No, the story is exactly the same. No need to buy another copy unless you want an e-version for an e-reader.
Margaret–No, the story is exactly the same. No need to buy another copy unless you want an e-version for an e-reader.
Margaret–No, the story is exactly the same. No need to buy another copy unless you want an e-version for an e-reader.
That old paperback of Uncommon Vows is the one I have. I bought it off the rack back in the day. It was a genre romance; I didn’t expect a realistic cover. Indeed, if it had been realistic to the middle ages, with its dirt, mud, disease, disfigurement and iffy hygiene, I would have been put off. The cover the paperback has is pretty enough to catch the eye, which it did because I bought it (I wasn’t so much a buy-by-author person in those days). I still like it because it’s pretty.
The new cover is fine, I suppose; it does catch the eye, but it seems too movie-oriented to me — I was watching Thor Ragnarok last night and that guy has a Hemsworth look to me (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He’s also got stubble and the sideburn length that’s popular today. She’s got contemporary eyemakeup and blusher on. To me, it’s no more convincing as a depiction of the book’s contents than the original one.
That said, it is one of your better books, and I would recommend it to anyone even if it had Justin Bieber and a Kardashian on the cover.
That old paperback of Uncommon Vows is the one I have. I bought it off the rack back in the day. It was a genre romance; I didn’t expect a realistic cover. Indeed, if it had been realistic to the middle ages, with its dirt, mud, disease, disfigurement and iffy hygiene, I would have been put off. The cover the paperback has is pretty enough to catch the eye, which it did because I bought it (I wasn’t so much a buy-by-author person in those days). I still like it because it’s pretty.
The new cover is fine, I suppose; it does catch the eye, but it seems too movie-oriented to me — I was watching Thor Ragnarok last night and that guy has a Hemsworth look to me (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He’s also got stubble and the sideburn length that’s popular today. She’s got contemporary eyemakeup and blusher on. To me, it’s no more convincing as a depiction of the book’s contents than the original one.
That said, it is one of your better books, and I would recommend it to anyone even if it had Justin Bieber and a Kardashian on the cover.
That old paperback of Uncommon Vows is the one I have. I bought it off the rack back in the day. It was a genre romance; I didn’t expect a realistic cover. Indeed, if it had been realistic to the middle ages, with its dirt, mud, disease, disfigurement and iffy hygiene, I would have been put off. The cover the paperback has is pretty enough to catch the eye, which it did because I bought it (I wasn’t so much a buy-by-author person in those days). I still like it because it’s pretty.
The new cover is fine, I suppose; it does catch the eye, but it seems too movie-oriented to me — I was watching Thor Ragnarok last night and that guy has a Hemsworth look to me (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He’s also got stubble and the sideburn length that’s popular today. She’s got contemporary eyemakeup and blusher on. To me, it’s no more convincing as a depiction of the book’s contents than the original one.
That said, it is one of your better books, and I would recommend it to anyone even if it had Justin Bieber and a Kardashian on the cover.
That old paperback of Uncommon Vows is the one I have. I bought it off the rack back in the day. It was a genre romance; I didn’t expect a realistic cover. Indeed, if it had been realistic to the middle ages, with its dirt, mud, disease, disfigurement and iffy hygiene, I would have been put off. The cover the paperback has is pretty enough to catch the eye, which it did because I bought it (I wasn’t so much a buy-by-author person in those days). I still like it because it’s pretty.
The new cover is fine, I suppose; it does catch the eye, but it seems too movie-oriented to me — I was watching Thor Ragnarok last night and that guy has a Hemsworth look to me (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He’s also got stubble and the sideburn length that’s popular today. She’s got contemporary eyemakeup and blusher on. To me, it’s no more convincing as a depiction of the book’s contents than the original one.
That said, it is one of your better books, and I would recommend it to anyone even if it had Justin Bieber and a Kardashian on the cover.
That old paperback of Uncommon Vows is the one I have. I bought it off the rack back in the day. It was a genre romance; I didn’t expect a realistic cover. Indeed, if it had been realistic to the middle ages, with its dirt, mud, disease, disfigurement and iffy hygiene, I would have been put off. The cover the paperback has is pretty enough to catch the eye, which it did because I bought it (I wasn’t so much a buy-by-author person in those days). I still like it because it’s pretty.
The new cover is fine, I suppose; it does catch the eye, but it seems too movie-oriented to me — I was watching Thor Ragnarok last night and that guy has a Hemsworth look to me (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He’s also got stubble and the sideburn length that’s popular today. She’s got contemporary eyemakeup and blusher on. To me, it’s no more convincing as a depiction of the book’s contents than the original one.
That said, it is one of your better books, and I would recommend it to anyone even if it had Justin Bieber and a Kardashian on the cover.
Janice, you’re so right that too much medieval realist would not be a good thing! As for Chris Hemsworth–LOL! I hadn’t thought of that, but there is a definitely Thor-ish look.
No stock photos will be totally realistic; at the least, cosmetics are epidemic. All a designer can do is look for the best among imperfect choices.
Janice, you’re so right that too much medieval realist would not be a good thing! As for Chris Hemsworth–LOL! I hadn’t thought of that, but there is a definitely Thor-ish look.
No stock photos will be totally realistic; at the least, cosmetics are epidemic. All a designer can do is look for the best among imperfect choices.
Janice, you’re so right that too much medieval realist would not be a good thing! As for Chris Hemsworth–LOL! I hadn’t thought of that, but there is a definitely Thor-ish look.
No stock photos will be totally realistic; at the least, cosmetics are epidemic. All a designer can do is look for the best among imperfect choices.
