Reena Jacobs's Blog, page 48

Software Review: Adobe Photoshop Elements

This has been a long time coming. Really, I'm such a novice with this wicked tool, I probably shouldn't even be writing this post. Even though this does not pertain to writing it self, I find Photoshop Elements (PSE) relevant to authors trying to design their own cover art.

I actually acquired this piece of software as a bonus when I purchased my graphic tablet way back in the spring. I've been using it off and on, but during the last couple of months I've been really trying to learn how to use this program. So what does Adobe have to say about their product??

The #1 selling consumer photo-editing software*, Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 9 delivers powerful options that make it easy to create extraordinary photos, quickly share your memories in Online Albums and unique print creations, and automatically organize and protect all your photos and video clips. Now you can unclutter or repair any photo with a brush stroke; match the style of one favorite photo to another; and easily create stunning pop art, reflection, portrait effects, and more.

I opened this program with a very rudimentary knowledge of graphic design. Basically, I could use it like the Paint program which comes in the Windows accessory and understood what a layer was. I'll tell you, understanding and knowing how to put layers to use were two different things.

First thing I realized about PSE was it isn't an easy product to master. One doesn't just open PSE and expect to be an instant pro at graphic design. It takes work… a lot of work to make anything look outstanding, in my opinion. My brief brushes with other graphic manipulation programs suggest this isn't uncommon. However, if you're familiar with a different graphic manipulation program, your knowledge should translate well to PSE.

So you've got lil o' me who's pretty clueless about photo manipulation. What I found was a wealth of information and tutorials online on how to use my nifty little product. My attempts usually didn't turn out as beautiful as the examples, but it goes along the lines "practice makes perfect."

With the tutorials by my side along with a bit of trial and error, I went to work. One thing for sure, PSE is a powerful tool. Most every tutorial I discovered I was able to do (though my attempts were sloppy). I did run into some problems with tutorials specific to Photoshop CS, but through a little research I found quite a few workarounds. Some methods I used to get a CS feel included downloading add-ons or using a different PSE tool.

The biggest benefit to using a tool such as PSE is the concept of layers. Oh how I love layers. Let's take a look at the cover art below.

I counted 4 images and 17 layers for the above cover art. Others may be able to do it in fewer and a far better job. But as I mentioned, I'm just a lowly novice.   One of the things I like about the layers is the ability to use entire images without altering the actual image. Take for instance the tiger in the upper right corner. The image is of a tiger standing in grass with a rock formation behind it. Of course you don't see all that in the finished product, but it's still there in PSE. By grouping it with a level layer, I was able to blot out everything but the head while persevering the image. I love that. It means if I change my mind later down the road, I don't have to worry about where I'm getting the image. It's still there… as is. Then by changing the lighting, I got the see-through appearance.

Despite using PSE for a few months, I still don't know enough about the product to detail every single feature. However, I will tell you I'm enjoying PSE greatly. I am so happy I got it as part of my Intuos4 package.

If you'd like to give PSE a try for free, Adobe offers a 30-day trial.

Don't forget you can receive $40 off after the instant and mail in rebates through this link or the PSE image above. Offer expires January 5, 2011.
As an Adobe affiliate, I do receive a small compensation if you click through my links to make your purchase.

Memory Lane: Cover Art Take Two

I received quite a bit of feedback from my early cover art designs of Shadow Cat. Very helpful. I took them into consideration and got rid of the animated images which many said gave it an amateurish look.

If you don't remember the first attempts, behold!

[image error] [image error]

When you're done laughing, feel free to keep reading.

Originally I thought to replace the woman above with a photograph of a woman. Then I started to worry about sex appeal. I figured more women would be inclined to purchase Shadow Cat than men since it'd be listed under romance. So goodbye Lady. Hello, Mister.

[image error]

I actually liked the one above… and I didn't like it. Somewhere along the line I realized the importance of a background. And of course, it doesn't hurt to have more flesh. And so the below cover art came to be.

Does this cover tempt you to want Shadow Cat for your very own? Why or why not? Inquiring minds want to know. Okay. I just want to know.

All of these examples I did in Photoshop Elements 7. If you're interested in my review of the product, hop on over to the post.

More Teasing: Shadow Cat Chapter 3

The saga continues. If you haven't read the first two chapters, check it (Chapter 1 and Chapter 2). If you're looking for other freebies, have at it here.

