Dreaming In Books

Hey, folks!  Today I'm hosting a guest post from Stephanie Lawton about her new YA book, Want, and, later on, posting a giveaway of an e-copy of the book.  :)  Later on in the week I'll be reading and reviewing the book for you all as well - and let me say, I am very excited to read it.  Without further ado, here's Stephanie! 

Symbolism in the Cover of Want

As a writer, one of the coolest things about getting published is seeing your characters brought to life on the book’s cover. I mean, these imaginary people are in your head for months, years even, talking to you, yelling at you, whispering their story. And then BAM! They’re writhing around on a piano looking all tortured and real. 

I was so blessed to work with Najla Qamber, (http://najlaqamberdesigns.blogspot.com/) who designed the stunning cover for Want. (She does all the amazing covers for Inkspell Publishing.) Honestly, I still stare at it every day. There may also be some heavy petting involved … 

Anyway, many of the elements are obvious. Julianne has flaming red hair that’s both a blessing and a curse; she plays the piano like a boss and there’s sheet music faded into the background; and she attends a disastrous Mardi Gras ball near the end of the book—hence the mask in her hand. 

But there are a few more subtle symbols on the cover, as well. Those who have read my short story “Aftertaste,” (available for free at http://www.inkspellpublishing.com/free-reads.html) may have an easier time identifying them. Isaac’s dream provides major clues. (Scandal!) 

For instance, there’s a reason Juli’s wrapped up in white. There’s also a reason she looks all angsty on red velvet that resembles … something else. 

And finally, there’s a detail that Naj worked in and it’s so hard to see on a computer screen, but it’s there. I can’t reveal it now because of spoilers, but you’ll want to look closely at Juli herself after you finish reading Want. It’s a major part of her story, but like the thing itself, it’s hidden very well and only those who pay attention—who are plugged in and care enough about her—see what’s been in plain sight for far too long. 

Now, if you’ll please excuse me, I need to stare lovingly at the blown-up poster of the cover that my husband got me for my birthday.