Read "Item Not As Described" in Unidentified Funny Objects 2

Today marks the official release of Unidentified Funny Objects 2, an anthology of humorous science fiction and fantasy edited by Alex Shvartsman. Inside, you can find a story of mine called "Item Not As Described," along with stories by awesome authors like Robert Silverberg, Ken Liu, Mike Resnick, Jim Hines, Esther Friesner, and many more.

The book is available in both paperback and ebook editions, and you can buy it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or direct from UFO Publishing. The first review is already up at Amazing Stories, where David Kilman had this to say:

"I am very happy to report that not only is the story quality on par with anthologies put out by the major publishing houses, but I would consider UFO2 a contender for best anthology awards. I'll admit my opinion is probably due to my predilection for humor, but I can't deny that this was one of the most enjoyable anthologies I've read in the last few years."

I didn't get to brag about it here on the blog when I made the sale to UFO2 (as I was away at Odyssey Writing Workshop at the time), but it is definitely a big deal for me. Not only was this my first sale to an anthology, but it was my first sale at pro rates. And I couldn't help but feel giddy when I saw that I'd be sharing a table of contents with some of my favorite authors for the first time.

To celebrate this milestone, I've decided to give away a paperback copy of Unidentified Funny Objects 2, signed by both the editor, Alex Shvartsman and Yours Truly, J.W. Alden (though an unsigned copy is available if you'd prefer). I've never done a giveaway before, so I don't know what the response will be, but if you'd like to be the proud owner of a collection of hilarious speculative fiction, simply leave a comment below. The winner will be chosen at random next Monday (Oct. 14) via random.org.

Update: A winner has been chosen. Congratulations to Luftwaffle! I'll be getting touch with you soon to get your details. Hope you enjoy the book. To those of you who missed out, consider picking the book up at one of the links above. It's worth every penny!

Edited to add: Editor Alex Shvartsman is doing a giveaway over on Goodreads, as well.

Edited again to add: Author Jim C. Hines is also giving away a copy of either UFO2 or Heroes In Training to help raise funds for author Eugie Foster, who is fighting cancer.