Here is a rough mock-up of what I would do (I would clean up the top of the photo so that it blends better with the background, and make some small alterations to the text and photo). I've only read your book description, so I'm not sure if the photo is appropriate. I'm a designer, if you have any questions, or would like me to finish this cover for you, please pm me (you buy the photos, and I'll finish up the covers for you, as long as I can use it in my portfolio and if anyone asks who designed them, please let them know...
).
The photo used was from istock
here is a link to the photo used. You would of course, have to purchase the photo for your use, and I would also give them a quick call to make sure that the standard license is suitable for ebook publishing (they are very helpful and friendly, so it's not a PITA at all to talk with them). The cost for the photo is pretty low, and a good book cover should really help generate some interest for the book.
Here is an idea for your other book, the link to the image is
here. Again, you would need to purchase the image, and check the license.
(reposted with smaller file size)
I hope this helps!
If anyone else wants a cover design pm me, and we'll work something out 
[Graphic too large - MODERATOR]