The Deadly Daiquiri Cover Up
Congratulations to contest winner
Priscilla Caporaletti-Bean.
Sure, those beautiful islands offer balmy breezes, turquoise water, waving palm fronds, and sandy beaches.
But what about deadly sharks? Poisonous sea urchins? And the most lethal of them all?
Those fruity drinks tucked into a coconut shell, adorned with an orchid, a slice of pineapple, and a tiny pastel umbrella look so innocent. How could they possibly be dangerous?
<-•-•-•- Cover Option #1
Trust me. At 750 calories apiece, they are almost as deadly as Paula Deen’s cooking.
When an author sets a book in an exotic setting, a visit to said locale is required.
With a title such as Dying for a Daiquiri, I had no choice but to embark on a journey that included extensive research.
Cover Option #2 -•-•-•->
Fortunately, in Hawaii, there are numerous ways to work off those excess calories: Surfing, kayaking, hiking up and down cliffs and under waterfalls, and hula dancing.
The big island proved to be a mystery writer’s nirvana. Seven of the world’s nine climate zones are located there.
I had the option of boiling my victims in lava or freezing them on top of Mauna Kea. In her hunt for a killer, Laurel could fall off a cliff, out of a boat, into the volcano, or…
<-•-•-•- Cover Option #3
I guess you’ll just have to wait until the book is released in September to find out.
In the meantime, Laurel has requested that I finally make a decision about the cover art. My designer has come up with four fabulous covers.
Cover Option #4 -•-•-•->
Contest Alert!
Leave a comment by May 1st, noting your favorite cover (or covers) and you’ll be entered in a drawing to win a pound of REAL Kona coffee, or a box of chocolate-covered macadamia nuts. Your choice.
Better yet, if you make a suggestion that improves the appearance of the final cover, you’ll be included in the acknowledgements of Dying for a Daiquiri.
Daiquiris, like killers, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so we’ve used several versions just to make it even more confusing for you.
So get creative and go for it! Laurel can’t wait to hear from you.
Cindy…I like cover #1 Can’t wait to read it!!! 🙂
Thanks, Theresa. I can’t wait to have you read it!
I am torn between # 3 and # 4–That daiquiri on # 3 looks amazingly real enough to drink, lol:) The crime scene tape on # 4 really adds to the title.
Anxiously waiting for the book!!!
Thanks, Margaret. That giant daiquiri does get your attention, doesn’t it? It makes me thirsty every time I look at it.
I like #1 best; it seems most inviting to me–the dying part is covered in the title and the blurb.
Thanks June. That’s a very helpful comment. We’ve been struggling with incorporating the combination of daiquiris, dead bodies and humor. Good point.
I like cover #1, although I really like the crime scene tape in cover #4. Maybe combine the two?
Thanks, Pam. We never considered that option. Good one!
Oh, number 1 for sure. It’s great!
THanks, William. # 1 seems to be a hit!
Hi Cindy! I like the vivid colors in #4.Both Dying for a Date and Dying for a Dance covers were in vivid colors. I liked the composition and hand in #1. How about an overturned glass? Thanks for asking my opinion. Bottom line, they’re all awesome covers.
Linda
Hi Linda. I like the overturned glass concept. Thanks for sharing that.
I usually have a hard time making up my mind, but as beautiful as the other cavers are, I liked #4 the best. The setting in sunset and shadow with the crime scene tape has just the right touch of darkness in keeping with a mystery.
If possible, I’d like to see the colors more vivid–to pop more–or as much as they can given the muted pallette.
Now for the wacky part of my idea! Since you write about darkness with a lot of humor (we share that quality!), I’d want to bring something funny into the scene somehow. It happens I have a picture of me during a celebration in my younger days where there was a lot of imbibing going on (though not daiquiris). I’m sitting in a chair with my legs crossed and a wine glass between my toes! (Can’t believe I’m admitting this “in public.”) If the humor of that idea appeals to you, you could move the woman back a little and/or place her in a shorter chair, so that when the glass is between her toes, the glass appears between the title and the crime scene tape. The palm fronds might also need to be trimmed. With the glass moved, it also does not divide your name. The woman might need shorter legs, and I’m not sure if any of this is doable or too much work to consider. The placement of the wine glass would be laugh-out-loud and make the cover memorable.
Fun to participate, and I’m sure the end-product will turn out great for the various input! Thanks for letting us play!
I love the way your mind works, Joyce. And I insist on you emailing me that photo of you holding a wine glass between your toes. I promise not to share it with anyone:-)
Cindy:
I like the refreshing colors and cool presentation in cover #1. I prefer the beach instead of the crime scene stuff; however, it would be hard to tell if it’s a mystery with the “Dying” being the lead. N
Good point, Nancy. That is the biggest issue with # 1. It makes everyone want to go to Hawaii but can you tell there’s a dead body. Or two!
Hey Kiddo,
I still like #1 best…while I like the colors of the others, 2, 3 nor 4 are Margarita glasses. #3 is so vivid but the pictures don’t give you any idea what the book is about. I like the colors and crime scene tape on #4 but would prefer more than just her legs.
So, all in all…done deal cover…#1.
Thanks, Jaci. I love having an artist’s viewpoint. Great comments.
Karen always does great covers and this is a difficult one, byt my vote is #1.
# 1 seems to be ahead at this point. Thanks for the vote.
Congratulations, the covers are wonderful but I like #1 the best. Number 4 is too “James Bond” although James and Laurel both have a wicked sense of humor. Can’t wait to put my hands on this one. My TBR stack is getting dangerously low.
I can’t wait for Dying for a Daiquiri to be in your hands as well as mine:-)
I liked Cover #2. I was drawn to it because of the warm colors but also the suggestion of the outline of the dead body. If I was in a bookstore I would pick the book up. Good luck in your decision. 🙂
Interesting that the Cindy’s would think alike. That version ties in well with my other covers. Thanks.
They are all really great designs so choosing was difficult.
I was drawn to #2 first because of the colors and layout but the silhouette doesn’t look “right.”
I like the colors in #3 also but, except for “Dying” in the title, it doesn’t really illustrate a crime to me.
So that leaves just #1 or #4. A difficult choice, but I vote for #4. I like the crime scene as opposed to the beach as better illustration of the theme.
Hi Jim. I really appreciate your detailed response. All of the covers can be tweaked, to a certain extent, so your feedback on the different versions is very helpful.
Love book cover #1. 🙂 Works well for the genre. Just my humble opinion.
Good luck!
Anyone who reads gets an opinion so tell your friends. And I love that YOU love # 1.
I like option #1 with #4 (minus the legg silhoutte – too James Bond I believe someone noted) as a close second.
Interesting comment, Linda. I never thought of # 4 without those legs. Good one!
Hi Cindy,
They are all GREAT covers. However, #1 has a margarit glass and #4 has a martini glass. The other two are the usual glass a daiquiri comes in… not that I’m an expert or anything. 😉 And I LOVE the umbrella in #2. Nothing says Hawaii quite like a paper umbrella in your drink!
I think #4 fits more with your “theme” for the series, but I’d put a different glass in it.
