I’ve neglected my blog for the past month, as I’ve been figuring out when to publish my romantic mystery, A Cry From The Deep. If you’ve been reading my blog, you know that I’ve rejected a few book covers for one reason or another.
The one I’ve chosen illustrates a woman from another time. She’s the vision Catherine 
Fitzgerald sees in both her nightmares and underwater. The phantom beckons, but what does she want from Catherine, an underwater photographer, who’s on assignment to photograph the discovery of one of the lost ships of the Spanish Armada? How these two women from different centuries intersect, and why, lies at the crux of my story. A love without end underlines it all.
As I’ve learned, it’s not easy picking the right cover. I’ve seen publishers and successful authors try out a few before settling on one. And even then, it’s not unusual for an author to go back and change it again. A cover speaks volumes. It hints at the story inside.
As for when my book is to be released, I’ve struggled with that as well. It’s basically ready, but then I’ve noticed how careful traditional publishers are in deciding when to launch an author’s book. I’ve learned that spring (a time of book fairs) and fall (ready for Christmas) are best, though I’ve also noticed that there are exceptions to the rule. J.K. Rowling and James Patterson have brought their novels out in summer, when supposedly everyone’s at the beach or traveling. So, maybe it doesn’t matter.
Though my book would make a good beach read, if I got it out now, before I’ve had a chance to read my proof—which arrives sometime this week—I could be making a terrible mistake. I’ve read that it’s a good idea to read your proof twice and have someone else read it as well, not only for any grammatical errors that might’ve been overlooked, but also for sense. So, living by the adage, “haste makes waste”, I’ve elected to publish it in October, a supposedly less hectic time for the reading public. One never knows though, does one? I’ve also started a Facebook page for my book, where I’ll post more about my process and inspiration.
I’d love your comments on my cover, and also on whether you think there’s a good time of year to publish a book. I’d love to hear from authors or readers about any of the above.
I buy books all year round (to my budget’s dismay)…October sounds great to me! So excited for you, Diana! 😀
Thanks, Shari. So exciting that I missed the sunshine this morning, and now it’s pouring rain. I wanted to go and tend the garden, but now, I’d need a wetsuit like my protagonist to do the job.
It looks awesome, Diana. Exciting times! I’m so happy for you.
Thanks, Kristin. Exciting times, indeed.
Being a bookworm I am constantly buying books. If the cover catches my eye it comes home with me. I love the mystery of not knowing what I will read between the pages until I open the book. The cover of your book would definitely inspire me to read it, now anxiously await October.
Oh, Maureen, you’ve made my day. Thank you for your interest. I love the story, of course, as I’ve spent so many years with these characters. I’m pleased you find the cover inspiring you to read it.
Oh, Diana, this one is superb!
Of the other two, I preferred the one under water, but this one is even more vivid, a more compelling “search” rather than a struggle. It’s wonderful–I give it 5 Stars!!!
This is getting so exciting!
Marylin, thank you. 5 stars, wow! Yes, this image is more about a search than a struggle. Though I do have to say, this woman from another time doesn’t make it easy for Catherine. So, in a way, it’s not only a search, but a struggle for both.
How exiting Bubby!! Congratulations!
Oh, sweetie, nice of you to comment. It is very exciting.
I love the cover…I definitely want to read the book after seeing it! Release dates can be tricky. I just did a re-release last week because I am off work for the summer and have time to promote. I will eagerly await your release in October!
Thanks for your comments, Jane. Yes, release dates, I’m now learning, can be very tricky. I’ve been told that spring or fall are best, and yet I’ve seen J.K. Rowling and James Patterson release their books in the summer, so I guess any time works, or maybe not, since I’m not the Harry Potter author or any other known best-selling author. Good luck with your book. I’ll check it out.
Love this cover. It really makes you want to read the book. The title is great too. Happy for you. 🙂
Thanks for visiting my blog. And glad you like the cover. How I agonized over this one. My critique group told me to flip a coin; I was so indecisive. The bonus is meeting other authors like you.
Love the cover! I’m with Marilyn on this one: five stars out of five … I’d give it five and a half if I could 🙂
Thanks, Bryan. I hope the readership out there feels the same way. At least enough to take a look inside.
The cover is perfect. It draws you in straight away. As for the release I love the idea of an Autumn release date. Books are great gifts for the holidays.Thank you for sharing your sweet blog at the Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop. You know I wish you many printings. ♥
Thanks, Katherine. And you’re welcome re: my input on your blog. I’m so impressed by your initiative and following. It reminds me of my home ec. days, so long ago.