lettering & illustration
The Serpent & the Wings of Night — Book Cover Design
A typography-driven book cover design combining custom lettering, intricate illustration, and visual storytelling.
I was commissioned by Bramble, an imprint of Tor Publishing Group, to design a cover for a limited edition of The Serpent & the Wings of Night by #1 New York Times bestselling author Carissa Broadbent.
The brief called for a typography-focused design, with the title and author's name taking center stage. I developed a series of custom lettering concepts, integrating illustrative elements inspired by the novel's dark fantasy world.
The opening S transforms into a serpent, while decorative flourishes, blood drops, a crown, wings, and paired blades reference the story's characters and central conflict. These elements were carefully incorporated into the lettering, allowing typography to serve as both the primary design feature and a storytelling device.
The design process included multiple black-and-white compositions, lettering refinements, and color explorations, culminating in a dramatic final design featuring a palette of black, deep red, and silver.
Although the design was completed, the publisher ultimately decided to pursue a different creative direction, and my cover was not selected for publication. I'm pleased to share the finished artwork and the creative process behind it.
Cover Design, Custom Lettering & Illustration: Dina Ruzha
Art Director: Peter Lutjen
Publisher: Bramble / Tor Publishing Group
Status: Commissioned, Unpublished Cover Design