Magic Lost, Trouble Found
by Lisa Shearin

My name is Raine Benares. I'm a seeker. The people who hire me are usually happy when I find things. But some things are better left unfound...

Raine is a sorceress of moderate powers, from an extended family of smugglers and thieves. With a mix of street smarts and magic spells, she can usually take care of herself. But when her friend Quentin, a not-quite-reformed thief, steals an amulet from the home of a powerful necromancer, Raine finds herself wrapped up in more trouble than she cares for. She likes attention as much as the next girl, but having an army of militant goblins hunting her down is not her idea of a good time. The amulet they're after holds limitless power, derived from an ancient, soul-stealing stone. And when Raine takes possession of the item, it takes possession of her.

Now her moderate powers are increasing beyond anything she could imagine—but is the resumé enhancement worth her soul?

Lisa Shearin's Bio

Contrary to popular belief, most authors do have day jobs just like everyone else. I'm happily ensconced at an advertising agency as an editor/proofreader. In my previous corporate life I've been a magazine editor, advertising copywriter, and writer of corporate marketing materials of every description. Writing's what I love, so writing's what I do. And I consider myself blessed beyond belief that I get to do what I love and get paid to do it.

One thing many writers find is that they have little time for anything that doesn't involve writing (especially when there's a deadline looming). Not a problem really, since we spend most of our time attached to a laptop or a notebook & pen because we love it. But when I'm not at my desk, I like to read (when I can make the time) and sing in my church's choir and ensemble. And I've made some of my closest friends over crossed blades. My Olympic fencing weapons of choice are the foil and epée. Though nothing says fun like a good rapier & dagger duel. My husband and I have spent some great times with our fencing club buddies doing demos at museums, schools, movie premiers, the Biltmore House, and Renaissance faires.

I'm a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and the North Carolina Writers' Network. I live in North Carolina with my always patient and ever-encouraging husband, two cats, two spoiled-rotten retired racing greyhounds, and a Jack Russell terrier who rules us all.