Why authors don't do covers . . .

My publisher, Tor/Forge, is extremely indulgent when it comes to dealing with authors, or at least me, actually asking if I have any ideas for a cover.

Words can only go so far when you're trying to communication a picture. I'm a horrible drawer, so occasionally I'll throw the ideas together in an illustration.

My next solo book, The Helios Conspiracy, is a kind of a noirish-techno thriller staring Andy Fisher, whom a few readers may recognize. Here's what I came up with:

(And yes, that is a naked woman in the bottom.)

Here's what they made of it:

They'll fiddle around some more, I'm sure, but I think they did a helluvajob.

p.s.: The book should be out next February.