Ever wondered why we all like stories so much?

Lifehacker.com has a great article on The Science of Storytelling that explains why stories are so powerful, and why a good one works so well with an audience.

My favourite quote:

When we are being told a story, things change dramatically. Not only are the language processing parts in our brain activated, but any other area in our brain that we would use when experiencing the events of the story are too.

Read the whole article here.

Neat!

That's just neat: What was that book

Ever tried to find a book where you couldn't remember the title or the author, just vaguely remembered snippets?

You're in luck!

What was that book? is an online community that reunites folks with the booksthat they've lost.

This may be one of the best ideas ever.

Hat tip to io9, which is where I learned about them.

New Review: When the Hero Comes Home

The folks over at Black Gate gave a very thoughtful review for "When the Hero Comes Home." You can read it here: http://www.blackgate.com/2012/05/01/when-the-hero-comes-home-a-review/ And they gave me a mention!

Erik Buchanan’s “The Evil That Remains” is nicely structured, has a strong thematic idea, builds a credible setting with a few well-chosen touches, and uses the fantastic in a memorable way.

So yay! for "When the Hero Comes Home," and our wonderful editors Gabrielle Harbowy and Ed Greenwood. If you haven't picked up your copy yet, what are you waiting for? Buy it here!

I agree with everything said in this story!

From io9:

Ten of the Most Awesome Sword-Fight Scenes Ever

And I especially agree with their choice of number 1.

Holy Sh...

This is really cool in a "let's clean up the whole plant" kind of way.

Alternate Timelines: Things not to do

Came across this article on io9:

10 Worst Mistakes that Authors of Alternate History Make

An interesting read, and some good tips to work on if you might be thinking of working on a novel that plays with history.

...not that I know anyone planning to do that.

...Really.

Oh, and they added this one this evening:

Another Mistake That Alternate History Authors Fall Into

Enjoy.

As for me, I'm editing (still). It's like writing only less fun.

But it makes the work so, so much better.