AC
Thanks, Cindy. I’ve discovered that daiquiris are served in whatever type of glassware the restaurant/bar likes to use. Also, on the east coast they prefer the martini style glass and in Hawaii it’s the big one you referenced. So we just decided to leave a variety for now. This is so much fun. I love all the comments so far.
Number 4 is my vote. The crime scene tape and the legs are great. Needs a daiquire glass.
Thanks, Charlene. # 1 and 4 seem to be in the lead.
I definitely like cover #1 the best…..good design and colors….uncluttered look and the suggestiion of a body using just the hand is subtle and classy
Thanks, Dave. Excellent analysis. Karen will appreciate it.
Frankly, You can’t go wrong with any of them. I was leaning toward #1. But then I went to look at the first two covers. Both heavily red. So I think you should go with #2. Heavily red at bottom then rising up to other colors – just as you are rising up to a new adventure in publishing this time, going indie. Cover four has the red but goes down to other colors (and it is really a martini glass) and you want to keep going up, up, up! Good luck with the new book, look forward to reading it.
Kate, terrific analysis. As you noted, if we want to tie this book into the original covers, then # 1 doesn’t really fit in although it’s beautiful. There are also Harlequin versions in soft blue and pink with chalk outlines which confuses it even more. Interesting about the red at the bottom rising up – that makes so much sense!
Hi Cindy,
I can’t help it. I’ve been brainwashed. I think eBook. I think thumbnail and streaming ribbons so I’m out of step with most of your other responders. I vote for #3. Nimber 1 is prettier but I don’t think mystery, and numbers 2 and 4 tell more but #3 pops. I’m not sure how making the straw out of crime scene tape would work but I’d put it somewhereso we do think mystery.
Hi Nancy. You are correct. Ebook covers need to pop more than paperbacks and since I sell both, I’ll need some type of compromise. Thanks for the crime scene tape straw suggestion. Very clever!
Oh, I love # 4…it implies murder, enough to make
you want or perhaps need to drink. You
friend has a good idea of a glass between the
toes! Some of the other colorful covers look
like cocktail recipes! Love the legs…long and sexy
pretty like yours! Murder away …sandy sexy beaches
and daiquiris await!
This book is driving me to drink on a daily basis! But I can’t wait to hold my luau launch party. Thanks, Sherry.
I love Number #3 because the colors pop out at me!
Thanks, Harley. I was looking forward to your artistic and humorous eye.
Oh, wait — now I see what people are saying about #3 not looking like a mystery. How about if you add a swizzle stick that has a plastic skull on the top of it?
I love the idea of a swizzle stick with a plastic skull. I need to find some for my luau launch! Great idea.
I loved cover #1 but thought the “dying” part might be better incorporated with the glass tipped over (suggested elsewhere I believe) and you could still use the crime scene tape around the wrist and glass?? Maybe?? Can’t wait to read it. You go girl!
This cover will definitely have crime scene tape added to the next version. I’m loving all of this great advice.
#4 is too serious and I think #2 and #3 are kind of slapstick. #1 gives the wry humor flavor best, I think.
Kaye, thanks for the comments. I love the term “wry humor.” I may come to you for my future slogans.
I still like #4 – just the way it is. To me, it would appeal to both men and women. I seem to be in the minority but they are all great art work and we all know the reading will be great, too.
I’m glad you voted because you never know, you could win that Kona coffee!
I love #1. Much more subtle and fun!
Thank you, Janet. Spoken by the woman who owns 15,000 books! Or maybe you’ve added a few more since we last talked:-)
I like #1 and #2. In #1, the dead arm “feels” more like a reaching arm than a dead arm. #2 would read better with a horizon line and less angular/more rounded dead body outline. Really like the idea of the hula skirt on the dead body outline, but it needs a stronger horizon line to anchor the body outline to the ground. Great job Karen!
Very good comments, Ingrid. Originally we had a more feminine chalk outline which in retrospect probably looked better. The horizon line suggestion makes a lot of sense.
I really like #4. The colors are vibrant. And the graphics tell a lot about what to expect inside the cover. Congrats on the new book. 🙂
Thanks, Jennifer, for your vote and your congratulations. I can’t wait myself!
I like number 1 and 3. Number one is the best. Number three makes me want to mix myself a drink. Better yet have someone else do it. LOL
Funny guy. I love hearing from book sellers. Too bad I can’t ship a pitcher of daiquiris to the winner.
You could make so many wonderful combinations from these suggestions, I think your artist could combine some and come up with something wonderful. How about #1, bright colors and instead of an arm lying there, make it the leg holding the daiquiri glass with a swizzle stick between the topes and some crime scene tape draped around. In any event, good luck, and definitely tell me when is your launch party. I want to see that swizzle stick with the skull.
LOL. You really read the comments and I love your new version. I just need someone to tell me where to find those swizzle sticks.
My order of preference: 4, 3, 1, 2. My suggestion for fixing number 2: the dead woman’s skirt looks like Wilma Flintstone’s. I would put her in a bikini instead.
Good suggestion on # 2. I knew I’d seen that skirt elsewhere! This latest chalk line version doesn’t fully show off the victim’s hula dancing assets!
Cindy, the color balance and emphasis is best on version 3.
Thanks, that cover does pop, doesn’t it?
I think they are all cute and any of them would work but….
The thing I noticed is how different they are from the first two books. In the interests of branding, you might want to build a bridge between this book and the others. Reference something to connect the dots?
Thanks, Pauline. It’s been difficult trying to find a way to tie “Daiquiri” into the original versions. And now there are Harlequin mass market paperback versions as well. Choosing the cover is turning out to be more difficult than writing the book. Is it 5:00 yet?
The first cover makes me think of chic lit, and maybe a really lightweight story. I didn’t like the 2nd at all. I perked up at the 3rd cover. It feels more modern, makes me think of fun and funny mysteries, but the 4th is my favorite. It seems to leave things more mysterious, makes me want to know who gets murdered, and would make me flip through the first chapter to see if I would purchase the book.
Lisa, thank you for commenting on all four covers. Your analysis is very helpful. We all know how critical cover art is to draw in those readers!
#1. It’s simple and easy to focus on and read. I like the bright colors in #3, but there’s too much going on. I’m not crazy about any of the slanted titles because they’re harder to read. #4 does give more of a sense of something bad is going to happen whereas #1 is more lighthearted. (no contest entry for me)
Your feedback is terrific, Carly. I was wondering if anyone would comment about fonts at all. Everything is hard for me to read these days!
I’m leaning toward #1 as my favorite, but I’m also drawn to #4. I think I like the colors on #1 because they’re so “beachy,” (soft pastels etc) and I love the arm on the ground, but #4 has “impact” (and also nice colors) and I think the crime scene tape is a nice touch.
Catherine, if I commented, it would be similar to yours. Love them both but they are completely different. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
My vote is for #4.
Thanks. # 4 is in second place right now.
Cindy, I like # 1 as well. It is soft, sensuas, and yet the shows the vistim must be a woman.
You know how I love Hawaii and both your other books. I can hardly wait for the new one.
I never dreamed a drink could more than half a days calories.
Bev
Isn’t it amazing how dangerous those drinks are? I think the ones in the coconut shells top over 1,000 calories. At least there are many ways to burn them off on the island!
I like numbers 2 and 4, with a strong leaning toward #4. I like the chalk outline in #2, but everything else in #4.
