The Making of a Book Cover…

Voila! After weeks of sketches, walks through Montmartre and discussions with my cover artist, the cover of "Paris, Rue des Martyrs" is ready for unveiling. Please visit Traveling With T today for the official COVER REVEAL. There, you will also find an excerpt from the novel. Thank you, Traveling With T, for being part of my book launch!

And here on my blog, please stick around for this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the cover…

"Paris, Rue des Martyrs" is the story of four strangers from very different backgrounds whose lives entwine in the neighborhood of Montmartre. Much of the activity takes place on a street called "Rue des Martyrs" but the story also unfolds along other pathways in and around Paris' highest point.

I spent a morning walking around Montmartre, thinking, taking photos and looking at the world from the perspective of my protagonists. I was seeking an image that would represent this area of Paris as well as the idea of a path (since each of my characters is on a journey). For me, the answer was evident: the steps leading to the top of Montmartre.

I wanted an original drawing, and right away, I knew the person for the job: Cooper Copetas, a very dear friend of mine who also happens to be an artist and student of architecture. As a child of this great city, the spirit of Paris emanates from his work!

Above, you will see a photo I took to use as a starting point, Cooper's first draft, and then the final drawing.

After experimenting a bit with greens for the trees, the artist decided to limit the color palette. Cooper’s watercolor creates an ethereal dreamlike place expressed through light ochres, whites, and blues. The idea is: Where will that path lead each character?

So there you have it… Thanks for stopping by, and as always, I would love to hear your thoughts!