So this isn't the first interior illustration to be turned in, but it's the first one that I know of to be posted online by the artist after acceptance.  So this is Frank Wu's illustration to "Melanie" by Aliette de Bodard.  Click on the image to enlarge.  No word yet on when we'll be publishing this one, but I hope you like it!  Personally, I think Frank nailed it, and Aliette seems well pleased.

I'm going to be at Readercon 20 this Thursday-Sunday.  Realms of Fantasy will be making its official (re)premiere at the convention, with the August 2009 issue.  It feels like ages since the last time an issue has come out, but despite all the chaos resulting from this change in publishers, only one issue never came out, June 2009.  Anyway, to celebrate Realms of Fantasy's return, Warren and I will be giving out free copies of the magazine.  Supplies are limited, so hunt us down sooner rather than later if you want a copy for yourself.

I've also finally been deemed worthy of Readercon's paneling this year.  I'll be doing one panel, the Year in Short Fiction.  Other panelists are Ellen Datlow, Kathryn Cramer, Neil Clarke, and Theodora Goss will be moderating.  We'll be in Salon A on Sunday from 2:00-2:30.

I'll provide a con report when I return, although it might be a day or two before I get around to it.  Monday promises to be almost as busy as Readercon.

Looking forward to seeing everyone there!