I can’t wait to read the next installment in Laurel’s life.
Patricia Rickrode
w/a Jansen Schmidt
# 4 is moving up, getting close to # 1. And they are total opposites. Thanks for the kind comment!
I absolutely choose number one! They are all really good, but I think the first one goes best with the title. I’m not sure I like the outline of the body on number two, there was nothing representing death in number three and number four was cute with the crime tape, but the legs didn’t put across the message like number one, so that’s my choice.
Hi Laurie. Thanks for your analysis. I’m ready to head for the beach myself and grab one of those daiquiris.
I do like the third cover very much but I’m voting for number four because of the crime scene tape. I think it really conveys a clear sense of genre. The good news is that I don’t think you could go wrong with any of them. It’ll be fun to see what you ultimately select.
I am lucky to have so many great choices. And I may try wrapping some crime scene tape around that giant daiquiri (although it will be tougher to drink it that way)! Thanks for the comment.
definitely the crime scene tape on #4 defines the genre. But I prefer #1 or #2. Detest #3 it looks rather cheap and self made if you get my drift. Probably #2 but get rid of the dead bod and put the crime scene tape there instead. The title says there’s death happening so the dead bod is superfluous. HOpe this helps!!
I’m really enjoying the diversity of everyone’s comments and all of the wonderful suggestions. Thanks, CC.
I vote for number #2. It has a lot of red in it like the other two books of the series, and also has the body outline. My other coworkers pick #1 and #4, but they didn’t read the other books. Can’t wait to read this one. You are so talented Cindy!
Thanks, Julie. # 2 was designed with the other covers in mind. I’m not sure how talented I am but this is certainly fun!
Hi Cindy! I prefer cover #1. It’s clever and to the point. Hope you’re doing well. Can’t wait to read this one!
I can’t wait to read the final version myself!
Option one is by far the best. It’s kind of “retro” and catches the eye.
BTW I am applying my fine art degree to my analysis 🙂
I love having an art expert/author’s opinion. Retro, hmmmm.
I love the colors in books 1 and 2, but my choice is number 4. Good luck with your decision!
# 4 is picking up steam. Thanks for voting, Mary
Number two; put the hibiscus over her appropriate ear: left ear if she’s married, engaged, or otherwise taken (way to remember is the heart is closest to the left ear).
Michael, that is a terrific idea. Mahalo.
Good lord, now all I want is a daqueri, which is awkward as I’m at work.
To pay you back, I’m voting for 1 and 4
You get two votes but no daiquiri. I, on the other hand, have my laptop conveniently perched on top of my wet bar.
I really like #1. ;D
Thanks, Marie. # 1 is still # 1 so far.
For sure, without a doubt… #4. Can’t wait for the read…..
Gotcha # 4. I can’t wait for the launch:-)
I vote for book cover #1 or #2, either would be awesome!!
Thanks, Linda. Poor # 2 was falling behind. Karen will be pleased with her awesomeness.
I took a poll in my office and #1 wins. They like the font and the colors, but it took a minute to connect the hand to the idea of a dead body.
I love polls. I guess that hand needs to hold on to some crime scene tape, doesn’t it?
Cindy, definitely #1, but add a skull and crossbones poison emblem to the glass.
Very nicely done my crafty and creative author friend:-)
#4 works for me, but they’re all very nice! Sounds like a fun read!
It is fun. The perfect beach read. I wish I could include an umbrella drink with each sale:-)
Number 4 is the clear winner. It communicates murder and humor. More importantly, the colors will pop when it’s reduced to a thumbnail to promote it as an ebook. Also your name is larger (as it should be!). While I vote for number 4, they’re all very good. I’m sure the book will be a BIG winner.
Thanks, Linda. We have to keep in mind how important those tiny thumbnail cover shots are. As you know, humor and homicide are tricky!
I like #1 but it needs something to tie it to murder, maybe in the glass, a gun with an umbrella coming out of the top of the gun. It doesn’t tie into murder the way it is, JMO
I also like # 1 but we couldn’t figure out how to make it more deadly. Great suggestions!
All the covers are really gorgeous, but from a publishing standpoint, #3 is your best option. Why? Because the colors play off each other and it will be readable in a thumbnail.
#1 has the white title against a white cloud. #2 has a yellow word against the yellow part of the background. No bueno for visibility. The 4th one has readable title and author name, but the daquiri is teeny and doesn’t really pop.
Just my opinion. Sounds like a fabulous read. I lived in Hawaii for a year and have 3 lifeskills to show for my time there. I can properly prepare a fresh coconut. I can open a coconut without spilling out all the liquid. And I can do a mean hula. 🙂
*hugs*
~JD
Ah, now I know who to go to for advice. I can’t do any of those things although I can drink a mean daiquiri. My hula unfortunately looks more like “the jerk” than the hula:-) Excellent cover advice. I really appreciate it.
Thanks Cindy. I’m not sure my Hula looks all that great. Surprisingly, years later I learned to dance to Zydeco and the footwork was the exact same. . . and then I took a belly dance class…You guessed it. Same footwork. I guess there are only so many things feet can do.
*hugs*
~JD
I like #4 most. The bold colors grab you and the design imparts an ominous, exotic feeling. I would omit the martini glass. Second choice is #2. I didn’t read the hand in #1 as the hand of a dead person. It looks more like someone leisurely reaching for the flower or glass. Nothing told me there was a mystery here #3 looks like it could be a book of cocktail recipes.
Mahalo, Marilyn. Excellent input. And now that you mention it, I do need to include some daiquiri recipes at the end of the book. That will be the next contest!
I waffled. It’s always hard to decide on the flavor of one of those exotic island treats. However, I vote for #4. Should you go for #1, you should make your name larger. After all, it is becoming a big draw!
Best wishes on this third in the fun series.
Kathy
It’s tough, isn’t it? Maybe I should have different covers for different endings? Or not! Thanks, Kathy.
HI Cindy,
I like #4….it looks dark, sexy, and mysterious…….
Are you describing my book cover or my dream date? Thanks, Liz
I like #4, but the beverage looks more like a martini than a daiquiri. Perhaps change the shape of the glass?
Hi, Marlyn. The photo came with that martini/daiquiri glass but I think a change would definitely improve it. Thanks for the suggestion.
#2 and #4 are my least favorites.
I like a lot about #1 because of the emotion it evokes, but I don’t like the fonts as well as I do those on #3–and your name isn’t large enough for sure. I like the bright colors of #3 and the easily read fonts, but it lacks emotion and story of #1. So…
brighten up #1, change fonts, and stick an umbrella in the drink & it would be perfect!
Oops! I meant to say I could properly prepare a fresh pineapple. 😀
If the artist removed the white cloud, I think #1 would also be great.
*hugs*
~JD
I can also eat pineapple. Amazing how much we have in common:-) Great suggestion on the cloud for # 1.
P.S. I got that the hand was attached to a dead person, but a flutter of crime scene tape wouldn’t hurt.
Jan
Oddly enough (or not), I keep a roll of crime scene tape in my car. A mystery author must be prepared!
I still like #4 best, but I’d take the crime scene tape off and MAKE THAT DRINK BIGGER!
