The frontispiece (the illustration right inside the front cover) is arguably the most important drawing in the entire book. It is often the first image a reader experiences and sets the tone for the story to come. When brainstorming The Maelstrom's frontispiece, I wanted to create something that had an epic feel and would really showcase the book's central theme; namely the threat posed to Rowan by the forces of Prusias. Hopefully the image of Max astride YaYa is a fun teaser for readers who have never yet beheld such a sight. I wouldn't want to be that ogre!

It's always exciting to see The Tapestry translated into another language and to see foreign editions with alternate covers. Most recently, The Tapestry's first book was translated into French where the series is called "The Golden Tapestry" and the first volume is titled "Rowan Academy" Here's a peek at the cover, which I think is very lovely. The only question I have is why Max is holding a broomstick or wand type of object. Neither appears in the book and lord knows I don't need any more Harry Potter comparisons! :)

Now, I just need to dust off my French and dive right in....

Still working on illustrations and recently did this character study of Max for one of the interior plates. We haven't scene an entire drawing of Max like this in quite some time and thus it was fun to do. I'm working on one of David at the moment (as part of another, larger drawing) and will post it shortly. The Maelstrom is really coming together nicely - can't wait to see the finished product and share it with you!

So here I am - working away on the manuscript while New York shakes off winter and eases into spring. Some nice days lately, blooming flowers, crowded ice cream shops, and strollers, strollers everywhere.

I find myself staring at strollers quite a bit (and probably frightening the parents). My wife and I are expecting our baby boy in less than two months now and the reality of becoming a father is starting to set in. We've been tackling a project each week - putting up drapes, building a crib, attending birthing classes, etc. Babies are complicated creatures who need a lot of stuff...who knew?!? We're very excited to welcome our little guy into the world and no...he will not be named Max ;)

But enough of that stuff - let's talk Maelstrom! I've been racing against the baby to [...]
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Here are a few of my inspirations for the character of Max McDaniels