This cover is based on an image I made on the California coast in 2013.

It was actually shot from a motel window. I'd wanted to use it for a cover because I liked the color gradations and the flatness of its perspective (which came from a long telephoto lens) but it never quite suited any of our books.

Ellen thought that a seascape would work, and she liked this one, so I finally got my chance.

I added some flare to the upper right. Not lightning -- but sometimes I don't want to be too literal.