That drink is going to be so big, no one will care about the dead body:-)
I thought they all had some charm, but that #4 was by far the most modern and striking. If it fits the tone just as well, I think it’s the clear winner.
Now to see what everyone else thought –
One and 4 are tied with some authors thinking # 3 is better as a thumbnail on Amazon. Lots of great suggestions so far.
I like #1. It’s the least busy. It’s says the most with the least ”mystery elements” going on. The daiquiri glass with the limp arm next to it says it all. And the font of the title is the most pleasing. At least that’s my opinion.
I’m enjoying the diversity of opinions so far. And now I feel better about not being able to choose myself!
I like book cover #2 & #4 The problem with # 2 is the outline of the dead body. If you tilt your head, it is a person standidng up. You need a better outline of a dead person, without the skirt our whatever that is . Need just an outline of a body, not someone that looks like from the island. I do like the idea of the outline of the dead body.
#4 is good. I like the crime scene tape, wouldn’t hurt to have some blood stains on the beach,, that is just me.
Hope that helps. I like the crime scene tape and the body outline
Blood stains are always good. Thanks for the tip on the chalk outline. The skirt is supposed to be a grass skirt but it doesn’t translate too well on paper.
Hi Cindy-
Can’t wait to read this one…
I vote for cover #1.
See you on Saturday! 🙂
Jenny
Thanks, Jenny. Saturday will be great fun.
I like the # 1 choice and the crime scene tape from # 4
That is an excellent combination. Thanks, Lara.
Looking at the others, I still like #4 best, but they are all pretty good. While I think the colors of #3 have zap, the image has the least personality. #1 and #2 have a bit more Cozy tone, if that’s what you want.
I’d agree that if you do #4 you should make your name bigger, and you could also make the glass bigger, maybe with the stir stick crossing the tape and it’s little star jutting above it?
You have a good eye. Very nice suggestions.
#4 by a long shot! I also think the martini glass should go, but the cover makes me want to read the book. The others? Not so much..
Good luck!!
Well we want you to read the book! Thanks, Bette.
Love #1!
Morgan Mandel
Thanks. We seem to have a # 1 camp and a # 4 following with a few for two and three. This is so much fun!
Last one, Cyndy. It’s eye-catching and dark. You’re talking about death afterall.
Oops, I spelled your name wrong, Cindy. My brain doesn’t keep up with my fingers.
Definitely #1. Crime scene tape and chalk outlines are clichés and #3 looks like a cocktail recipe book.
I agree on # 3 but I was curious how people would react. Interesting comment about the tape and outlines. Something to consider. Thanks, Craig.
I like number 4 the best! I think the
colors are attention getting, and will look
great with the other 2 when displayed as
a series. Can’t wait to read it.
# 4 was an attempt to have it tie in with the first two. So many things to consider with these covers. Thanks, Lisa.
Cover # 1 gets my vote!
Thanks, Susan.
I like#1 the best. The colors remind me of HI. The others, dont. The others don’t really imply cozy, either. The glass looks more like a margareta, than a daiquiri. I’m looking forward to it, either way.
Thanks, Don. That is a margarita glass although I was served a daiquiri in one. We decided to leave it and have a variety of glassware to show you. The first one does make you want to escape to Hawaii, doesn’t it?
Oh, boy!
In terms of communication, each has a different message.
I like to believe that the cover of a book has some relationship
to the contents.
I’ve been fooled before.
So, the “best” cover question can be narrowed down by determining
what kind of story you’re telling: upbeat, sweet, scary, dark and gloomy,
or a wild-and-crazy romp.
Then it’s those intuitive issues of subjective preferences, and marketing
voo-doo; what grabs the eye, and what sells.
I wouldn’t choose 1 or 2 because they “tell me” it’s a chick book.
3 is the most objectively readable. I’d pick up the book, maybe looking
for recipes. It’s not very scary, but maybe you story is just meant to be fun.
4 is the most attractive to me (as a guy, it seems more gender neutral)
and there’s enough subliminal information there to tell me there may be
some hot steamy intrigue. The placement of the cocktail glass (really,
a martini glass) has erotic undertones and may look like a thong at first
glance, suggesting some tits and some ass. I’d add just a touch of blue
to tell me it’s Hawaii, and not LA—not quite sunset yet.
But that’s just me.
Now that is an analysis. Okay, there is romance but I’m working my way up from PG 13 to steamy, a dead body or two, and lots of laughs. And I can tell you right now my cover artist wasn’t thinking of anything erotic when she placed the glass there. I love the way you examined every aspect. This is great stuff.
I like covers 1 & 4 the best. They both speak to me, but for different reasons. I think your choice should depend upon the message you want to convey. Cover 1 has a fancier font for the title, and you see more of the beach. That make me think of high end vacation and hotels. Cozy mystery did not come first to mind. I think that’s because the “arm” blends in too much to the beach. I looked at that cover three times before I even realized there was an arm there. If that is the cover you choose, I think you should have greater contrast between the beach and arm. I also like cover 4 because of the legs. While there isn’t a big daiquiri on the cover, the colors used are ones you’d see in a mixed fruity drink. I hope my thoughts help =)
Your thoughts help a lot, Priscilla. I love both of those covers but they evoke a different message. I didn’t catch the arm blending in to the beach so that is helpful. And the colors in # 4 tie in with DYING FOR A DATE and DYING FOR A DANCE. Tricky stuff. Thanks for sharing.
#4 is the one… I just can’t wait to read it..
And I can’t wait to have it in my hot little hands. With the final cover we all choose!
Hi Cindy. I like #1 best as is, and totally got that the hand was attached to a dead person. I assume, from this cover, that this book will involve a dead female. Congrats on another release!
Yes, there is a dead female hula dancer, Denise. I figured Laurel had stumbled over enough dead guys it was time to mix it up.
I can’t wait for book. I like option 1 because it semi shows the body the coast and the Daiquiri but I love option 4 cause beautiful colors (tropical), more dramatic and suspenseful!!
Rosie, I love them both for the very same reasons. But we will need to pick one. Unless I write DYING FOR A PINA COLADA.
I love #1 and #4, I would snatch those right up! 🙂
I love that you would snatch them right up:-)
Could you make the DYING word look like it was melting or shimmering on the bottom edge of the letters? Especially on cover 4. That would be my only suggestion, although it’s great as is, too.
Interesting. I’ll ask Karen to play with it. I am the least artistic person around so she did a great job despite my suggestions:-)
Hi Cindy,
The first one got my attention so that would be my pick.
Thanks, Kim. I want to get people’s attention so that helps.
One or Four, preferably one, but you need a pastel umbrella in the cocktail with that tag line [along with the lemon because that has other connotations] and rather than a hand, or in addition to the hand, have a not too noticeable shadow of the killer approaching on the sand.
Sounds great. Well done you.
We definitely need an umbrella, Maddy. I like the idea of the shadow. Very nice touch.
then I pick option 4!! colors are perfect, crime scene tape it’s on.. and dead body with beach background!! 🙂
Rosie, you know exactly what you want!
I’m thinking I like #1 the best. They are all colorful and eye catching, though. Wish you much success with the book! 🙂
Karen, it’s tough to have so many great choices. Thanks for the good thoughts.
