Cover Creation Time - I Need Your Help!!

Ready to have some fun together? I sure am!

It’s that time again, my friends…COVER CREATION!!

Remember this?

…and it morphed into this?

…this was the audiobook cover…

…and this was the paperback cover…

Well, it’s time to start discussing the cover ideas for Season 2 of The Underlings, and there’s no way I’m going to do this without you!

Step #1 - Brainstorming ‘The Underlings: Runaways’ cover…and all ideas are welcome!

We need to place all the ideas, no matter how crazy, on the table to sift through them. This will not only allow everyone in the community to get involved, it’ll allow me some time to work on the book edits.

…and I hope (crossing fingers on BOTH hands…and some toes) get the audio redone.

It's time to flex those creative muscles and help shape the face of The Underlings: Runaways. The cover is the first thing people will see, so let’s make it unforgettable! Here are some things to consider as you brainstorm:

• Mood & Atmosphere
  What vibe screams "Runaways"? Is it gritty and rebellious? Mysterious and dangerous? Or are we aiming for a mix of hope, tension, and wild adventure?

• Character Focus
  Who needs to stand out? Are we spotlighting our scrappy underlings, their loyal bonds, or the forces chasing them down? Think expressions, poses, and that oomph moment that sums up their journey.

• The Big Picture
  What story do you want the cover to whisper (or shout!) before anyone even cracks it open? A daring escape? A secret world? A clash between light and shadow? Think iconic moments.

• Symbolism
  Are there objects, colors, or symbols that represent this season’s themes? Maybe a worn map, a flickering streetlight torch or lamp, or something cryptic that only true fans will get (wink-wink).

• Action or Stillness?
  Does the cover need explosive motion (think running feet, clenched fists, or a dramatic standoff), or something quieter but dripping with tension, like a shadowed figure slipping through a back alley the trees or across the horizon?

• Color Palette
  What hues hit the emotional notes of this story? Dark and moody? Vibrant with rebellion? Or something unique that screams "RUNAWAYS!" and grabs attention from across the room?

• Genre Shout-Out
  How do we scream “fantasy adventure” while making this cover uniquely Underlings? A touch of magic, a dash of grit, and that raw human element that makes the series stand out.

• Easter Egg Awesomeness
  What sneaky little details can we hide in plain sight for sharp-eyed fans to notice? Bonus points if it makes readers yell, “HOW DID I MISS THAT?!” after finishing the season.

• Typography That Slaps
  The title and author’s name need to POP. Are we going for bold, distressed fonts? Something sleek and modern? Or maybe something wild and edgy to match the runaway vibe?

• Think of the Target Audience
  What will grab the attention of our core readers? Who are we winking at with this cover, and how do we make them need to pick it up?

• Personal Favorite Moment
  If you’ve got a scene or an image from the story that’s been living rent-free in your head, share it! Sometimes the best ideas come from those raw, unforgettable moments.

• What Would You Click?
  Imagine scrolling through a sea of books (digital or physical). What would make you stop, click, or grab the cover for a closer look? THAT’S what we’re chasing here.

Throw your wildest, most brilliant ideas into the mix! Every thought matters. Who knows? Your spark of genius could shape the face of Season 2. 💡🔥

Let’s hear it—your brainstorming starts NOW. 💬✨

---

---

Author Notes

Seriously, do NOT HOLD BACK….I’m counting on you for brilliant views, wisdom, creativity sparks that only THIS community can provide!!

Jaime

---

---