Chapter 3

The sheets tangled around Eric's legs as he flipped over. Three years of running his grandfather's company and already the stocks plummeted. The venture in Malaysia was meant to revitalize and even that was in jeopardy.

He kicked off the blankets and got out of bed. The tension in his neck pulled so tight it was an effort to keep from scrunching his shoulders to his ears. He stretched and kneaded the muscles, working out the kinks.

Even Jeet Kune Do had done little to help him relax. If anything, karate had made the stress worse with Bryan taking full advantage of the distractions. His buddy had bitched slapped him so many times, he'd lost track.

Eric ambled to the bathroom and cringed as his feet hit the cold tiles. He flicked on the lights, resisting the urge to turn them back off when he caught sight of his reflection in the mirror. The puffy bags and dark circles under his eyes added ten years to his thirty-three. Gah! He needed a vacation.

He turned on the cold water, filled his cupped hands, and splashed his face. Eyes squeezed tight and water dripping down his chin, he reached for the towel rack as a knock came from his front door.

"What in the world?" He smacked the back of his wrist against the bar. "Damn it." The thick cotton brushed the back of his hand, and he snatched it from the rail. He scrubbed his face and tossed it at the hamper. The towel dangled on the rim before slipping to the floor. Screw it. He strode into the living room, the pounding more persistent with every step.

"Be right there," he yelled. That better not be you, Bryan. I've had enough bad news for one evening.

Eric peered out the peephole and saw the silver lining at the end of a hellish day. With a smile, he unlocked the door and opened it wide.

"Hi," Angelica said, her smile every bit an invitation.

Eric pulled her close and slid a hand down the small of her back, massaging through the thick coat.

"My, this is quite a welcome." She traced her lips with her tongue and ended by sucking the bottom one into her mouth, letting the plump flesh slide between her teeth with a soft smack.

Oh, that's nice. He kicked the door shut with his foot and kissed her reddened lower lip.

"Eric, you have the sexiest body." Her husky voice purred as she trailed a finger down his bare chest.

"I'm sure you wouldn't have it any other way." He reached to remove her coat, but Angelica interlocked her fingers with his, preventing him.

She pouted while twirling slow circles around his nipples with her perfectly manicured nail. "Eric… You really got Daddy riled tonight."

He bent to kiss her, but she pulled back.

She gave the sweetest smile, lowering her lashes briefly before meeting his eyes. "You know… we can fix all this."

"I'd like that." Pulling her so close she stood on her toes, he leaned in for a kiss.

She pressed her hand against his chest, keeping her luscious mouth out of reach.

"Don't tease, Angelica." He wrapped his hand around her nape.

"Just think about it for a moment."

"No thinking." He bent her back and ran his tongue along her slender neck. "Mmmm."

Her throat vibrated as she continued to talk. "Your stock plus Daddy's, we'd hold the majority share."

Eric froze. He pulled away and looked her dead in the eyes… calculating green eyes, so like her father's. "What game are you playing?"

She snaked her arms around his back and raked her nails lightly down, sending a shiver through his body. Her smile turned cunning, and her eyes took on an unbecoming glint. "Think of it as a… merger."

"A merger?" Eric frowned. "What are you talking about?"

She tilted her head back and laughed a grating tinkle. "Eric, you silly man, I'm talking about marriage."

Eric dropped her like a bad marketing campaign.

Angelica stumbled a few steps, catching herself before falling. Her nose crinkled, but her face held a faint hint of amusement. "My goodness, Eric."

He ran a hand down his face, wishing he could wipe the day from his memory. "Where is all this coming from?"

"Surely, you didn't think this arrangement would last forever." She waved her hand around the room, sauntering back to him. "Look at us… hiding from Daddy like teenagers. I think it's about time to remove all that animosity, don't you?" She wrapped her arms about his neck. Her tongue slithered out and licked his nipple before she blew cool air over it.

His arms remained dead at his side, every ounce of arousal sapped from his body. "But you came to me. What happened to just scratching an itch?"

"Hmmm. I did say that, didn't I?" Her hand slid under his hair and stroked the back of his head. "Well, just think of this as one more itch you can scratch."

Damn him for being blind. The entire time she'd been using him for his family fortune? He should have expected as much from a Fitzgerald. His lips curled in disgust at the thought of being shackled to the manipulating woman as he pried her hands from his neck. "I'm not marrying you."