My first reaction was that I liked #1 the best. The image is a dead body and a daiquiri–enough said. (I had no trouble registering that arm as dead.) However, I agree with the person who pointed out that the white title against the white clouds doesn’t have enough pop. I also prefer the blocky, bold font on the other covers. Of those, I like #4 best. However, in #4, the crime AND the daiquiri aren’t given much real estate. Either #1 or #4 will be great with a little modification, which hopefully will not drive your designer to drink or death. –Vinnie
I’m going to owe my designer big time, Vinnie. I told her I would report back on the comments but I have a feeling she won’t be able to stop herself from looking. The woman is a saint if you ever need a cover artist!
Don’t want to enter the contest but I really wanted to vote for #1. It’s subtle. I like that. 😀
Thanks for stopping by and voting. I appreciate it. And so does cover 1!
I’d like to vote for #1 – but I’d be curious to see it with the font used on the other covers. I like it better than the scripty font on #1.
Really, though, they are all quite good. The only one I really don’t care for is #3 – I prefer the illustrations to the photographic clip art.
I haven’t read all 100+ comments, but judging from the ones I did read, it sounds like there are a LOT of opinions!
Darn it, now I am craving a daiquiri!
I was hoping you would respond. We have different varieties of font because I was curious if people would comment on that aspect. I would agree with switching the font on # 1. And # 3 makes me want a daiquiri, but not necessarily a mystery. And yes, there are A LOT of opinions:-)
#4. I like them all quite a bit… but that was my favorite.
I am very glad you like them all quite a bit. SINC Norcal seems to favor # 4 overall. Are you gals comparing notes?
Without a doubt #4.
I love an authoritative answer. Thanks. T. A.
Hi Cindy,
My vote is definitely the #1 cover. The multi-colors are eye-catching and
captures all of the subject matter.
Best wishes on your new novel!
P.S. I love chocolate macadamia nuts!
Thanks, Nancy. I hope you win those chocolate macadamia nuts. And I also hope they survive the plane trip home. Sometimes I eat the souvernirs I bring back:-)
I like #4 the best. Congrats Cindy!
Hi Alana. Thanks for taking the time to vote for # 4.
I choose #4… I like #1 but I think #4 looks a bit more “serious” if that makes sense? It leaves me with a bit of intrigue… The legs, the sunset, the cocktail, while the other ones show me straight up a picture of, well, a daiquiri!
# 4 definitely is the most intensely mysterious. Who is sitting behind those legs?
HI Cindy,
They are all good. I’m going with #2 or #4 with 4 leading. 2 has the body outline but 4 is the most dramatic.
Thanks Vallery. It’s tough, isn’t it!
I have to agree with the others. 4 is my favorite.
I think 1 and 4 were tied but 4 may be in the lead now, especially in the mystery writing community. Thanks, Edie.
Dear Cindy, I like the drama of #4 — but the glass looks like a martini glasss. My second choice is #1 because ’tis colorful like Hawaii — and has the dead body’s arm.
Thank you for including us. Warmly and with admiration, Joan Hansen
Thanks, Joan. I was looking forward to your wise expert opinion:-) I’ll owe you a daiquiri next time I see you.
I like #1 and #2 the best. For #1, I agree that there needs to be some indication that the hand is a dead hand, like if it had been holding a daiquiri that had spilled. (But then you lose the daiguiri graphic, or it would be too busy…? .
I love getting the opinion of an artist/author so keep those comments comming. Yes, the glass would look terrific if it were tipped over, but I don’t think that’s doable with clip art and I’m not sure if it would pop as an e-book. There is so much to consider.
Hi Cindy – I like number 4!
Thanks, Sara. This is so much more fun than mortgage, isn’t it!
I think I like #4 the best…looks a little more mysterious.
I agree that # 4 is the most mysterious. Thanks, Theresa.
I like number one…there is just something about that hand that seems to be reaching out for that glass that gets to me! Hugs to you! It has been a while. We have had a death in the family, not from a daiquiri, a roof repair, and a dead oven/range all at the same time! Plus working on a website!
Again hugs to you! Will I be seeing you at the winery anytime soon?
B
Oh dear, sorry about everything going on in your life. Sounds like you could use a daiquiri. And I need a visit to your beautiful winery. I’m already plotting book 4 up in Camino!
I don’t like #3 and #4 at all and are way too busy and distracting. Since I read mostly on an electronic device, e-book covers can get to be hard to see, that being said #1 is my favorite as it is clean and simple with good colors but #2 with the body outline is also good.
On a positive note, I can’t wait to read this book. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Jeannette. I was worried about the business of some of the covers. I appreciate your insightful comments and I can’t wait for you to read the book.
I love #4 BUT I also love the blue in #3. If you added the Crime Scene tape into #3 I’d be hard pressed to make a decision. 🙂 I’m attracted to the late evening/sunset/mystery/crime inference in #4. We won’t talk about the whole “jealous of the sexy legs” look. *Sigh*.
Honestly, I think all four covers are great. Well done [insert cover designer’s name here]!!!
🙂
Gracie
Thanks, Gracie. I’m inserting Karen Phillips, the cover designer’s name in here. She is wonderful!
Congrats on another new book!!!Like 1 and 4 best and like you even more!!!Love and aloha…stay spunky!!!
Ha ha. Thank you, Alanna. Still spunky as you can tell!
Hi Cindy girl!
What fabulous choices. Yes, #4 reflects the feel of a murder mystery–dramatic, black and bold colors, crime scene tape…agree that a daiquiri-style glass (like the one in #’s 2 & 3 )would add authenticity –but not essential. Can’t wait to hear of your latest adventures. Be well. Polly
Thanks, Polly. I’m so lucky to have so many wonderful choices. And it’s not getting easier with the variety of comments!
My choice is between #1 and #3. #1 is soft and relaxing like the islands and the cover definitely suggests Hawaii. However, the title may be too light in color. Perhaps a brighter color or darker lines that will make it stand out more.
#3 is vibrant and would shout out at shoppers . Both are not as busy as others with too many items. As they appear now, I would opt for #3.
Mahalo, Frances. I love your perspective on the covers. We want those shoppers to grab them!
I like #1! I’m not crazy about the fonts on the other ones, and I think #1 makes me feel like I want to sit on a beach and read.
I would say DYING FOR A DAIQUIRI is the ultimate beach read. Thanks for commenting. PS – I hope your fundraiser went well.
I love no. 4 because it clearly says mystery and is the most modern. Good job!
Thanks, Beate. It was all Karen Phillips fine work.
So weird. I responded with my iPhone, but it’s not on your site here, so these are my comments again. Love #4. Great legs (like your long legs) and your friend’s idea about
a Daiquiri between the toes is funny and clever. #4 is the best because it does not look like “Let’s make a cocktail bar book” which #1 and #3 tend to do. I love #4 and the crime scene tape – implies a murder right away. The hand on #1 looks like it could be from one suntanned Laurel needing a drink (but not very dead); #2 looks like a coconut
up a hulu skirt or something odd (dead, yes, but dead-body odd). #4 pulls you in thinking it’s a sexy beach romping drinking murder mystery! Can’t wait for it.
Hi Sherry. I think you showed up 150 comments ago, but your comments were great so here you are again!
