The Fantasy Grimoire Presents: Nikkita Bell

When I struggled to find a designer to interview, Nikkita didn’t hesitate to step in. To those that have been around for a while, you know she holds a special place in my heart: her first episode is what kickstarted this entire podcast journey, and she’s a very dear friend of mine too. Coming back this time, she shares everything from a designer’s perspective—and truly, no topic is off limits.

We talk about hated characters in literature, the key differences artists consider when creating book covers versus character art, and the fantasy sub-genre cover trends we’re seeing right now. Nikkita breaks down how talent, experience, and instinct guide her creative process, and we even get candid about bodies, anatomy, nipples (yes, really), and what it’s like living with breast implants.

We also dive into taking familiar urban fantasy tropes and making them uniquely our own, researching experiences you haven’t personally lived so you can still write them authentically, and the often-misunderstood difference between commercial and usage rights. Also, why pre-made covers and character art are becoming increasingly appealing for artists.

Most importantly, we talk about trust—what she hopes authors keep in mind when working with artists, and why a strong, respectful author–artist relationship is essential to creating something truly special.

You can find Nikkita on Instagram here.