"Eric, I don't get you." She crossed her arms and let them plop against her chest. "We were made for each other. We have everything in common—similar childhoods, same lifestyle. We're smart, ambitious." Her hips tilted to the side as her fists landed on them. "And we have chemistry. Why are you so resistant?"

"Are you done?"

Angelica's eyes widened. "Well, no… I… well, I mean… I guess."

He walked past her and opened the door. "Good. It's time for you to leave."

She opened her mouth and then snapped it shut. Her eyes narrowed to slits, and she stomped to him, jabbing her finger into his pectoral. "You're making a big mistake."

"I can live with that." He took her by the arm and helped her over the threshold.

"Hey!" She struggled to pull free. "Let me go."

"Fine." He released her, took a step back, and slammed the door.

On the other side, Angelica released a shrill screech.

He leaned his forehead against the door and closed his eyes. What a nightmare. Angelica pounded the door, and it bounced against his head. Pain reverberated through his skull, adding to his already growing headache.

###

Eric shoved his papers in his briefcase as the board members filed out the conference room. He hated meetings. And the smirk on Fitzgerald's face after notifying the trustees the researchers had lost the permits didn't help either.

He slammed his case shut and snapped the latches. He should have sent someone to Malaysia to babysit those researchers. Idiots. What made them think tearing down a section of the rainforest was okay? Damn it. They weren't loggers. He jerked his briefcase from the table, strode to the exit, and froze. It couldn't get any worse.

Deep in conversation, William huddled in the hallway with his daughter. What were they plotting? Angelica spotted Eric, and her lip curled as she raked him from head to toe. She caught her father by the arm and led him away, still engrossed in their schemes.

Eric tightened his grip on his briefcase. He needed to do something, anything before his life spiraled out of control.

"No calls," he barked at his secretary when he reached his office. He snapped the door shut, threw his briefcase in a corner chair on the way to his granite desk, and dropped in his seat. The sudden swoosh of air created by his carelessness caused papers to flutter to the floor. With his life falling apart, they were just one more mess to add to the chaos.

A knock rapped at his door, and Eric slammed his fist on the desk, scattering more papers. "I said, NO CALLS!"

The door cracked open, and Bryan popped his head in. "Bad day?"

"What the hell are you doing here? You should be halfway to Malaysia by now. Damn it. Doesn't anyone listen?"

Bryan walked in with a smile and pushed the door shut behind him. "Cool it. There aren't any flights available until tomorrow. I just wanted you to know."

"This'll be another wasted day." Eric let out a long, slow breath. He rested his elbow on the cool surface of his desk and propped his head on his fists. "Have a seat, Bryan."

"What's gotten into you? You used to be a lot of fun." His friend walked to the two-seater against the wall, plopped down, and hooked a leg over the arm.

"Argh." Eric tilted his seat back and pressed his head against the back of the leather chair as he stared at the ceiling. "I'm screwing myself left and right."

"What's up?"

Eric brought his chair forward and considered his buddy who'd taken to hanging his head over the other arm of the love seat. As stupid as his friend looked with his oddly colored hair dangling wildly, he hesitated. "You're going to think I'm an idiot."

"Trust me." Bryan laughed. "You've done plenty of idiotic things before. I doubt you could surprise me."

Eric glared. "A lot of help you are. I don't know why I bother. You can't take anything seriously."

Bryan lifted his head with the stupid grin still plastered on his face. "Come on, man. Spit it out."

"Fine. Effin' Angelica's got my number… asked me to marry her last night."

Bryan sat straight, all hint of amusement gone. "What?"

"Damn it. I've been sleeping with her for months. I didn't—"

"You've been sleeping with her for months?" Bryan crossed the room and slapped his hands on the desk. "Have you lost your mind?"

"Get off my back." Pushing away, Eric left Bryan hovering over his workspace and took up residence in front of the window. Beautiful skyscrapers towered New York City, playing tribute to his corporate world. While below, cars lined the streets, jam packed like a congested road in Sim City—the tangled mess a replica of his life. "It just happened."

"Are you crazy? Things like that don't just happen. She probably planned it with her old man. He's been gunning for your job since before your parents died."

"I know. I know. Damn, you don't have to tell me."

"What did you say to her?"

Eric faced his friend. "What do you think I told her? I said no and kicked her out."

Bryan brought a hand up and grinned behind his fist. "No you didn't, man."

