When I first saw the hardcover version of Shadowfever, I didn’t think I’d ever seen a more beautiful book. The imagery suits the story perfectly and it has dynamic tactile impact. It’s a book that people pick up and caress.

In a world that’s going increasingly paperless, with glossy screens for pages (I love my ereader!) I still get a thrill out of holding a beautiful book in my hands, curling up at a window seat on a rainy day, and reading the old-fashioned way.  I wondered how Random House could possibly make a paperback out of the unusual acetate and board cover style they used for the hardcover. They told me not to worry—they had an idea.

Did they ever!  I just received my first copy of the mass market paperback cover and it’s breathtaking.  Printed on foil, which gives the entire cover a unique foiled sheen, I think it might just be even more beautiful than the hardcover. I never would have believed I’d say that. The stepback is straight out of the White Mansion, dreamy and haunting.

We see Black Mac more clearly on this cover, with dark hair, dressed in grunge leather and red silk, still not facing the camera because she’s not liking what she sees in the mirror and has no desire for anyone to look too deep into her eyes.  She knows what’s behind them now.  I find it fascinating that Random House changed her tattoo in the most intriguing way. I wonder if they think they’re encouraging me. Egging me on. Daring me to take it where it seems to want to go. Because it sure looks to me like the tips of Mac’s wings are starting to….well, unfurl.