Janice, you’re so right that too much medieval realist would not be a good thing! As for Chris Hemsworth–LOL! I hadn’t thought of that, but there is a definitely Thor-ish look.
No stock photos will be totally realistic; at the least, cosmetics are epidemic. All a designer can do is look for the best among imperfect choices.
Janice, you’re so right that too much medieval realist would not be a good thing! As for Chris Hemsworth–LOL! I hadn’t thought of that, but there is a definitely Thor-ish look.
No stock photos will be totally realistic; at the least, cosmetics are epidemic. All a designer can do is look for the best among imperfect choices.
Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look at book covers and here I thought the hard part was writing the book! Apparently there are many other details that require an author’s attention that I never considered.
I’ve been reading your books since you were first published and have many of your books in the original paperback version. I truly enjoy your stories and continue to buy them, albeit on Kindle these days.
I also wanted to say a big thanks for ensuring that those of us who don’t live in the USA (Canadian fan here) are included in your prize.
Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look at book covers and here I thought the hard part was writing the book! Apparently there are many other details that require an author’s attention that I never considered.
I’ve been reading your books since you were first published and have many of your books in the original paperback version. I truly enjoy your stories and continue to buy them, albeit on Kindle these days.
I also wanted to say a big thanks for ensuring that those of us who don’t live in the USA (Canadian fan here) are included in your prize.
Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look at book covers and here I thought the hard part was writing the book! Apparently there are many other details that require an author’s attention that I never considered.
I’ve been reading your books since you were first published and have many of your books in the original paperback version. I truly enjoy your stories and continue to buy them, albeit on Kindle these days.
I also wanted to say a big thanks for ensuring that those of us who don’t live in the USA (Canadian fan here) are included in your prize.
Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look at book covers and here I thought the hard part was writing the book! Apparently there are many other details that require an author’s attention that I never considered.
I’ve been reading your books since you were first published and have many of your books in the original paperback version. I truly enjoy your stories and continue to buy them, albeit on Kindle these days.
I also wanted to say a big thanks for ensuring that those of us who don’t live in the USA (Canadian fan here) are included in your prize.
Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look at book covers and here I thought the hard part was writing the book! Apparently there are many other details that require an author’s attention that I never considered.
I’ve been reading your books since you were first published and have many of your books in the original paperback version. I truly enjoy your stories and continue to buy them, albeit on Kindle these days.
I also wanted to say a big thanks for ensuring that those of us who don’t live in the USA (Canadian fan here) are included in your prize.
I know I’m late commenting but I just wanted to say what an interesting post this was. Also love this “final” cover. Heads & Shoulders above the others! I don’t own it so now I must buy it. 🙂
I know I’m late commenting but I just wanted to say what an interesting post this was. Also love this “final” cover. Heads & Shoulders above the others! I don’t own it so now I must buy it. 🙂
I know I’m late commenting but I just wanted to say what an interesting post this was. Also love this “final” cover. Heads & Shoulders above the others! I don’t own it so now I must buy it. 🙂
I know I’m late commenting but I just wanted to say what an interesting post this was. Also love this “final” cover. Heads & Shoulders above the others! I don’t own it so now I must buy it. 🙂
I know I’m late commenting but I just wanted to say what an interesting post this was. Also love this “final” cover. Heads & Shoulders above the others! I don’t own it so now I must buy it. 🙂
TMM, the romance community is world wide, and with my indie books, like this one, it seems only fair to make giveaways available everywhere. Though I fudged it a bit here by specifying that only US winners would get the print copy–it would cost a blooming fortune to send overseas. Luckily ebooks can easily be sent world wide.
TMM, the romance community is world wide, and with my indie books, like this one, it seems only fair to make giveaways available everywhere. Though I fudged it a bit here by specifying that only US winners would get the print copy–it would cost a blooming fortune to send overseas. Luckily ebooks can easily be sent world wide.
TMM, the romance community is world wide, and with my indie books, like this one, it seems only fair to make giveaways available everywhere. Though I fudged it a bit here by specifying that only US winners would get the print copy–it would cost a blooming fortune to send overseas. Luckily ebooks can easily be sent world wide.
TMM, the romance community is world wide, and with my indie books, like this one, it seems only fair to make giveaways available everywhere. Though I fudged it a bit here by specifying that only US winners would get the print copy–it would cost a blooming fortune to send overseas. Luckily ebooks can easily be sent world wide.
TMM, the romance community is world wide, and with my indie books, like this one, it seems only fair to make giveaways available everywhere. Though I fudged it a bit here by specifying that only US winners would get the print copy–it would cost a blooming fortune to send overseas. Luckily ebooks can easily be sent world wide.
Jeanne, I’m glad you liked the post and the cover! I smile whenever I look at the POD version–I’m keeping one on my desk to admire, and hoping that Smokey the Destroyer doesn’t decide to exercise his sharp little teeth on it. *G*
Jeanne, I’m glad you liked the post and the cover! I smile whenever I look at the POD version–I’m keeping one on my desk to admire, and hoping that Smokey the Destroyer doesn’t decide to exercise his sharp little teeth on it. *G*
Jeanne, I’m glad you liked the post and the cover! I smile whenever I look at the POD version–I’m keeping one on my desk to admire, and hoping that Smokey the Destroyer doesn’t decide to exercise his sharp little teeth on it. *G*
Jeanne, I’m glad you liked the post and the cover! I smile whenever I look at the POD version–I’m keeping one on my desk to admire, and hoping that Smokey the Destroyer doesn’t decide to exercise his sharp little teeth on it. *G*
Jeanne, I’m glad you liked the post and the cover! I smile whenever I look at the POD version–I’m keeping one on my desk to admire, and hoping that Smokey the Destroyer doesn’t decide to exercise his sharp little teeth on it. *G*