"Grow up, Bryan. I'm sinking fast. I need a freakin' break."

"Okay." Bryan's smile faded as he shook his head. "I feel for ya. I really do."

A deafening silence followed.

"Hey," Bryan said. "Come to Malaysia with me. After we get those permits back, we'll make a vacation of it. I don't remember you taking any time for yourself since you took chair three years ago." He smiled. "It'll be an experience of a lifetime."

"I don't know." Eric's gaze wandered to the papers scattered across his desk, the piles mounting higher every day.

Bryan closed the distance and locked eyes with Eric, not a trace of humor on his face. "You need this. You keep going like you're going, and you'll burn out. Then you'll be useless to the company. Even workaholics need breaks from time to time."

Eric let out an audible breath, releasing some of the tension. "You're right."

Bryan placed his hand on Eric's shoulder. "You good?"

"Yeah." Eric walked around his friend to his desk and busied himself moving random papers. "Book the company jet. We don't have time to wait. Stop by my place and grab me some stuff. I have a few things I need to handle before we go. Give me a couple of hours."

"Right." Bryan's footsteps fell on soft carpet, and the door opened.

"Oh… and call the Corporate Angel Network and see if they have any patients who need a ride along our route."

"Of course." The door clicked closed.

Eric turned around, alone again in his office. A trip to Malaysia sounded good—tropical weather, maybe some rafting, and a little relaxation. If nothing else, it might give Angelica time to cool… and hopefully move on.

He focused on his crammed briefcase. Besides, he could always telecommute.

Novella Review: Blood and Roses by Angela Knight

My time with Burning up continues. So we've spent time with Singh (review here) and Brook (review here). Now it's time for Blood and Roses by Angela Knight. This was my first Knight novel. I've wanted to read her for awhile, well this was my opportunity. Yay me! So the blurb from Ms. Knight's website:

A medieval vampire fantasy that will appear in the anthology BURNING UP, which will include novellas by Nalini Singh, Virginia Kantra, and Meljean Brook.

Okay, that description is a little sparse, so here's the one from Goodreads also:

Angela Knight pairs a vampire warrior and his seductive captor in a battle against demonic predators.

I'm not sure Blood and Roses is part of a series or not. I thought at first it was, but when I headed to Ms. Knight's website, there was no indication. Regardless, Blood and Roses read like a standalone. I had no problem understanding what was going on.

Starting with the romantic setup: I didn't buy it. The idea that a captor could seduce a prisoner into betraying his loyalty just didn't work for me. I certainly wouldn't trust my captor. I don't care how hot he is in the sack. And if I were the captor, I wouldn't think my prisoner would be so stupid to fall for some seduction trick. That's just me though. I honestly thought the villain was trying to set up the heroine (Amaris) by suggesting she seduce the hero (Raniero)… maybe it was part of some grand scheme to bring the heroine down also. I was wrong. The villain actually thought his suggestion was a great plan. In my opinion, it made the villain a less than worthy adversary.

Even though the setup was rather lame, the world building was pretty cool. Ms. Knight included four different type of beings. Roses — special women with magical abilities. Vampires — human soldiers transformed into the bloodsucking, light sensitive beings who protected the kingdom. Humans — that's you. And Varil — lizard-like people who ate folks who weren't Varil. For the most part, it seemed like a pretty cool world. I'd certainly like to read more about it. Only thing which didn't really make sense was: how did vampires protected the kingdom if the sun was fatal to them? I don't recall the Varil being sensitive to the sun. If I were the Varil, I'd just attack during the day.

As far as the characters, the villain was lame. So, I'll just get that out of the way first. He pretty much made cameo appearances and made not so bright choices. At one time in the novel he walked in and it remind me of that scene from the movie Airplane. Here. See for yourself:

No real significant part… he was just there because the novel needed a villain. Moving on. Amaris, the heroine, wasn't so bad though. I'm all for strong women, and she definitely was one of those. She kicked ass. Even Raniero had to admit to that. She was a woman who took what she wanted. It was unexpected in a very naughty, awesome kind of way. Now that I think about it, Raniero, the hero, wasn't so bad either. He didn't stand out as unique as Amaris, but he was pretty cool in his own right. The only thing I didn't like about our hero and heroine was they seemed to have the exact same hangup keeping them from a romantic union.

