Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe

My talented critique partner and friend, Trisha Wolfe, had her book's cover released yesterday. It's super pretty on a way-beyond-this-universe scale. Gorgeous! I'm gonna share it with you if you haven't seen it yet. Plus, she's a brilliant author! I've had a chance to crit another one of her books and was amazed at her ability to craft a catching story.

Here's the cover for DESTINY'S FIRE coming January 10, 2012.

Stunning! Dazzling! Striking! Huh?

Goodreads Blurb:

Sixteen-year-old Dez Harkly is one of the last of her kind—a part of a nearly extinct race of Kythan descended from ancient guardians who protected the pharaohs of Egypt. As Shythe, they must keep their shape-shifting ability and electric power hidden from the humans of their steam-powered world.

It’s the year 2040 and the Shythe Council has lowered their barrier, allowing the Narcolym—the dominant race of Kythan whose Flame ushered in the steam era—to enter their haven. As the Narcolym airships get closer, Dez secretly trains for an attack that her best friend Jace believes is coming despite the Treaty Act. Not only is Dez wary of war, and her growing affection for Jace, but she fears the change her fast-approaching birthday will bring.

When her power rockets out of control, Dez knows she’ll never attend the Shythe Academy with her friends, and worse, her mother’s planning to run. But a Narco named Reese could change her fate . . . if she can trust him. After Dez discovers why the Narcos have really come to Haven Falls, her guarded world crumbles. She’s forced to choose between the race who’s raised her and the enemy she’s feared her whole life.

DESTINY'S FIRE is an emotional journey of Dez’s struggle to overcome her fear and embrace her power—her destiny.

Check it out, friends!

BTW - What books coming in 2012 are you excited to read?

Writing. Jewels.

A New Element of Writing for the Writing Jewels

Being an author allows me the chance to wear lots of fluffy, pretty hats. One I’ve recently tried on and took home with me from the store is being a critique partner. I’m blessed to work with Trisha Wolfe and Jamie Corrigan. They’re both amazing writers and critique partners. Trisha was the turning point for my manuscript—she kicked its butt into gear. And not only has Jamie taken on the task of editing my book, but she’s given me some dating advice, too. Now that’s dedication. Uh, TMI. hehe

Being busy with a job, writing/editing my own book, soon-to-be querying, cracking into my next novel, etc., I didn’t think I’d be able to take on editing someone else’s book. But I’ve been able find the time and have fallen in love with the opportunity.

The last couple days, I’ve been reading a super fantastic book that Trisha Wolfe is working on. First of all her book is amazing. Second, I’m able to help her polish her I-can’t-stop-reading-it book. And third, it’s helping me to see ways I can improve my own writing. My eye is becoming more critical, picking out ways to tighten up a scene or even a sentence.

I sort of wish I’d been a critique partner earlier, however, I don’t think I was ready for it up until recently. Having figured out my own writing groove, I’m more confident in managing my time to add such a valuable experience into my schedule. Now I’m able to use my skills to help others polish up their work. That makes me happy, giggly.

My love affair with writing is now stretching to a new and enjoyable sphere. In that I’m able to aid my friends and critique partners to beautify their writing.

What’s your favorite part(s) about being a critique partner?

PS: Enter to win Imaginary Girls or Hereafter on my blog. Follow this link to enter!