Jackson rode up to Espiritu Wells as night fell, eyes rimmed red by sun and sand and body bone weary from the lengthy desert crossing. He rubbed down Rio and [...]
Issue: January 2005
A Daughter’s Gift
Once I’d made up my mind that I was going to attend my mother’s funeral, the rest was easy. I bought the swankiest red velvet dress I could afford—after all, [...]
Mysticism and Mystery: An Interview with Michael A. Burstein
Six-time Hugo Award nominee Michael A. Burstein gives an exclusive RE interview and discusses his writing style, his Jewish perspective on science fiction, and why he should always listen to his wife.
The Subconscious
I didn’t tell anybody, especially my husband, about my plan, for as a matter of fact I was running no risk. In the afternoon, as I snoozed with my children, [...]
Isidro’s Furnace
Isidro’s furnace demanded FBI agents, but he only fed it limestone and coke, sometimes Rice Crispies if it was good. In return, it fed his insanity. Neither got exactly what [...]
Cold Blooded
Olla lay stretched out on the warm deck next to the sandbox, eyes closed, enjoying the feel of the sun on her back. The weather was just right, not too [...]
He Said; She Said: Comments on Dialogue in Fiction
What makes a writer effective in writing fictional dialogue? Why is it that some authors can make a conversation come alive while others cannot seem to avoid a stilted, unrealistic cast to every exchange of characters?
Writing Erotica
Thinking about becoming a professional erotica writer? Novelist Mathilde Madden explains the ups and downs of being an erotica author and offers tips for writers new to the genre.
Common Grammar Problems for Non-Native English Speakers
An ESL teacher with more than 20 years experience provides a list of the most common grammar mistakes for non-native English speakers, and concise explanations of how to fix them.
World Building
Authors of speculative fiction consistently set their stories in worlds which have never existed. This article will help inexperienced authors understand the sorts of questions that are raised by changes in technology, history, religion, magic, and other aspects of society, and will serve as a checklist or brainstorming tool for more experienced world builders.
Hammered, by Elizabeth Bear
An experienced author makes an early foray into cyberpunk.