Today we’re overjoyed to share a feature of cover artist Raúl Cruz, illustrator of the fabulous cover art for Echoes and Embers: Speculative Stories by Pedro Iniguez! Jendia admired his art on Instagram (links below) and knew he would be perfect for making this cover art. Read about Raúl’s process for creating this cover.

What inspired you for the cover of Echoes and Embers?

This cover illustration came about from the suggestions of the author of the book, which motivated my eternal passion for working with this science fiction concept.

Please describe the creative process by which you made the cover art for Echoes and Embers.

I tried a scene where a robot with Mayan aesthetics, sitting in the typical positions of the Mayan rulers that appear in ancient engravings, was in a contemplative attitude, observing the ethereal spirit of the feathered serpent, the legendary Mesoamerican god.

Please describe the technical process by which you made the cover art for Echoes and Embers.

The technical process of this work was first the sketching stage in my sketchbook, then a final pencil stroke, once scanned I applied color digitally, always trying to preserve the manual finish in the final work.

What is the most rewarding aspect of this kind of work?

These types of commissions make me very happy.

About Raúl Cruz

Raúl has been a freelance artist for over 25 years. Better known as Racrufi, he is an illustrator and visual artist passionate about creating fantasy and science fiction art including sketches, drawings, concept art, illustrations, paintings, sculptures, costumes and much more.

His personal work consists of fusing Mesoamerican cultures such as the Olmec, Mayan, or Aztec, with science fiction and fantasy, a concept with which he has published several books and held art exhibitions in several countries in America and Europe.

At the same time, he also carries out commissions for important companies in the video game, publishing, trading card and advertising industries, among others.

We are absolutely thrilled with Raúl’s gorgeous cover. Thank you so much, Raúl, for helping making Pedro Iniguez’s book, Echoes and Embers: Speculative Stories, look magnificent and instantly classic, showcasing the many stories within.

If you’d like to learn more about Raúl Cruz (Racrufi), visit his website, see his ArtStation page, and follow him on Instagram and YouTube.

Echoes and Embers: Speculative Stories by Bram Stoker Award Finalist Pedro Iniguez publishes July 15, 2025. Find purchasing links on the book page.