Cover work proof of concept

Painting Novel covers is hands down my favorite type of work/commission. I wanted to create some more proof of concepts in my spare time to reflect that, and to fine-tune my process further. I had a very singular idea in mind for this piece and didn't feel the need to rough out additional concepts here. just cracked right on with it.

thoughts coming away from this piece? I still feel like I'm too timid with my values at times and would love to focus more on stepping out of my comfort zone with them, colours seem a little flat here and there? partly works due to the hazy atmosphere I wanted to aim for, but I do feel like I could've pushed the vibrancy just a tad further here.