Cover Reveal + Giveaway for Fallen!!!

December 7, 2020 • Author Features, Giveaways • 155 Comments

Hiya, friends! Guess what? The day is finally HERE!

What day you ask?

The day we see the cover for Jessie Lewis’s new release, Fallen! AHHHHH! 🙌🏼

I know I am not alone in thinking Jessie Lewis’s stories are phenomenal, and I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that we are getting closer to the day where she has a new story released! 📖

We hope you enjoy Jessie’s visit and revealing of her cover for Fallen. 💕

~ From the Author ~

Thank you, Meredith, for hosting the cover reveal for my new Austenesque book, Fallen. Those of your readers who are familiar with my previous stories, Mistaken and Speechless, will know that both variations take up at specific points in Pride and Prejudice and swerve off onto wildly different tangents to canon. Fallen is a little different.

During one of my many re-reads of the original, I began to have some fun imagining alternative meanings for some of the things Austen’s characters were saying and doing. A different explanation for why Darcy wanted to avoid dancing with Elizabeth at the Meryton Assembly; an ulterior motive for Caroline and Louisa’s reluctance to have the Bennet sisters stay under their roof; a darker reason for Wickham to be reviled by the Netherfield party; another justification for Bingley’s hasty retreat from Hertfordshire. In this way, the idea for Fallen was born. Thus, in a first for me, this story stays truer to the events portrayed in Pride and Prejudice. Instead, it offers an alternative backstory, changing the implications of every character’s actions and behaviour—and, of course, precipitating different outcomes.

The cover, by Susan Adriani, is an absolute gift; I adore it. Having Elizabeth front-and-centre was imperative, because the story is unquestionably hers. Unlike Speechless, which was told wholly from Darcy’s point of view, or Mistaken, in which a number of characters shared that honour, Fallen is all about Elizabeth’s journey to love. Her contemplative pose portrays this perfectly, as does the brooding atmosphere of the artwork. The story is largely set in Derbyshire—a rugged and evocative landscape that, along with the romantic and whimsical aspects of the story, is skilfully encapsulated in this beautiful cover. I hope your readers will be as delighted by it as I am, and that it will entice them to try—perchance to enjoy—this alternative journey to happiness for Elizabeth and Darcy.

~ Book Description ~

“The air was all gone, and coldness overtook her, as though she had fallen into icy water and was sinking into the blackness. Her stomach churned, as it was wont to do these days. He would not marry her. She was ruined.”

The arrival of two eligible gentlemen at Netherfield Park sends ripples of excitement through nearby Meryton. But Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy are not the only additions to the neighbourhood raising eyebrows. An unremarkable cottage in the woods between Netherfield and Meryton also has new tenants. One of them—a lively little girl with an adventurous spirit, a love of the outdoors, and a past shrouded in mystery—draws the notice of more than one local.

Elizabeth Bennet—young, intelligent, and unfashionably independent—forms a poor first impression of the haughty Mr Darcy. On closer acquaintance, and against her better judgment, her disgust begins to give way to more tender feelings. Yet standing in the way of any potential romance is the closely guarded history of a certain little girl in a cottage in the woods. Elizabeth might be ready to disclose her hidden affections, but she is about to learn that some things are better kept secret, and some hearts are safer left untouched.

And without further ado….here is the big reveal!!!

(expected release date: January 11th)

Oh I love how moody it is! The colors, the sky, her expression – it all evokes some deep meditative pathos. 🌫

Hmm…the detail work on the left makes me think of wings, like angel wings…👼🏻

I am so intrigued about the small changes Jessie implements with several characters at the beginning of this story. I cannot wait to see how they play out! ✍🏼

Who is this little girl and where does she come from? I am intrigued by all these secrets! 😯

What do you think friends? 🤔

~ About Jessie ~

Jessie Lewis, author of Mistaken, Speechless, and The Edification of Lady Susan, enjoys words far too much for her own good and was forced to take up writing them down in order to save her family and friends from having to listen to her saying so many of them. She dabbled in poetry during her teenage years, though it was her studies in Literature and Philosophy at university that firmly established her admiration for the potency of the English Language. She has always been particularly in awe of Jane Austen’s literary cunning and has delighted in exploring Austen’s regency world in her own historical fiction writing. It is of no relevance whatsoever to her ability to string words together coherently that she lives in Hertfordshire with two tame cats, two feral children, and a pet husband. She is also quite tall, in case you were wondering.

