Novels 5
"Darlene, I want to say how pleased I am with my decision to have you design my book. There was quite a list of designers, but your name stood out to me and I trusted that nudge. From the beginning you were relaxed, plain speaking and truthful. Then you followed up with simple, clear paperwork that matched our conversation. You were quick to respond to questions and made requested changes promptly and accurately. I never had reason to worry because you behaved toward me as a very talented friend would. I am very pleased with Sweet Providence, both the cover and the interior. Thank you for your professionalism."
—Linda Fairbanks, author of Sweet Providence
As an associate of mine always says, “The best way to assess whether or not a customer is satisfied, is whether or not he becomes a return customer.” Ergo, it should be self-evident that I am fully satisfied with Van-garde Imagery, Inc., as this is the third time that I have utilized their graphic design expertise. All facets, including the design, the cover, and the final product are “¡Muy bueno!” with timely personal phone communications throughout. That same associate of mine likewise says, “If a customer is over-the-top satisfied, then he will refer friends.” As I have now referred two friends to Van-garde Imagery, Inc., obviously, I am over-the-top satisfied!
—Daniel Collins, author, Church Key
I am a return satisfied customer of Van-garde Imagery, Inc. Justice in 3 Acts is the fourth book that I have had the pleasure of working on with them. In the past I had always received the one-on-one attention that I require, and this time was no different, as both Darlene and Daniel Swanson again lived up to my expectations. On this go-round I was especially impressed with the ingenuity and creativeness of Daniel Swanson’s cover design.
For me, a return to Van-garde for my fifth book will be a no-brainer!
—Daniel Collins, author, Justice In 3 Acts
TALENTED, is how I would describe Van-Garde Imagery, owned and operated by Dan and Darlene Swanson.
Being a first-time published author, I really had no idea what I would be experiencing during each phase of my publishing journey. They came highly recommended by Two Sisters Writing & Publishing LLC, which was a great start. As I began working with them, any concerns that I had were soon allayed. They are both deliberate, passionate, and approachable about their work. It would be difficult to tell where one of them has left off and the other begins. They are truly a matched set!
I first met virtually, with Dan, as we talked about my idea of what I would like to see in a book cover. We discussed my ideas based on where the story was leading. The rustic and earthy design, that he gave me was exactly what I was looking for. I’m proud that the outside of my novel reflects the story of promise inside.
Darlene’s job was to do the formatting, among other things like matching up to the book covers. After each edit, and there were several, she would re-format once again, always patient. Those moments working with each of them did not reflect the time that they spent delivering a finished product that myself and my readers can enjoy.
Dan and Darlene are consummate professionals who are fun to work with, listening and hearing what your ideas are. I would encourage you to consider using their services.
Express your wishes and enjoy the results.
P.S. My novel was published within days of its release date. I've received my “samples” and they are gorgeous to look at, to hold, and to touch—not only the Oregon landscape image, itself, but the small touches that we added to the cover. The story starts before the book is ever opened!
Four of the retailers that I had previously spoken to were very taken with the book and ordered for their stores while they stood holding my book in their hands.
But the best part for me was that my son texted to let me know that his copy had just arrived. He was very impressed and ended our conversation by telling me, “I plan on keeping it around for a lonnnnnng time”.
Writing can be very hard at times. For the best outcome, talk to someone who listens and hears your heart, and is willing to give you what you dreamed about for your book. In this case that "someone" is Darlene and Dan Swanson of Van-Garde Imagery, Inc.
—Linda Lochard, author, Along The Applegate Trail-A Tale of Grit and Determination