Where Things Stand Now

Since I posted last week, the main development has been I've entered discussions with a particular artist from whom I hope to commission a cover painting. I'd rather not name the artist at this time because there's no deal in place yet, but suffice it to say he's a long-time professional and I'm a huge fan of his work.

To have the cover of my novel consist of a painting by this artist will be an unexpected thrill for me. I have spent time in the last week playing with design and composition ideas that I might want for the cover. No final decision has been made yet, but I can promise that it will not look anything like the mock-up I posted here a couple of weeks ago.

If this comes together like I want it to, this book is going to look fantastic!

In the meantime, the manuscript is still in Joe's hands for copy editing. Knowing my typing, it might take him a while. As I've skimmed through my copy, I've already noticed a couple of small details that need revising, but I'll hold off until I get the corrected copy from Joe. 

I have also created the interior illustration of the map. I rendered the whole thing in grayscale because it will be reproduced in black & white inside the book. I think it looks good, but I don't know how it will print. When I get my proof copy, I might discover the need to tweak the illustration.

I have also typed up some of the extra things that will go in the book. I've written the dedication, the acknowledgments, the "about the author" blurb and I've taken a shot at the descriptive text that will go on the back cover.

And to top it all off, I have spent a little bit of time the last couple of nights going over my outline and the notes on set action pieces that I have for Book 2.