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As a way of saying thank you to some of my close friends, I have decided that this post will be about promoting them, and their works and endeavors. Each one is a talented person who gives me inspiration, and often guidance, as I muddle my way towards my dream of being a successful writer (by my standards).

Joe Bonadonna
Website
On Amazon
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Joe and hanging out with him, and let me tell you he is the genuine dude. He’s one of those eclectic people who dabbles in all sorts of things, and certainly has some stories to tell. His writing is fun and gritty, and takes you on adventures just like they should. Joe’s latest work, a supernatural pirate story he wrote with David C. Smith (himself a noteworthy writer) looks amazing. I can’t wait to dig into that one!

Charles Gramlich
Website
On Amazon
Though I’ve never met Charles in person (which I hope to remedy soon), communicating with him through his blog and on Facebook has always been a treat. A professor of Psychology, Charles has a teacher’s way of communicating with readers and "students." I always learn just a little bit more when I discuss writing with him, or read his opinions and advice on the craft. His own works of fiction are excellent. I especially like his anthologies. And, like me, his taste in genres runs a wide spectrum.

Scott Oden
Website
On Amazon
I “met” Scott on the official Conan forums. I immediately felt a connection with him because, not only did we share a love of Conan and Robert E. Howard, he is also an Orc-o-phile. Last year my wife and I went on a road trip to visit Scott and his wife, and much fun was had. He is a good guy, no doubt about it. As to his writing, Scott’s historical novels are well-researched and engaging, and his Historical Fantasy, The Lion of Cairo, is just a wonderful book. But, I am most excited about his current project, A Gathering of Ravens, wherein he places Orcs smack dab in the middle of Norse history and mythology.

These next authors are the ones who inspire me with their works and words, even though they don’t know me from Adam.

David Morrell
Website
On Amazon
It started with First Blood, and his novelizations of the sequel films. However, I have read several other books by Mr. Morrell (my favorite being Brotherhood of the Rose), and he is a master storyteller with a level of authenticity rarely seen in literature. He’s also the first professional author I ever corresponded with. I mailed him a letter back in the 90’s, and he sent me a typed (on a typewriter) response, complete with corrections done with a pen. Since then I have communicated with him a few times through email, and on his Facebook page.

Stan Nicholls
Website
On Amazon
I read his first Orcs trilogy in an omnibus edition, and it remains one of my all-time favorites. Full of action, dark humor, and interesting characters, his stories are a joy to read. His subsequent books are all on my ever-growing To Be Read pile as well. Stan is also a genuine guy, and I have communicated with him a bit here and there on Facebook. And I still get a little thrill when I see he “Liked” one of my random statuses.

Of course, I wouldn’t even be dreaming of being a writer without the influence of these legends; Robert E. Howard and Edgar Rice Burroughs. Anyone who reads my blog shouldn’t need to hear anything more about these two. Their writing forms the backbone of much of my tastes.

There are lots of other people whom I draw inspiration and support from, as well; fellow writers, fellow bloggers, fellow writer/bloggers. But none more so than my wife, Michele. She is the light in my day, and inspires me with her support, encouragement, and often her example.