Do you judge a book by its cover?

I don't know about you, but I'm a bit tired of seeing thousands of book covers (not just romance) filled with women in gowns either sprawled across the cover or running off toward the distance, their heads partially cut off.

I suppose it a kind of "branding" thing that publishers know works like a charm when choosing a book by its cover (pardon the pun). So I decided to play around a bit (yes, I know I should be writing) to see if there are any unique types for cover designs -- not necessarily for regency or romance, but mainly for romance. Here are some variations that I think show potential --

This image I pulled from Amy Rose Bennett's site (New Zealand) and, although it's another woman in a beautiful gown running away from the viewer, I liked the atmospheric aspect of this image. Is she in fear? Is she playing the tease? The brooding landscape hints at maybe a Highland setting or maybe the French countryside. Don't know, but I like it. If I was a reader, I'd put my hands on this book because of the suggestion of intrigue!

Now, if I was writing something more contemporary, I don't want rippling six-packs plastered across the book cover (this must be my catholic school upbringing rearing its head). If I want romance, I'd go with something more like these, mostly taken from Pinterest boards about dance, especially the Tango --

Now this would be a totally cool book cover!

Another great book cover, seductive, suggestive. Phew, I'd grab this one of the shelf in a heart beat. Maybe a suspense romance set between the Wars, a la 1930s Paris?

And what about the younger generation, the New Adult market (18-30)? Here's something a bit grungier, edgier:

"Dancing is the vertical expression
of a horizontal desire." (George Bernard Shaw, 1856-1950)

I believe Mr. Shaw got that one right!

Enjoy!

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Claire Hadleigh

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