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urban fantasy book cover

For a portfolio project, I designed the cover for the fictional urban fantasy novel "The Nightfall Throne" by the imagined author Elara Winters. The goal was to create a visually striking cover that captures the magic, adventure, love, and mystery of the story. Aimed at readers who love immersive, fantastical tales set in modern cityscapes, the cover design needed to draw them into Lily Mitchell's enchanting journey at first glance.
The Nightfall Throne book jacket with a moonlit design and silhouette.

the challenge

Creating the cover for the fictional urban fantasy novel, "The Nightfall Throne," required blending modern city life with ancient myths and magic. The design needed to:

  • Appeal to urban fantasy readers: Combine cityscapes with mythical symbols.
  • Capture the essence of the story: Highlight themes of destiny, love, and adventure.
  • Stand out on the shelf: Use compelling imagery and vibrant colours.
Full layout of The Nightfall Throne book cover, showing front, back, and spine.

the approach

Understanding the Vision

I started with a brainstorming session to define the book's themes and target audience, ensuring the design aligned with the genre’s aesthetics.

Concept Development

Key symbols like the moon, a sword, and a compass were chosen to represent the protagonist Lily Mitchell’s magical and adventurous journey.

Design Execution

Moon as a Central Element: Positioned prominently to evoke nighttime action and mystery.

Sword and Compass Imagery: Symbolized ancient battles and navigating hidden magical worlds.

Silhouettes: Allowed readers to imagine the characters, adding a magical and mysterious vibe.

Colour and Typography: Midnight blues and regal golds were used to evoke enchantment, with typography balancing elegance and readability.

The Nightfall Throne book cover with a moonlit silhouette design.

The final cover of "The Nightfall Throne" serves as a visual gateway to a world of magic, romance, and adventure. Its striking contrast, compelling imagery, and thoughtful symbolism promise readers an enthralling journey, making it a standout piece in the urban fantasy genre. This project exemplifies the power of design to tell a story and make a real connection. It's about creating a book cover that is as real and relatable as the dreams behind it.