You can check out her musings on the absurdities of language and life on her blog, Life in Words, or see what she’s reading over at Goodreads. Or you can drop her a line on Twitter, @JessieWriter or on her Facebook page, Jessie Lewis Author.

~~~

GIVEAWAY TIME!

The lovely people at Quills and Quartos are offering a generous giveaway of a $20 Amazon Gift Card for one lucky reader who comments on today’s post!  📚🤤

To enter this giveaway leave a question, comment, or some love for Jessie below.

  • This giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Quills and Quartos!
  • This giveaway ends December 12th.

You can preorder Fallen now!

Our sincere gratitude to Jessie Lewis, Kristi Rawley, and the wonderful people at Quills and Quartos for putting this special post together! 

~~~

Disclaimer: The Amazon links used in this post are affiliate links. 

155 comments

  1. Poignant cover! It looks as if she is sitting up on Oakham Mount or the Peaks letting the wind dry her tears. I agree with you, Meredith…are those wings guarding her or offering hope? They say don’t judge a book by it’s cover, but between it, the title and written by Jessie, I want it! I loved ‘Speechless’ and have ‘Mistaken’ on my Kindle to read…between putting up the tree, wrapping presents, and getting my Christmas cards out! Happy Holidays to all and stay safe and sane!

    Reply

    1. Happy Holidays to you, too, Carole! Susan did such a beautiful job of the cover, didn’t she? It’s so evocative! Thanks for stopping by to have a peek. And have fun with Mistaken – it’s a wild ride!

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  2. Congratulations on this newest release. I look forward to reading it. Thank you for the opportunity to win a gift card.

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  4. Love, absolutely love the cover! I am so excited to find out more information about Jessie Lewis’ new book. One thing I noticed on the cover is a wedding band! Is this a painting? The angel wings are telling. Are they there to catch her? Who is the little girl in the cottage In the woods? I am intrigued! Thank you Meredith for hosting and offering a chance in this giveaway.
    My questions for Mrs. Lewis is what do her characters look like? When she writes is it playing out in her head? What book is she currently reading? What made her write Jane Austen stories? How did she discover the world of Fanfiction? Does she remember the first sequel to Pride and Prejudice that she read? Love your stories and excited to read the next one. Stay safe and happy holidays.

    Reply

    1. I’m so thrilled to hear that you loved my other stories, Shelley, thank you! I hope you’ll enjoy this one too. Let me see if I can answer some of your questions…
      *I have very clear ideas of what some of my characters look like, whilst others (some of them pretty important) are a bit vague in my mind–but I try very hard not to be too prescriptive about how I write any of them, because I believe part of the magic of books is that a reader can create their own world, where everything and everyone looks the way they imagine them to be. As a reader, I certainly find it more enjoyable that way.
      *When I write, scenes don’t play out in my head straight away. I’d say my mind looks more like a still from stop animation film at that point. But as the scenes get more flesh on the bones, then definitely I picture the characters living out the scenes.
      *I’m currently reading “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E Harrow.
      *What made me write Jane Austen stories = Jane Austen!
      *Do you know, I can’t even remember how I first stumbled across the world of fan fiction. I was in the middle before i knew I had begun 😉
      Thanks so much for dropping in to check out my new cover!

      Reply

  5. Beautiful cover. I am now listening to Speechless again and cannot wait to read this new twist. I especially like her expression and the font used for the title. Bravo!

    Reply

    1. Thanks Sara! If you like listening to audiobooks, you might be pleased to know that the audiobook for Fallen is currently being recorded by the amazing Stevie Zimmerman, and boy is she bringing the story to life! I hope you’ll love it 🙂

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    1. Elizabeth certainly has some reflecting to do in this story. But we all have faith in EB, don’t we? She’ll figure out what’s for the best in the end. Thanks so much for stopping by!

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  8. This story sounds so intriguing and I can hardly wait to read Ms. Lewis’ latest because I absolutely adore all of her previous books already. I can only presume that this will likely become a fast favorite with such a gripping preview and classically beautiful cover art. There aren’t too many JAFF authors out there that I find myself re-reading with any regularity, but Ms. Lewis is definitely one. Thank you so very much for the beautiful cover art reveal and exciting preview paragraphs. Now I’m off to Amazon for my pre-order!

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  9. Lovely, ponderous cover design! I love your books and so look forward to reading it. Will there be a hilarious character to break the tension (e.g., a Ka Mrs. Sinclair from Mistaken)?

