The path to publishing a book is never just about writing the story. It’s about creating an entire world that readers can dive into—the cover being the very first glimpse into this world. Today, on Writing Update Tuesday, I want to share with you a part of my journey with my upcoming book, “The Devil That Haunts Me,” that goes beyond the manuscript: the quest for the perfect book cover.

Embracing Boundaries

My adventure began on Etsy, where I reached out to talented artists in hopes of finding someone who could bring the essence of my book to life. I envisioned a cover that would not only be visually captivating but would also weave in the deep themes of loss, grief, and guilt, adorned with symbols reflecting Dominican heritage and capturing the intertwined lives of three generations of women marked by trauma but also glowing with hope and resilience.

However, creativity knows its bounds. I learned that what I was asking for was beyond the capacity of the artists I approached. And that’s okay. As someone who advocates for healthy boundaries, I respected this limitation with gratitude. In the world of creative endeavors, recognizing and respecting each other’s limits is crucial. When someone says no, we say thank you and move on, keeping the door open for future collaboration on different terms.

The Search Continues

Finding an artist who can encapsulate the essence of your story at an affordable rate is a journey filled with trials and revelations. The desire to incorporate Dominican symbolism is not merely for aesthetic purposes; it’s a homage to the roots that run deep through the narrative, a beacon for readers to know that this story transcends boundaries, touching upon universal themes through the lens of memory and heritage.

A Creative Outlet

In moments where the manuscript challenges me, where the words seem to rebel against my intentions, I turn to Canva. Playing with potential book covers becomes a distraction and a part of the creative process. It’s a way to visualize the story, to bring it to life in a new dimension. If you’re curious about these designs, stay tuned for a link to view the various iterations.

This process, while sometimes stressful, is far from a major concern. It reminds me of the multifaceted nature of book publishing, where storytelling extends beyond the written word. It reinforces my belief in focusing on the story’s heart—ensuring it speaks with clarity, cohesion, and wholeness. Once this foundation is solid, the perfect cover will follow.

Looking Ahead

And when that moment comes, when the cover for “The Devil That Haunts Me” is ready to be revealed, you’ll be the first to see it. This blog will host the official cover reveal, and if you’re as excited as I am, make sure to subscribe to the newsletter for an exclusive first look.

The journey of creating a book is a wave of highs and lows, unexpected turns, and moments of clarity. Through it all, the support and engagement of you, my readers, provide the light on the path ahead. Your thoughts, experiences, and insights are invaluable to me.

I’d love to hear from you: How important is the cover in your decision to pick up a book? Have you ever been drawn to a story by its cover alone? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s explore the impact of those first visual impressions together.

For more behind-the-scenes glimpses and updates on “The Devil That Haunts Me,” don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter. Our journey together is just beginning, and each step brings us closer to unveiling a story that I hope will resonate with many. I can’t wait for you all to read this!