Behind the Scenes: Crafting My Fantasy Novel's Cover Art

Hey there, fellow book lovers and dream chasers! Arin Blackwood here, and today, I'm peeling back the curtain on something that's close to my heart – the making of the cover art for my latest fantasy novel. It's not just about designing an image; it's about bringing a piece of my world to life visually.

Getting to the Heart

Ever thought about how a book cover comes together? It's kind of like putting together a puzzle of emotions and story snippets. For my novel "Blood of the Rose," it all started with a tattoo, an eerie symbol that held a key to the tale's core. The woods and a mysterious girl quickly joined in, like pieces fitting snugly into place. The result? An image that invites you to delve into the story.

Cover for McKlean Mysteries Book One

Colors that Speak

Colors have a language of their own, right? Each shade brings a vibe, a feeling. When it comes to choosing colors, it's all about what feels right for the story. In my McKlean series, I started with a clean white backdrop, hinting at innocence that's a bit lost. As the series evolves, the colors get deeper, mirroring the narrative's journey. And for my fantasy novel, where nature and fae entwine, the palette mirrors the shades you'd find on a forest stroll.

Connecting Through Gaze

Having a character's eyes on the cover is like sharing a secret glance with readers. I haven't done it yet, but I know the power. Those eyes make you feel like you're peeking into their soul, and it's an instant invitation to step into their world. It’s instant human connection and draws you into the story immediately, encouraging you to open the pages and check it out.

Symbols that Speak Volumes

Fantasy stories have their symbols, little codes that speak to the story's heart. For my fae tale, it's all about nature, so you'll find leaves and earthy elements on the cover. And then there's the necklace in "Between Lights and Shadows." It's more than an accessory; it's a symbol of magic and change that's central to the story.

Me, Myself, and Art

Lucky for me, I'm an artist, and I get to create my own covers. But for those hunting for the right cover artist, my tip is simple: find someone who gets your story. Look at their work and ask if it tells a story even before you open the book. And if they're eager to dive into your world before they put brush to canvas, you're on the right track.

The Big Reveal

When the cover is ready, it's like holding a sneak peek into a world you've crafted. My aim? To make you curious, to make you pick up the book just to see what's behind that image. It's the start of a journey, and the cover is the first step. You want your readers to see the cover and pick it up without thinking to read the blurb and find out what the stories about.

A Peek Behind the Scenes

Sometimes, creating the perfect cover takes a few tries. It's not a last-minute thing; it's a process that deserves time and care. After all, it's not just about an image – it's about capturing the spirit of the story.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a slice of my cover art adventure. These aren't just designs; they're visual stories waiting to be explored. Thanks for joining me on this personal ride. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep writing, and keep adding color to your world.

Have your own cover art journey to share? Drop a line below – I'd love to swap stories!