So, once again, it’s been damn near a decade (that’s how it feels, at least) since my last post. Ha! A lot has happened, not just for me, but for the world.
2020, amirite? If you close your eyes long enough, maybe we’ll forget it. Completely.
I wanted to update my blog so many times since the last entry. Once the pandemic hit, I started diving back into editing my next contemporary romance novel. I had great momentum and even sent it to an editor. Once I got the file back, I had every intention of maintaining that drive, so I would have it ready to publish in 2020. And then my fiance was struck by a car. That put a serious halt on everything. I went from editing in all my spare time to driving back and forth to various doctor and specialist appointments for months on end.
After multiple surgeries, although not fully healed, he’s regained his independence, and I’ve been able to go back to doing what I love. Writing. Today, I’m happy to announce I’ve completed my upcoming project, Jordan’s Penny.
Like I’ve stated in the past, I wanted to publish my next project on my own, without a vanity press. Man, has it been a learning experience. With all the element intricacies I should implement on a cover, I didn’t know where to start. After two failed cover designers, I’m thrilled with the design of my third artist.
During first few stages of mock-ups, I posted them in a group on FB. Some applauded me for putting a heavier woman on the cover, while other feedback was harsh. “Why not use a couple hugging?” they asked.
Sounds easy enough. Amazon has loads of books with similar concepts, but finding an accurate depiction of Penny was not effortless.
I will say this, there is a lack of representation for plus-sized models on royalty-free sites. It is a sad representation of the plus-sized community, and the keywords are brutal. They label women who barely look plus-size as “fat” “obese” and “overweight.” You can search “model hugging attractive man” and get over 10k pics. Add plus-size to that and it drops to 52 pictures where she is neither plus size, nor is he attractive.
I spent days trying to find someone, anyone, that resembled or had simple characteristics of Penny. I think the image I chose ticks off the right boxes. While I can’t expect all to LOVE my final cover, I didn’t write the story for ALL. Every writer has a core audience and I believe mine will appreciate the effort I went through to represent someone who isn’t the cookie-cutter model we often see on book covers.
I’ve always said Behind the Canvas was my baby. It was my first piece with a lot of personal meaning. While that remains true, I’m super proud of Jordan’s Penny. And I believe it reflects the growth in my writing.
I cannot wait to share this story with you guys and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Stay tuned for the upcoming release date and more information regarding Jordan’s Penny.
If you haven’t already, you can follow me here, on FB, Instagram, or Twitter. Send me questions or leave your comments below. I’d love to hear from you guys!! :)
Until next time... Stay healthy and wear a smile. It's your best accessory.
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