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    1. LOL! Mrs Sinclair is on the naughty step until she is 102 because she was so badly behaved in Mistaken! But there are some new characters in Fallen who I hope will steal your heart. Thanks Paige!

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  10. The girl certainty looks sad. I have a feeling that when I’ve read Fallen, I will see some symbolic things on the cover in hindsight. For now I just think the cover beautiful, and intriguing. Glad you give us another read, and I am certain it will be as captivating as the other two.

    Reply

    1. Don’t worry, Trudie, it’s not sad in a tragic way – there’s just some contemplation to be done by our dear girl while she works out what’s what. There’s plenty of stormy romance going on too 😉 Thanks so much for stopping by!

      Reply

  12. Love the cover and the story sounds so intriguing. I loved your other books and looking forward to reading this one very much.

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  14. “Mistaken” is one of my favorite titles. I have read it several times and I have also enjoyed the audio. I am looking forward to the release of “Fallen” as from reading the excerpt, I anticipate that this title will also become one of my favorites that I will enjoy reading again and again.

    Reply

    1. That’s really lovely to hear, Henderson, thank you so much! It makes me very happy to know others have taken pleasure in my stories. I sincerely hope you do enjoy Fallen just as much 🙂

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  16. Lovely cover and the pose of your Elizabeth. Even more I am intrigued by the book description. An Elizabeth who doesn’t hate Darcy for much of the book??? A little girl in a nearby cottage?? Wow! Can’t wait to read this one!

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  17. Loving the cover. Congrats on your new release! I can’t wait to read and listen to this story. Thank you for the generous giveaway.

    Reply

  19. Very much looking forward to this! Speechless is one of my favorite variations, and the cover and description for this is making me race to Amazon to order! xoxo

    Reply

    1. Thank you, John. I shall be sure to pass to compliments to the artist, Susan, because she deserves all the praise she’s getting! She’s made my story a beautiful cover to live in.

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  21. I am sure that I will love this as I have all that I have read of Jessie’s work. I am looking at this cover and the decoration on the left also evokes leaves and makes me think somehow of a weeping willow even though those leaves look differently in person. I cannot wait to read your new book, Jessie!

    Reply

    1. It is, Pam! See how long an idea has to percolate in my brain before it makes it out onto the page! LOL! I don’t think I’ll ever be one of those authors who is described as “prolific” ha ha ha! Thanks so much for popping in!

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  26. Hooray, I’ve read both Mistaken and Speechless and look forward to reading this new addition to Ms. Lewis’ work.

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  28. This is amazing. I’ve just finished rereading Mistaken a few days ago, which it’s not only one of my favorite P&P variations, but of my favorites books too. I was a little sad, because I just needed to read more things from Jessie and I thought that the release of Fallen was delayed, her writing and characters, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy representations in both novels are one of the best I’ve ever read, are so wonderful. I’m so excited to read this new story, I know it’s going to be beautiful and a marvelous journey. The cover is truly impressive and gorgeous. Thank you for such wonderful gifts; although now I’m kind of spoiled, I’m comparing all the Darcys and Elizabeths that I read with yours, but they’re everything that’s perfect, I love them.

    Reply

    1. Daniela, this is so lovely to hear, thank you. Every Austen fan has their own slightly different idea of who Elizabeth and Darcy are, and we authors can only put forward our own best idea of them. But to hear that the characters in my head resonated with the characters in your head is so special. I hope Fallen gives you just as much pleasure 🙂

      Reply

      1. I’m totally sure that I’m going love Fallen so much. For me, your characters are part of canon, even Jane and Bingley in Mistaken jajajaja, I thought that given the circumstances it was perfectly reasonable they could act and be that way, but still redeemable. I wish you all the success and happiness in the release of your new book.

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  29. What a wonderful cover! I can’t wait to read this new story. I loved Mistaken and Speechless,so I’m looking forwars to reading Fallen.

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  30. The cover is very Elizabeth. The colors, the natural backdrop…lovely. I loved both ” Mistaken” and “Speechless” and look forward to this new story. Also, I’m intrigued by the title; who or what is “Fallen”? My curiosity begs to be seated!

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  32. An absolutely stunning cover! I’m currently revisiting Speechless, this time as an audiobook (love it!) and very much looking forward to getting to read a new one from you!

