Jul 22, 2025 | Dispatches, Storm Watch
The joys of writing.
My series was named. All the books were named. Everything was just about ready, when my characters insisted the names be changed. They are very stubborn. Sigh.
So, I have changed all the names. Book 1 was to be Secrets in the Sand. It is now Storm Warning.
Book 2 was Tides of Deception. It is now Storm Front. Book 3 remained the same, Storm Surge.
What does this mean? For the reader, nothing yet! The books weren't out. For me, it's a pain. I have to update my website, my social media posts, my advertising...
So, if you see some old references, you'll know what's going on!
Apr 12, 2025 | Dispatches
When I first sat down to brainstorm covers for the Storm Series, I knew I wanted something that captured both the elegance of the Ivory Tower world and the tension pulsing beneath every page. I wanted readers to feel the story at first glance—like a whisper of danger wrapped in silk. But knowing that, and turning it into a visual that does justice to the characters and the mood? That’s a whole different kind of storm.
Romantic Suspense Covers: A Balancing Act
Romantic suspense sits in a fascinating place when it comes to cover design. Go too soft, and it might look like contemporary romance. Go too dark, and you risk slipping into thriller territory. For me, it was about finding the perfect middle ground—refined but edgy, moody but magnetic. Something that says this book will break your heart and set it on fire—maybe in the same chapter.
I started by studying covers from authors I admire, especially those who write in that layered, emotionally intense style. I looked at typography, color palettes, lighting choices. I paid attention to what made me stop scrolling. And I asked myself: What does a Jena Wilde book feel like?
Building a Brand Through Visuals
Since these books live in the same world—the Ivory Tower world—I knew I needed cohesive branding. That’s where things like font choices, color themes, and series titling became my North Stars.
Midnight blue, rose gold, ivory white—these became my visual signature. I loved the symbolism of it all: the elegance of ivory, the heat of rose gold, the mystery in a storm-dark blue. Combined, they whisper luxury and danger all at once.
Typography is another key player. I gravitate toward serif fonts with a hint of drama—something classic with just enough flair to suggest secrets and seduction. No bubbly romance fonts here. My covers need to hint at what’s beneath: power, peril, and passion.
The Challenges (and Laughs) Along the Way
I’ll admit, there were some entertaining moments in the process. Like the time I accidentally gave a mockup model glowing red eyes (I was trying to adjust the lighting, not summon a demon). Or when I realized one background image I loved turned out to be a stock photo of a haunted prison—so, probably not the right fit for a beach resort.
But with every attempt, I’ve gotten closer to the tone I want my covers to set. Not just beautiful, but purposeful. Not just striking, but strategic. Because a good cover doesn’t just attract the eye—it keeps a promise.
Coming Soon…
I’m working on finalizing the covers now, and I can’t wait to share the results with you. Each one will feel like a piece of the Ivory Tower world—a hint of the storm to come.
Until then, tell me: What kind of covers make you stop and stare? What visual signals do you look for when hunting for your next must-read?
Drop your thoughts below—and stay Wilde.
—Jena
Dec 20, 2024 | Dispatches
Instead of Christmas cards this year, I thought I’d reach out and touch base in a different manner. It’s been a crazy year for me. While I don’t know what 2025 will bring, I do know I’ll get further ahead in my newest endeavor if I reflect on some accomplishments I’ve had this year.
So, what do you say? Will you play along with me? I’ll go first. Here are my biggest accomplishments in 2024:
I retired! Yes, you read that right. Things at work weren’t going in a direction I was comfortable with, so I walked. And left at least 100lbs of stress behind. I am now an officially recovering CPA.
So what am I doing with my time? I’m writing novels! If you know me at all, you’ll know that I’m a prolific reader. I began writing a book a few years ago, but never had the time to dedicate to it and finish it. So, now I am, and I’m having a blast. I’ve finished the prequel to a series (it’s in editing now), and I’m about 80% through Book 1 of 3. Book 2 is outlined. Yay!
Your turn!
What is your biggest accomplishment in 2024? Or maybe your favorite thing that you got done?
Share it with me!
Or, if nothing else, I invite you to think about it for a few moments before the day gets away from you. Reflecting on what you’ve gotten done is important.
Happy holidays!