So there were a few plot holes in my mind. However, this work was still enjoyable. I'd certainly be interested in reading another story in this world. If nothing else, I'd love to pick up another anthology which included Angela Knight and along with another author I'm familiar with.

Favorite Lines:

Who the six hells gave a prisoner a feather pillow?
"You make a solid mount, my lord."
She'd taken him like a camp whore in ruthless possession.

One more story left: Shifting Sea by Virginia Kantra. She also happens to be a writer I've never read. I've only just started it, but I'm wondering what the catch is. That alone has me intrigued.

I purchased my copy of Burning Up from the Book Depository!

Guest Post: Lindsay Buroker on Cover Art

How I Found Affordable Custom Cover Art for My Ebooks
Lindsay Buroker

You know that old saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover?" Well, nobody pays attention to it. Especially when they're shopping for ebooks!

I know it seems silly (why should an electronic book even need a cover?), but it's important for us to have professional images to represent our books. You want potential buyers scrolling through the lists at Amazon/iBookstore/Smashwords/etc to be more attracted to your cover than the ones surrounding it. You want them to say, "Oh, that looks spiffy," and click through to read the blurb for your book. (Bonus points for you if they use the actual word 'spiffy'.)

Good-looking custom artwork is a great way to stand out, especially next to other indie ebooks. But it costs a fortune, right?

Well… maybe not as much as you'd expect. When I started looking around, hoping to have a couple covers done, I ran into professionals charging $500 and up for custom artwork. I'm sure their prices were very reasonable, considering the work that must go into crafting such a piece, but that's more than a lot of indie authors can afford.

I headed over to the Deviant Art website and starting browsing the galleries of various members of the community. There's some brilliant work up there, and I came across more than a few artists who I knew would be perfect for what I had in mind. I made an account so I could send them messages…and never heard back. After checking my virtual armpits for cyber odors that might have driven them away, I decided they were probably just busy and didn't check in that often.

Then I stumbled upon the Job Offers Forum. There were lots of posts with folks asking for character art, comic graphics, and, yes, book covers!

I made my own post (you have to have an account on Deviant Art to post, but it's free to create one) and explained what I was looking for. I also stated exactly how much I could spend, since I didn't want to get excited over offerings from folks who would make me the cover of my dreams…for $700.

Within hours, I'd received several offers, and they kept rolling in over the next week. I was able to browse through the galleries and find someone whose style meshed with my needs. I did see quite the gamut. You want realistic paintings of scantily clad heroes and heroines? It's there. Gorgeous battle scenes for your epic fantasy novel? They're there too. Cartoon artwork to appeal to young readers (hand raise), you got it.

A word of warning: artists from all over the world belong to Deviant Art, so English isn't going to be the first language for many of those who contact you. If you have very specific ideas in mind, make sure to pick someone who communicates well.

I ended up with two artists doing covers for different ebooks, one my Goblin Brothers stories (for middle grade readers) and one a more realistic style for a fantasy novel I'll be publishing soon. Neither cost me more than $200. Though I thought the artists did a good job, and I would have loved to give more, I've got to start making some money first!

Good luck with your own ebook covers, and let us know if you find someone who does a good job.

Bio:

Lindsay is a professional blogger by day and a fantasy writer by night. She writes about her Ebook Endeavors on her blog. Please stop by to chime in on the discussion!

We've Come a Long Way, Baby

Once in a while I'll read my older posts. I'm laughing, cause some of them shock me. At the time I wrote the posts, my mind was full of grandeur. The words flowed beautifully… I was really in the zone. In truth, I was oblivious to the crappy writing.

I want to say I'm embarrassed for the old me, but I'm not. It just shows me how far I've come in my writing journey. With the release of Shadow Cat in the next month, two, or three, I just hope I don't look back on that writing and think… oh my gosh. What was I thinking?

When I reflect back to January and where I am now, I am so thankful I earned nearly a year's worth of rejections. I truly needed that time to hone my writing skills. Perhaps I'm still oblivious to the many flaws of my writing. Maybe I need another year to gather new tools. And that's okay. It's just great to see the progress I've made thus far.

Pull out some of your old writing? What says you about them?

Prompts and Teasers: Circulatory System

I found a contest a while back and one of the prompts was "Knowledge of the circulatory system can save time." I had intended to enter, but I forgot. I don't even know if it's still going on. Well, I wrote a piece for it and want to share it with you. Be forewarned… it gets a bit grisly.