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  33. The cover is beautiful and if I didn’t already want to read the book because of the author, I would because of the cover. I have really enjoyed Jessie’s previous books and look forward to reading this one.

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  34. Beautiful, beautiful cover –loved the title font–and a blurb that evokes so many questions!
    I recently purchased “Speechless” and planned to read it these holidays but now I have to plan my reading hours cautiously and read fast as I see that release day is almost a month away. 😉

    Reply

    1. There are certainly many questions to be answered – once it is worked out what questions need to be asked! I really hope you enjoy Speechless, and then Fallen, Alexandra. And the holidays!

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  35. A lovely cover and every expectation of a lovely story. I think you have the balance between angst, humour and romance just right in Mistaken and Speechless – no mean feat I am sure.

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  37. What an interesting and beautiful cover! The color selection, Elizabeth’s posture, and her expression is so good and inmesly fascinating! I’m looking foward to read this book!

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    1. Hooray! I’m delighted that you think so. Susan Adriani did an amazing job of capturing this contemplative, wistful aspect of the story. Thanks for popping in to check it out!

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  38. Really gorgeous cover! For some reason, when I saw the title and wings on the cover, my first thought was “fallen angel.” However, there is also the thought of one who is “fallen” due to a scandalous act or something similar. This is going to be exciting to find out the truth, and thank you for posting this cover!

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  39. Oh my! Another great story by the sound of it. Will it make me cry like Speechless did?
    I love this cover, Elizabeth looks so very sad! Set in Derbyshire? I’m hoping this means she’s with Darcy somehow? Is she the ‘fallen’ woman? Does he rescue her? Is it full of angst? Am I asking too many questions?

    Reply

    1. Never too many questions, Glynis! Only you’ll forgive me if I don’t answer them all 😉 I hope it’ll be worth the wait to get the answers 🙂

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  41. Lovely cover! I wonder what the young lady (Elizabeth?) is thinking? I can’t wait to read it. Thanks for the chance to win a gift card!

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  43. If I’m not ‘Mistaken’ I’ll like your new book very much and the beautiful cover left me ‘Speechless’ I can’t wait to read it. I will look know how long I’ll have to wait.

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  44. Oh my, I can hardly wait to read this! I loved Speechless and Mistaken and have read both three times . The cover is beautiful, too!

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    1. Wow, three times each? I’m so happy that you enjoyed them both so much, thank you for letting me know. I really hope Fallen gives you as much pleasure!

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  45. Looking forward to reading this. Sounds so intriguing: angst and mystery. Thanks for a chance to win a gift card. I, too, read both of this author’s other books and loved them.

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      1. Yes, I am enjoying it. I love angst and this one certainly gives us a good dose of that in the very beginning. And then there is the fact that I also like mysteries which this one also gives us.

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  46. The cover seems to convey the emotions felt bybthe girl on it. I can’t wait to read the book and find out!

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  47. I’m with the other commenters as a big fan of Jessie Lewis’ writing. So excited there’s a new one coming up!

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  49. I’m a cover junkie and not only do I love looking at book covers, but I believe that a unique cover will draw more readers than a lacklustre or trite one. This cover is slated to pull more readers in than most of what’s on the JAFF shelves. Susan Adriani has outdone herself, and I don’t know what her next move can be after this masterpiece. Absolutely stunning. The choice of colours is daring, yet it’s what makes it. And the smudgy effects say a great deal about the story, as does the pose of the woman. Best of luck with the novel, Jessie.

    Reply

    1. Hooray! I really hope you enjoy it Danielle – and I’m so pleased you loved Mistaken and Speechless, too! Makes me all fuzzy and warm to know that 🙂

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  52. The cover is beautiful and evocative though sad as well. I am quite intrigued by the mystery of the young girl and the backstory changes Jessie has made. I loved both Mistaken and Speechless, so I have faith that ODC will be happy in the end and am thrilled that there is another book from such a talented writer.

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    1. Never has there been a couple in whose destiny you should have more faith, Anna Maria! I just hope you enjoy this alternative journey to it 😉

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  55. Hello to Meredith and her Mr. Bingley. Wow, girl!! You get all the fabulous cover reveals. What fun. The excerpt has grabbed me by the throat and I intend to read this as soon as I get my greedy little hands on it. I spent today doing all my errands and we have medical appointments Tuesday and Wednesday. After that… we are in for the duration. Our state is starting closings again and we are going to self isolating for hubby’s health. I plan to read, read, read, and maybe have time to… you got it… read. Blessings everyone and good luck in the drawing. Wear masks, social distance, and stay healthy. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays in the manner in which you celebrate.

