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Andrew Brown
Art work for Cold War novel - In the Cold
I wrote my book about ten years ago while undergoing cancer treatment. For a long time, it largely sat forgotten—until 2025, when I underwent more cancer treatment and decided to revisit and rewrite it. The book, In the Cold, is a Cold War drama exploring the trauma and isolation of living a double life behind enemy lines. Emotionally, it mirrors my own experiences during treatment: fear, doubt, helplessness, and the deep sense of being trapped and out of control.
When it came to publishing, I knew I wanted a cover that stood apart from typical spy novels. My story has no heroic figure, no James Bond-style action figure, and it felt wrong to mislead readers with a clichéd cover. I wanted something that captured the tension, mood, and emotional core of the book rather than the usual genre tropes.
Through a shared interest in art, I met Joel. I was drawn to his work, particularly his piece Raining Violence, which seemed to echo the emotional intensity I was looking for. Over several months, we collaborated on developing ideas that would capture the atmosphere of In the Cold. From the start, Joel took the time to understand the themes I wanted to convey—the tension of Berlin during the Cold War, the isolation, and the stark emotional landscape of the story.
He produced four striking images, including the cover illustration, all of which perfectly capture the grit, mood, and tone I was aiming for. His ability to translate complex ideas into simple but powerful visuals was invaluable. The artwork now not only works as a cover but can also be used across marketing materials.
The collaboration was smooth and creative. Joel was receptive to ideas, willing to explore different directions, and added his own perspective to strengthen the work. The end result feels authentic, distinctive, and closely tied to the spirit of the book.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Joel to any author or publisher seeking artwork that goes beyond decoration—his work adds depth, emotion, and a sense of story.
Joel Manley Art
Ben hankinson
Kid cudi print
Ordering was super easy and i love the final product so impressive that it was hand drawn, very cool.
Joel Manley Art
Jess
Drake Piece !!
Ordered my friends birthday present off joel’s website after asking him to draw a specific piece a month prior !
He kept me updated the whole time , sent me photos of his ideas etc and was so helpful !
It has just arrived 3 days later after i ordered it and it is genuinely the most insane piece of work i’ve ever seen.
The attention to detail , the skills just everything is unmatched.
1000% will order from joel again for other birthdays and occasions cannot recommend him enough !!
Joel Manley Art
Emilia
Absolutely stunning
This drawing is such a masterpiece and the love for details is absolutely stunning! I'm really in love with this drawing! Also it was such a short delivery time which is amazing and I loved how the communication went. Definitely buying something again from this store!
Joel Manley Art
Ashley Smart (SmartXCreative)
Unbelievable talent!
Blown away by this artwork! I ordered a few prints from Joel and have had an outstanding experience from start to finish! Great artwork. Great service. Great guy!