Circulatory System

Knowledge of the circulatory system can save time. A basic concept from Physiology 101.

I snap on the pale green gloves, comforted by the latex stretched tight against my skin. The surgical instruments on the table glint in the fluorescent light, each one honed for precision. They mean nothing without a steady hand. That I have. I ball my fingers into a tight fist, and the squeaky crunch of the latex echoes in the acoustics of the operating room. Few people know about the symphony of sounds during a surgery, music to my ears. My entire body tingles in anticipation. I am the conductor.

I turn to my patient. All lean muscles, his body stretches down the length of the metal table. No doubt, the gym is a regular part of his weekly routine. Out cold from the anesthesia, he doesn't even snore. He'll want to stay that way.

I dial down the drugs and sit, waiting. Ten minutes, and he'll be fully awake. I have the time, and it's worth it. These will be the most important surgeries in his life. He deserves one last conversation, and so do I.

Not until his mumbled sigh do I realize I'm dozing. Snap out of it. Going into surgery drowsy is a no-go.

"Where am I?" The grogginess in my patient's voice tells me he's not quite with me. A few more minutes is all he needs.

I step close, brushing the light brown hair from his forehead, and a silky lock curls around my finger. The Greek would claim him as their own with his sculpted features. And the plastic surgeon in me can't help but admire his jaw line. "I'm Dr. Leyla MacIntosh. I'm going to take care of you."

His blue eyes widen, and recognition flickers in them. He lifts an arm, and the handcuff trapping his wrist clanks against the table bar. He frowns. "What's the deal?"

"I'll be handling your surgery this evening. We should talk first." I turn to my instruments and touch them one by one, ensuring each is perfectly aligned. A quick glance reveals his eyes following my hand movements.

His eyes narrow. "Let me out of this, bitch."

Even helpless as he is, he's defiant. No surprise. His cocky overconfidence was his downfall, making his capture easy for even one as slight as me. All it took was a shot of ketamine in the parking lot, and he was mine.

Not so powerful now. And that's what it's all about: power. At least that's what they say. The psychiatrists think they know it all. Yet they don't have the answers I need. His answers. "Why did you do it?"

"She was the sweetest of all." He smirks.

The grief I thought had died bubbles to the surface. I'm transported to the courtroom, looking into his victorious face all over again. And when he laughs, I know my face has bared my every emotion. I swallow the lump growing in my throat. It hurts like hell, but I manage to push it to the pit of my soul.

Conversing with a cold-hearted killer leads to nothing good. I grab a syringe and fill it with pancuronium. As I push it through his IV, his laughter fades. I tie a mask over my face. It's for my protection, not his. I wear it like an emotional shield. I am the surgeon again. Controlled. Calculated. Precise.

I pluck a blade from the surgical table and position myself between his legs spread wide in the stirrups. His penis lies limp against his thigh, and his testicles rest against the cold steel. I step forward for the first incision. He'll never rape another. Too late for my daughter, but not for other girls. Not for other girls. I refuse to cry.

He doesn't move as I slice down, outlining the shaft, but his skin pales and beads of sweat break across the surface. The bleeding is negligible and requires minimum blotting; I've only cut through the top layer of skin and return to the surgical tray for a heavier blade, one for cutting deep into flesh.

"Don't worry. Your weapon is still there." I run my hands over my tools. "I just need something to finish the procedure."

There's no doubt in my mind he hears me. The pancuronium paralyzes; nothing more. He hears, sees, and feels everything. It's deserving. The police said my daughter was awake until he slit her throat. A small glitch in the system, and they set this bastard free.

The ten blade is my favorite. I hold it over his face. "This is much more precise than the hunting knife you used."

I work quickly, cauterizing the bleeders as I go. Yes, knowledge of the circulatory system can save time. It can also prolong life. I smile for the first time in a year and toss the scrap of useless flesh into the biohazard bin at my feet. "It's done. The discomfort should be minimal. At least in comparison to what my daughter suffered."

I stretch the ache from my neck and make my way to his head. Though he can't move, I read panic in his eyes which sparkle bright with pain. A light tremor courses down his body. My sign the paralysis is fading. Our time grows short. Time for the last incision. I make it straight down his sternum and throw my blade on the table. I won't need it again. But the syringe prefilled with adrenaline; that I need. "When you took my daughter, you tore out my heart."

