Covers are vital when it comes to making a first impression on a reader. They need to capture the reader’s attention; communicate the story’s genre, mood, and setting; and most of all, entice the reader to learn more. A good cover can make a huge difference in how a book performs in the market.
As a traditionally published author, I don’t get as much say in the cover design process as indie authors. I supply my publisher with character and setting descriptions and any ideas I have for wardrobe and design, but that is where my control ends. I have to trust the publisher’s Art Department and Sales/Marketing/Editorial teams to find the perfect pictorial representation of my story. It’s nerve-wracking but super exciting at the same time. I’m blessed to have a wonderful publisher who creates top-notch covers, so usually the excitement outweighs the nervousness.
I’m THILLED with how this cover turned out. Fairest of Heart is the first book in my new Texas Ever After series of western fairy tale retellings. I bet you can guess the fairy tale from the cover.
Isn’t it beautiful? The pieced-together dress ensemble is exactly as I pictured it, right down to the puffed sleeves. And the butterflies!!! There is a key scene in the book where the heroine is dancing amid a swarm of migrating monarch butterflies, and this cover captures that moment perfectly! I love seeing the Diamond D ranch house in the background, the home of the seven retired drovers who take in our heroine. The colors are vibrant, and the nod to Snow White couldn’t have been executed any better.
What do you think? Is this a cover that would pique your interest and make you want to learn more about the story it represents?
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Deborah Raney says
Beautiful—and I can’t WAIT to see the other covers in the series! This looks like a series where each cover is great, but taken as a whole, they are extraordinary!
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Deb. I have high hopes for the others as well. We’ll see what pixie dust the designers get to use. 🙂
Robin Lee Hatcher says
I didn’t guess the fairy tale from the cover. The title was my first clue, but you had me ready to do a preorder at “the seven retired drovers.” This is going to be fun. Fairy tale retellings has become a favorite sub-genre of mine.
Karen Witemeyer says
Yay! I had so much fun writing this story. I grew up on the Disney classics and I’m having a great time giving a few of them a western spin.
Rebecca Reed says
It’s lovely! I would definitely pick this one up to read the back cover copy.
Karen Witemeyer says
Success! That’s what every author wants to hear, Rebecca. 🙂
Suzanne Sellner says
I love the cover!
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Suzanne.
Linda McFarland says
A fun cover that definitely tells a story.
Karen Witemeyer says
I think so, too, Linda. I love how it turned out!
Betty Strohecker says
Love the cover!I think it will definitely draw readers!
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Betty. I hope you’re right. 🙂
Becky Wade says
The nod to Snow White was handled SO WELL here! It’s not over-the-top and yet I knew exactly which fairytale you were retelling at a glance. Love it and love this series premise. 🙂
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Becky. I’m having a lot of fun with these stories.
Mary E. Massey says
Karen, it is sooooooooo perfect! I can’t wait to get my hands on it. 🙂 Mary
Karen Witemeyer says
I’m so glad you think so, Mary. I absolutely love it! 🙂
Judy says
The cover is beautiful and yes it does peak your interest. It does appear that she is dancing with butterflies. I love reading your books would love to read and review this one for you.
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Judy. I appreciate your sweet words.
Lori Smanski says
Oh but this is a fabulous cover and yes it makes me think of Snow White with a western twist. I love this idea and cant wait to read this book and its series.
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Lori. I think they really nailed it on this one. 🙂
Beth Ann Ziarnik says
Oh, my goodness, Karen, I knew immediately whose cover reveal this was just by the picture. Can see why you’re thrilled with it.
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks so much, Beth. 🙂 It’s fun to share this moment with you since you were along on the ride from the very beginning.
Emilee says
*Squeal of delight*! I love all your covers Karen, but “Fairest of Heart” might just take the cake or should I say apple? Lol.
I’m so excited I already pre-ordered my copies from Baker Book House & am counting down the months till June 2023!
Karen Witemeyer says
Love the apple reference, Emilee!
Elisa says
Wow, what a lovely cover! Look forward to reading when it comes out.
Karen Witemeyer says
Thanks, Elisa. 🙂
Lelia (Lucy) Reynolds says
I think it’s gorgeous and I love the touch of the butterfly. Blessings
Brenda Murphree says
I love the cover!
Teri DiVincenzo says
I’m absolutely obsessed! It’s gorgeous, and I can’t wait to see the renderings for our other fairy tale heroines!
Chrystal Stallings says
When is this book expected to release? Is it scheduled to be recorded on audio as well? Or at least in large print?
Your loyal fan!!
Chrystal
D'Ann Mateer says
Love it! This series sounds so fun!