The Wizard Dresden

So, I'm currently reader the Dresden Files. I know, I'm behind the times and I'm taking a break from my reading challenge. (I've finished two on the Challenge list so far). However, I'm really liking Jim Butcher's series.

First, I love magic in modern times. So, reading about a kick-ass wizard in modern day is like candy for me, especially chocolate. I really connect with Harry, too. Yes he can be a self-righteous prick, but he tries to do what is best for the people he cares about, even if it may kill him. He is very human to me. Plus, I like stories about character with lots of power fighting high powered adversaries.

His monsters are monsters. Yes, they pretend to be human at times, but in the end they don't understand human emotions and some don't care to even try. Harry noted this about Mab, in Summer Knight. I have a problem with a majority of Urban Fantasy humanizing a lot of supernatural creatures as of late. It good to see some books don't follow that trend.

It reminds me a lot of the early Anita Blake books, which I loved in my teenage years. All in all, if you have not read them I highly suggest these books.

This is how some people think

A Pirate's Life For Me!

I've been a little lax on my blogging. Currently, because a character idea for a role playing game I'm in has been filling my head. She's also taken my writing time away, which is bad, but I will catch up. I'm going to play a pirate.

Role playing is a lot like writing, except it's a collaboration between players and the Game Master (or storyteller, depending on what you play). Characters who come off the paper are just as important in games as in books. If you care for your character enough, you laugh with them, feel their fear, and cry for them. I'd been struggling with my last character who refused to step off the paper. My struggle grew from dislike to hate and I couldn't stand her anymore. So, I made someone new. I look forward to my next game session when I get to join the adventure!

Writing Communities

I've joined Book Country.A writing community set up by the folks at Penguin. For those of you who are fellow writers this is a great place to be. You can read and critique others stories and have your own critiqued. Mine is no where near ready but I enjoy finding gems. The genre map is nifty. That's right, I said nifty. Once you take a look you'll see why.

Another site that helped me tremendous is Absolute Write. The writer boards have so much good information and helpful people. I even joined a critique group until I had to leave due to schedule conflicts.

These are just two of the great resources you can find on the web. Anyone have others they'd like to share?