I push the shot through his IV line, and grab the last instrument I'll need for his surgeries. I lean over him, placing my hands on either side of his head, nearly touching nose to nose. The bone saw in my grasp clatters against the table, metal against metal. He can't see the curve of my mouth hidden by the mask, but the shock in his eyes reveals my happiness shines above it. That's good enough for me. I straighten and flip the switch. The bone saw spins, filling the room with a buzzing whirl. I hesitate only a moment, hovering the saw over his chest then I press down. A splatter of blood arcs at me. I barely flinch as it hits my mask. I don't even stop when his pinkie twitches.

Novella Review: Whisper of Sin by Nalini Singh

So a few weeks ago I read Here There Be Monsters by Meljean Brook (see review here) and loved it! I was quite impressed with the book considering it was the last one and Ms. Brook's name had the smallest type. Great start (or ending as the case may be), so I was sure to receive great entries from the other authors. Now I originally purchased this anthology because I'm a Nalini Singh fan. She sort of fell out of favor with her last psi-changeling novel, but oh well. Whisper of Sin was another chance for her. Before I get into the review, a quick blurb from Ms. Singh's website:

"Whisper of Sin" features Ria, who, as Lucas's executive assistant, has appeared in a number of previous books in the series including Slave to Sensation and Mine to Possess. This novella is set back in time, and tells the story of how Ria met her changeling mate, Emmett, and became part of DarkRiver. It also shows us another glimpse of DarkRiver's past.

Honestly, it'd been so long since I'd read a Psi-Changeling novel, I wasn't sure who Ria and Emmett were. No matter, I could still enjoy the story. The storyline started interesting enough, though I wasn't sure if Ria was human for the longest time. As I said, it'd been a while.

The character development was decent. Ria and Emmett were likable folks. Honestly, I don't have much to stay about them. They didn't stand out as overly unique.

As far as the plot goes, well… I'd say it was one of the weakest story lines in the Psi-Changeling series, in my opinion. However, I liked it better than her prior novel, Blaze of Memory. So what was the issue with it? The stakes were rather weak. I remember reading on Ms. Singh's website once something to the effect, think of the worst thing which could happen to your character, then do it to them. Well, nothing bad happened. There were no significant wedges driving the lovely couple apart. The fight scene was given as back story.

I'm a little apprehensive about purchasing Bonds of Justice at the moment, which came out in July 2010. Anyone boasting about it as a gotta read?

Anyway… there's still the Guild Hunter line.

I purchased my copy of Burning Up from the Book Depository!

Guest Post: Maria Rainier on Freelancing

How Freelancing Can Help You Self-Publish

By

Maria Rainier

As freelancers, we work several small jobs but dream big dreams, many of us burning the midnight oil with our novels-in-progress while freelancing keeps food in the pantry.  Money, however, isn't the only thing we stand to gain as writers for hire.  In fact, freelancers by the very nature of our jobs can develop useful skills in the business of writing and publication, especially self-publication.

Networking

When I became a senior in high school oh-so-many years ago, the idea of four more years of academia began to appeal to me as much as a soup bowl of BP oil spill for dinner.  I figured I was a good enough writer to make it as a novelist while waiting tables at night, and that college would just be a ticket to alcoholism and debt.  It took three of my most-loved teachers to tell me that I'd be better off wasting time and money at school if for nothing than to network.

They were, of course, right.  Just as networking with college professors and university affiliates helped me publish several short stories within six months of graduating college, freelancing puts writers in touch with numerous contacts.  With many occupations, it's as much about the people you know as the skill you have, and the businesses of writing and self-publishing are no exceptions to this rule.  Plenty of talented writers go unnoticed because they don't know anybody in the industry, and plenty of mediocre writers make millions because even though they barely know how to put together a decent sentence, they know how to network.

Maybe you scratch the back of someone in marketing; maybe he or she scratches your back by marketing your newly self-published how-to book.  Maybe you exchange e-mails with a graphic designer, who can then design your novel cover.  The possibilities grow with the number of contacts you gather.

Continuously hones writing skills

Two things make writers write better: writing and reading.  Writers ought to read in their spare time—even for a few minutes by lamplight before their eyelids grow heavy in bed at night—but most importantly they should constantly be writing.  Like any Olympic athlete, writers must undergo constant training, and keeping oneself busy via freelancing can be just the regimen to hone one's skills.

