I need to reread Alphabet of Thorn sometime. I didn't like it much but I think if I read it now I would.

For some reason this discussion just made me think of Stardust by Neil Gaiman. I read the novel and thought it was wonderful, then bought a version illustrated by Charles Vess and it is to die for.

I agree, Chasing Vermeer has a great cover.

Ha, so much for not judging a book by its cover.