I could use a little help from my friends to decide which nutcracker to feature on the cover of my soon-to-be-released cozy mystery novel, The Toy Shop’s Secret. Here’s my dilemma.
My new cozy mystery is set in The Rocking Horse Toy Shop. This modern-day yet Dickensian Christmas-themed toy shop features handmade toys and a historical nutcracker collection integral to the story. I like to use my own photography for my covers, which also means using my own props, some of which are handmade. Although I did not make any of these toys, three of these nutcrackers (excluding the toy vendor) were hand-painted by my mother, who is no longer with us.
The book cover shows the toy shop’s snow-fringed display window from the outside looking in. I may only have room to display one of the nutcrackers, along with the rocking horse (of course), a train, and so on.
If you could only choose one nutcracker to place in the toy shop’s window, which would it be?
Thanks in advance for your comments and suggestions.
Linda says:
With all deference to your mom, I think the one on the right would photograph the best.
Donald Jay says:
Thanks, Linda.
Lori Lee Palmer says:
Hi Don –
I like the 2nd nutcracker from the right the best–the one that looks like Santa.
Donald Jay says:
Many are agreeing with you. Thanks Lori!