The Mountain Shadows novels and The Black Spirit‘s story have always been a visual writing experience for me. I see Akira Muro and her world very clearly in my head. As the time drew closer to completion and the need to send the second book, Beyond the Veil, out for publication, I had a very defined—if not specific—idea for the cover graphic.

One night, after months of debating with myself over what to create, how to make—whatever—the cover image, my husband (Who mostly stays out of my stories) said, “Hey, you need to see this chain maille jewelry my co-worker, Scott, does! You’ll love it.” He was right, and helped begin an on-line communication with Scott Robertson of swrings.com.

Scott willingly shared his talent, creativity, and artistry with me. Aligning his amazing visions with mine to create the exquisite medallion and necklace you see here. I have to say, when something means a lot to me and I need it to reflect something important in my story, anticipating the end result of a collaboration can become a scary level of nerves!

I’d seen the wonderful photos over email. Still, I was desperately moderating expectations this past Sunday while my husband and I drove into the foothills to pick up the finished product. What would I do if I was disappointed? Scott had been amazing to work with and I didn’t want anything to show on my face if it didn’t really reflect my vision. Ahhh!

With his wonderful wife, Tricia, Scott was waiting for us with a lovely gift bag that he set in front of me, saying, “That’s for you.” (Scott can be a man of few words and a fantastically dry wit). Taking a deep breath, I opened the enclosed boxes … and nearly cried over the beauty within. The pictures can’t compare to Scott’s creation. It is so beautiful, with such excellent craftsmanship, there are no words to express my full joy.

So, I have to settle for “Thank you, Scott! It is just perfectly right.”