Case study:
The Last Lighthouse Keeper Cover Design

For this personal project, I set myself the challenge of creating a commercially viable cover for a historical mystery novel aimed at readers of authors such as Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley and Stacey Halls. The fictional title, The Last Lighthouse Keeper, combines elements of historical fiction, mystery and emotional drama, set against the rugged Cornish coastline.

My goal was to create a cover that conveyed both atmosphere and intrigue while remaining firmly rooted in the historical fiction market. I wanted the design to feel cinematic and immersive, drawing readers into the story's themes of isolation, loss and hidden secrets. Researching current titles in the genre revealed a strong preference for evocative landscapes, dramatic skies and typography that feels both elegant and timeless.

The lighthouse became the central visual element, serving as a symbol of hope, resilience and mystery. I paired dramatic coastal imagery with a rich palette of deep blues, stormy greys and warm golden tones to capture the contrast between the danger of the sea and the safety represented by the lighthouse beacon. Textured overlays were added to soften the image and create a more atmospheric, painterly finish.

Typography played a crucial role in establishing the book's identity. I created a bespoke title treatment inspired by vintage maritime signage and historical book design, using decorative flourishes and layered shadows to give the lettering depth and character. The warm gold tones of the typography were echoed in the spine design, helping the cover stand out while maintaining a premium feel.

The final wraparound cover balances strong shelf impact with genre-appropriate storytelling. By combining dramatic imagery, carefully considered typography and a cohesive colour palette, I aimed to create a design that would sit comfortably alongside contemporary historical fiction titles while retaining its own distinctive visual identity.