So I need to redo the covers of I Bring the Fire, my series...

So I need to redo the covers of I Bring the Fire, my series about Loki (go ahead, click the link and download it free on Amazon, or get it on B&N, Apple, or Google Play).

… But the illustrators I like are either 1) booked for the next two years (I’m not making this up), 2) too expensive (or possibly frightened of working with a NEW client who has seven covers to be redone and you know — could turn into the client from Hell.)

The obvious solution? Learn how to illustrate my own covers.* This is a sketch of Loki in armor. I used to be able to create tonal sketches that were nearly photorealistic. This isn’t there yet. But I think with some smudging (I need to find a blending stump and a box of q-tips) and some darker pencils plus possibly an overlay of the darkest shadows, this could get to nearly photorealistic. Also, obviously, he needs me to finish his hair. I hate hair.

*Note: This is not the obvious solution. This is probably a fools errand and a waste of time.