Hi Cindy! I can’t wait to read Dying for a Daiquiri. Cover number 4 is by far the best. I like the crime scene tape and that would also look good on cover number 3. The only flaw with number 4 is at the bottom. There is a martini glass instead of a daiquiri glass. Either way, number 4 is still my favorite.
HI Cheryl. Thanks for commenting. That little glass in # 4 definitely needs tweaking.
I like number 2 the best! Bold colors and the chalk outline is a hoot.
-Kara
Hi Kara. You certainly can tell with # 2 that it’s a funny mystery! Thanks for commenting.
I like #1!
And so do many other people! Thanks.
Okay, at first I only liked #1 but after studying them again, #4 gets my vote. 🙂
You know that’s happened with several people. They start with # 1 because it’s so “Hawaii” then switch to # 4. Thanks.
#1 would be my cover of choice as they are…. I’d like it even better if the water had a bit more turquoise in it….
Very interesting, Alicia. Turquoise would be more representative of the water there. And I have earrings that match. (I’m not sure that counts)!
Number 4, all the way. It Tells you exactly what the book is about in a single classy glance. I’ve designed a fair number of covers myself and wouldn’t hesitate to present #4 to a client.
Hi Marsha, I appreciate the comments of a cover artist. Karen will be pleased with your response.
I like #1 best with #4 as a second choice.
Thanks, Linda. # 1 with a # 4 chaser or the reverse seems to be the most popular vote.
#1 for me, all the way! I love the subtlety of the outstretched hand.
Thanks, Marie. It’s interesting how many people have brought up that point. I was worried it was too subtle but you are all such astute detectives!
Decisions, decisions…I’m drawn by #1 and #3. The extended hand caught in the throes of death discreetly shouts “murder and mayhem” while the drink promises intrigue in #1. Number 3 features my favorite color (that cool and refreshing blue) framing the temptation of the drink and all of the complications that yielding can lead to…
I don’t envy you the task of a final decision, Cindy. All four are great! Can’t stand the suspense of waiting for the book!
Thanks, Mary Beth. I didn’t realize choosing a cover would be almost as difficult as writing DYING FOR A DAIQUIRI. But these comments have been wonderful. Say hi to Mama for me.
Cindy,
What great choices. I looked at each and thought #3 was good…the title and your name didn’t get lost. Then, I looked at all of them again and pretended I was in my favorite bookstore, squinted a little, and dang if #4 didn’t catch my eye. Not once, but two more times as I studied them. I decided I’d pick up #4 and read the hook.
Not that I’m a cover expert, but I guess it proves that the my eye definitely was “judging the book by the cover”.
Can’t wait to see which one wins — can’t wait for the book.
Mimi
HI Mimi. Thanks for the scientific shopping approach. We want your eye to be drawn to that cover!
Congrats, Cindy!
I like all of them but #4 is my favorite. Although, as someone else mentioned, I would also like a more typical hurricane glass for the drink. One thing that I think is important is to keep your other covers in mind. I understand you want something new, but since this is a third in the series, consistency is a good thing. Since the first two book covers are red, my idea would be to keep the images of #4 but incorporate more red. Maybe in the font or by making it the most prominent color in the sunset.
Good luck! I can’t wait to read it.
Excellent comments, Lauren. Placing the book in an entirely new location and trying to coordinate it with the other covers has been an issue. And if you looked at the comments you can see the two favorites are 1 and 4, which are total opposites. What a dilemna!
Did you pose for #4 cover….um? Those legs look like your gorgeous gams! Ha!
Definitely #4. Love the colors and layout. A winner!
Ha ha. I hope my legs won’t be needed for any cover shots!
I like #1. It needs no improvement. It says a fun, funny read in a sunny, tropical location.
I like the graphics on #4 but I like the tree and blue background on #2… but to just pick one I’d go with #4.
Thanks, Michelle. See what you have to look forward to!
My vote is No. 2. To me No. 3 doesn’t have any hint of murder. No. 1 is good but except for the hand doesn’t say “crime” to me. The colors are too bright and cheery for a mystery. If the background of No. 1 was more sinister looking or darker in tone it would work. No. 4 with the legs is too cliche for me and looks like you’re going strictly for the sex appeal. Just my thoughts! Sounds like a great concept for a book.
Thanks, Sally. I appreciate the detailed commentary. # 3 was never my favorite but the colors do pop. I’ve noticed the guys have almost all voted for # 4 with the legs. Interesting!
Hey Cindy –
Of the ones you have up there, I think #1 is the best. However, if I were to offer suggestions . . .
1) The glasses in #1 & #4 aren’t daiquiri glasses. That doesn’t jibe with the title.
2) The font in #2, 3 & 4 are all too square & blunt, which made them all look less than professional to me.
3) Using real images, rather than graphic-designed images, for the drink & tree in #3 just didn’t mesh well with the other aspects of the cover.
4) You’ve already used a chalk outline (from #2) on a previous cover, so it might be nice to use something different this time.
5) I agree with Sally that the legs on #4 seem to have been only included as a sex appeal marketing gimmick. I doubt they have much to do with your story (unless she’s finally gonna get jiggy with her detective guy!).
I would suggest combining the following aspects:
The font from #1, or another flowing font
The daiquiri/flower/etc from #2
The hand (or some bit of the deceased) from #1
The sunset from #4 (but maybe a bit deeper red)
Stick with all graphic designed images, nothing “real”
I’m looking really forward to reading the next one. & how cool that you got to go to Hawaii for research! :o)
HI Alyx. THanks for the comments. An interesting sidebar is that daiquiris were originally served in martini glasses on the east coast (I think they still are) but in Hawaii it’s the larger glass you noted. We decided to offer a variety of glassware just for kicks. I really like your comments. Very well thought out. I’m not overly fond of photo imagery for covers myself, but that trend seems to be catching on. Times are changing but for the good!
Here are my choices in order:
1st – Cover 4
2nd – Cover 2
3rd – Cover 3
4th – Cover 1
Best of luck!
Thanks, Carol. You’re so organized. I love it!
# 1 for me. They are all good but it’s the best
Hey, Mary. Thanks for the vote.
Has to be option 4! – – A super pair of legs and a cocktail!! Who could ask for more!
Let’s see. Have any men NOT voted for # 4. Nope! Thanks, Ron.
I like #2. It has eye-catching colors and the chalk outline is a nice relatively subtle touch.
Thanks, Mare. It’s nice to see votes for # 2.
My preference is #1 Then #2 and #4 comes in third place.
Thanks Fay. I like having an orderly vote. Have a great weekend.
I think number 3 is the most attractive and would probably work fine if your book is a lighthearted cozy. Number 4 does the best job of suggesting a serious murder mystery. The other two don’t make it. Good luck with your book!
Thanks for voting, Carole. # 4 is a great cover but my mysteries are definitely on the light side. Such a tough decision.
I like #1 best, and then #4. On #2, I would get rid of the flower, but I like the premise of the outline of the body.
Thanks Annette. I appreciate you listing them in order.
Hi Cindy – Love the colors from #1 – it is eye catching, looks fun and conveys humor – but the hand looked a little playful so I wasn’t sure she was dead or reaching for the drink. Maybe add crime scene tape to this one? Or use a different color for the word “Dying” like on the others? I thought the body outline in #2 with hula skirt was hilarious but overall the cover didn’t look as polished. #4 would be my second choice because it shows a murder mystery theme best, but as someone else said it looks like a lot of other covers and may not stand out as well.
