I know writers have a tendency to gush about their latest cover, so usually, I try very hard to let the cover speak for itself, as it is supposed to do. 

But I just got the cover for MASQUERADE'S MATE, which comes out on July 4, and while it's 100% not what I was expecting, it absolutely does the job it's supposed to do. 

It grabs you.

It conveys character, mood, tone.  You know you're going to be reading a thriller, based on this cover.  And you know it's going to be moody.  You also know you're going to be reading about at least two incredibly strong characters.

I just did a quick test run around the office -- and the immediate reaction from all the women was "Wow!" and 95% of them added "When's the book out?".  Exactly what you want to hear.

Designer:  Les Byerley -- my new best friend.

Please comment!