BOOK COVER ILLUSTRATION
The Last Guy You Kiss
Written by Carla de Guzman
✎ Story Overview
In this heartfelt retelling of the Filipino rom com, Got 2 Believe, Mara, a floral stylist who’s never been in love meets Jay, the subject of a cute urban legend: that every girl he kisses finds her true love immediately after…in someone else. After they meet at three different Filipino weddings, Mara thinks Jay and his playful curse may be the ticket to her HEA, but what if he’s the last guy she kisses?
✎ Publisher
Afterglow Books by Harlequin, 2025
Available for purchase in bookstores worldwide and online such as Amazon.com
BRIEF
Client wanted a fun, romantic close up illustration of a couple that included a bit of Filipino culture. They wanted to explore either a tradional Tagaytay wedding or a beach wedding during a bright daytime scene with hints of bold colors to make it pop. Art direction by Tara Scarcello
CHARACTER DESIGN
MARA JANE ROSAES – A female floral stylist in her early 30s with warm toned skin and a long, black, straight hair. She styles her self well and wears strappy, sleeveless dresses that fit close to her body. Her colour season is Autumn. She Wears a US size 20-22 or an Asian 5-7XL.
JAY VILLACOSTA – A male art director in his early 30s with warm skin tone and black hair. He is particular about his clothing and wears well-tailored things. Jay is seen wearing a slim fit barong tagalog highlighted with embroidery.
EARLY COVER STUDIES
An illustration of a floral tropical border and a romantic script title reminiscent of a wedding invite while we see the couple below
We see Mara on Jay's back against a bright sky. Title is more of a casual handwriting
We see the couple about to kiss outside. Solihiya chairs and wooden tables are used in the reception as well as tropical plants to add a subtle Filipino touch. Type is bold and simple but still keeping that handwritten look.
We see the couple about to kiss by the beach. Type is a more casual script.
EARLY COLOR STUDIES
