Re-Release of Shaping Destiny and the importance of a good cover

As I work to complete my new novel (or rather, finish the grueling months of edit) I am also debating which publishing route to choose.  It is not an easy decision  as many of you well know.

Last year, I published Shaping Destiny.  Celebrating the anniversary of the book, as well as everything I have learned since then, I am planning a re-release.  The truth is, I cut my teeth on many mistakes.  Not least of these was my cover design. Yes, I hired a professional, but he is a graphic designer, not a book designer.  While the original cover is attractive and interesting, it doesn’t capture the essence of the book, the spine lettering is upside down, and nowhere on the cover is the genre.  In addition, last year I knew nothing about writing a jacket blurb.

Thanks to wonderful readers sharing their comments and wonderful authors sharing their resources, I’m really close to the new cover design.  I’m especially grateful to amygdaladesign@myopera.com and Ida’s work on this project.  What do you think of the design?Please share your input in the comments below. What do you think of the design?