Found an Aussie artist for my next book cover

The artist's name is Graeme Balchin and his work is absolutely gorgeous. He has a great DeviantArt portfolio (an awesome site to find artwork and artists for your book illustrations). You can check out his stuff here.

Below are two book covers we've come up with. For early mock-ups, I'm already stoked!

I think I like these subdued variations better. Any advice or feedback?

Okay, I just got a new image from the photographer and I'm working on the final options. I think there will be two major designs. Here's one (the back text is place-holder and will likely change):

This is it: the final cover!

After a lot of great ideas and feedback, the cover is finalized and the proof copy has arrived! I'll be unveiling it LIVE via webcam at 9:00 EST. The feed is already up if you want to tune in.

Cheers to all who helped!

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/molly-fyde