Great comments. Thanks Kendra.
Cindy,
I like #1 the best IF it had the legs from #4… But picking between these as they are, I would say go with #4!! 🙂
They are all really neat- great job to the designer!
ALSO, LOVE the font in #1. It gives it the light touch with fun added to the mix that your stories have. and agree about the daiquiri glasses- need to be changed on #1 & #4 for sure!
Hmmm. Move the legs to one. Interesting.
I like cover # 1. It is colorful and adds a bit of mystery at the same time.
Tks for voting, Deb. # 1 is picking up steam again.
I vote for #2, Cindy! It’s a little light-hearted, and features your signature body outline, which reminds hungry readers of your delicious dead body cookies! Thanks for asking for input — your marketing creativity is an inspiration!
Thanks Madeline. This has been so much fun. Now you have me craving a dead body cookie. I must whip a batch:-)
If it’s a cozy, I say #1. The colors are prettier.
It’s sort of a feisty cozy. #1 is the most representative. Thanks for voting.
Hi Cindy,
I like #4 the best. I would change the glass to a daiquiri glass as mentioned by others. I think #4 adds a touch of mystery to the cover. Good luck on your decision.
Thanks, Margo. I just had an MRI for my back so I think a daiquiri is in order. Maybe one of each flavor in each type of glass!
I keep coming back to #1 — real art, a bit art nuveau, reminiscent of a Hammel Daschel sophisticate’s mystery, Hawaii as we hope to find it — ocean, sandy beach, palms, ginger blossom, warm breeze perhaps or hint of rain building, ginger blossom, and a classy daquiri. It’s all there, BUT so is an obviously female hand, grasping, delicately drawn! Dead. Dying is the key word in a font that pleads innocent. This cover has jarring contrast and beautiful simplicity. It pulls me in. After seeing it, I couldn’t relate to 2, 3 or 4. I read the comments about #4, which seems to be winning, so I looked again, as if I were browsing in a bookstore. The verdict: too busy for me, suggesting a night crime scene that could happen in any city, perhaps in Florida, a cover that seems to be seeking an audience that doesn’t include me — big blocky brazen font and criss-cross lines. It is also jarring, but to the senses rather than the intellect, and that pushes me away.
Naida, I love the way you’ve analyzed your feelings for both covers. In fact, I may have to hire you to write the book blurb!
My first reaction was number three, because I liked the color contrasts – the hot drink and the cool water and the provocatively overexposed palm tree. Upon serious reflection, however, I vote for number 4. Warm and mysterious. Will the legs kick over the daiquiri? What a crime…. Cheers!
Will the legs kick over the daiquiri? Will the arm reach the alluring drink? Will we agree on a cover? Now that is the question of the day!
I’d go with #2 because the dead body is more readily recognizable. #3’s colors were great but no dead body.
Must have a dead body. Or must we?
I love the drama of cover #4 but think the shape of the glass should be changed. My runner up choice would be cover #1.
It’s either 4 followed by 1 or vice versa. So many decisions although we are definitely changing the shape of the glass! Thanks, Caitlyn.
cover #1 is awesome
Karen will be thrilled with your comment. Thanks, Peggy.
Hi Cindy, great work as always!
I like #1 and #3. #1 looks like a fun piece of art I would frame and hang. To me it looks like the hand is reaching for the daiquiri, but……maybe a little late!
#3 with crime scene tape would jump right out at me in a store. Easy to see and get the point quickly.
All fun, xo Michelle
It’s so hard to decide. We have a work of art, some comic relief, a tasty looking drink, and a gal with great legs! Thanks for voting.
You’ve gotten a tremendous response to this, Cindy! I like #1 best. It makes me want to be on a Hawaiian beach. However, if the tone is more serious, #4 is better, as long as the cocktail in the shadows is turned into a daquiri. I saw in one comment you decided to change the shape of the glass.
Have fun deciding!
Thanks, Suzanne. This has been fun. My books are definitely on the light side. Even when I try to be more serious, my protagonist won’t let me. That Laurel is so bossy!
Hi, Cindy
What great info you’re getting! I like the first one if you put a gun in the woman’s hand or if it’s clear that the woman is lying on the beach, maybe dead. If you can’t ‘fix’ the first one so it’s suspensful, then I go for the fourth one. Good luck with this book. Sounds like a fun read!
Good suggestion, Rolynn. Yes, this has been a blast. Next time I may poll everyone on whodunit! The killer kept me in suspense through most of the book.
Love your covers, your premise, and your spunk! Poor you, having to travel to Hawaii to do research ~~~ life is tough!
I prefer #1 and #4…and it’s a 50-50 tie. Sorry, can’t give you more than that!
Good luck, and all the best! Many sales, I wish you!
Gemma
Aw, Gemma. You are too kind. My protag is way spunkier than I am. I just follow her around from adventure to misadventure. Thanks for the votes and best wishes.
An added bonus with the flower over the ear is personalizing the victim before the book is even opened. Good luck and aloha nui loa.
Mahalo, Michael. You always have such lovely suggestions.
Cindy, I like the first one much more, however I have a suggestion. I think you would be better off using the picture on the first one and the style of wording on the others. Your cover will be made into a thumbnail sized picture when it is included on a page with others. I copied your pictures onto a word page and viewed it at 50% so I could see what the thumbnails look like. The picture of the first one showed up well, however, you could not see any of the words! You could read the words on the rest of them.
Caitlind, I originally planned on changing that font because I thought it was too difficult to read (it is for me) but it was interesting how many people liked it. But I can definitely see that it wouldn’t be legible in a thumbnail. Great catch! And thanks for the tip on how to view it that way. I wasn’t sure how to minimize it. And this is why I create art on paper and not covers:-)
At first I thought #1 but DEFINITELY #4. I think that one has the right panache of dark side with a laugh! What fun … You are a winner whatever the choice.
Ha ha. I’ve noticed some of those # 1 voters have shifted to # 4 when they get to the end. And thanks for the motivational compliment! Can you believe how many decisions are involved in releasing a book?
They all look great but …… I like #2 the best. Why? The colors really grab my eyes. Hope to read it someday.
We want to grab you, Valerie. Thanks for voting!
Hi. I liked #4 best because it is the most graphic. My second choice would be #1.
Thanks terri. I appreciate your artist’s eye.
Tough choice… I liked something about every one of them. I believe I liked the graphics and color choice of #4 best.
Thanks for voting Marsha. It is very tough but I’m lucky to have such great choices.
I like #1 best because of the font on dying. I also like the arm. The colors on all of the covers are great! Good luck!
Lynn
Thanks for voting Lynn. I’m glad that arm called out to you.
I like #1 best, and so do Danelle and Faith! Good luck! Looking forward to reading it!!
Wow. All the gals agree. Thanks.
I like numbers 1 and 2 because they are colorful.
I love colorful covers myself. Thanks Jan.
I like Cover 2. Great colors plus crime scene! Can’t wait to read!
THanks, Deb. You’ll have to drive up for the luau launch. There will be daiquiris in all shapes, colors, and flavors!
