I am not a cover designer but I can agree that cover layouts play an important role in the overall presentation of stories and I must admit, often times I first judge a book by its cover. -Stephanie M Hopkins
Days of Sun and Glory (The King’s Greatest Enemy #2) by Anna Belfrage
Synopsis
Adam de Guirande has barely survived the aftermath of Roger Mortimer’s rebellion in 1321. When Mortimer manages to escape the Tower and flee to France, anyone who has ever served Mortimer becomes a potential traitor – at least in the eyes of King Edward II and his royal chancellor, Hugh Despenser. Adam must conduct a careful balancing act to keep himself and his family alive. Fortunately, he has two formidable allies: Queen Isabella and his wife, Kit.
England late in 1323 is a place afflicted by fear. Now that the king’s greatest traitor, Roger Mortimer, has managed to evade royal justice, the king and his beloved Despenser see dissidents and rebels everywhere – among Mortimer’s former men, but also in the queen, Isabella of France.
Their suspicions are not unfounded. Tired of being relegated to the background by the king’s grasping favourite, Isabella has decided it is time to act – to safeguard her own position, but also that of her son, Edward of Windsor. As Adam de Guirande has pledged himself to Prince Edward he is automatically drawn into the queen’s plans – whether he likes it or not.
Yet again, Kit and Adam are forced to take part in a complicated game of intrigue and politics. Yet again, they risk their lives – and that of those they hold dear – as Edward II and Mortimer face off. Once again, England is plunged into war – and this time it will not end until either Despenser or Mortimer is dead.
Days of Sun and Glory is the second in Anna Belfrage’s series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his lord, his king, and his wife.
My thoughts:
Anna Belfrage is one of my favorite Historical Fiction writers and she has been awarded the B.R.A.G. Medallion ten times! That is fantastic and shows that readers find her stories are worth the time, money and to recommend to their best friends.
I love the colors and the format of this layout. Vibrant colors do make a cover stand-out. The Crown really makes it pop. If you look closely, you can see the castle in the background. I think this cover is fitting for the story.
Author Website
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Meghan @ Of Quills & Vellum
I agree with you, Stephanie. Whether the reader is browsing a bookstore or the Internet for a new book to read, covers matter. An effective front cover will grab their attention and incite them to learn more. An effective back cover will cinch the deal.