Diversifies writing skills

If you want their money enough, you can work for anybody and write about anything.  This makes freelancers very versatile writers capable of relaying information and opinions on various topics in different voices.  A freelancer may hand in a business article brimming with professionalism in one hour and blog a carefree piece on hair extensions the next.  The ability to take on different personas and research varying topics to relay them accurately can help freelancers eventually publish something substantial of their own.  Any knowledge gained becomes yours and can be applied to a novel plot, character bio, or evidence in an academic commentary.

Increased awareness of the current market

Freelancers often write on new material—new technology, scientific breakthroughs, new Hollywood gossip, political news, and the like.  This makes freelancers very aware of what is current, what is in.  Freelancers interested in self-publishing can use this knowledge to their advantage: what topics are popular, what books are getting read most by what demographics, what's controversial right now?

Market your self-published work via your freelance career

With every article or blog post you get published, your bio follows.  If you've got a self-published book under your belt, announce it in the bio and add a link if your host allows it—easy marketing.

You can even let your self-published work help your freelance career in turn.  Play it up in your resume and send it out to potential employers.  Every little bit of experience—particularly publication—helps.

Bio: Maria Rainier is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is currently a resident blogger at First in Education, where recently she's been researching different music degree programs and blogging about student life. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Guest Post: Marie Rainer on Freelancing

How Freelancing Can Help You Self-Publish

As freelancers, we work several small jobs but dream big dreams, many of us burning the midnight oil with our novels-in-progress while freelancing keeps food in the pantry.  Money, however, isn't the only thing we stand to gain as writers for hire.  In fact, freelancers by the very nature of our jobs can develop useful skills in the business of writing and publication, especially self-publication.

Networking

When I became a senior in high school oh-so-many years ago, the idea of four more years of academia began to appeal to me as much as a soup bowl of BP oil spill for dinner.  I figured I was a good enough writer to make it as a novelist while waiting tables at night, and that college would just be a ticket to alcoholism and debt.  It took three of my most-loved teachers to tell me that I'd be better off wasting time and money at school if for nothing than to network.

They were, of course, right.  Just as networking with college professors and university affiliates helped me publish several short stories within six months of graduating college, freelancing puts writers in touch with numerous contacts.  With many occupations, it's as much about the people you know as the skill you have, and the businesses of writing and self-publishing are no exceptions to this rule.  Plenty of talented writers go unnoticed because they don't know anybody in the industry, and plenty of mediocre writers make millions because even though they barely know how to put together a decent sentence, they know how to network.

Maybe you scratch the back of someone in marketing; maybe he or she scratches your back by marketing your newly self-published how-to book.  Maybe you exchange e-mails with a graphic designer, who can then design your novel cover.  The possibilities grow with the number of contacts you gather.

Continuously hones writing skills

Two things make writers write better: writing and reading.  Writers ought to read in their spare time—even for a few minutes by lamplight before their eyelids grow heavy in bed at night—but most importantly they should constantly be writing.  Like any Olympic athlete, writers must undergo constant training, and keeping oneself busy via freelancing can be just the regimen to hone one's skills.

Diversifies writing skills

If you want their money enough, you can work for anybody and write about anything.  This makes freelancers very versatile writers capable of relaying information and opinions on various topics in different voices.  A freelancer may hand in a business article brimming with professionalism in one hour and blog a carefree piece on hair extensions the next.  The ability to take on different personas and research varying topics to relay them accurately can help freelancers eventually publish something substantial of their own.  Any knowledge gained becomes yours and can be applied to a novel plot, character bio, or evidence in an academic commentary.

Increased awareness of the current market

Freelancers often write on new material—new technology, scientific breakthroughs, new Hollywood gossip, political news, and the like.  This makes freelancers very aware of what is current, what is in.  Freelancers interested in self-publishing can use this knowledge to their advantage: what topics are popular, what books are getting read most by what demographics, what's controversial right now?

Market your self-published work via your freelance career

With every article or blog post you get published, your bio follows.  If you've got a self-published book under your belt, announce it in the bio and add a link if your host allows it—easy marketing.

You can even let your self-published work help your freelance career in turn.  Play it up in your resume and send it out to potential employers.  Every little bit of experience—particularly publication—helps.

Bio: Maria Rainier is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is currently a resident blogger at First in Education, where recently she's been researching different music degree programs and blogging about student life. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.