Nothing will train you to write better as a writer, than working on your next book.

Expectations were like fine pottery. The harder you held them, the more likely they were to crack.

So, when people try to give you some book with a shiny round award on the cover, be kind and gracious, but tell them you don't read "fantasy," because you prefer stories that are real. Then come back here and continue your research on the cult of evil Librarians who secretly rule the world.

The nature of morality must be considered, and preferably before one is exposed to situations where a moral decision is required.

Fantasy has had some problems with being too repetitive, in my opinion. I try to read what other people are doing - and say, 'How can I add to this rather than just recycle it? How can I stand on Tolkien's shoulders rather than stand tied to his kneecaps?

Yes, Bastille. I keep trying to get killed because it's inconvenient for you.

Normally, I have a lot of alpha readers on my books. These are people that, once I finish a novel, I let them look at it and give me a reader response.