I really like #4. I was drawn to the magnificent sunset. I certainly related to “Dying for a Daiquiri”, more dying for a glass of wine for me, but oh how I can relate. The impact of the crime scene tape across such a dream vacation is clever!
Looking forward to reading this adventure!
Thanks, Angie. I love that sunset. I feel bad about covering that beautiful island in crime scene tape, but what’s a mystery author to do!
I live #4. The colors are great and all the aspects seemed to be shown! ♥♥♥
Thanks, Cynthia. Those colors do pop, don’t they?
I like number three best. It looks like a real drink (as opposed to #’s one and two that look handdrawn) and is making me thirsty. I don’t even drink so I’ll take mine alcohol free.
I do like numbers one and then two, in that order. Number one was what I first saw and I immediately liked it. The palm tree is great. Number three is kind of funny with the chalk outline wearing a hula skirt. The covers are colorful and transport me to paradise.
I don’t like number four that much.
Michelle, thanks for your analysis. All of these comments are so helpful!
Cindy,
It’s possible you are having too much fun doing your favorite things, lightly disguised as research for your books. I like cover #4–it looks sort of Sam Spade-y, the legs give it a bit of sex appeal and we all love sunsets. When the book comes out in September we are all wondering if daiquiris will accompany the press release. We’ve been spoiled with cookies and stilettos.
Lol. Still working on a new culinary creation. You’ll all have to drop by my luau launch.
I voted for #1 but had second thoughts after I saw the book page below on Kindle. It’s very similar & may weigh into your decision. Too, the glass does look more like a margarita than a daiquiri.
http://amzn.com/B005Q46YZU
Thanks, Jan. I wasn’t familiar with that series. The glass definitely will be changed. I think # 1 and # 4 are almost tied right now so I can’t wait to see the results. There are so many great comments I hired my daughter to collate all of the information!
I like #1 the best. It reminds me of Hawaii more than the other covers. I do think the glass needs to look more like a daiquiri than a margarita. Also, a flower lei drifting from the gals hand would make the cover look more like Hawaii than just another tropical setting.
Hi Barb, what a great recommendation. I love the idea of a flower lei on the cover. Nice touch!
I thought #1 was fantastic – made me want to buy the book and the drink! My second choice would be #4 – but it didn’t seem as light and fun.
And I want you to buy the book! The daiquiri is optional, of course:-) Thanks, Julie.
#1 does it for me. It has the right balance of fun and hinted trouble. Great to have so many choices!
I am a lucky gal. I have the best cover designer ever. And she’s still talking to me!
I like #1. I think the colors are really nice and it “hints” at murder, without coming out and shouting it like #4 does. I also like the colors best on #1. Good luck and I can’t wait to read it. Elke
Thanks, Elke. # 1 is ahead by 9 votes so far. This has been the most fascinating exercise. I love reading everyone’s comments.
Hi Cindy…..I personally like #2….mainly because it carries on the “body outline” ….it may even be more striking if it was outlined in the sand on the beach….
Claude
Hi Claude. I love getting a bookseller’s opinion. Thanks for the excellent suggestion.
Hi Cindy,
There is something appealing about all of them…but I really like #1 best. It shows me a bit of intrigue, a lovely hand that could have been holding a drink or she may have been reaching for her delicious deadly Daiquiri when apparently the worse thing that could happen to a beautiful tourist on holiday! The setting is not overly busy & the right touches of Hawaii are depicted very well in #1 except for the unlucky murder victim. I think the look is an attention getter at first glance. We are all certainly ready for another of your books!
I totally concur, Deb. And I can’t wait to celebrate with the book club when DYING FOR A DAIQUIRI is released. I’ll bring the pitcher!
I vote for #1. I like the colors and the animation. Whichever cover you decide on I know the book will be great. Can’t wait to read it.
Hi Pat, thanks for the compliment and for taking the time to vote!
I think this would count as a cover suggestion hopefully not as “nick-picking” but I would hate for a great book to be critized for the author and or editor “not knowing their glasses”.
However, I think, but could be wrong, that the shape of the glass used in cover #4 is more used for martini not daiquiri. You may want to research that should it be the majority choice and winning cover so you can change it.
I think my favorite, since I’m coming from law enforcement life, would be #4, followed in order of 1, 2 finally 3.
Can’t wait to see it on the shelf. Maybe purcahse a signed copy?! In fact, I’d gladly acceept an autographed book over the box of choc or coffee!
Best of luck in your decision making!!!!
Hi Connie. All comments are welcome and I was pleased you shared. We used a variety of glasses because all of my “daiquiri” research led me to discover that different glasses are used in different parts of the country and restaurants. In Hawaii it turns out they use the tall one as shown in # 2 and 3. So whatever cover ends up in the lead we will switch to that glass. I have noticed that those people with law enforcement background prefer # 4. Right now it’s just a tad behind the leader which is # 1. Thanks for adding to the fun!
I think I like #1 the best, although something about the placement of the arm or what the arm is doing or not doing, bothers me. Can’t put my finger on it. Maybe the hand can look more like its grasping for the daiquiri glass or releasing it like the glass was being dropped. I don’t know. I don’t like #2 at all. The chalk outline looks like a cave drawing of where Wilma Flintstone was killed. #3 looks like the cover for a daiquiri recipe book and has no reference to a mystery story. #3 would be a lot more compelling if the daiquiri glass was wrapped or draped with crime scene tape or had a piece of crime scene tape caught on the glass as if a Hawaiian breeze blew a piece of the crime scene tape around the glass. If you were to work crime scene tape in, #3 would be the strongest cover. #4 would be my second choice, but perhaps I’d add a colorful tropical flower anklet, like hula dancers wear, to one of the leg silhouettes.
Hi Sheryl. Those are terrific comments. I think the arm needs some adjustment, perhaps having it directly on the ground instead of reaching for the glass. I like the idea of the flower anklet on # 4’s legs. No one else has mentioned that. Very nice suggestion.
I think option #1 is best, maybe add condesation on the glass and a little shark fin in the distance not real noticable but there.
Hi Becky. I’m not sure how difficult it would be to add the shark fin but I like it! Especially since poor Laurel does have a shark encounter! She’s a busy gal in this book.
glad to help can’t wait to read it.
#1 cover I like
Thanks for voting, Margaret.
1 and 4 are my faves. I love the font on #1 best. I don’t like 2 because I don’t like the outline of the body and I don’t like #3 since it’s not alluding to the mystery and the death at all.
Can’t wait to read it.
Thanks Joanne. Those are my faves too. I was worried the font in # 1 was difficult to read but it seems to be very popular.
Cindy, I love #1. It has a few things I question. I don’t know what the white circles are for or if they are revelant. The hand’s fingers might not be pictured like a dead person’s hand? Love the font~! Love the palm tree and the palm of the hand. I would buy this book by its cover, it’s realistic with the beach, drink, ocean…
#4 had martini glasses.
Hi Suzy. Thanks for your comments. The white circles are actually watermarks and won’t be on the final cover but they are distracting. I’m so glad you like # 1. We will be tweaking the arm and hand somewhat so hopefully you’ll love the final version. And hopefully, so will every one else.
Hi Cindy…can yo let us know what cover won?
Elke, we are almost done with the most amazing cover ever! You’ll definitely be celebrating when we’re through.