    Reply

    1. We’ve been under some fairly hefty restrictions here in the UK for a while as well, so I feel your pain! Stay safe, and have fun delving into all those books awaiting you. I hope Fallen is a lovely silver lining for you, if you’re still in isolation when you do get your hands on it 🙂

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  57. Oh, Jesse. It has been so many years for me, now. But this ,”“The air was all gone, and coldness overtook her, as though she had fallen into icy water and was sinking into the blackness. Her stomach churned, as it was wont to do these days. He would not marry her. She was ruined.” made my heart seize and icy chills ran through my veins. I cannot wait to read this. It will be a birthday gift.

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  58. This illustration is truly evocative, what a good choice, I can most hear the rustling of the dry grass, her scarf and gown. Then several details draw me further in; the layered design on the left makes me feel like Lizzy will take flight at any moment, the font looks vaguely sinister leading into the netted artwork at right and I’m curious to discover what is peeking out of her skirt under her clasped, hands… a reticule… a toy…? I remember Mistaken had several poignant moments, too, that were balanced out with later humor, so I’m eager to see how her travails are lifted.

    Reply

    1. Austen made Elizabeth Bennet her toughest girl–she’s got all the tools she needs to forge through whatever trials come her way. And, of course, we know a certain gentleman is not going to sit back and allow his destiny to be denied him… 😉

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  59. If a book has Jessie’s name on it, I will read it sight unseen! I have lived every one of her books. “Speechless” is one of my favorites! I can’t wait to read “Fallen”. Thank you, Jessie, for writing JAFF.

    Reply

    1. Thank YOU for such lovely comments, Robin! It’s heartwarming to know readers have derived pleasure from my stories. I hope you enjoy Fallen just as much!

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    1. Honestly, Denise, when the lovely peeps at Quills and Quartos sent me this artwork, I was SO happy. It’s not only beautiful, but it’s perfect for the story. Susan Adriani, the designer, is a gem!

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  63. Jessie, Congratulations on your release! I’m looking forward to reading this one – your writing is always wonderful and designing your cover for Fallen was a pleasure. 🙂

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    1. Susan, as you can tell from everyone’s comments, your cover for Fallen is just The Best. It’s praise you definitely deserve – thank you for making Fallen look so pretty!

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  66. Ooh — close to the original, with alternative backstory? Color me intrigued! I have another book on my wish list now. Thanks for having such a contest. I know what will be the first thing I buy if I win!

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  67. I will sound like a broken record, but here goes… That cover blows me away, because truly as I scrolled down after reading your brief synopsis I gasped when I saw that artwork. I was already going to grab this book anyway, but wow….that cover! I too will add my love for your two other books, Jessie. Speechless, oh my goodness I’ve reread and re-listened to that a number of times, obviously a favorite. Mistaken is so full of angst and yet so much love too. I wish you the best luck with this book launch, but I think that cover and the blurb with take you far. <3

    Reply

    1. You’re a sweetheart, Michelle, thank you! It truly warms my heart to know you enjoyed Speechless and Mistaken so much. I really hope Fallen gives you the same pleasure. 🙂

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  68. I’m really intrigued by this book, both because it’s by Jessie Lewis, who is consistently great, and because the preview that I saw of it looked really intriguing! I can’t wait until it gets released!

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  70. WOW. I looooooove this cover!! It’s poignant and mysterious and powerful, much like Jessie Lewis’ writing!! I can’t wait to get my hands on this beautiful book, knowing that it will be as wonderful inside as its cover is outside!! 😉

    Warmly,
    Susanne 🙂

    Reply

    1. Wow right back at you Susanne—what lovely kind words! I’m so happy my other stories have brought you pleasure. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that Fallen does, too.

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  73. The cover is splendid, Jessie. Kudos to the very talented Susan Adriani for once again producing a brilliant cover. In fact I don’t think I’ve ever dislike any of her book covers. The premise is quite dark and moody which fits with the cover. I hope it doesn’t go down the path of what I imagine might have happened to Elizabeth. But the blurb has certainly piqued my interest.

    Reply

    1. It’s not too dark — more contemplative and wistful. Oh yes, and hopelessly romantic 🙂 I hope you have the chance to sate your curiosity and find out what’s going on, Lúthien!

      Reply

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