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!

At long last, here is the latest cover illustration for The Maelstrom. Cory Godbey has done a wonderful job once again and I think the drawing hints at some intriguing developments in the story. The central figure (and indeed this book's central threat) is our old friend, Prusias. The latest I've heard is that the book will be released in October 2012. I hope you're excited as I am!

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....

I'm still working away on drawings for The Maelstrom. Here's a fun concept sketch for a baddie we'll be meeting in the story.... Lots of fun to experiment with something in the Steampunk realm (what else would result when Prusias controls the Workshop?!?)

Now that my editor has the manuscript for The Maelstrom, I'm diving into the illustrations. At this stage, I'm working on pencil sketches for the chapter opening drawings. I used to just really rough out my basic premise, but I've learned that the more time I spend on the sketch, the better the final product and the less likelihood of having to start all over or figure things out on the final art when I'm working with inks. Pencils are a lot more forgiving and I'd rather do the heavy lifting on the sketch and make my life easier on the final art.

Here's a sample - a drawing of Elias Bram. My goal was for you to get a sense that this is someone with tremendous power and someone who is a little bit scary [...]
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