Cover Me: Creepy Houses

I've started collecting images of cool book covers. Part willing my dream of having a published novel, part inspiration-seeking for the time if/when I decide to self-publish, I thought I'd share.

I give to you a couple of house-themed covers to discuss.

Book: The Blackstone Chronicles by John Saul

Okay, my love of creepy small towns and even creepier old houses is no secret.

So this cover immediately drew me in. In fact, quite a few of Saul’s covers have some form of looming house.

Not sure what it is about houses but think about it. If you could name one house that sticks in your mind and immediately calls to mind a feeling of terror, what would it be?

The Amityville house, perhaps? With it’s windows like eyes that PEER INTO YOUR SOUL!

I will never tire of stories about creepy houses. There are so many opportunities to explore the idea of past experiences, trapped memories, residual feelings.

Everyone loves a good haunted house story, am I right? And this cover certainly entices me.

Book: Dark House by Theresa Monsour

Nothing is up my alley quite like a book titled Dark House. But this cover lets me down a bit.

I get it, though. It has atmosphere. Gives off a proper chilling vibe. I’d just like a little more of a teaser as to what the house looks like. A little more fuel to fire my overactive imagination before I get to immerse myself in the story.

Not to say it would stop me from buying this book. I know one shouldn't judge a book by its cover. It’s what’s between the covers that counts. This is purely for my own entertainment as I judge what appeals to me and trying to figure out what might appeal to my readers.

 All in good fun, kids.

But I feel the text sort of obscures the image too much. So, what do you think about these 2 covers? Does one appeal to you over the other? Why or why not?

Photos: copyright of their respective owners